The "Stereo 140 HPA Pro" all-mountain bike from Cube in "icebluenblack" is cool and bold. Cube does not rely on carbon for this model, but on a high-quality aluminum frame with a fun-promising geometry. A striking feature is the deep-drawn top tube, which ensures plenty of legroom. The brake lines are on the outside, while the gear cables are routed inside the hydroformed tubes. The bike is heavily specified with gears, brakes, seat post and suspension fork from Sram. The handlebars, stem and crankset come from Canadian component specialist Race Face and the robust Radium wheels from Sun Ringlé.

With the generally robust equipment, the bike is not super light at 13.9 kilograms. Nevertheless, it rolls along relatively easily - the Rock-Razor rear tire from Schwalbe is not entirely innocent - and the pedal turns also have an effect on propulsion without having a strong influence on the rear triangle. The power transfer is therefore good. The steep seat angle of 74.5 degrees also contributes to this. This fun bike is a pleasant companion uphill, as long as the climb is not too long or too steep. In the mountains, the total weight of almost 14 kilograms calls more for uphill assisted riding. The position of the handlebars is also designed more for downhill fun.

Downhill, this bike feels right at home. Despite the soft tuning of the Fox Float CTD suspension, the rear triangle of this all-mountain bike has the necessary progression. As a result, it responds sensitively, provides sufficient feedback from the ground and still swallows up big chunks. With 25 percent negative suspension travel, the set-up is ideal for using the full 140 millimetres of travel and at the same time getting enough counter pressure from the progression. The "Stereo 140 HPA Pro" encourages hard pedaling and remains stable on the trail even at higher speeds. Fast direction changes and jumps are also no problem and despite the smooth ride, the front is agile enough for a playful riding style. This means it can also take on trips to the bike park without any problems.

A Rock Shox "Pike RC Solo Air" with a 150 millimeter stroke works at the front. This fits perfectly into the concept of this bike and also harmonizes well with the rear triangle. The Pike is sensitive in both soft and hard settings. Nevertheless, you should not ride it with too much air pressure. 25 percent negative suspension travel is ideal for using the full travel and still having reserves on steep descents. The tires also offer reserves. Although Schwalbe's Rock Razor on the rear wheel is rather smooth-running, it still has sufficient cornering grip thanks to the grippy shoulder lugs. On the front wheel, the tried-and-tested Schwalbe Hans Dampf tire with a soft Trailstar rubber compound controls the wild ride.

Conclusion: The Cube "Stereo 140 HPA Pro 27.5" is a great bike with a good concept. A little heavy, but robust and versatile, we see its strengths on cable-supported tours in the Alps. But it's not too bad for bike park excursions either, boasting a smooth ride and playful character.

Specifications

Manufacturer: www.cube.eu