Like the carbon version Sonora (test in BIKE 8/15), the Sentiero favours a leisurely pace. It prefers to cruise unhurriedly through long bends instead of aggressively racing through narrow forest trails. The Sentiero with its 449 mm chainstays is unbeatable in the test field in terms of smoothness. The 30-speed Shimano mix, which has to make do without a friction damper on the XT rear derailleur, always delivers the right gear. Instead, the product managers have fitted the Sentiero with a Reba fork and thru-axle - one of the best you can get in this price range. Only the moderately stiff 29-inch system wheels from Mavic have a negative impact on stiffness.
ConclusionThe good-natured Sentiero feels at home on extended tours. A harmonious overall package despite minor equipment losses.
PLUS Front thru axle, smooth-running quick-release saddle clamp
MINUS XT rear derailleur without Shadow Plus, internally routed cables, but partly open, moderately stiff Mavic wheels
The alternative: Stevens offers the Devil's Trail for 1100 euros as an introduction to sporty biking. The Recon Silver fork and a Shimano gearing mix increase the weight by 1.5 kg compared to the Sentiero.
