RoadBIKE celebrates its 10-year anniversary with the November 2016 edition and therefore tested models that were already evaluated 10 years ago in its very first issue. Among these bikes was the STEVENS Stelvio, that ”has been improving constantly during the last decade.”

Hardly any other decade has brought so many novelties in cycling technology like the most recent one, is one of RoadBIKE’s statements about this comparison. Regarding this, the Stelvio, STEVENS’ ”alloy classic” hasn’t changed very much. It still is the all-round reliable entry-level aluminium-frame/carbon fork road bike at an affordable price.

But looking at the bare frame facts many big differences become obvious. The frame-fork set has lost 870g within the last ten years. The complete bike is lighter by 800g.

And if you look a little closer you might find even more improved details: All cables are now routed inside the frame and under the bar tape, and the frame is crafted far more meticulously. All bearings are directly pressed into the aluminium, seat tube and steerer tube are tapered, meaning their cross sections change for more lateral stiffness.

A Quantum Leap In Road Bike Technology
The quantum leap in road bike technology is most apparent in the specs. Shimano’s 105 group now uses 11 sprockets instead of only 9 like 10 years ago. The current 105 front derailleur shifts a lot better than its Dura Ace 2006 counterpart. And the brakes? The current two-pivot calipers ”offer significantly more power – with less hand force.” All in all, the editors conclude, ”you can say the Stelvio works significantly - and always noticeably - better than any top-notch racer ten years back.”

Easy, Direct Handling And Directional Stability
Luckily, according to the editors, a thing that has not changed is the handling characteristics: ”The Stelvio offers the best compromise of direct handling and sufficient comfort even for extremely long tours. The rider is sitting stretched-out with quite an amount of saddle extension but without being too extreme. The Stevens classic features direct steering but is directionally stable at the same time.”

All in all, regarding the price, the Stelvio was a racy all-rounder without flaws. It features very good specs and a well-crafted, technically convincing aluminium frame and comes at a very fair price. The current model sells for 1,299 Euros (in Germany) which is only 200 Euros more than 10 years ago. RoadBIKE: ”A very justified surcharge for a very much improved road bike.”

Conclusion about the 2016 Stelvio: The Stelvio –today as well as 10 years ago - is the perfect racy all-rounder - only technology has advanced for the better. Progress that is actually noticeable and rideable!

The STEVENS Stelvio is available in sizes 44, 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 cm in Velvet Black and in White.