Review: Cube Nuroad C:62 One vs. SLX: A head-to-head comparison of Cube gravel bikes

Cube, the Upper Palatinate-based bicycle manufacturer, has made a name for itself in recent years as a leader in value for money. The Nuroad gravel bike range in particular is a key pillar for the manufacturer: according to the company itself, the Nuroad is the best-selling model in its road bike range.

Cube has expanded its range for 2026 and now offers both the top-of-the-range model in the aluminium series, the Nuroad SLX, as well as a completely redesigned carbon platform, the entry-level model of which is the Nuroad C:62 One The price difference between these two versions is just 200 euros, but the concepts differ significantly.

Whilst the aluminium SLX model features Shimano’s high-quality GRX 820 1x12 groupset and weighs 10.1 kilograms, the carbon entry-level model, the C:62 One, stands out with its even lighter weight of 9.3 kilograms. The components consist of a mix of the slightly simpler GRX 610 and parts from the GRX 820.

Which Cube Nuroad is right for whom?

​​In terms of value for money, both models offer great value. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the intended use: for sporty riding with a focus on speed and low weight, the Cube Nuroad C:62 One the better choice, whilst the Cube Nuroad SLX stands out thanks to its robustness, greater comfort and extremely low gear ratio, making it particularly well-suited to challenging terrain and tours with luggage.

C:62 One vs. SLX: Concept Comparison

The aluminium frame of the Nuroad SLX has been completely redesigned and visually closely resembles its carbon counterpart. The welds are neatly ground down; compared to the more affordable aluminium versions of the Nuroad, the SLX features partially integrated brake and gear cables, which are routed under the stem into the head tube. It also features the UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) standard for modern SRAM groupsets, as well as additional threaded eyelets for luggage. The frame is available in six sizes, with the new XXL version also suitable for riders up to two metres tall – though with a weight limit of 100 kilograms.

>> Cube Nuroad SLX: Affordable and robust – a review of Cube’s 2026 gravel bike

>> Gravel bikes under 2,000 euros put to the test: The Cube Nuroad C:62 One – the standout performer

>> A fun bike with a Bosch SX: the Cube Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X put to the test – with the wind at its back

The Nuroad C:62 One is built around 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 setting off, although in terms of measured bottom bracket stiffness, the C:62 One and the SLX are not far apart (61 newtons per millimetre versus 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, luggage racks and even a side stand.

Seating position and geometry

Interestingly, the two models differ in their geometry. Whilst the C:62 One carbon model offers a slightly sportier, more stretched-out riding position, the SLX aluminium model allows you to sit in a slightly more upright and comfortable position. This is reflected in the stack-reach ratios: the C:62 One in size M has a STR of 1.52, whilst the SLX, with a value of 1.59, allows for a more upright position. Furthermore, the SLX is fitted with a short, upward-tilting stem, and the handlebars have virtually no forward bend towards the grips. This results in an exceptionally comfortable riding position when holding the brake levers, which helps to prevent a top-heavy, unstable riding sensation, particularly off-road.

Although the riding position on the C:62 One is slightly more stretched out, it is still comfortable enough for long distances. Its sportier set-up is particularly noticeable at higher speeds, where the carbon model really comes into its own. Both bikes feature a flat steering angle combined with a long wheelbase, which makes them exceptionally stable but can also make them feel a bit cumbersome in tight bends and on twisty trails.

Shimano components

In terms of spec, both models feature Shimano components, albeit with different priorities. The Nuroad SLX is fitted with a Shimano GRX 820 1x12-speed groupset, which utilises a very wide 10–51 cassette from the mountain bike range. This offers enormous reserves on steep climbs, but the gear spacing is a little too coarse for typical gravel riding. On flat, rolling sections, you often find yourself without the right gear. The brakes are high-quality GRX 820 units with Servo-Wave technology, which ensure sharp braking performance.

The Nuroad C:62 One comes with a combination of Shimano GRX 610 and 820 components, as well as a 1x12 drivetrain with a 40-tooth chainring at the front and an 11-51 cassette at the rear. The brakes are the slightly simpler GRX 400 model, which nevertheless offer solid braking performance. A key difference lies in the wheelsets: the high-end aluminium road bike, the SLX, comes with lightweight carbon rims (Newmen Performance X.R. 25), whilst the more affordable carbon model, the C:62 One, features aluminium rims (Newmen Performance 25). Both bikes are fitted with Schwalbe G-One tyres, with the SLX featuring the sportier G-One R in a 45-millimetre width, whilst the C:62 One opts for the more versatile G-One Allround in the same width.

Comfort and handling

The C:62 One carbon model stands out thanks to its carbon seatpost, which flexes and thus noticeably smooths 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 fits a longer 400-millimetre version on frame sizes L and above. In laboratory tests, both bikes achieved a rear comfort rating of 134 newtons per millimetre, a result the aluminium SLX model owes primarily to its well-designed frame geometry and wide tyres. Both bikes offer a confident off-road riding experience, although the C:62 One feels slightly more agile and responds better to the throttle due to its lower weight. The SLX, on the other hand, impresses with its robustness and reliability, which is particularly advantageous on bikepacking tours with luggage.

Two gravel bikes for different target groups

The different designs of the two models appeal to different target groups. The Nuroad C:62 One is particularly well suited to sporty riders looking for a lightweight and agile gravel bike for fast rides on gravel and tarmac. Thanks to its low weight and sporty geometry, it performs well even at higher speeds. The mounting points for luggage racks 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 cyclists looking for a robust and reliable gravel bike suitable for a wide range of uses. The more comfortable riding position and the extremely low gear ratio make it the ideal companion for challenging terrain and steep climbs, even when carrying luggage. It is also particularly easy to maintain, as only three Allen keys are required for the main adjustments and the cables run only partially through the frame, which makes assembly work considerably easier. An FE version with mudguards, a dynamo light and a side stand is also available for €1,599; this costs just €100 more than the base model and is particularly well-suited to everyday use and commuting.

Conclusion: Both Nuroads offer great value for money

In terms of value for money, both models offer great value. The Nuroad C:62 One is priced at 1,999 euros (>> available here) The only gravel bike in its price range with a carbon frame, it came out on top in a comparison test of 13 gravel bikes costing under 2,000 euros. Weighing in at 9.3 kilograms, it was significantly lighter than most of its competitors in the comparison – the difference compared to the heaviest competitor is even more than two kilograms.

The Nuroad SLX is available for 1,799 euros (>> e.g. available here) High-quality components with better brakes than the C:62 One. However, if you cycle mainly on flat terrain, you should opt for the Race version of the Nuroad, which offers a GRX 2x12 drivetrain with a front derailleur for 300 euros less. The gear changes are smoother, and the brakes are slightly easier to use. The choice between the two models ultimately depends on how you intend to use the bike: For sporty rides focusing on speed and low weight, the C:62 One is the better choice, whilst the SLX scores highly thanks to its robustness, greater comfort and extremely low gear ratio, making it particularly suitable for challenging terrain and tours with luggage.