Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM review: Top marks for this comfortable all-rounder e-bike

The Stereo Hybrid 140 From industry giant Cube, this is arguably one of the best-selling e-mountain bikes of all time. The TM version of this classic model is traditionally designed to be fully trail-ready. This is particularly evident on the Stereo Hybrid 140, especially with the Maxxis tyres. Super-grippy Maxxgrip rubber on both front and rear wheels, plus a robust Doubledown carcass at the rear. Other manufacturers all too often fail to achieve this, even with high-end enduro e-MTBs. But essentially, the 140 Stereo isn’t a downhill specialist. That role is taken on by the new, sportier and lighter One55 (Click here to read the review of the Cube Stereo One55 SLT). But can the popular all-rounder, the Stereo Hybrid 140 TM, still hold its own off-road?

The geometry of the Cube Stereo 140 is moderately raked and fully geared towards comfort. This is complemented by the huge Kiox 500 display from Bosch, which presents a wealth of information in a clear and easy-to-read format, including navigation features. However, purist cyclists might be put off by its bulky appearance. Here, too, it’s clear that all-round versatility and a wealth of features take precedence over extreme sportiness on this bike. The carbon main frame keeps the weight from becoming too excessive, despite the heavy battery. Yet, at 24.7 kilos, the bike is no lightweight.

Interesting: whilst most competitors have significantly reduced their prices, the Stereo 2024 – with almost identical specifications – is, according to the official recommended retail price, actually 400 euros more expensive than at the time of our last test of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM in 2022. As far as features are concerned, the only upgrade was the Kiox 500. However, most shops are currently offering substantial discounts on this model too. It’s worth comparing prices.

Facts about the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM

• Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, 85 Nm maximum torque
• Battery: Powertube, 750 Wh (removable)
• Frame material: carbon / aluminium
• Suspension travel: 150 / 140 mm
• Wheel size: 29 inches
• Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Price: 5,799 euros >> available here
• Weight: 24.7 kg (test bike, size L, EMTB measurement)
• Maximum permissible weight: 135 kg (manufacturer’s specification)

The e-bike drive

Cube has traditionally relied on Bosch motors. And the dynamic and powerful Performance Line CX (reviewed here!) It fits well into the frame. The modulation is excellent, and the power delivery is lively. It really comes into its own on tough climbs. The 750 Powertube gives the bike an extremely impressive range, but also increases its overall weight. That’s because the battery weighs a hefty 4.3 kilograms.

The battery is housed behind a separate cover in the down tube, is secured with a lock and can be easily folded out towards the front. With the Kiox 500, Cube has fitted a huge display that can be operated via the LED remote on the handlebars. The navigation view also works very well on a screen of this size.

The geometry

The frame of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 features moderate geometry. The head angle is comparatively steep, whilst the seat angle is rather flat. The reach and wheelbase are of medium length. The longer chainstays prioritise riding stability, whilst a tall stem raises the cockpit. This results in a notably comfortable riding position. Furthermore, due to the integrated cable routing, not all spacers beneath the stem can be removed. To lower the front end significantly, more substantial modifications are therefore required, such as a different stem and handlebars.

EMTB specifications at a glance (frame size L)

• Seat tube length: 450 mm
• Wheelbase: 1255 mm
• Reach: 465 mm
• Stack: 643 mm
• Steering angle: 65.5 degrees
• Seat angle: 75 degrees
• Chainstay length: 457 mm

The features of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM

• Front fork / Shock: Fox 36 Performance / Float X Perf.
• Gear system: SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed, 34; 10–52 teeth
• Brakes: Magura MT7, 203/203 mm
• Wheels: Newmen Performance 30
• Tyres: Maxxis Assegai Exo+ Maxxgrip, 29 x 2.5'' / Minion DHRII DD Maxxgrip, 29 x 2.4''
• Special features: Just 150 mm of travel on the telescopic seat post, large Kiox 500 display

Real-world test: Here’s what the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM is like to ride

Comfort is a top priority here! The seating position is rather compact, and the cockpit sits high up – you certainly don’t feel as though you’re stretched out on a bench. The suspension eagerly absorbs bumps. Added to this is the grippy and stable tyre combination from Maxxis, which can be ridden at low pressure and literally sticks to the ground. This means you can ride quite calmly across the terrain – even without professional riding skills. On flat sections and tarmac, the soft rear tyre drains the battery quite a bit, as it rolls with some resistance.

Anyone looking to push the limits of what’s possible on climbs would prefer more resistance from the rear suspension and a more central position. Yet the Cube Stereo climbs with rock-solid reliability. As long as the terrain isn’t too steep or step-like, the front wheel maintains good contact with the ground and the rider stays in control. You don’t need to adopt an overly aggressive riding style to achieve this – thanks to the longer chainstays. Traction, motor, climbing ability: there’s no cause for complaint here.

The TM-Stereo displays similar characteristics on descents. The high level of suspension comfort and brilliant traction inspire a great deal of confidence. The high-grip tyre combination really comes into its own as soon as you head off-road. It is only when riding very fast over rough terrain that the sense of security diminishes. The moderate geometry, with a rather steep steering angle, limits smoothness and resilience when you want to let it rip on tough terrain. The soft Fox fork is also geared more towards comfort. There are sturdier, more sport-oriented contenders in the test field.

The bike feels much more at home when you take it at a leisurely pace. Even on trickier descents, it handles safely and intuitively. A pleasant surprise: its refined character doesn’t turn the bike into a sluggish, slowpoke. Whilst there are certainly better rivals in terms of agility and responsiveness, the Cube remains fun and easy to handle on moderate trails.

EMTB review of the Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 TM

Strengths

• A comfortable ride and easy handling
• Safe driving
• Wide reach
• Well-equipped

Weaknesses

• Not an off-road extreme
• Short stroke of the telescopic strut
• The engine is rattling

The EMTB verdict

Seasoned trail riders might turn their noses up at it – but for everyone else, Cube has put together an outrageously comfortable package. Effortless handling, massive range, top-notch spec: a confident all-rounder with off-road prowess at a fair price. That’s the winner of the major EMTB comparison test. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, Head of Testing and Technology at EMTB Magazine