The STEVENS Tabor was not a thoroughbred racer. This is how Grinta’s editors sum up their impressions from a test of all-weather sports bikes for tarmac and trail – also known under their current trendy name ’gravel’ bikes. The cyclocross bike’s seating position is too upright and its ride characteristics are too comfortable for it to be a pure racing tool.

While the former quality resulted in a quite desirable amount of extra grip at the rear tire, the latter might be due to longer wheelbase and the taller steerer tube but would actually come in handy for off-road cycling newbies.

The fact that this ’crosser which is built around an aluminium frame is not a race specialist but an all-rounder, is proven by the eyelets for fenders and pannier rack. This way the bike can be converted into a reliable (winter) companion for commuters. ”Without these accessories the Tabor only weighs 11.1kg”, was one of the editors’ positive remarks.

Though the mechanical disc brakes, according to the testers’ opinion, were not as aggressive as their hydraulic counterparts, especially when hard braking was required, they did their job fairly well. Also the Shimano Tiagra shifting components worked just fine. The compact cranks might be not so good for ’cross racing, yet was of even better use for riding comfortably over tarmac, gravel and mud.

Those who rather like to use this bike for racing and therefore prefer a more race-like seating position – typical for ’cross bikes – might have to opt for a somewhat smaller frame than usual. But doing so one could miss what the STEVENS Tabor was actually all about.

Conclusion: …this is the Swiss Army Knife of bikes - ”teaching tool for ’cross beginners, comfortable touring companion and sophisticated commuter bike.”