​For everyday use, sport and getting started with MTB: The Cube Reaction Hybrid Race 800 BIKE Review

Conclusion by Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor

The Reaction Hybrid has been one of the most popular e-hardtails around for years – and for good reason. We know this platform inside out: it offers a balanced ride, inspires confidence and is far more versatile than the classic hardtail design might initially suggest. The Race model takes the spec up a notch, combining the latest Bosch CX drive with a high-quality SRAM drivetrain and powerful four-piston brakes. If you mainly go on tours, enjoy riding flow trails from time to time and want to avoid the maintenance hassle of a full-suspension bike, this is an incredibly attractive all-round package.

Key figures at a glance

• Price: 3,499 euros
• Frame: Aluminium Superlite
• Suspension travel: 120 mm (27.5-inch: 100 mm)
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX (Gen5)
• Battery: Bosch PowerTube 800
• Gear system: SRAM Eagle 90 Transmission, 12-speed
• Brakes: Magura Louise, four-piston, 203 mm
• Wheels: 29-inch, size S: 27.5-inch
• Tyres: Schwalbe Smart Sam 2.6"
• Weight: 24.7 kg (BIKE measurement for size M)

The hardtail for just about everything

An e-hardtail is no longer just a budget alternative to a full-suspension bike. For touring cyclists in particular, the rigid rear end actually offers a number of advantages: lower weight, less maintenance and direct power transfer. This is precisely where the Reaction Hybrid has always been in its element. Its geometry remains pleasantly balanced and inspires confidence without feeling too sluggish. Anyone who mainly rides on forest tracks, gravel tracks and easy singletrack is unlikely to miss the rear suspension.

Bosch CX meets massive range

When it comes to the drive system, Cube has opted for Bosch’s latest fifth-generation Performance Line CX. The motor remains one of the most powerful yet responsive systems on the market and delivers plenty of assistance – whether on long climbs or steep gradients. Added to this is the large 800 Wh PowerTube battery, which makes the Reaction Hybrid a real mile-eater. Handy: the frame is already PowerMore-ready. Anyone needing even more range can retrofit the optional range extender and gain an extra 250 Wh.

Fittings with a focus on functionality

The spec is particularly impressive for this price range. With the new SRAM Eagle 90 drivetrain, the robust T-Type technology makes its debut on the Reaction Hybrid Race. Whilst the electronic shifting system found on top-of-the-range groupsets remains the preserve of higher-priced models, the mechanical Eagle 90 offers many of the same benefits: precise shifting under load, high durability and an exceptionally robust design thanks to the Full-Mount mounting system.

These are complemented by the powerful Magura Louise four-piston brakes with large 203-millimetre discs. They provide ample stopping power for the bike, which weighs just under 25 kilograms – even on long descents.

Sturdy front, practical range of features

At the front, there’s a RockShox Recon Silver RL air suspension fork with 120 millimetres of travel. Although it’s in the entry-level segment, it’s still an affordable and popular choice for touring. Particularly pleasing: Cube has fitted the Race model with a dropper seatpost as standard. This greatly increases freedom of movement on descents and has now almost become a must-have feature on sporty e-MTBs.

The frame also features many clever details. Internally routed cables create a tidy appearance, whilst the integrated seat post clamp emphasises the clean look. Mudguards, a luggage rack and an in-house ACID front light can be easily fitted as an aftermarket option. This means the bike can even be turned into a sporty everyday bike if desired.

Where are the limits?

However versatile the Reaction Hybrid may be, a hardtail is still a hardtail. On fast, rocky trails or long sections of roots, it simply lacks the rear suspension needed to absorb impacts and provide extra traction. The Schwalbe Smart Sam tyres, too, are better suited to touring than to ambitious trail riding. Anyone looking to venture off the beaten track in the long term is likely to opt for a full-suspension bike sooner or later.

BIKE classification

The Reaction Hybrid Race 800 is exactly the sort of e-MTB that many riders actually need. It does away with unnecessary frills and focuses on the essentials: a powerful motor, a huge range, high-quality gears, good brakes and a versatile frame. Touring cyclists, commuters and leisure riders in particular will find this e-hardtail capable of handling almost anything, whilst offering excellent value for money. However, those with off-road ambitions would be better off with a full-suspension bike such as Cube’s Stereo Hybrid series.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

• Powerful Bosch CX motor with a massive 800 Wh battery
• High-quality SRAM Eagle 90 drivetrain
• a versatile frame with practical features for everyday use
• Dropper seatpost already fitted as standard
• competitive price

Weaknesses

• Hardtail comfort is, by its very nature, limited on rough trails
• Smart Sam: more of a touring tyre than a trail tyre
• Recon Silver: the bare minimum on the front line