The "Stevens X7" was already on the market five years ago with an identical weight and very similar geometry and equipment. So standstill, end of evolution? Yes - and no.
The most noticeable difference between our 2006 test field and the brand new 2011 models is the braking technology. Out of nine models, seven are equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. Five years ago? None. Technically a big step, and a clear incentive to get in the saddle straight away.
After a short time on the test lap, a short but steep and gravelly hill awaits. Here it becomes immediately apparent that the brakes are primarily designed for the tough conditions on mountain bikes. Even when new, most brakes are predictable and powerful, and after a few full braking sessions, the performance gets better and better.
The cross bikes in the test:
Bergamont Helix 9.0, http://www.bergamont.de
Centurion Cross Line Ltd XT, http://www.centurion.de
Cube CLS Cross, http://www.cube.eu
Drössiger TRA 1.8 D, http://www.droessiger.de
Felt QX 100, http://www.sportimport.de
Kreidler Stack 5, http://www.cycle-union.de
Specialised Crosstrail Pro, http://www.specialized.com
Stevens X-7 Disc Gent, http://www.stevensbikes.de
Winora Alamos, http://winora.de
The full-length article from issue 3/2011 is available as a free PDF download.
