The last milestone in the modification: disc brakes. They clearly surpass the cantilever brakes that were installed until recently in terms of braking power and stability.
Off-road, the delicate tyres are a particular challenge for mountain bikers. On dry trails without roots and stones, the Cube Cross Race SL between the trees, partly because the Cube is an outstanding representative of its kind. However, as soon as the narrow 33-millimetre tyres hit a root, the rider is required to gently lift the wheels over the obstacle. If this manoeuvre fails, you will be punished with a flat tyre, or at least a knock to the wrists and ankles. When things get faster or the trails sink into the mud, the cross bike has a slightly smoother ride than the gravel bike thanks to its somewhat sportier geometry.
Compared to a mountain bike, the handlebars make off-road handling much more difficult. It is difficult to find the right grip position from which you can easily operate the brake levers and at the same time have a firm hold. On the road and on gravel paths, the crosser is hardly inferior to the road bike. Only the narrow range of the 1x11 gears slows down the ride uphill or on fast descents. For bikers who want a carefree ride on easy trails in winter, the cross bike is very special. On the road and on gravel, however, it works very efficiently.
PLUS Can easily be modified into a commuter bike with mudguards. Can also be used for road bike excursions with narrow tyres. Extremely low maintenance. Plenty of tyre clearance for dirt - both on the fork and rear triangle.
MINUS High risk of flats off-road. Little comfort. Unsuitable handlebars off-road. Low gear range of the Sram Rival single-speed drivetrain.
Info www.cube.eu
Ludwig Döhl, test editor BIKE: I have spent several winters on a cyclocross bike, but since I no longer ride cross races, this type of bike has lost its charm for me. If you turn off the gravel track onto easy trails on a handlebar bike, you should be aware that you need excellent riding technique to master the terrain without getting a puncture or falling off.
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