Cube Touring

A trekking bike has to fulfill various tasks. In the morning it transports your work bag, in the afternoon your groceries, and on the weekend the luggage for a long excursion. The Cube Touring is designed exactly for this mix. The riding position is more relaxed than on a cross bike or gravel bike. At the same time, the handling remains more direct and lighter than many heavy city bikes.

The equipment required by German road traffic regulations (StVZO) is already installed. The hub dynamo provides energy to the front and rear lights while riding. You do not need to charge battery-powered lights or attach them before every trip. Mudguards keep a large portion of spray water away from your clothing and luggage. The side stand makes short stops easier, while the luggage rack creates space for baskets or compatible side bags.

For current models, Cube relies on 28-inch wheels and tires approximately 47 millimeters wide. This combination rolls efficiently on asphalt and offers more cushioning on rough bike paths than a narrow city tire.

The suspension fork generally provides 63 millimeters of travel. It takes the edge off hard edges, potholes, and gravel sections. However, the touring bike is not designed for forest paths with roots or demanding trails.

Hydraulic disc brakes are part of the equipment on many more affordable touring models as well. They transmit hand force via brake fluid, requiring less force at the lever than simple mechanical systems. The pressure point remains easily controllable in correctly maintained brakes. This is helpful in city traffic, in wet conditions, and on descents with luggage.

If you are looking for a bike for daily commutes and occasional day trips, the touring bike already covers the necessary functions right out of the box. For sporty riding without luggage, a lighter cross bike is more suitable. For multi-day trips with heavy loads, it is worth taking a look at the Cube Kathmandu.

The Cube Touring Pro is aimed at riders who use their bike regularly and want a little more margin in terms of equipment. Depending on the model year, it differs from the ONE in its groupset, gear ratio, or specific comfort details. Older Pro models often featured a Shimano drivetrain with three chainrings and eight sprockets. This results in 24 theoretical gears, some of which overlap in their ratios.

More gears do not automatically mean a better bike. What matters is whether the gear ratio suits your route profile. On flat commutes, a simpler drivetrain is more practical. If you frequently ride with luggage in hilly terrain, finer gear increments and a light climbing gear can be more comfortable. Therefore, do not just compare the number of gears, but also the cassette and crankset.

EXC is the abbreviation for an upgraded trim level. For the Cube Touring EXC of previous model years, key features included a Shimano Deore drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and a lockout suspension fork. The Deore components are designed for regular use and shift more precisely under varying loads than basic entry-level groupsets.

However, the abbreviation does not mean that every EXC from every model year is identically equipped. Furthermore, the Touring EXC is not consistently part of the current product range. It may still be offered as remaining stock or as a used bike. In this case, pay attention to the model year, the condition of the wear parts, and the permissible total load of the specific model.

Diamond, trapeze, and easy-entry frames differ primarily in the shape of the top tube and the resulting step-through height. The terms men's and women's frames serve only as a rough guide. Body height, mobility, and desired riding position are more important for your choice than gender.

• The diamond frame has a nearly horizontal top tube. This design offers high frame stiffness and is suitable for sportier riders, larger frame sizes, and regular tours with luggage. To mount the bike, you must swing your leg over the saddle or top tube.
• The trapeze frame has a significantly lowered top tube. Mounting is easier without the bike losing its sporty appearance. This shape is a good choice if you want to mount the bike comfortably but do not need a full step-through.
• The easy-entry frame features a very low top tube. You can step over the frame with very little clearance. This is helpful if you have limited mobility, make frequent stops in city traffic, or use a child seat on the luggage rack.

The Cube Trekking Comfort Geometry supports a relaxed riding position. The upper body remains relatively upright, while the adjustable stem allows for the handlebar angle to be adapted. A more upright position relieves strain on the hands and neck, but increases air resistance. A posture leaning slightly more forward distributes body weight more evenly and is better suited for longer, faster rides.

The most comfortable frame shape is not automatically the right one. If you are planning long tours with lots of luggage and can mount the bike without difficulty, the diamond frame offers a good foundation. The trapezoid frame combines a lower step-through with touring-ready handling. Easy Entry is the right choice if getting on and off the bike as comfortably as possible is the priority.

The frame size must also be correct. A trekking bike that is too large makes it difficult to dismount safely and can lead to a stretched-out riding position. A frame that is too small brings the handlebars closer to the body and can affect knee position. Use your height and inseam as a starting point and then check whether the saddle, stem, and handlebars can be adjusted accordingly.

If you mainly ride 30 to 80 kilometers to work, for shopping, and on weekends, the Cube Touring usually offers the most suitable balance of equipment and price. It comes with the necessary road equipment and is also suitable for occasional longer tours.

The Kathmandu is worth it if you are regularly on the road for several days, carry heavy luggage, or ride many kilometers per year.

The integrated luggage carrier and higher-positioned component groups offer more reserves for this type of use.

Therefore, the decision is less about which Cube trekking bike is the best in general. The deciding factor is the intended use. The Touring covers normal everyday life and classic weekend tours. The Kathmandu is aimed more at riders who use their bike as a permanent means of travel and transport.