Verdict on the Stevens Aviolo 8.1 HT test
The Stevens has a modern design yet still upholds classic trekking values. Its focus on everyday commuting and road cycling makes sense for anyone who rarely ventures off-road anyway. The spec is upper mid-range, but the price reflects this.
Data and facts about the Stevens Aviolo 8.1 HT
| Price | 1.799,00 € |
| Weight | 16.56 kg |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Cues U6000 |
A stroll through town or a trip around the world, road or off-road? Many modern touring bikes aim to do it all. The new Aviolo from Stevens takes a more focused approach. With wide yet fast tyres and an upright riding position, it’s the most classic trekking bike in our comparison of three touring bikes priced up to 1,800 euros, and it scores particularly highly for its comfort and straightforward nature.
Pros and cons: weight and suspension fork
Let’s get the criticisms out of the way straight away. The suspension fork can be easily adjusted to the rider’s weight via the air pressure, but suffers from play in the bushings and mediocre responsiveness. And despite its aluminium frame, the Aviolo could be a little lighter. Weighing well over 16 kilos, it’s more in the same league as comparable bikes with steel frames, such as the The classic VSF T-500 (reviewed here). If that’s a problem for you, Stevens simply offers the Caleta, its sister model. It’s a bit sportier and, without a suspension fork, lighter and cheaper, though slightly less comfortable.
Comfort is key
After all, the Aviolo really shines when it comes to comfort. Even when faced with harsh impacts such as potholes and kerbs, the fork still offers a distinct advantage. The riding position is distinctly upright and relaxed, without isolating the rider from the road surface. Comfortable contact points, from the handlebars to the saddle, do the rest to ensure the rider isn’t left feeling worn out, even on long rides. The Cues 6020 circuit with two blades (reviewed here) It offers a good range; the Tektro hydraulic brakes bite hard and remain fairly quiet even in the rain. The bike tracks straight well without feeling sluggish to handle. Very good!
Stevens has fitted the bike with plenty of decent components. The Shutter Precision dynamo runs smoothly, whilst the aluminium mudguards look well-made and don’t rattle. However, the 80-lux front headlight and the very discreet rear reflector leave something to be desired. On the other hand, the extensive range of sizes from XS to XXL is excellent. As well as the classic diamond frame, the bike is also available with a trapezoid frame featuring a slightly lowered top tube.
Is this the Stevens adventure?
On long journeys, the luggage rack impresses with a generous 30-kilo load capacity. The low-rolling-resistance tyres from Schwalbe are also a plus, particularly when riding mainly on tarmac. You can’t pack half your household belongings onto it without a front rack, but nothing stands in the way of normal long-distance trips on the Stevens. Please note: The cables routed through the headset give the bike a sleek look, but mean additional repair work in the event of a fault.
The Stevens Aviolo 8.1 HT at a glance
Strengths
- A lovely blend of performance and comfort
- wide range of sizes
- sturdy luggage rack
Weaknesses
- A suspension fork offers only limited added value
- The bike is a bit heavy
Adrian Kaether
Editor
