Is it still ahead in its third season? Answer: yes. Downhill, the Stereo is the reference. You sit compactly thanks to the short top tube and short stem. This guarantees fun downhill and on the trail, but doesn't make the bike particularly aggressive on the climbs. Nobody expects a racer, but the same applies here: With fast tyres and a long stem, you can change the character to sporty. But is that what you want? Isn't it more fun to beat the fat Hans Dampf tyres over boulders without fear of a puncture? Isn't it more fun to deliberately jump into the next root carpet, safe in the knowledge that the suspension will breathe away the obstacles? The Stereo takes riders who are less technically adept to the next level.
ConclusionThe Stereo 140 is still THE riding machine among 29er all-mountain bikes. It has enduro potential and impresses with its foolproof handling. Full throttle for everyone!
PLUS Very versatile chassis, excellent handling, sensibly equipped
MINUS Only three-year warranty, relatively heavy
The alternative The models with a full carbon frame are significantly lighter, e.g. the Stereo 140 Super HPC Race for 3999 euros. It is said to save 650 grams of weight and has the top suspension from Fox.
