Cube Reaction Hybrid

• If you mainly ride tours, forest roads and occasional easy trails, the CUBE  Reaction Hybrid Pro offers practical equipment without unnecessarily high costs.
• If you are frequently off-road and want more control on descents, the Cube Reaction Hybrid Race is the more suitable model.
• If you value a Fox suspension fork, a full XT groupset and a separate display, the current CUBE Reaction Hybrid SLX is an option.
• If you are comparing a CUBE Reaction Hybrid EXC from an earlier model year, check the motor, battery capacity, fork, brakes and condition individually.

• If you mainly ride on paved roads, the CUBE Reaction Hybrid Performance with Bosch Performance Line and a 600 Wh battery may be sufficient.

Higher-quality components do not automatically make a model more suitable. A touring rider may benefit more from the right frame design, an 800 Wh battery, and a front suspension fork than from a more expensive suspension fork. For sporty riders, braking performance, fork stiffness, and a dropper seatpost carry more weight in the purchasing decision.

The current models use components from the Bosch Smart System. In the Reaction Hybrid Performance, the Bosch Performance Line operates with up to 75 Nm of torque. This motor provides smooth assistance and is well-suited for tours, commutes, and moderate inclines. Models such as the ONE, Pro, Race, SLX, and SLT are generally equipped with the sportier Bosch Performance Line CX.

The Performance Line CX reacts more quickly to pedal pressure and maintains powerful support even at low cadences. This helps on steep ramps, loose terrain, and when starting off again on a hill. However, more torque is no substitute for the right gear. Those who shift down early and maintain a consistent cadence place less strain on the chain, cassette, and motor.

When categorizing performance data, the exact production year must be considered. The current Bosch Performance Line CX (Smart System) offers 85 Nm of torque as standard. However, via an update for 2026 models, the system can be adjusted to 100 Nm of torque. Which maximum values are available depends on the motor, the bicycle model, the specific approval, and the software version. The 100 Nm figure therefore does not mean that every older Reaction Hybrid will receive this value.

The Smart System connects the motor, battery, control unit, and optional display. The eBike Flow app is used for configuration and for managing supported features. Depending on the equipment, riding modes can be customized, tour data recorded, and system updates installed. Digital security features can also be part of the system.

• The Bosch Performance Line with up to 75 Nm is suitable for touring, paved paths, and riders who prefer consistent support.
• The Bosch Performance Line CX is aimed at e-mountain bikes and reacts more dynamically to varying pedal pressure.
• Compatible riding modes can be customized within approved limits via the eBike Flow app.
• Increased torque raises the load on the drive system and can reduce range.
• The actual available motor power depends on the model, software, and settings.

There are also differences regarding the display. The Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro 2026, for example, uses the Bosch Purion 200, which combines the control unit and display compactly. Higher-end models may be equipped with an LED Remote and a separate Kiox display. A larger display makes it easier to read ride data and navigation prompts. For purely controlling support levels, a compact unit is usually sufficient.

The newer CX generation operates more discreetly under normal load than earlier motors. At high levels of support, motor noise remains audible. Tire tread, the chain, and the terrain often generate additional noise, which should be taken into account when evaluating.

These values are for orientation only. On flat paths, with high tire pressure and economical assistance, more than 120 km is possible with an 800 Wh battery. Steep climbs, low temperatures, soft ground, and a high level of assistance can significantly reduce the range. In challenging terrain, the number of meters in altitude is often more meaningful than distance.

Rider weight, luggage, and wide tires also influence energy consumption. A poorly maintained drivetrain or low tire pressure creates additional resistance. For long tours, it is worth using the high level of assistance selectively for climbs and riding in Eco or Tour mode on flat sections.

Many frames with an 800 Wh battery are prepared for a Bosch PowerMore Range Extender. This adds another 250 Wh to the system. Whether it can be mounted on the desired model and which accessories are required for this should be checked based on the specific frame variant.

Allroad and FE denote models equipped for everyday use, touring, and road traffic. FE stands for Fully Equipped. The exact designation varies depending on the model year. The underlying concept remains the same: the E-MTB comes factory-fitted with permanently integrated components.

• Mudguards keep spray and dirt away from the rider, luggage, and drivetrain.
• A permanently connected lighting system draws its energy from the e-bike system.
• The luggage rack accommodates bags or suitable accessories.
• A kickstand makes parking easier in everyday life.

Factory assembly has practical advantages. Mudguards and luggage racks match the frame geometry and the intended tire width. Cables for the lighting run neatly along or inside the frame.

Mounting points do not need to be supplemented with universal clamps. This ensures a tidy installation and reduces the risk of rattling accessories.

A CUBE Reaction Hybrid Allroad is suitable for commuters who ride through wooded or gravel sections on their way to work. Touring riders also benefit from the luggage rack and the permanently available light. Those who use the bike exclusively for sports can do without the accessories. A model without FE is lighter and offers more freedom in choosing your own mudguards or a battery-powered light.

The additional equipment usually increases the bike's weight by just under two kilograms. In the 2026 model year, the CUBE Reaction Hybrid Race weighs approximately 24.9 kg without FE, while the FE version weighs around 26.7 kg. For the Pro, the corresponding guidelines are approximately 25.6 kg and 27.5 kg. Frame size, pedals, and possible equipment variations can change the actual weight.

Depending on the model, the Cube Reaction Hybrid is available as a classic diamond frame, trapezoid frame, or Easy Entry. The diamond frame features a high top tube and offers a stiff construction for sporty rides. The trapezoid frame lowers the top tube, making it easier to get on while still maintaining a sporty geometry. Easy Entry offers the lowest step-through and is suitable for riders who stop frequently or prefer not to swing their leg far over the saddle.

The frame style should not be chosen based on gender. Agility, desired riding position, and intended use are better criteria. A low step-through can also be practical for touring riders with luggage because it allows for a more controlled way of getting on the bike. Those who ride on rough trails and prefer the stiffest possible frame structure often opt for the diamond frame.

The Size Split concept pairs smaller frames with 27.5-inch wheels and larger frames with 29-inch wheels. On the classic frame of the Reaction Hybrid Pro 2026, size S uses 27.5 inches. Sizes M through XXL roll on 29 inches. The distribution may vary for trapezoid and Easy Entry versions.

A 27.5-inch wheel is easier to accelerate and supports agile handling. This can help smaller riders achieve a balanced riding position and sufficient freedom of movement.

A 29-inch wheel rolls more smoothly over roots and maintains speed better on longer stretches. Choosing the right frame length remains crucial. A bike that is too large cannot be made manageable simply by lowering the saddle.

• Choose the diamond frame for a sporty riding position and frequent off-road riding.
• Choose the trapezoid frame if you are looking for easier mounting with a largely sporty riding feel.
• Choose Easy Entry if convenient mounting, frequent stopping, or use with luggage are your priorities.
• During a test ride, check the reach to the handlebars, standover height, and freedom of movement over the bike.
• When choosing the size, take into account your shoes, pedals, and usual riding posture.

The suspension fork offers 120 mm of travel on most sporty variants. Small frames with 27.5-inch wheels and many Easy Entry models use 100 mm. This adjustment keeps the front end at a reasonable height and prevents the bike from being too tall for shorter riders.