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The last E-Bike Reaction hardtail from Cubethat we tested had a clear focus: cycling and forest tracks. Tough off-road use, on the other hand, was less to its liking. The Upper Palatinate-based company has thoroughly modernised its best-selling e-hardtail for 2022. And that doesn't just apply to the smartly integrated new Bosch system with the 750 Powertube battery. No, the chassis has also been given a noticeable redesign. The new geometry with a longer reach, slacker steering angle and steeper seat angle gives the hardtail a refreshingly sporty touch without sacrificing comfort.
The e-bike newcomer from Cube strikes the right balance between universal everyday cruiser and sports bike for occasional off-road excursions. The voluminous tyres provide plenty of comfort and traction for those who branch off from level paths, and the supple Fox suspension fork with 120 millimetres of travel also smoothes out bumps effectively. The riding position is compact and upright, and the bike is small overall - making it quite manoeuvrable on tight single trails.
If the focus is on everyday use, the bike can be retrofitted with a pannier rack, mudguards and a kickstand - or you can go straight for the fully equipped Allroad model.
The rest of the SLT model's equipment is impeccable. XT 12-speed drivetrain, four-piston brakes with large 200 mm discs, also from the XT range. In principle, the Cube is even equipped for long Alpine tours. It's just a shame that the Waldershof-based company hasn't given its top-of-the-range hardtail a telescopic seatpost. This feature would significantly increase comfort and riding safety, especially off-road. The reason for this may be that e-bikers with off-road ambitions are more likely to look for a full-suspension model in this price range anyway - and this is already available in the Cube portfolio for 3749 euros. If you are looking for an e-hardtail, you can get the new technology with Smart System and new frame from Cube from the EXC version for € 3499.
Test summary of the Cube Reaction Hybrid SLT
The latest version of the Cube Reaction Hybrid SLT scores highly as a moderate e-bike all-rounder. The e-hardtail cuts a fine figure for everyday use, commuting or moderate bike tours. Behind its cosy character, the bike offers plenty of off-road expertise. Thanks to the new Bosch system with 750 battery, the Cube has a top range.
PLUS Uncomplicated riding characteristics; top equipment; long range
MINUS No telescopic seatpost; heavy; spoke magnet
Technical data for the Cube Reaction Hybrid SLT
General information
- Reach altitude*: 1901 hm
- Average speed: 15.86 km/h
- Price: 4199 Euro >> e.g. available here
E-bike motor
- Motor: Bosch Performance CX
- Max. Torque 3): 85 Nm
- Battery***/ -weight** / price Replacement battery: Powertube 750, 750 Wh / 4349 g / 999 Euro
- Gear system: Shimano XT (12-speed)
- Gear ratio (v/h): 38; 10-51
- Display / Size: Kiox 300 / 31 x 48 mm
Equipment
- Permissible total weight: 135 kg
- Fork / shock: Fox 34 Float AWL
- Suspension travel3 (f. / h.): 120 mm / 0 mm
- Seatpost: Cube Performance, rigid
- Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XT four-piston / 203 mm / 203 mm
- Wheels: Newmen Performance 30
- Tyres: Schwalbe Smart Sam ActiveLine, 29 x 2.6"
EMTB measured values**
- Sizes / frame material: 17" / 19" / 21" / 23" / aluminium (tested 19")
- Centre of gravity height: 527 mm
- Handlebar width: 720 mm
- Crank length / Q-factor: 175 mm / 184 mm
- Reach / Stack: 437 mm / 655 mm
*The reach height was determined during standardised test rides on an asphalt climb with a gradient of 12.2 percent. Highest support level, 150 watts pedalling power of the rider, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The altitude metres in clearly reduced emergency mode are shown in brackets. The average speed refers to the journey with full assistance.
** Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.
*** Manufacturer's specification
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
