Cube Aruba reviewed: Charming, but is it practical too?

​Conclusion: Retro chic with down-to-earth substance

The Cube Aruba* The low-step bike is a no-nonsense bike. It doesn’t promise too much, but it delivers reliably in its core areas: the retro look is eye-catching, the Nexus 8 gear system is low-maintenance and precise, and the sturdy luggage rack is an added bonus that really comes into its own in everyday use. For €849, you get a well-designed city bike that stands out clearly from cheap, discount low-step models. You’ll have to make do with V-brakes and basic lighting, but at this price, that’s perfectly forgivable. - Adrian Kaether, Test & Technology Editor

Cube isn’t necessarily known as a manufacturer that places a particular emphasis on retro aesthetics. The Aruba is a refreshing exception to this. With its nostalgic design, this low-step bike aims to show that an everyday bike costing under 850 euros doesn’t necessarily have to look like a DIY store bike – and that it has more to offer than just good looks.

Design & Craftsmanship: A feast for the eyes

It’s clear at first glance: the Aruba is in a league of its own when it comes to style. Cube combines a classic low-step frame with cream-coloured accents on the saddle, grips and mudguards, as well as a matt frame finish reminiscent of the 1960s and 70s. The result is a harmonious look that makes the bike appealing even to fashion-conscious female riders who see their bike not just as a means of transport, but also as an accessory.

The build quality is solid for the price. The welds are neat and the paintwork is applied evenly. You do have to accept a few minor compromises with some of the plastic components, which look a little simpler on closer inspection – but at 849 euros, that’s not really a point of criticism, but simply the reality of this market segment. The Cube Aruba, for example, is available here*.

Frame & Geometry: A new take on the low-step bike

The Aruba’s frame is a classic low-step design, offering a very low step-through for easy mounting and dismounting – ideal for those wearing skirts and dresses or for people with limited mobility. The riding position is upright and relaxed, with the handlebars slightly dropped for greater comfort. The Aruba is therefore clearly positioned as a city bike and leisure bike for relaxed rides, rather than a sporty trekking bike.

What clearly sets the Aruba apart from standard low-step bikes is a technical detail that Cube rightly highlights: as with the Kathmandu trekking bike (reviewed here), the luggage rack is integrated into the frame to bear the load. At first glance, this may sound like a minor detail, but it makes a noticeable difference in everyday use. Traditional, retrofitted luggage racks are attached to the seat tube and the stays and are more prone to wobbling under load. On the Aruba, the load is channelled via the frame directly into the bottom bracket and the rear axle. The result: with loaded panniers or a shopping basket, the Aruba rides more smoothly and with greater responsiveness than comparable bikes.

Drive & gearbox: Simple, but tried and tested

Cube is relying on an Aruba Shimano Nexus 8-speed in-hub gear system – a good choice for an everyday bike. The Nexus-8 requires little maintenance, as the mechanism runs entirely in an oil bath inside the rear hub housing and is therefore protected from dirt and moisture. The gear ratios are adequate for flat to gently undulating terrain; however, those who regularly have to tackle steeper climbs might prefer a slightly lower gear ratio.

Brakes: V-brakes – reliable, but with limitations

The brakes are a matter of debate. Cube fits V-brakes – in other words, traditional rim brakes. This makes technical sense and is perfectly adequate for dry conditions. V-brakes are easy to maintain and inexpensive to repair if damaged.

However, compared with hydraulic disc brakes – which are now also finding their way onto affordable trekking and city bikes – they have clear disadvantages in wet and muddy conditions. Braking performance drops noticeably when the rims are wet, and anyone who cycles regularly in autumn and winter will need to brake earlier. For a bike intended primarily for urban leisure use, this is perfectly acceptable. For frequent cyclists or those who commute regularly in all weathers, a hydraulic disc brake would be preferable – though in this price range, they are rarely available in combination with a hub gear system.

Lighting: The weakest point

The built-in headlight produces just 15 lux – barely above the legal minimum in Germany, and a bit on the low side for unlit roads or cycle paths. It’s sufficient for a well-lit city ride, but you’ll feel uneasy riding along a dirt track in the dark.

The power comes from a hub dynamo, which is good – no need to change batteries, and no risk of forgetting to recharge it. However, a headlight with 40 or 60 lux – the sort fitted to comparable bikes from competitors in this price range – would be more suited to the needs of an everyday bike.

Weight: Solid mid-range

Our test bike weighs 16.8 kilograms. That’s a normal weight for an affordable, unsuspended low-step trekking bike with in-hub gears, mudguards, a luggage rack and lights. Anyone who has to carry the bike up to the third floor every day will certainly notice the weight. For normal city use, it’s no problem at all.

Context: How is the Aruba different?

Compared with traditional low-entry models

A typical low-step bike costing under 700 euros – think of models sold by mail-order companies or DIY stores – quickly stands out in comparison. Such bikes often feature cheap derailleurs with imprecise gear changes, very basic fittings and no integrated luggage rack. They are adequate for occasional use, but not designed for everyday use. The Aruba, on the other hand, offers a future-proof drivetrain concept in the form of the Nexus 8 and a build quality that will give you years of enjoyment.

Compared to trekking bikes costing less than 1,000 euros

Classic trekking bikes in this price range usually have a diamond or trapezoidal frame, so they are not low-step models. They often offer a wider range of gears, with 21 to 27 speeds via a derailleur system, sometimes come with disc brakes and occasionally feature a suspension fork. In terms of handling, they are more agile and better suited to longer rides.

But the Aruba isn’t really in the same league as those bikes: it’s neither a sports bike nor a touring bike. It’s an everyday companion with a comfortable riding position and a level of style that classic Trek bikes simply can’t match. Anyone who cycles a few kilometres every day to work or to the shops doesn’t choose the Aruba in spite of its retro look, but precisely because of it – and gets solid engineering and the clever integrated luggage rack thrown in for good measure.

Who should buy it: Commuters travelling short to medium distances, fashion-conscious everyday cyclists, and anyone who regularly travels with luggage and values a smart appearance.

Who shouldn’t buy it: Frequent cyclists in all weathers, touring cyclists, and anyone who relies on dynamic performance or maximum safety provided by powerful brakes.