A gravel all-rounder for 1,399 euros: The Cube Nuroad HPA EX in the BIKE review

​A budget bike for ambitious gravel newcomers: Cube positions the Nuroad HPA EX as an affordable all-rounder. The BIKE review reveals just how sporty this aluminium gravel bike, priced at 1,399 euros, really is.

​Conclusion

The Cube Nuroad HPA EX* is a great value-for-money choice for beginners. With hydraulic disc brakes, crisp 1x12 Shimano GRX gear changes and excellent all-round handling, it offers real sporting value beyond everyday use. At 10.1 kilos, the weight is perfectly acceptable for a robust aluminium gravel bike in this price range.

​From everyday life to adventure

Cubes’ range of gravel bikes is traditionally divided into two categories: the higher-priced segment of premium carbon models (identified by the abbreviation C:62) and the robust aluminium HPA range. Among the aluminium models, the Nuroad HPA EX plays a key role, as it is positioned right in the middle of the price range. Whilst the SLX, at 1,699 euros, and the Race, at 1,499 euros, are priced above it, the EX, at 1,399 euros, is joined by the more minimalist Pro (1,099 euros) and One (899 euros) versions. The EX model is specifically aimed at gravel newcomers who don’t just use the bike as a pure commuter for everyday life, but who also have sporting ambitions on gravel and forest trails.

A comfortable bike that can take a beating

The Nuroad HPA EX is built around the tried-and-tested frame made from robust ‘6061 T6 Superlite aluminium’. Visually, it impresses with its flowing welds and an integrated seat post clamp. Cube combines the aluminium frame with a lightweight full-carbon fork, which filters out fine vibrations more effectively than an aluminium fork. Elegantly integrated mounting points for a luggage rack, mudguards, a lowrider and a side stand ensure excellent suitability for everyday use and bikepacking trips. With modern thru-axles at the front and rear, the chassis delivers high steering precision.

Sportiness despite cost-cutting measures

Sporty gravel rides stand or fall on the components – and here Cube offers a strong compromise. The focus is on Shimano’s gravel-specific GRX 1x12 groupset. The absence of a front derailleur ensures intuitive operation, whilst the 12-speed cassette with a Deore 10–51-tooth sprocket offers a sufficiently wide gear range for steep climbs. Admittedly, the gear steps are larger compared to a double-chainring setup – a fundamental decision that must be made in view of the bike’s primary use. Those whose riding mainly consists of tours on flat tarmac are, in principle, better served by a more finely graduated double-chainring system. Those who prefer things to be straightforward and occasionally venture off-road will appreciate the intuitive operation of the single-chainring groupset.
The Nuroad EX is equipped with Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes featuring 160mm rotors, which have a proven track record in terms of modulation and braking power and ensure a high level of safety even in wet conditions. The cockpit is moderately sized, with a subtle drop and flare. The robust Newmen Performance Gravel wheelset can handle rough conditions without complaint. Fitted to them are 45-millimetre-wide Schwalbe G-One Allround Performance Line tyres, which provide plenty of grip and comfort on rough terrain.

Or would you prefer the cheapest carbon model?

If you’re not strictly limited to a budget of 1,400 euros, Gube’s Gavel range offers several upgrade options. In the aluminium range, the slightly better-equipped Race models for 1,499 euros* and SLX for 1,699 euros* The differences are mainly evident in the drivetrain components: both models come with a slightly higher-spec version of Shimano’s GRX. Another option is to upgrade to the most affordable carbon model. The Nuroad C:62 One, priced at 1,999 euros, is notably a little lighter. Whilst we measured the weight of the HPA EX in size M at 10.1 kilos, the carbon model comes in at around nine and a half kilos – a difference that, however, only makes a slight difference on hilly routes. The carbon frame does, however, have another advantage: it is stiffer and thus converts pedalling effort into forward momentum more effectively, whilst at the same time better dampening vibrations from the road surface. Those who can do without this – rather marginal – advantage will find that the aluminium EX is an extremely durable, low-maintenance machine that is hardly inferior to its carbon counterpart when used for touring.

Key facts about the Nuroad HPA EX

• ​Price: 1,399 euros >> available here*
• Frame: 6061 T6 Superlite aluminium, Gravel Comfort Geometry
• Fork: Cube Nuroad Full Carbon
• Circuit: Shimano GRX 610/822 1x12-speed
• Brakes: Shimano GRX 610, hydraulic disc brakes (160/160 mm)
• Wheels: Newmen Performance Gravel 25
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Allround Performance Line, 45 mm
• Weight (measured, size M): 10.1 kg (excluding pedals)