Test Cube Nuroad C:62 One vs SLX: Cube gravel bikes in direct comparison

The Upper Palatinate bike manufacturer Cube has made a name for itself in recent years as a price-performance winner. The Nuroad gravel bike platform in particular is an important pillar for the manufacturer: According to the company, the Nuroad is the best-selling model in the road bike segment.

For 2026, Cube has expanded its portfolio and now offers both the top model of the aluminium series, the Nuroad SLXas well as a completely revised carbon platform, the entry-level model of which is the Nuroad C:62 One represents. The price difference between these two variants is only 200 euros, but the concepts differ significantly.

While the aluminium SLX model comes with Shimano's high-quality GRX 820 1x12 drivetrain and weighs 10.1 kilograms, the carbon entry-level model C:62 One scores with its even lower weight of 9.3 kilograms. The components consist of a mix of the somewhat simpler GRX 610 with parts from the GRX 820.

Which Cube Nuroad for whom?

In terms of value for money, both models offer a lot for your money. The decision between the two models ultimately depends on the intended use: for sporty rides with a focus on speed and low weight, the Cube Nuroad C:62 One is the better choice, while the Cube Nuroad SLX scores with its robustness, higher comfort and extreme gearing, especially for demanding terrain and tours with luggage.

C:62 One vs. SLX: Concept comparison

The aluminium frame of the Nuroad SLX has been completely redesigned and is visually very similar to its carbon counterpart. The weld seams are cleanly ground and, compared to the cheaper aluminium versions of the Nuroad, the brake lines and shift cables of the SLX are partially integrated and routed into the head tube under the stem. It also features the UDH standard (Universal Derailleur Hanger) for modern SRAM groupsets and additional threaded eyelets for luggage. The frame is available in six sizes, whereby the new XXL version is also suitable for riders around two metres tall - albeit with a weight limit of 100 kilograms.

>> Cube Nuroad SLX: Inexpensive and solid - Cube's gravel bike from 2026 on test

>> Gravel bikes under 2000 euros on test: The Cube Nuroad C:62 One - the high-flyer

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The Nuroad C:62 One is based on a carbon frame, which has also been completely redesigned for the current season. The carbon version is lighter and stiffer, which is particularly noticeable when pedalling, whereby the C:62 One and the SLX are not far apart in terms of bottom bracket stiffness (61 Newtons per millimetre to 58 Newtons per millimetre). The carbon frame is available in five sizes (XS to XL) and also offers numerous mounting points for accessories such as mudguards, pannier racks and even a kickstand.

Seating position and geometry

Interestingly, the two models differ in their geometry. While the carbon model C:62 One offers a slightly sportier, more stretched seating position, the aluminium SLX model sits a little more upright and comfortable. This is reflected in the stack-reach ratios: The C:62 One has an STR of 1.52 in size M, while the SLX allows a more upright position with a value of 1.59. In addition, the SLX has a short, upward-facing stem and the handlebars have hardly any pre-bend towards the grips. This results in an extremely comfortable riding position with brake levers, which avoids a top-heavy, unsafe riding feeling, especially off-road.

The riding position on the C:62 One is a little more stretched out, but still comfortable enough for long distances. The sportier orientation is particularly noticeable at higher speeds, where the carbon model really comes into its own. Both bikes have a slack steering angle with a long wheelbase, which makes them very directional, but can sometimes feel a little bulky in tight bends and angled trails.

Shimano components

Both models are equipped with Shimano components, albeit with different focal points. The Nuroad SLX is equipped with a Shimano GRX 820 1x12 drivetrain, which utilises a very wide 10-51 cassette from the mountain bike range. This offers enormous reserves on steep climbs, but is somewhat coarse for typical gravel use. The right gear is often missing on flat roller sections. The brakes are high-quality GRX 820s with servo wave technology, which ensure powerful braking performance.

The Nuroad C:62 One comes with a combination of Shimano GRX 610 and 820 components and also a 1x12 drivetrain with 40 teeth at the front and an 11-51 cassette at the rear. The brakes are somewhat simpler GRX 400s, which nevertheless offer solid braking performance. An important difference lies in the wheels: The high-quality aluminium SLX racer comes with lightweight carbon rims (Newmen Performance X.R. 25), while the affordable carbon model C:62 One comes with aluminium rims (Newmen Performance 25). Both bikes roll on Schwalbe G-One tyres, whereby the SLX has the sportier G-One R tyres in a width of 45 millimetres, while the C:62 One has the more versatile G-One Allround tyres in the same width.

Comfort and driving characteristics

The carbon model C:62 One 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, both bikes achieve a value of 134 Newtons per millimetre for rear comfort, which the aluminium SLX model owes primarily to the well thought-out frame geometry and the wide tyres. Both bikes provide a secure off-road riding experience, although the C:62 One is a little more agile due to its lower weight and hangs better on the throttle. The SLX, on the other hand, impresses with its robustness and reliability, which is a particular advantage on bikepacking tours with luggage.

Two gravel bikes for different target groups

The different concepts of the two models appeal to different target groups. The Nuroad C:62 One is particularly suitable for sporty riders who are looking for a light and agile gravel bike for fast tours on gravel and tarmac. Thanks to its low weight and sporty geometry, it also cuts a fine figure at higher speeds. The mounting points for pannier rack and mudguards also make it a versatile companion for everyday use or multi-day tours.

The Nuroad SLX, on the other hand, is aimed at riders who are looking for a robust and reliable gravel bike for a variety of uses. The more comfortable riding position and the extreme gear reduction make it the ideal companion for demanding terrain and steep climbs, even with luggage. It is also particularly easy to maintain, as only three Allen keys are required for the main adjustments and the cables are only partially routed in the frame, which makes assembly work considerably easier. An FE version with mudguards, dynamo light and side stand is also available for 1599 euros, which costs only 100 euros more than the basic model and is particularly suitable for everyday use and commuting.

Conclusion: Both Nuroads offer a lot for the money

In terms of value for money, both models offer a lot for your money. The Nuroad C:62 One is available for 1999 euros (>> available hereThe new "Ride" () is the only gravel bike in its price category with a carbon frame and was able to secure the test victory in a comparison test of 13 gravel bikes under 2000 euros. With a weight of 9.3 kilograms, it clearly undercut most of its competitors in the comparison - the difference to the heaviest competitor is even more than two kilograms.

The Nuroad SLX offers for 1799 Euro (>> e.g. available here) high-quality equipment with better brakes than the C:62 One. However, if you ride a lot on flat terrain, you should opt for the race version of the Nuroad, which offers a GRX 2x12 drivetrain with front derailleur for 300 euros less. The gear steps are then finer, the brakes somewhat easier. The decision between the two models ultimately depends on the intended use: for sporty rides with a focus on speed and low weight, the C:62 One is the better choice, while the SLX scores points for its robustness, greater comfort and extreme gear reduction, especially for demanding terrain and tours with luggage.