Cube
Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid
At Ride Review, we understand the importance of finding the perfect compact e-bike that meets your needs without compromising on quality or performance. That's why we've thoroughly researched and analyzed the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid based on summaries from various reviews across the web. One of the standout features of the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid is its impressive build quality. Riders have noted that the fenders are securely attached and do not rattle, even on bumpy terrain or at high speeds. Additionally, despite only being available in a single frame size, the bike accommodates both taller and shorter riders thanks to an adjustable angle stem and telescoping height steer post. Assembling and maintaining the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid is a breeze, thanks to its quick-release mechanisms on the stem, seat clamp, and both wheels. This makes it easier to perform maintenance tasks and ensures that you can get on the road quickly. Furthermore, the bike features the Bosch PowerPack 500, the highest power battery pack offered by Bosch, which is lightweight and prolongs the overall battery life. The Shimano Deore trigger shifters provide a smooth and precise shifting experience with two-way action on the higher lever. While the bike does have a weight of approximately 50 lbs, the weight distribution is well-balanced, with most of it resting in the center, resulting in a stable and comfortable ride. Riders have also praised the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid for its lack of drag when pedaling unassisted or at speeds exceeding 20 mph. Additionally, the bike offers the option to upgrade to a higher torque setting through a software update, allowing for even more power and versatility. Despite its many strengths, the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid does have a few drawbacks to consider. The higher price point compared to other compact e-bike offerings may put it out of reach for some occasional riders, although this is justified by the high-quality components used. Another downside is the slower 2 AMP charger included with the high-capacity Bosch PowerPack 500 battery, leading to longer recharge times. It's worth noting that due to its lower frame and fenders, it may be challenging to mount the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid on vehicle racks. This may require the use of bungee cords or a crossbar adaptor. Additionally, the bike comes equipped with a basic Bosch display panel that lacks certain features like average speed, clock, and compatibility with Bosch Connected phone apps. The display panel also cannot be removed. In summary, the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid is a feature-packed bike that delivers on its promises. It's equipped to handle night rides, wet conditions, cargo or child seats, and even off-road or gravel terrain. Its high-quality components, powerful motor, and versatile design make it an excellent option for touring, commuting, and leisure riding. With its innovative geometry, comfortable frame size, and easy step-thru design, the Cube 20" Compact Sport Hybrid offers convenience without sacrificing functionality.
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Basics
Use Cases
10 Reasons to Purchase the CUBE 20” Compact Sport Hybrid
- Fenders are attached well to the bike and don’t rattle over bumpy terrain, or while riding fast.
- Despite being only available in a single frame sizing, both taller and shorter riders are accommodated with the adjustable angle stem, and telescoping height steer post.
- The stem, the seat clamp, and both wheels offer a quick release mechanism that can make assembling it much easier, as well as performing any sort of maintenance.
- PowerPack 500 is the highest power this Bosch battery pack is offered in, that still manages to be lightweight. The motor will also use more electricity from the higher power setup, so having the 500 v. the 400 does make a difference in terms of prolonging life.
- Shimano Deore trigger shifters offer two-way action on the higher lever.
- While the bike is still heavy at around approximately 50 lbs, the weight is positioned across the bike well, resting mostly in the center.
- The bike has no drag when you’re pedaling unassisted or over approx. 20 mph.
- Despite the default torque being 65nm-75nm, this can be upgraded to 85nm from a software update.
- It has shorter cranks for limiting or reducing the possibility of pedal strike when leaning into turns.
- Shimano ZEE derailleur 10-speed drivetrain is built for off-road, all-terrain, and heavy duty use.
4 Reasons to Not Purchase the CUBE 20” Compact Sport Hybrid
- At a much higher price point when compared to other brand offerings for compact electric bikes, the CUBE may be out of range for many occasional riders. The increased quality of the parts does account for this – however, they may be unnecessary in a model such as this one.
- Despite the high capacity Bosch PowerPack 500 battery being used for this model, CUBE specifically includes the slower 2 AMP charger compared to the 4 AMP. This means a much longer recharge/refill.
- As a lower e-bike with fenders, it can be difficult to mount on vehicle racks. You may have to use bungee cords or a crossbar adaptor.
- It has the most basic Bosch display panel: it doesn’t indicate average speed, clock, maximum speed, or other readouts provided on more comprehensive display panels. It is also not compatible with Bosch Connected phone apps, and cannot be removed.
Bottom Line
The CUBE 20” Compact Sport Hybrid may not do anything ‘new’ with the compact e-bike, but this bike is extremely well-made like the rest of the line, offering an extremely powerful motor and battery in a compact package. With a wide range of utility, those looking for an e-bike that won’t take up a ton of space can easily traverse all types of terrain on a daily basis with this option from CUBE. Smooth to pedal and easy to use, we definitely recommend the CUBE Compact Sport Hybrid for urban dwellers or those commuting.