”The Whaka ES is an invitation to play”, is Bikesport editors’ comment about the bike. In the current issue they put STEVENS’ allmountain fully [Link] with 27.5” wheels plus seven other bikes to the test. ”The Whaka ES in this version has very good handling”, was the editors’ verdict. ”It climbs well and is very easy to maneuver just by the rear wheel.”

This is due to the bike’s geometry with short chain stays that makes the riders sit relaxed and upright over the compact frame. The front end was a little (too) tall for the testers, though, so the front end required to be carefully controlled to stick the ground. ”Yet, all in all the Whaka behaves calmly on the trail and excels with a well-balanced chassis,” the testers described their overall impression.
They also liked the many useful details such as the well-crafted frame with inner cable routing and the Shimano Side Swing front derailleur which would shift a lot better than its predecessor. The other Shimano XT parts did their work flawlessly as well. Equipped with a 203mm front and 180mm rear disc, fork and rear shock with 150mm of travel each and a dropper post, it is perfectly suited for rides on both sides of the mountain.

Bikesport’s conclusion: The Stevens Whaka ES 27.5” is a nice all-rounder with well-selected specs. The chassis is great, yet the high front end needs getting used to.”

The STEVENS Whaka ES 27.5” is available in sizes 16, 18 und 20in for 3,499 Euros at your certified STEVENS dealer.