Touring in a sporty manner – this is how the editors of ‟aktiv Radfahren“ describe the ride on STEVENS‘ touring bike Sovereign R14. They further write: ‟The bike is stiff and sporty.“
The seating position was slightly bent forward, the hands rest on sturdy handlebars with user-friendly ergonomics. All in all the bike is rated ‟very good“. Positively mentioned were especially the andonized, robust frame, the high-quality specs and the sporty, yet comfortable ride.
The wheels were stiff, they transferred the power ‟which develops via the belt between bottom bracket and Rohloff hub onto the road without any loss.“ Although the sporty performance prevailed, comfort was not neglected, not least because of the suspension fork. Despite the ‟distinct tendency to directional stability on fast rides“ the Sovereign’s front wheel stayed pleasantly responsive.
Among other things, the tapered head tube (on which a voluminous and therefore stable down tube is welded in the lower area) as well as the 15 millimeter thru axle at the front wheel accounted for a sporty, direct ride.
It sovereignly handles the braking forces of the new Shimano XT disc brake. New, and besides the disc brakes one of the most important innovations of this touring bike, is the Gates belt drive. Just like the hydraulic brakes, it makes the sporty touring bicycle even more maintenance-free.
Conclusion: ‟The Sovereign R14 is, typically Stevens, a sporty touring bike on a convincing level.“
The STEVENS Sovereign R14 is available at STEVENS dealers in five sizes from 48 to 61 centimeters.