A sporty Cube gravel bike with a motor: A pipe dream or a contradiction in terms?

BIKE Verdict: Who would benefit from this 12.9-kilo e-gravel bike?

On paper, the CUBE Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X is a consistently lightweight e-gravel bike designed for riders who enjoy a sporty ride and want to use light motor assistance to either extend their range or boost their climbing speed. Carbon wheels, Force XPLR AXS and the Bosch SX complement its sporty character. However, luggage rack and mudguard mounts also make the bike suitable for everyday use if required.

The compromise lies in the permanently integrated 400 Wh battery. Those who value maximum range and hassle-free charging above all else will find this a limitation. On the other hand, those who prioritise low weight over a large battery and do not need to be able to remove the battery for charging will find this a stylish, great-value package.

Key points at a glance

• Weight and price: 12.9 kg according to CUBE, RRP €5,999.
• Electric drive: Bosch Performance SX with up to 60 Nm and a permanently integrated CompactTube 400 Wh battery.
• Energy reserve: Optional Bosch PowerMore range extender with an additional 250 Wh, giving a combined nominal battery capacity of 650 Wh.
• Circuit: SRAM Force XPLR AXS E1, 13-speed, with a 40-tooth chainring and a 10–46 cassette.
• Miscellaneous: A sporty gravel bike with 45 mm tyres, up to 50 mm of tyre clearance and mounts for touring and everyday accessories.

Technical specifications of the CUBE Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X

CUBE manufactures the frame from its high-quality C:62 carbon using the Advanced Twin Mould process. The cables run through the headset into the frame, whilst the fork is also made of carbon. The sporty look conceals a practical advantage: there are mounts at the rear for a luggage rack and mudguards, whilst the fork features low-rider mounts. A flat-mount side stand can also be retrofitted.

The tyres also contribute to the bike’s versatility. It comes fitted with 45 mm-wide Continental Terra Speed tyres as standard; according to CUBE, tyres up to 50 mm wide can be fitted for even greater comfort, even with mudguards. The Newmen Streem G.62 VONOA, with carbon rims and carbon spokes, emphasises the bike’s lightweight, sporty design. Anyone who sees this hybrid primarily as a fast gravel bike is likely to find this combination appealing. For heavily laden trips, buyers should check the permissible loads and the compatibility of the desired accessories separately.

How sporty is the geometry?

CUBE refers to the design as ‘Gravel Endurance Geometry’. The spec sheet lists a reach of 393 mm and a stack of 579 mm for size M; the 453 mm-long chainstays remain the same across all five sizes. The head angle increases from 69.5 degrees on the XS to 72.5 degrees on the XL. These figures suggest a geometry designed for longer gravel rides, but do not indicate either particularly smooth handling or exceptional agility. Balanced – that sums it up best.

Bosch Performance SX: What does 400 Wh mean in practice?

The Bosch Performance SX delivers a maximum torque of up to 60 Nm. The integrated CompactTube 400 keeps the platform slim; via the optional PowerMore Range Extender the capacity can be increased by a further 250 Wh. This brings the total battery capacity to 650 Wh, although it does add extra weight (1,497 grams) and costs an additional 469 euros. We have already covered how this drive system performs in general in the BIKE review of the Bosch Performance SX examined.

The battery, which is firmly integrated into the down tube, cannot be removed for charging. Anyone who stores their bike in a garage or cellar without a nearby socket should bear this in mind before purchasing. CUBE does not specify a reliable range in kilometres for this model. It depends, amongst other things, on the assistance level, elevation gain, terrain, temperature and riding style. Route planning is therefore a key factor in the purchasing decision: Anyone who regularly undertakes long journeys with plenty of support should factor in the cost of the PowerMore Range Extender straight away.

13-speed gears and carbon wheels: Is this the right combination?

The electronic Force XPLR AXS E1 combines CUBE with a Race Face ERA E-MTB crankset and a 40-tooth chainring. Paired with the 10–46 cassette featuring 13 sprockets, you should have the right gear for almost any situation. And if the climbing gear does happen to be a bit too challenging: don’t worry. The motor makes up for any lack of power in your legs.

Braking is provided by hydraulic SRAM Force AXS E1 HRD calipers and 180 mm discs at both the front and rear. A direct-mount chain guide is also part of the setup. The cockpit features a Newmen carbon handlebar and the CUBE CIS stem. Handy: a compatible ACID front light can be connected via the X-Connect interface. The light itself is not included as standard.

Advantages and limitations at a glance

Here’s why the Nuroad Hybrid is a good choice:

• Low manufacturer’s weight of 12.9 kg with the Bosch SX drive.
• High-quality build featuring a carbon frame, carbon fork, carbon wheels and an electronic 13-speed gear system. Excellent value for money.
• Up to 50 mm of tyre clearance for greater comfort and off-road capability.
• Compatible with the range extender.

Buyers should bear the following in mind:

• The 400 Wh battery is permanently fitted; PowerMore is available at an extra cost and increases the weight.
• CUBE limits the rider’s weight, including equipment, to 100 kg.

We’d also love to hear your thoughts: what do you make of a gravel bike with a motor and such a sporty design? Is it a contradiction in terms or a vision of the future? Feel free to drop us a line via the comments section!