We don't argue about taste, but we are still grateful to Cube that the eye-cancer-inducing neon yellow colour of last year's "Fritzz" has disappeared. In addition to the colour, Cube has also consistently changed the bike's equipment. Where last year's weak Hayes brakes were annoying, the brute Formula "One" now shines - good! Where previously stable wheels and cranks shifted the range of use towards freeride, XC tyres and light XT cranks now save over a kilo in weight - that's good in theory, but in the super enduro category it's a double-edged sword. The bottom bracket is also slightly higher than in 2007, the kinematics are bob-free and the bike accelerates enormously on the trail. A real single trail speedster. The low weight and light wheels are an advantage here. If the terrain gets rougher, however, the "Fritzz" requires an experienced rider. It is not easy to keep the bike on track, it dances towards the valley with tight damping. Inexperienced riders will feel less confident and will be grateful for the good brakes. The chain falls off the chainring even with minor vibrations - annoying. A good bike for fans of flowing trails, but it can't keep up with the best super enduro bikes in the test.
CONCLUSIONThe Cube is very light and a lot of fun on flowy trails. It's not ideal for bike parks and rough terrain.
RemarkDifferent equipment, different character - the "Frizz" has been trimmed for the 2008 tour.
FREERIDE RANKING: maximum 10 points.
