There's something about these Stevens bikes. Three examples of the Stevens 8X were able to convince and even inspire demanding cyclists in our editorial team. The tough tourer clearly appeals to the sporting spirit that you need to have as an 8X rider. The riding position is slightly stretched, the steering is very manoeuvrable thanks to a tight rigid fork with thru-axle and is not without vertical rigidity. Sometimes your knees and elbows have to cushion even moderate, omnipresent bumps in the road, because otherwise impacts would be painful for your wrists and coccyx.
Thanks to the wide extension, the flexing seatpost cuts some of the load peaks. Those with an active riding posture will enjoy the advantages of the stiff tubular composite: high lateral stiffness and direct, precise steering, acceleration that is immediately converted into propulsion, paired with a playful light-footedness and safe handling - all this turns good asphalt directly into a dream road. The Hamburger can handle luggage without any problems. The ideal limit is 12 to 15 kilos, with a test load of 22 kilos, fluctuations in the rear triangle become noticeable. The carrier on the 8X is supported vertically on the dropout, not laterally on the thread of a bolt as is often the case. The 3D strap under the mudguard binds it very stiffly to the front and leaves enough tyre clearance to mount spikes in winter.
The gears, brakes and lighting system are top-notch. The Curana mudguards are very susceptible to bending, and delivering the bike without a rear stand as standard costs it top marks. Sorry.
Plus:
- High-class frame/fork set and equipment;
- Cultivated sportiness
Minus:
- No parking support in the standard version
The history of the model:
The genealogy of the 8X stretches from 1994 to the present day: Stevens started out as the "8.6.2." with a sporty, naked cross bike. Because buyers usually upgraded this and subsequent models for everyday use, a touring kit consisting of a rack, mudguards and stand was soon added to the Stevens Crosser - which is where the X in the name came from. The suitability for sporty tours and brisk everyday mobility - and the complete XT equipment - is what still characterises today's 8X.
