Conclusion by Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor
The Stereo Hybrid ONE22 is one of the more docile motorised full-suspension bikes. Whilst we haven’t yet had the chance to ride this particular model ourselves, we’re very familiar with the platform: it has traditionally impressed with its high level of comfort and straightforward handling, true to the motto ‘just hop on and feel at ease’. With 120 millimetres of suspension travel, the ONE22 is primarily designed for covering distance, though it’s also suitable for gentle trail rides. Anyone who regularly tackles challenging descents or bike parks would be better off with the ONE44 or even the ONE77. For everyone else, Cube seems to have put together a real value-for-money winner here.
Key specifications: Cube Stereo Hybrid ONE22 Race 800
- Price: 3,999 euros
- Frame: Aluminium
- Suspension travel: 120 mm at the front / 120 mm at the rear
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX (Gen5)
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 800
- Gear system: Shimano XT and Deore, 12-speed
- Brakes: Shimano BR-MT520, 203/203 mm
- Wheels: 29 inches, size S: 27.5 inches
- Tyres: Schwalbe Smart Sam 2.6"
- Weight: 26.5 kg (BIKE measurement for size M)
Comfort rather than trail action
120 millimetres of suspension travel is almost a statement in itself these days – though not in the context of downhill riding, but rather for touring fun. This is precisely where Cube positions the Stereo Hybrid ONE22. The bike is aimed at riders looking for a capable e-MTB for long rides, forest tracks and flowing singletrack. The suspension promises comfort for long days in the saddle and plenty of reserves for the occasional off-road adventure.
Bosch supplies the right powerhouse
The latest Bosch Performance Line CX motor provides the necessary power. The motor remains one of the benchmarks in the e-MTB sector and, thanks to a software update, delivers a whopping 120 Newton metres of maximum torque, whilst still offering beautifully precise control. Combined with the removable 800 Wh battery, this means you can enjoy extended day trips with plenty of elevation gain without worrying about range. The Purion 200 display brings all the key riding data straight to the cockpit.
Smart features without unnecessary luxury
When it comes to spec, Cube has invested in the right areas. Particularly pleasing: the combination of Shimano Deore components and a high-quality XT rear derailleur remains one of the most functional set-ups in this price range. When it comes to brakes, Cube has opted for the reliable Shimano MT520 four-piston brakes with large 203-millimetre discs on both the front and rear wheels – a sensible choice for an e-MTB weighing almost 27 kilograms.
With the RockShox Psylo Silver RC at the front and the Deluxe Select R at the rear, Cube has opted for solid entry-level components rather than expensive high-end parts. Given the ONE22’s intended use, this is an understandable decision: the suspension delivers sufficient performance for touring and easy trails without driving the price up unnecessarily.
A well-designed frame
The aluminium frame also demonstrates that Cube has now gained a great deal of experience in e-MTB construction. The 800 Wh battery is neatly tucked away in the down tube, the cables are routed entirely internally, and the welds on the main frame are beautifully smoothed. It also features a UDH derailleur hanger and a direct-mount chain guide. Handy: the suspension fork even has mounting points for mudguards. Thanks to the ‘Size Split’ concept, Cube combines smaller frame sizes with 27.5-inch rear wheels and larger models with 29-inch wheels to achieve a balanced ride, regardless of the rider’s height.
Small compromises
Of course, you can’t have everything in this price range. The Schwalbe Smart Sam tyres roll smoothly and are a perfect match for the bike’s touring character, but ambitious trail riders will quickly find themselves wishing for more grip on wet surfaces or rough terrain. The Psylo Silver isn’t a high-performance fork either. Both can be upgraded if required to give the ONE22 Race 800 a boost in off-road capability.
BIKE classification
The Stereo Hybrid ONE22 Race 800 is likely to hit the sweet spot for the majority of e-MTB buyers. It deliberately does without a spectacular carbon frame or high-end components, investing instead in the things that really matter in everyday use: a powerful motor, a massive battery, reliable components and well-balanced geometry. Anyone who mainly goes on tours, loves forest tracks and easy to moderately difficult trails, and is looking for the best value for money should definitely put this model on their test ride list. Demanding trail riders, on the other hand, would be better off opting for the Stereo Hybrid ONE44 with more suspension travel.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Powerful Bosch CX motor with a large, removable 800 Wh battery
- high-quality XT rear derailleur
- geometry designed for touring and comfort
- competitive price
Weaknesses
- The Schwalbe Smart Sam is more suited to touring than trail riding
- RockShox Psylo Silver: comfortable, but with little control over damping
- weighing just under 26.5 kilos (BIKE measurement in size M), it’s no lightweight
