CUBE sent over shots of their 2015 Stereo 160 SHPC, the bike that will be used on the Enduro World Series by the CUBE Action Team. Check out the details from Action Team mechanic, Jan Wittmaack.
Jan, you are responsible for the new team bikes of the riders – what do you like most about the new bike 2015?
Once again the design is very well-done. There are a lot of small and nice details hidden, like the handlebar and stem from Syntace, which were painted just for us. Concerning the technology, I am very curious about the new XTR 11-speed, but especially about the Di2.
The Stereo 160 SHPC was already tuned perfectly last year, what is new for the season 2015?
Together with our sponsors, we are permanently working on developments. With the new XTR, the new hubs from DT and ultimately, the new setup-tunes from Fox there are again changes which are not immediately visible, but indeed noticeably for the rider. The highlight of the new frame is the type of material. The frames have been produced with the new C68 technology, so that they are even stiffer and lighter.
The team was already riding the new Fox 36 last year. Which set up are you going to choose for this one?
Fox already sent us the tunes for 2016. In Malaga we are going to work out together with Fox what changed and how they function and we are going to test the ideal setup for every rider.
The frame was especially tuned to the Fox Float X, what is special about that?
The frame has a dent in the down tube so that the compensating reservoir of the Float X rear shock has space. Please, never use a Foat X into a normal Stereo 160!
It is the very first time that the new electronic XTR is mounted on team bikes. Was something changed with the cable routing?
Yes, we had to modify the frame a little because originally it was not prepared for the Di2. However, I think we have done a good job. In the coming testing days we are going to find out, weather everything is working as I imagined.
Are you now using the 20 mm axle from DT Swiss in the front wheel?
Yes, the new axle is lighter and stiffer. Until now, we worked with an adapter and a 15 mm axle.
Lastly – a final word on the victory of Nico at the Andes Pacifico?
I am very happy for him and I am very excited about the new season! Once again, congratulations!
I think it was the perfect start into the upcoming season and I am convinced that we are going to pocket one or two good results together! I am happy and proud of the trust the team riders have placed in me and my work!
