In the comparative test, the Arcalis scored particularly well with its very light carbon frame, the resulting low overall weight and the high-performance aero design. The excellent aerodynamic properties are partly due to the wheels used on the test bike. "As the only aero road bike in our comparison, the Stevens Arcalis comes with genuine aero wheels. With their 50 mm rim height, the DT Swiss ARC1400 Dicut offer measurable aero advantages. They are also lighter than all other wheel sets in the comparison despite their high rim and have solid but light hubs", say the testers. And further: "Bottom line: definitely a specification plus on such a bike". In combination with the 25-622 Continental Grand Prix 5000 S TLR tyres mounted on the test bike, the result is an aerodynamically highly efficient wheelset that has a very positive effect on the overall performance of the bike.

The testers also praised the wide size range of the Arcalis frame of up to 61 centimetres, which makes the bike usable for tall riders as well. For the test, the bike was deliberately configured in a sporty way with regard to the cockpit dimensions, offering a low stack and long reach for the smallest STR (stack-to-reach) value in the test. Here, however, every custom customer can find the best mix of handlebar height, stem length and number/position of stem spacers together with his dealer. Even with the aerodynamically fully optimised integrated cockpits, there are certain possibilities for adjustment, so that in the end every customer will end up at a seating position that is ideal for them.

The theoretical values are then confirmed on the test course. "Position and geometry work together perfectly when cornering". Hardly any other bike goes around the bends so agilely. "A slight shift of weight is enough. Tight bends are definitely the domain of the Arcalis, in this respect it lives up to its name," writes the popular online magazine.

The bike's stiff frame also plays a big part in the excellent impression. "Uphill, the Arcalis sets the standard in this comparison. Low weight, high stiffness and a pleasant behaviour of the steering geometry in the cradle go hand in hand here".

The conclusion of rennrad-news.de is quite clear: "No other aero road bike in our test is as light, as consistently aerodynamically upgraded with high wheels and as dynamic as the Stevens Arcalis. Add to that the individual options and all this at a significantly lower price - a crystal-clear price-performance tip".

You can find the review of the STEVENS Arcalis here (in German language).