”Never change a winning horse” – TrekkingBIKE begins its test report about ”touring bikes with long-term qualities” with this old wisdom that would also apply to the bicycle industry. The STEVENS 8X Lite Tour has been in existence under this name since 2002. Its predecessor, the STEVENS 8.6.2., even dates back to 1994.

Over the last 15 years the bike – just like the whole Cross Series – has been evolving continually: from the ”naked” racy ’cross bike to the long-distance touring and every day-use capable, yet speedy city bike. TrekkingBIKE Magazine concludes: ”Stemming from the ’cross-oriented X-Series the Stevens has developed into a fully spec’d 8X Tourer.”

Turns Country Roads Into Dream Routes
The ”tough Tourer” appeals to the sportsperson who you have to be to ride the 8X. The seating position is a little stretched forward; steering is nimble due to the stiff rigid fork. The chassis with its racy set-up ”turns country roads into dream routes”.

On the other hand when going fast the great lateral stiffness came in handy. The same goes for the direct steering, the fact that every pedal stroke is immediately converted into forward-drive, the overall ”light-footed quickness” and the secure handling.

The pannier rack made by Racktime also added to the overall stiffness. Its lateral struts are supported by the dropouts. A third strut hidden under the SKS mudguard enhances stiffness even further. All the other components such as shifters, brakes and lighting system are ”top-shelf” throughout. Shimano’s Deore XT group traditionally is the hallmark of the City Cross range’s and X-Series’ top model. Despite it still being a city ’cross bike it can easily be retrofitted with a kickstand.

Conclusion: The STEVENS 8X Lite Tour is one of the most suitable bikes for short trips and long-distance travelling.

The STEVENS 8X Lite Tour painted in Velvet Steel Gray is available in sizes 48, 52, 55, 58, 61, 64cm at your certified STEVENS dealer.