We had initially ordered the new "Frizz 180 SL" with identical equipment, but after a first descent it was clear that with its comparatively nervous handling and not so potent rear end, it was too heavy an enduro bike and not enough of a freerider. So the "Hanzz" after all. With "Float X", "36 Float RC2 Fit" fork, a gear ratio suitable for touring, but without telescopic support, it has become significantly lighter. It comes with stable SuperGravity tyres as standard. But Cube has only changed the equipment, not the geometry. The seat angle is slack, but the bottom bracket is quite high. Because the front end is also high, the bike doesn't pedal uphill very effectively. The shock needs the maximum platform setting, otherwise it bobs and sags when pedalling. But even with the "Hanzz", you'll always get to the top thanks to the easy uphill gears. Before the descent, you have to reach for the quick-release saddle - almost unusual these days.
Downhill, the bike is smooth; the suspension elements work harmoniously and sensitively, but the rear could do with a little more end progression. You also don't stand as much "in" the bike as you do on the Alutech or the Fusion. The "Hanzz" feels high and is a little unwieldy when changing direction quickly and negotiating tight bends. A few years of geometry evolution literally make it look old against the competition. The brakes didn't really convince us either. The Formula has a very hard pressure point and tends to fade, which quickly tires the forearms in combination. The stylish handlebar/stem combination from Spank, on the other hand, is very good.
Conclusion: Thanks to a good selection of components, the "Hanzz" has an all-round suitable weight, but urgently needs a geo-update. Although the suspension works harmoniously, you don't feel as confident going downhill as on the competition.
This test was published in FREERIDE issue 2/2014.
Buy edition here!
