The AMS Zero99 cross-country bike from Cube is designed for the race track. It is available in four equipment variants and four frame sizes. The carbon frame weighs just 1600 grams. The bike offers 100 millimeters of suspension travel at the front and rear. The head tube angle can be adjusted by 0.6 degrees by turning the bearing shells. This consequently changes the seat angle by 0.2 degrees. The rear triangle accommodates 29-inch wheels up to 2.25 inches wide. This is the only disadvantage of this bike, as 2.4-inch tires are often ridden in racing these days.

The bike in action

As befits a CC bike, the riding position is slightly stretched. The 10.3 kilos and the well-tuned, firm suspension make the AMS Zero99 a rocket uphill. Top propulsion is combined with precise directional stability. Made for explosive acceleration from the start line and for sprinting to the finish. Even when pedaling out of the saddle, the bike hardly bobs, the rear end hardens perfectly. If you want it really firm, you can lock both suspensions from the handlebars. If you're not using the bike for racing but for normal riding, leave the suspension open on uphill singletrails. The Cube climbs with a lot of traction. The rather sluggish steering behavior helps to ensure that the bike doesn't ride nervously on technically demanding climbs. On very steep ramps, it needs a little forward pressure to prevent the front end from climbing.

Despite the steep head angle and short wheelbase, the Cube offers a smooth ride on flat terrain. With an active riding style, even tight corners are mastered well and with plenty of momentum. On descents, the rear is firmer than the front, but without being harsh. The shock offers a lot of counter-pressure in the mid-stroke range and has a strong progression. The full travel is only released after jumps or when you shoot through a large compression at high speed. The AMS Zero99 is easy to steer and corner. But be careful, the grip of the 2.1 inch narrow tires is limited. While the front seems a little too high on the climbs, it offers more security on the descents and you rarely feel like you're going to roll over, even on descents. An important point, as Cube hasn't fitted a dropper post. As there isn't even a quick release, you have to pull out an Allen key every time you want to lower the saddle or have very good riding technique.

Conclusion

If you think cross-country bikes are only for the race track, you should tackle your home trail or the next Alpine tour with an AMS Zero99. It goes without saying that 100 millimetres of suspension travel only offers limited comfort. On the other hand, the bike conveys a "classic" MTB feeling from days gone by. You can climb the summits in record time and with a good line choice, the descent is effortless. This is because the bike is more planted on the trail than other lightweights. To increase riding fun and comfort, we recommend fitting wider tires and switching to a telescopic seat post.