Cube Stereo 2027: The new ‘people’s’ mountain bike?

Editorial view

It’s no secret that sales figures for traditional mountain bikes are falling dramatically. So it’s great to see that Cube is completely revamping a key range, paying close attention to well-thought-out details. The overall leaner range allows for even more competitive prices, culminating in an unbeatably affordable entry-level model: a carbon frame, solid spec, 1,999 euros – we haven’t seen anything like this for a long time! – Florentin Vesenbeckh, test editor

The new Cube Stereo is, in a way, the embodiment of the democratisation of mountain biking. That’s because this new full-suspension bike is designed to appeal to everyone. Downcountry, trail bike, touring bike, all-mountain – one model for almost every type of riding. The Stereo thus combines several models from previous years. From Stereo One22 (undergoing long-term testing here), One44 (go to the bike review) And the One55 is quite simply a stereo model. The next aspect of the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach: the price. Prices start at 1,999 euros. And that includes a carbon frame and components that should stand up to even serious mountain biking and trail riding.

The basis is the completely newly developed chassis. The main frame is always made of carbon, whilst the rear triangle on the two more affordable models is made of aluminium. The shock is positioned horizontally beneath the top tube, which sets the bike apart visually from its predecessors. This is a change that the motorised models have already made. The other key specifications: 29er wheels and 150 mm of travel at the front and 145 mm at the rear. This is designed to suit all riding scenarios, from fast tours to more challenging trails.

The facts about the Cube Stereo 2027

• Frame material: Carbon main frame, with aluminium rear triangle depending on the model
• Suspension travel: 150/145 mm
• Wheel size: 29 inches
• 4 models from 1,999 euros
• Weight: from 13.6 kg (top-of-the-range SLT model, manufacturer’s specification)
• Tool mount on the top tube, storage compartment in the down tube
• Option for traditional train operation

A well-designed carbon frame

Despite its affordable entry-level price, Cube hasn’t skimped on the details. There’s a storage compartment in the down tube of the carbon frame. The closure has been significantly refined compared to the One44 and One55. This means the lid should now fit more securely, even over time and with a water bottle inside. There’s a tool mount on the top tube, which comes with a Garmin mount as standard. Alternatively, small bags or other gadgets can also be fitted here.

DIY enthusiasts and those who aren’t keen on integrated systems will be pleased with another new feature: whilst the bikes will continue to be supplied ex-factory with integrated cable routing through the headset, the frames are fitted with traditional cable entry points behind the head tube. When it comes to materials, Cube offers two quality grades. The two more expensive models, identified by the ‘C:62’ suffix, not only feature a carbon rear triangle instead of aluminium, but also have a higher-quality carbon lay-up overall, making the frame significantly lighter.

Models and prices

The hidden star of the range is the entry-level Stereo HPC Race model. It’s available for as little as 1,999 euros. Although this model’s weight of 16.3 kilos is quite high for a trail bike, riders still get a great deal here. In addition to the features already mentioned, the spec is fully geared towards off-road riding: the high-quality Conti tyres with Enduro casings are unrivalled in this price range. Added to this is a 12-speed Shimano XT groupset, combined with Deore components and Magura Louise brakes. The RockShox Psylo Silver, with its steel stanchions, adds to the weight and reaches its limits a little sooner on tough terrain. A dropper post is also included as standard.

​The Stereo HPC TM, priced at 2,999 euros, is a significantly higher-spec model. This model features a Fox 36 Performance Elite fork and is equipped with SRAM’s Eagle 90 drivetrain. The brakes are also SRAM’s Maven Base. At 16.28 kilos, the weight remains on the heavy side for a trail bike.

​For the frames of the two most expensive models, designated C:62, Cube uses higher-quality fibres, and the rear triangle is also made of carbon, which saves weight. The Stereo C:62 Super TM is designed for trail riding and downhill. The hefty RockShox Vivid shock is paired with a Lyrik fork, both from the Ultimate series. Gear changes are controlled wirelessly via SRAM’s X0 Eagle transmission, whilst braking is handled by SRAM Maven Silver brakes. The whole bike is available for €4,999 and weighs 14.9 kilos.

The top-of-the-range Stereo C:62 SLT, priced at 5,499 euros, should also appeal to weight-conscious cyclists. Weighing in at 13.6 kilos, it’s a lightweight machine, yet still features a Fox 36 fork and a Fox Float X shock with a reservoir. The spec shines with Shimano’s XTR Di2 wireless shifting, carbon wheels from Newmen and Raceface carbon cranks. The suspension comes – naturally – from Fox’s Factory range. A premium package that should impress on trails, Alpine cross rides and long tours alike.