Test: Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC TM 750 29 - for cruisers and party people
If you have the choice, you're spoiled for choice, because this bike is available in twelve equipment variants. As the name suggests, the Stereo Hybrid has 140 millimetres of suspension travel at the rear. Depending on the model, there are even 10 more at the front. The tested version with the suffix HPC TM 750 29 has a carbon frame, 29-inch wheels and Bosch's CX Performance motor with a 750 watt-hour battery.
We wanted to know from Cube what makes this bike so special:
If you want to take on big challenges, you need a bike that knows how to handle them. One like our brand-new Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC TM 750, which we configured for maximum trail performance. And, of course, maximum range. We also gave it a "Fox 36 Float" suspension fork in combination with a "Fox Float X Piggyback" shock. This means the bike absorbs all impacts from rocks or roots like nothing.
Because if you have big plans on the mountain, you'd rather ride with a strong partner!
Statement from: René Nay, Country Manager, Cube Switzerland
Special features
- Cable routing through headset
- Bolted cable guides on the frame
- The battery cover is also a frame protector
- Massive motor protection
- Hidden, integrated mount for side stand
On the flat
Comfortable: This term runs like a red thread through the Stereo Hybrid - that's how you sit on the Stereo Hybrid 140. The body position is slightly stretched, but doesn't really feel sporty. On the flat, the bike is extremely agile. On the approach to the trail, it tempts you to use the bike path markings as a slalom course, just like when you were a kid. It continues like this on the trail, skillfully circling around trees and obstacles.
Up the mountain
It's a similar story going uphill, everything is relatively comfortable - and not just on gravel paths. On single trails, you pedal at a relaxed pace. However, if an obstacle gets in the way of your ride, it only takes a little physical effort to overcome the "troublemaker". The soft rear end effortlessly swallows larger steps, but does not tempt you into wild climbing orgies. The comfortable character of the bike puts you in a relaxed mood - ideal if you are still suffering from the after-effects of the party the day before.
Down the mountain
When you're in such a good mood, you're looking forward to cruising downhill. The absorbent chassis knows how to inspire. The rear and front are perfectly matched and provide good grip. Rough passages are hardly noticed, but when it really "pops", you suddenly wake up. It takes a lot of pressure on the high front end to keep the bike on course. Does it suddenly reveal a stubborn character? Not exactly, but for wild rides you need an active riding style and a few rides until you have the bike fully under control. Once you get the hang of it, the Cube shoots downhill with a lot of composure and grip, loses little momentum in corners and pulls on with a lot of torque. It's easy to forget that the rear only has 140 millimeters of travel. When things get really steep, the Stereo Hybrid 140 is well balanced and easy to control.
Conclusion
The Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 has a comfortable character. Anyone who prefers a chilled ride to action will be very well served by this bike. Whether on gravel roads, flow trails or easy routes, the bike is fun to ride. This does not mean that challenging terrain is no fun. You need to ride actively and the Cube reveals its capabilities. There are certainly more suitable bikes if you want to go full throttle, but with this E-MTB you won't feel "wrongly" equipped on any route. The soft suspension and relaxed riding position are a blessing if you're not in top form.
Recommendation
All cables are routed through the headset, which in combination with the rather long head tube results in a high front end. If your body size is in the lower range of the recommended frame size, it is worth removing as many spacers as possible under the stem. This puts more pressure on the front and noticeably improves the ride quality.
Specifications
| Frame material: | Carbon front and aluminum rear |
| Price: | CHF 6099.00 (from CHF 4499.00) |
| Weight: | 25.2 kg (frame size M, with pedals) |
| Suspension travel: | 150 mm front / 140 mm rear |
| Engine: | Bosch Performance CX, 250 W, 85 Nm |
| Battery: | Bosch Power Tube, 750 Wh |
| Suspension fork: | Fox 36 Float Grip |
| Suspension strut: | Fox Float X |
| Shift: | Sram GX Eagle |
| Brakes: | Magura MT7, 203 mm |
| Crankset: | ACID E-Crank, 165 mm |
| Wheels: | Newmen Performance 30 |
| Tires: | V: Maxxis Assegai, Maxx Grip, EXO+, , 29 x 2.5 WT H: Maxxis Minion DHR II, Maxx Grip, Double Down, 29 x 2.4 WT |
| Saddle: | Natural Fit Venec |
| Saddle post: | Cube dropper post, 203 mm |
| stem: | Cube Performance, 60 mm |
| handlebars: | Newmen Evolution SL, 800 mm, 25 mm rise |
Geometry
All data here: Link
Manufacturer
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Note: This content has been automatically translated from German. Please report any incorrect translations.