With its 18-speed Pinion gearbox the STEVENS P18 Lite really makes you want to tackle any climbs,says ADFC-Magazin Radwelt in its review of gearbox-equipped bikes. Thanks to a gear spread of 636 % almost no climbs forces you to dismount anymore, the magazine for members of Germany’s largest bicycle advocacy group continues.
Pinion’s gearbox which has been used in high-quality trekking bikes for a number of years now, was important enough to the editors to be presented in a separate feature including ride reviews. And rightfully so, since the gearbox, made in Denkendorf near Stuttgart, offers riders a reasonable alternative to derailleur shifting. It excels with 18 real, evenly stepped gears and a gear spread of sensational 636 %. Though at 2,700g (6lbs) it is not as light as derailleur shifting, it is a lot less maintenance, requiring only an oil change once a year.
One advantage is also a disadvantage. Due to being attached directly to the bottom bracket the gearbox offers ideal weight distribution with a very low center of gravity directly under the rider. Yet, the frame has to be specially prepared with a distinctive plate to attach it to the frame.
Typical STEVENS Understatement
The advantageous weight distribution adds to how fun the P18 Lite is to ride. In addition to the gearbox there is not much left to wish for: ”The specs from the lighting set to the pannier rack with integrated tail light leaves little to wish for. The adjustable dropouts for tensioning the drive belt are very inconspicuous and service-friendly just like the P18 Lite in general is an example of the understatement typical for STEVENS. Yet, the swift and direct handling is accompanied by a certain harshness on uneven terrain.
Conclusion: ”Good value for money and great handling plus the low-maintenance drivetrain of the P18 Lite deliver lot of fun in everyday riding and fast-paced touring which is where this bike performs very well.”
The STEVENS P18 Lite is available in sizes 48, 52, 55, 58, and 61cm for 3,799 Euros at your certified STEVENS dealer.
