There is one thing you’d have to adapt to with the STEVENS 8X Lite Disc Tour according to the editors of German bike magazine ’aktiv Radfahren’: A sporty riding style. It featured a ”racy layout” and after the first few hundred meters already you get the feeling that everything looks like it’s made from one solid piece down to the smallest detail. The ride is appropriately stiff and somewhat harsh.”

Seating position is slightly sporty and with its sturdy frame, racy graphics and the high-quality silky finish it looks ”unstoppable”.

’Aktiv Radfahren’ tested light trekking bikes in its current May 2016 issue. ”Light” as defined by the editors means a weight of less than 13kg (29lbs.). Putting together a test field wasn’t easy since most models in the market are above that weight limit. The editors also defined that the tested bikes should be completely equipped with pannier rack, lights and fenders.

The STEVENS 8X Lite Disc Tour in frame size 55cm weighs in at 12.8kg (28.2lbs.) including pedals. Compared to the other bikes in the seven-strong field it rode ”remarkably racy”. The Shimano Deore XT drivetrain offered a large gear range for anything including ”climbing and long-distance riding”. Thanks to the stiff frame design the Deore XT disc brakes’ power ”was delivered noticeably directly and effectively”.

Powerful and Robust Appearance
Shifting and brakes would harmoniously contribute to the ”powerful and robust appearance” of the bike. The editors pointed out the sturdy through-axle – a lot stronger than a quick release axle - at the fork and the beautiful pannier rack that is nicely integrated into dropouts and fenders. There are also threads to mount a kickstand.

Note: With a strut that runs below the fender the pannier rack is approx. 20% stiffer than a conventional rack design, which comes in handy when touring with heavy cargo.

Conclusion:
The STEVENS  8X Lite Disc Tour offers great tech and a high-quality frame for reasonable money. All in all it is more on the stiff, racy side.

The top model from STEVENS’ city cross series STEVENS 8X Lite Disc Tour is available in sizes 48, 52, 55, 58, 61 and 64cm in a Gents’ (diamond frame) version at your local STEVENS dealer.