The test editors particularly praised the high-quality, lightweight carbon frame with balanced marathon geometry and the sporty all-round characteristics of the Xenith.

Thanks to an optimised manufacturing process, the Gen 2 version of the Xenith frame is a good 15 percent lighter than its predecessor and weighs only around 920 grams in frame size 56. This results in a low overall weight of the bike. "With a total weight of 7.97 kilograms, the Stevens is one of the lighter models in this test field", says the RennRad test editorial team. And further: "This naturally has a positive effect on the uphill acceleration characteristics."

The balanced, only moderately stretched seating position of the Xenith frame ensures high long-distance suitability. Thanks to the modular system in the STEVENS Custom Bikes configurator, the riding position can also be customised to suit almost any requirements. You can choose from various stems and handlebars in different lengths and widths as well as the lightweight and stable complete units - also in the most common dimensions. The selection is rounded off by seat posts with and without setback. Components such as the drive, brakes, wheels and tyres can also be configured according to own preferences. On the test bike, the choice fell on the electronic Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset with 160 mm brake discs, DT Swiss ER 1400 Dicut aluminium wheels and Vision Metron 4D ACR carbon handlebars with FSA NS SMR aluminium stem.

The Xenith's high frame stiffness also left a very positive impression on the test riders. In combination with the short and sloping top tube, "agility and reactivity are at a high level", according to RennRad magazine.

At the same time, the rear triangle with its "fairly thin seat stays and cranked seat post provides a noticeable flex and therefore damping comfort." Equally ideal for long, low-fatigue training rides as well as challenging marathon races.

For the balanced characteristics of the Xenith, RennRad magazine awards full points for the frame and in the individual disciplines of descent and smoothness. The RennRad editorial team's conclusion is correspondingly positive: "The Stevens Xenith Gen 2 is based on a very high-quality carbon frame and impresses above all with its sporty all-round characteristics."