Cube Stereo One22 Review

Cube pulls the emergency brake on inflation. The 2025 Stereo One22 Trailbike gets not only a new frame but also the full equipment extravaganza at a fair price. We were already able to ride the new trail bike.

We weighed the top model at 11.8 kilos (size M, tubeless, and without pedals). And it’s jaw-dropping. Typically, trail bikes in this price range weigh about a kilo more. This is shown in our market analysis of the entire trail bike market, which we have prepared for you in a graphic.

The truth is, however, that the predecessors of the new Stereo One22 achieved this weight at a lower price. However, they did not feature an integrated storage compartment in the downtube, 30 mm wide rims, or Sram’s new electronic Transmission shifting system. Additionally, the bottom bracket on the predecessors was still press-fit. The new Stereo One22 models finally adopt the BSA standard, which mechanics particularly appreciate for easier handling.

The low weight of the bike is omnipresent. In our job as bike testers, we regularly ride downhill-oriented bikes weighing 14 – 15 kilos. Uphill, this weight difference is clearly noticeable. But also the handling on singletrack is simply easier with a bike as light as the Cube Stereo One22.

Spontaneously doing a bunnyhop, popping off terrain edges or quickly pulling the bike onto the rear wheel for rapid direction changes. All of this is playfully easy with the Stereo One22. And all of this provides a lot of fun even on flat trails.

When the terrain gets more demanding, however, it becomes clear that with 120 mm of rear travel, limits are quickly reached. The Sram Level brakes with four pistons decelerate very well thanks to the 200 mm rotor on the front wheel, but they are not anchors. The Wicked Will rear tire is a bit stingy with grip in the wet or on loose surfaces. The Stereo One22 has always been an excellent touring full-suspension bike and it remains so in its latest iteration. If you want more downhill capability, the Stereo One44 is a better choice.

The weight and design of the components make the bike power-efficient. However, in the new edition, the product managers also tweaked the geometry. Compared to the predecessor, they’ve made significant adjustments all around while maintaining the core characteristics of the bike.

The head angle is a full 1.6 degrees slacker. Reach, top tube length, and wheelbase have all increased significantly. The head tube and chainstays have been shortened. The riding position is sportier than before and suits the character of a pedal-efficient touring bike. The handling has become noticeably more mature. The shortcomings we pointed out in our last trail bike comparison have indeed been addressed.

The rear suspension responds sensitively, which means there’s some movement when pedaling. However, disruptive drivetrain influences were not noticeable during our test. If the slight movement on the way to the summit bothers you, you can firm up the suspension with a quick flick of the damper’s platform lever. We didn’t find it necessary.

If you’re looking for comparable bikes in the same price range, you’ll really only find them at Canyon or YT. YT’s Izzo, however, has been around for a few years. Canyon’s Neuron is set up with a bit more travel and is more capable on the descents.

Although the comparison might be a bit skewed due to the significantly higher prices, it’s particularly interesting to look at American manufacturers. The Trek Top Fuel and the Specialized Epic Evo were just recently introduced and have the same focus as the Stereo One22. Therefore, we’ve put together a comparison for you. You can find more information about Rocky Mountain’s Element in our comprehensive trail overview article.