The Velomotion editors particularly emphasised the well-made frame geometry, which was adopted from the Prestige aluminium crosser. "Stevens relies on a long top tube combined with a short stem, as well as a rather long wheelbase, which leads to reliable straight line stability and handy steering behaviour," say the test riders.
They also praised the clean overall look of the bike thanks to integrated shift cables and brake lines. These disappear directly under the handlebar in the high-quality FSA SMR stem. In addition to a tidy look, the partial integration promises a significantly lower susceptibility to dirt and better protection against damage. Routing the cables through the frame also ensures more efficient aerodynamics, which not only comes into play on longer distances or at higher speeds. "In addition, there is a direct-mount derailleur hanger, which also makes for a very tidy look," according to the Velomotion editors. Also the "matt painted frame with 45 mm tyre clearance, [...] slim, slightly rounded tube shapes [...] and an integrated seat clamp" scores points with the test riders.
Since many gravel bikes are used for bike packing, which is becoming increasingly popular, or for quick year-round commuting, the Camino series also has numerous attachment points for bags and touring kits. "... the attachment options on the Camino are impressive: mudguards can be attached as well as luggage racks on the fork – something many lightweight gravel bikes do not allow for", says Velomotion.
If you are looking for a bike primarily for bikepacking, you should take a look at the basic model of the Camino, according to the Velomotion editors: "The bikepacking ambitions of the carbon bike come to the fore in the Camino model variant (without the "Pro"): With the Shimano GRX 600/400 2x11 drivetrain, there is a larger gear range, in addition there is the solid Fulcrum wheelset".
For all its versatility, the Camino Pro top model clearly focuses on swift acceleration. "Stevens utilises a Shimano GRX 800 1x11 and a super-light, classy carbon crankset from Easton," say the test editors. "Stevens even uses the expensive, super-light Aerothane tubes from Schwalbe in the high-quality DT-Swiss wheels; you can save yourself the trouble of converting to tubeless here," say the test editors, who also note: "Weight, geometry and specification result in a powerful, agile sports bike".
The Velomotion editors also positively noted to the bike's pricing. "[...] the Camino Pro is extremely good value for money". The test editors thus have a thoroughly recommendable picture of the bike: "The first carbon gravel bike from Stevens is a direct hit: The geometry adopted from the aluminium graveller proves itself [...]. The price and specification are top."
