With the Stereo, Cube caters for touring bikers from sporty low mountain bikers to aggressive enduro riders. Cube currently offers 27 different Stereo models alone. The Stereo fleet has brought Cube numerous test victories in recent years. Now it was time to fundamentally revise the Stereo 120. Both the aluminium version (HPA) and the version with a carbon main frame and aluminium rear triangle (HPC) will roll out of the shops on a new frame in 2016. Cube is also leaving the choice of wheels up to most customers: the Stereo 120 will be available in 16, 18 and 20-inch versions with 27.5-inch wheels, while the 29er version comes in 17, 19, 21 and 23-inch sizes. This means that bikers between 1.75 and 1.90 metres tall have a free choice.
Cube Stereo HPA
In terms of geometry and kinematics, the sporty aluminium all-mountain bike (HPA) is in the same league as the carbon version. The head tube has been shortened, the reach extended and the seat angle steepened a little. This makes the Stereo 120 even more comfortable to climb on long tours and ensures greater safety on technical terrain. All cables - including the brake lines - are concealed in the frame. The rear brake cable in particular is elaborately concealed and is routed into the brake calliper from below. The HPA models of the Stereo 120 are priced between 2200 and 2700 euros.
Cube Stereo HPC
The new carbon fibre frame saves 400 grams compared to its predecessor. In 27.5 inches, the new frame achieves a top weight of 2500 grams without the shock. The standover height has been slightly reduced and prepared for the new side-swing front derailleurs from Shimano. Shorter chainstays make the 27.5 Stereo 120 even more manoeuvrable. In terms of rear suspension kinematics, shorter rockers and shocks with a shorter stroke are used. The slightly progressive characteristic curve should cut a fine figure on small bumps and especially in the mid-travel range. Overall, it is slightly more progressive than the predecessor Stereo. The Stereo 120 HPC models range in price from 3200 to 4000 euros.
Cube Stereo 160 C68
Cube is transferring the C68 fibre technology, which was used in this season's Elite hardtail, to the Stereo 160 for 2016. With a fibre content of 68 percent and a minimised resin content, the special carbon construction reduces the weight. C68 is easily recognisable by the large carbon fibre rhombuses on the frame. On the Stereo 160 in 27.5 inches, the C68 construction reduces the weight to 2150 grams including shock. And that's for an enduro bike with 160 millimetres of travel! Cube had the Stereo 160 version of the Cube Action Team with them at the Eurobike Media Days. With a classy Shimano XTR, Fox 36 and Fox Float X shock - 12.5 kilos light and over 6000 euros.
Thanks to the new frame, you can now also ride shocks with reservoirs. If you want to ride Shimano's XTR Di2 electric drivetrain, the battery can be completely concealed in the voluminous bottom bracket area of the frame. The battery can be easily accessed via the removable down tube protector. The new Boost 148 standard has also been integrated into the new Stereo 160. ISCG mount on the bottom bracket is standard. There have also been some changes in terms of geometry: lower standover height, shorter chainstays, a steeper seat angle and a longer reach.
But the aluminium version has also slimmed down by 400 grams with a new frame. In addition to the C68 frame, there will also be a slightly heavier, but cheaper C62 version. With 62 percent fibre content - as the name suggests. The Stereo 160 HPA is available in aluminium from 2700 to 3700 euros. The Stereo 160 C68 and C62 models start at 4000 euros and end at 6500 euros.
Cube Nutrail fatbike
There will also be a fat bike from Cube in 2016. The aluminium fat bike goes by the name of Nutrail and will be available in three equipment variants from €1999 to €3999. With plenty of tyre clearance, even the biggest tyres will fit in the rear triangle. The cables are all routed inside the frame. A telescopic seat post with integrated cable routing and the linkage for Shimano's new side-swing front derailleur have also been considered.
Cube Stereo 150 27.5 Plus
In order not to miss out on the general plus trend, Cube will also be offering an all-mountain bike in B-Plus next year: the Stereo 150 HPA. The bikes will be on show for the first time at Eurobike. Probably with 2.8 inch wide tyres, Boost 148 standard and a very similar geometry and kinematics to the new Stereo models. Price: several models between 3500 and 4500 euros.
