Price-performance hammer: The Cube Nuroad C:62 EXC

With the Nuroad C:62 EXC, Cube delivers a challenge to the gravel upper class. A feather-light carbon frame meets the exclusive 13-speed SRAM Force AXS - technology dreams become affordable here.

Conclusion

The Cube Nuroad C:62 EXC* This is currently one of the most attractive complete packages for sporty gravel riders. For 3,399 euros, the Upper Palatinate company offers equipment that normally only starts above the 5,000 euro mark: wireless 13-speed gears, carbon wheels and an integrated power meter. If you're looking for maximum performance with minimum weight and don't fancy expensive upgrades, this is the bike for you. A real statement bike.

Before we go into the details of the Cube Nuroad C:62 EXC We will give you an overview of the Nuroad product range and take a brief excursion into the nomenclature of the Upper Palatinate company.

At Cube, "Nuroad" (no suffix) stands for the aluminium models and "Nuroad C:62" for the carbon versions. The model abbreviations run like a red thread through almost all of Cube's categories and provide information about the groupset installed and the quality of the components.

The top models

SLT (Super Light Technology)

The best of the best. Cube uses the lowest weight and the most expensive components (usually SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace/GRX Di2 level). Often with high-quality carbon wheels and an integrated carbon cockpit.

SLX (Super Light Cross)

The "upper middle class" to upper class. Here you will mostly find electronic drivetrains (SRAM Force or Rival AXS / Shimano GRX Di2) - the sweet spot for ambitious riders who want modern technology without the "luxury premium" of the SLT series.

The middle class

Race

The classic. The focus here is on performance, usually realised by the tried and tested Shimano GRX 2x12 group. It is the model for anyone looking for a fine gradation of gears and a wide range for road and off-road use.

EXC

This abbreviation often stands for "Excellent" equipment, which is just above the Pro model. Durable components are often used here, which ensure a great riding experience at a moderate weight.

EX

The "X" usually stands for 1-fold drives (no front derailleur). These models are intended for more technical terrain or purists who prefer simple, intuitive operation and less susceptibility to defects in all weather conditions. This category includes bikes with a good price-performance ratio for riders who do not demand the highest technical standards.

The entry-level models

Pro

The solid workhorse. Mechanical Shimano GRX drivetrains and other reliable components are usually installed here. Here you will find a very attractive price point without having to make significant compromises in terms of geometry or the frame.

One

The basic model. It marks the entry-level price point into the Nuroad world. Ideal for occasional riders or beginners who are looking for a robust budget bike for everyday use and occasional tours.

Special designs

FE (Fully Equipped)

As the name suggests, these bikes come "fully equipped". This means: permanently installed mudguards, a discreet pannier rack, a kickstand and a fully-fledged lighting system (often with a hub dynamo). This makes them the perfect commuter bikes.

Between tradition and innovation

The Cube Nuroad has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began years ago as a simple "all-roader", more like a racing bike with wider tyres, has developed into a serious off-road sports bike. Cube has found the perfect recipe for its slice of the market pie: High-quality materials combined with a geometry that doesn't overtax anyone, but does challenge them.

The C:62 series is the spearhead of this range. The name refers to the special manufacturing process in which 62 percent carbon fibres are used in the composite material. The aim: less resin, more fibre, less weight. Cube has further optimised the frame for the 2026 model year. In particular, the tyre clearance of now up to 50 mm shows that Cube has taken the signals from the market and implemented them. The Nuroad is now finally ready for rough terrain without denying its roots as a fast long-distance bike.

The look of the EXC model in "carbon'n'crisscross" emphasises this technical claim. The raw carbon finish looks elegant and functional at the same time, while the complete integration of the cables through the new one-piece carbon cockpit ensures a clean silhouette that is usually found on more expensive bikes.

How the Cube Nuroad C:62 EXC rides

The carbon model C:62 scores points with a carbon seatpost that can flex and thus noticeably smooth out bumps. However, at 350 millimetres, the seatpost is quite short, which can make it difficult for taller riders to find the right riding position. Cube only installs a longer 400 millimetre version from frame size L upwards. In the laboratory measurements, the carbon Cube achieves a good value for rear-end comfort: 134 Newtons per millimetre. The bike conveys a secure off-road riding experience, yet remains agile thanks to its lower weight and is easy on the throttle. The high stiffness in the bottom bracket area is noticeable when accelerating and pedalling. The stack reach value is 1.52 and the riding position is moderately sporty. It also has a slack steering angle and long wheelbase. This makes the bike very stable on fast descents on loose gravel, but it can feel a little unwieldy in tight bends and winding trails.

Technical fireworks: gearstick and equipment

Cube installs the SRAM Force XPLR AXS E1 in the 13-speed configuration - a significant step in terms of range and gradation compared to the classic 12-speed systems. This helps you to find the right cadence on fast tarmac sections without having to sacrifice the lifebuoys on steep terrain.

In addition, Cube has equipped the EXC with a standard power meter in the crank - a helpful tool for ambitious riders to control their training, which almost all other manufacturers in this price range have to laboriously retrofit. The Newmen Advanced G.34 carbon wheels round off the package. They are light, stable and massively support the agile steering behaviour of the bike.

The most important facts at a glance

• Price: 3,399 Euro >> available here
• Frame material: C:62 Carbon
• Frame sizes: XS (50cm), S (53cm), M (56cm), L (58cm), XL (61cm)
• Weight: approx. 8.2 kg (manufacturer's specification)
• Drive/gear shift: SRAM Force XPLR AXS E1, 13-speed (wireless-electronic)
• Brakes: SRAM Force AXS E1, hydraulic disc brakes (160/160 mm)
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One R Pro, Tubeless Easy, 45 mm (up to 50 mm possible)
• Impellers: Newmen Advanced G.34 Carbon, Tubeless Ready

Assessment of the price-performance mix

In an industry where prices have often only gone in one direction in recent years, the Cube Nuroad C:62 EXC is a ray of hope. No other bike on the market combines a high-quality carbon frame with a SRAM Force 13-speed groupset, a power meter and carbon wheels for less than € 3,500.

Cube has managed to almost completely close the gap between the upper mid-range and the real professional models. The bike is suitable for racers who want to be on the starting line of a gravel event, as well as for sporty leisure riders who enjoy fine technology. If you can do without the prestigious names of some US brands, you get more technical features here than with some competitors in the 5000 euro league.