Cube Stereo One55 C.62 SLX 29 review: A marvel in terms of value for money and weight

Understatement is a core competence of the Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29*. Like a gentleman in a black suit, on paper it is neither the most outlandish nor the most extreme all-mountain bike on the planet. You’ll search in vain for elaborate high-pivot designs or innovative, showy technology. Instead, the Cube offers 150 millimetres of suspension travel for all situations, a carbon frame with geometry that remains modern, and functional spec.

What makes the Cube Stereo One55 so special is that you’d have to pay double the price for all this with other brands. At 3,799 euros, this full-suspension bike remains affordable and looks absolutely stunning in the bike shop window. Admittedly, all-mountain bikes without motor assistance have been in a veritable slumber in recent years, but in a BIKE comparison test from 2023, the Cube emerged as the test-winning all-mountain bike. The carbon full-suspension bike is certainly cheaper and lighter than all its e-MTB rivals. So where’s the catch? We’ve already had the chance to test the Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29 and are here to reveal whether it’s still good value for money.

​The Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29 in detail

• Intended use: All-mountain
• Suspension travel: 150 / 150 mm
• Wheel size: 29”
• Frame material: carbon
• Frame weight: 2614 g (BIKE measurement, size L)
• Weight of complete bike: 14.5 kg (BIKE measurement, size L, excluding pedals)
• Price: 3,799 euros >> Available here at a reduced price*
• Special features: Down tube storage compartment, Tool-Mount handlebar angle adjustment via the headset

Facilities

• Front fork / Rear shock: Fox 36 Performance / Flat X2
• Drivetrain: Shimano XT (1 x 12), 30; 10–51
• Brakes: Shimano XT 4-piston, 203/180 mm
• Dropper post / Travel: SDG Tellis V2 / 150 mm
• Wheels: Newmen Beskar 30 light/base
• Tyres: Maxxis Assegai / Minion DHR II MaxxTerra Exo+, 29 x 2.50 / 2.40

A good bike doesn’t have to be expensive

When you first lay eyes on the Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29, your initial thought is: “Phew, can I actually afford this?” A flawless Shimano XT groupset is sure to catch the eye of potential buyers. A small 30-tooth chainring takes the strain off your legs on steep climbs. However, with the introduction of the successor range featuring cable-actuated or wireless control, the mechanical XT technology is no longer state-of-the-art. The 150-millimetre adjustment range of the dropper post is also significantly too limited by today’s standards. Furthermore, this all-mountain bike from Cube features a robust Fox suspension fork paired with Newmen brand wheels. The Shimano XT disc brake has earned a good reputation for its powerful performance and fits very well into the overall spec.

The full-carbon frame features modern design elements, such as a storage compartment in the down tube, handlebar angle adjustment via the headset cups, and a tool mount beneath the top tube. This enhances everyday touring comfort. Weighing just 2,614 grams in size L, the frame weight is certainly impressive. Despite its robust, downhill-oriented spec, the bike’s overall weight remains in the mid-range for its peer group. It’s impressive that Cube is asking just 3,799 euros for the complete package, including access to a large dealer network.

This is what the Cube Stereo One55 is like to ride on the trail

​On fast trails and steep sections, the bike inspires a great deal of confidence thanks to its long wheelbase and low front end. The Fox suspension plays a key role in this. With the X2 Enduro shock, the Stereo One55 clearly demonstrates where its strengths lie. Although there is ‘only’ 150 millimetres of travel at both the front and rear – less than on some of its all-mountain counterparts – the BIKE test crew attested to the Cube’s strong suspension performance. Cube also consistently prioritises performance when it comes to tyres. A 2.5-inch-wide Maxxis Assegai is fitted to the front wheel. Interestingly, for the current model year, the Upper Palatinate-based brand has opted not to use the extra-soft rubber compound, thereby sacrificing some downhill potential. The Exo+ puncture protection is also up to the task on tough trails.

On the climbs, the Cube prioritises comfort over top speed. The relaxed riding position makes long ascents comfortable, in keeping with the classic character of a versatile all-mountain bike. On technically demanding uphill sections, the steep seat angle also comes into its own: it shifts the rider’s weight further forwards, thereby improving control over the front wheel. All in all, the Cube Stereo One55 C:62 impresses as a versatile companion for long rides, offering a sufficiently lightweight frame for extended climbs and ample reserves of power on challenging descents.

Conclusion

The Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29* It may not be the most eye-catching mountain bike on the trail, and three years on from its initial launch, it’s perhaps a little dated. However, it offers impressive ride performance and high-quality components at a fair price. The carbon frame’s suitability for touring and its good reserves on descents continue to be strong points in favour of the Cube Stereo One55. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

Pro

• lightweight frame and relaxed riding position
• functional features that far exceed the price range
• good suspension performance

Cons

• not up to date with the latest state of the art in every respect

What do you think: which all-mountain full-suspension bike currently offers the best value for money? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

>> All-mountain bikes up to 5,000 euros: Cube Stereo One55 C:62 SLX 29 review

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