Comfort tourer: The Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC on test

Balanced, affordable and good-natured: this is how Cube eMTBs have presented themselves in almost every one of our tests in recent years. The versatile E-MTBs from Waldershof have repeatedly achieved strong test results - The motorbike is particularly popular because of its uncomplicated handling and universal character, but also because of the good combination of price and performance. These characteristics are particularly in demand in the 5000 euro touring class. And Cube remains true to these traditions with the Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC. For an affordable 5299 euros, you get a high-quality Fox chassis, Shimano XT gears and brakes and a Pretty complete Bosch package: with CX drive, removable 750 Wh battery and Kiox 300 display. The soft, comfort-orientated Fox suspension and the relaxed, somewhat compact riding position should also appeal to touring bikers - making long tours a pleasure on the Cube. On top of that, the range is very good. On trails, the bike with its compact geo is easy to handle, but too much playfulness is lost in the somewhat plush suspension.

The facts about the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC

• Motor: Bosch Performance CX, 85 Nm max. torque
• Battery: 750 Wh (removable)
• Frame material: carbon main frame/aluminium rear triangle
• Suspension travel: 150/140 millimetres
• Wheel size: 29 inch
• Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 24.6 kg (test bike in size L, EMTB measurement)
• Range: 2011 hm at an average speed of 13.6 km/h
• Price: 5299 Euro >> available here

The e-drive in the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC

Cube has traditionally relied on Bosch as its motor supplier, and the performance-orientated e-mountainbikes from the Waldershof-based company use Bosch motors. the powerful Bosch CX for use. Although the Swabian motor-battery combination is not one of the lightest, in demanding terrain the Bosch with its good modulation, dynamic power development and high maximum power the benchmark on the electric motor market. It makes sense for the Upper Palatinate-based company to combine the CX in the Hybrid 140 HPC with a Kiox 300 display and removable battery. The range is impressive, and the Kiox 300 not only displays all the important riding and performance data, but also guides the rider safely to their destination with its navigation function. Pleasant: The Bosch is quite quiet in the Cube - hardly any rattling downhill and a discreet motor sound on the climbs.

The features of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC

• Fork / Shock: Fox 34 Float Rhythm E-MTB / Fox Float DPS EVol
• Gears: Shimano Deore/XT 12-speed, 34 x 10-51
• Brakes: Shimano XT, 203/203 mm
• Wheels: Newmen Performance 30
• Tyres: Schwalbe Hans Dampf Supertrail Soft/Speedgrip, 29 x 2.6
• Telescopic support with 150 mm stroke

The geometry of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC

The Cube has a balanced touring geometry. The cranked handlebars mean you sit slightly upright. Thanks to the low bottom bracket, however, you feel well integrated into the bike. The long chainstays help effectively when climbing.

EMTB measurements at a glance (frame size L)

• Seat tube length: 453 mm
• Wheelbase: 1255 mm
• Reach: 463 mm
• Stack: 643 mm
• Steering angle: 65.5°
• Seat angle: 75°
• Chainstay length: 456 mm

How the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC rides

As soon as you sit on it, it's clear that the Cube isn't aiming for the fastest times on rough downhills. The riding position is balanced, but rather compact and tour-orientated thanks to the offset handlebars and moderately short reach. The suspension is clearly designed for comfort: The Fox fork and shock are sensitive and plush, and the suspension filters out bumps from the ground very sensitively, especially at low speeds. This is particularly pleasing for riders on long tours. However, the rear suspension also offers a little less counter-pressure. Although the Cube meanders through winding trails, it still doesn't feel particularly light-footed.

On the climbs, the Stereo Hybrid delivers a balanced, strong performance. The rear suspension provides a lot of traction, stays high in its travel on steep climbs and doesn't bottom out on steps. The long chainstays also help - the front only rears up late. When things get rough downhill, the 34 Fox reaches its limits. On hard landings and compressions, the fork lacks progression and doesn't feel particularly stiff, making the ride on the Cube a little imprecise at the limit. Less experienced riders will benefit from the comfortable suspension and the fairly high front end with offset handlebars in demanding off-road situations.

Strengths

• Comfortable chassis
• Comfortable touring geometry
• High driving safety
• Top motor
• Good range

Weaknesses

• quite heavy
• Suspension somewhat passive

Conclusion Josh Welz, EMTB editor-in-chief

With the Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC, Cube presents a versatile all-mountain bike with a powerful range. Thanks to its sensitive, forgiving suspension and moderate geometry, it offers plenty of comfort and is therefore ideal for long tours. The good-natured character and strong chassis help less experienced riders in demanding off-road situations. However, the Cube is quite heavy, and sporty riders might miss some liveliness on trails.