Storm instead of tailwind with Bosch motor: Cube Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X on test

The fact that a 13-kilogram gravel bike could be a little sluggish and stubborn to steer through difficult terrain is not a problem on the Cube Nuroad Hybrid quickly forgotten. As soon as the electric drive is switched on, the rather heavy bike transforms into a nimble and easy-to-control fun machine. Thanks to the compact and rather sporty riding position, balanced weight distribution and lightweight carbon wheels, it is easy to control even on rough climbs. On fast descents, however, the bike handles like the proverbial plank.

Cube Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X: Good off-road riding

With the snappy Sram brakes, which become even more stable with 180 mm discs, downhill handling is playful even for heavyweights. Compared to other motors, the electric motor delivers what feels like endless power. Even at the lowest level, it pushes the bike noticeably, and at the higher levels, the bike is almost reminiscent of a motorbike, because a maximum of 600 watts or up to 400 percent extra power is not just a tailwind, but a storm. Comfortably cranking up a long 18 per cent climb with a resting heart rate?

More e-gravel bikes in the test

• Cannondale Synapse Neo Allroad 1
• Scott Solace Gravel eRIDE 10 >> available here
• Specialised S-Works Turbo Creo 2
• Storck e:Grix Pro
• Overview of motors for road bikes and gravel bikes

Predictable drive

No problem with the Bosch motor, even heat problems come late, if at all. The drive is never intrusive, but provides smooth and predictable power, depending on the cadence. The only thing you have to accept is the clearly audible motor noise. The slightly profiled tyres roll easily and quietly on asphalt, but on loose surfaces, loss of traction on climbs is likely to be the biggest problem.

However, with tyres up to 50 millimetres wide, the Cube can be adapted to a wide range of surfaces. Mudguards, pannier rack and a lighting system powered by the motor battery can be retrofitted; there are also two pre-configured versions. At just under 6000 euros, the top version on show is not cheap, but less than half the price of the luxury Specialized bike. The Cube is less fussy about details, but is certainly comparable in terms of orientation, riding fun and equipment. The entry-level model costs 3999 euros.

The Cube Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X in detail

• Price: 5999 Euro >> available here
• Weight of complete wheel: 12.9 kilos
• Max. rider weight: 100 kilos
• Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL

Geometry

• Seat/top/head tube: 490/565/130 millimetres
• Stack/Reach/STR: 583/391 millimetres/1.49
• Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 625/543 millimetres/1.15
• Wheelbase/caster: 1060/57 millimetres

Equipment

• Drive/gear shift: Sram Force XPLR (1x13; 46, 10-40 t.)
• Brakes: Sram Force (180/180 mm)
• Tyres: Continental Terra Speed (45 mm)
• Impellers: Newmen Advanced SL X.R.36
• Impeller weights: 1410/1911 grams (v./h.)

Motor

• Model: Bosch Performance Line SX (mid-engine)
• Top performance: 600 watts
• Maximum torque: 60 Nm
• Battery capacity: 400 Wh (+250 Wh) Range Extender
• Speed levels: 4

Advantages and disadvantages of the Cube Nuroad Hybrid C:62 SLT 400X

• Plus: Powerful motor, large battery, balanced riding behaviour, top equipment
• Minus: Relatively heavy