2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 Review
- Price: $2957
- Category: Hardtail Bicycle
- Frame: Aluminum
- Gear: 1x 11
- Tire: 27.5″ / 29″×2.6
What we like about it: Flexible riding geometry and reliable components give this bike good performance on trail rides, and strong brakes and friction-prone tires add confidence to our descents.
What we don’t like about it: Limited battery life.
Rating (4.8/5.0)
Details are everything. The simple frame design of the 2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 attracts a lot of attention. But its outstanding performance is the main reason why it stays in people’s footsteps. Who would say no to a bike that can give them a great ride? This bike uses the powerful fourth-generation Bosch CX motor with an intelligent system that provides confident handling. And different sizes of tires are available for different heights so that the rider can have a better experience.
Next, we’ll break down its riding performance, key features, component specifications, and other versions. If you’re interested, remember to follow us!
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 Descending
When it comes to an electric hardtail trail bike, we want it to be easier and faster when descending. And in our review, the CUBE REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 has that quality.
For one thing, it’s as swift as a cheetah on rough and bumpy downward singletrack, and the Schwalbe Smart Sam tires press through the debris and branches on the dirt slopes with superb rolling power, the dense tread pattern long blurred in the roll. Only the sandy soil they come into close contact with knows that the tread pattern on the tires is real.
At the same time, the 120mm X-Fusion MIG32 Air fork minimized my sensation of bumps, and I was impressed by its powerful shock absorption ability.
Secondly, the nimble steering of the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 added confidence to my handling thanks to the steep 68° head tube angle. Even the thickest trees won’t get in my way because I can avoid them with agility.
Also, with the smart electric system on this e-bike, it’s great! Not only can I easily adjust the settings on the app, but it also provides me with electronic data so I can understand the mileage or routes I ride. It’s fun when I see data about my rides through the mountains!
In addition, the 1×11 speed shifting provided me with a wide range of speed options. I was impressed by the silky smooth and natural shifts that the components of the transmission system worked so well together to provide.
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 General Riding
Originally, I thought that riding an electric hardtail bike to some terrain with no climbing difficulty was a bit of a big deal.
However, after seeing many riders on the internet try it out and get good feedback, I couldn’t resist giving it a try on the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500.
As a result, the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 turned out to be an excellent electric hardtail bike, and it made my trip to the California Bay Area very easy and relaxing.
I set off from Fisherman’s Wharf, and if it wasn’t for the ergonomic geometry of the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 that made me feel so comfortable and stable, I wouldn’t have been in the mood to see the beautiful scenery along the way.
The CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500’s motor gave me plenty of electric boosts as I passed over the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Then I sped across the bridge with the sea breeze blowing across my face. Moreover, I didn’t feel tired at high speed.
Midway, the Shimano BR-MT200’s hydraulic brakes showed me how composed it is. In other words, even in fast forward, its strong braking power and easy operation made me feel natural and smooth.
After I got off the bridge and found a resting place, I stopped the bike to refill some energy. By the way, I took out my compact Bosch 4A charger to recharge my REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 as well. The powerhouse REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500, continued to ride along on the subsequent route.
Some of the routes are relatively flat, but the terrain is relatively high and uphill, which is also a bit strenuous for bicycle riding.
However, the dense gear ratio of the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 helped me to improve my climbing efficiency. As a result, I had less physical exertion on this journey, which made the ride a very good experience for me.
Main Features
Frame Group
This CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 uses an aluminum frame that is strong and durable, enhancing the frame’s load-bearing capacity without sacrificing stiffness.
Moreover, it has a versatile frame that supports both bracket mounting and mounting points for fenders and brackets.
In addition, the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has an advanced internal cable routing design to protect the bike’s cable lines.
Geometry
We tested the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 in XL, which has a geometry that seems more comfortable to me.
First of all, the 68.5° head tube angle is steep enough so that we will have plenty of flexibility in steering so that we can maneuver more quickly.
Secondly, the 456mm rear lower fork with a relatively long wheelbase of 1197.11 helps us to improve stability on rough terrain.
Finally, sensitivity and stability are well balanced here in the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500. In general, in the actual riding experience, this will make us feel comfortable.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Deore RD-M5100-SGS Drivetrain
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 features an 11-speed Shimano Deore SL-M5100-IR shifter. Fast and responsive operation with a stable and smooth rear derailleur for more precise shifting on the trail.
At the same time, the 1×11 speed has a rich range of speed changes, so we can find the right speed for us on any terrain.
Not only that, but the 1×11-speed SHIMANO DEORE rear derailleur also has a chain stabilizer. The thoughtful design allows us not to worry about the chain falling off or slapping while riding.
Schwalbe Smart Sam Tires
This tire is as smart and snappy as its name suggests. The dense tread pattern stands one by one on the surface of the tire, providing us with excellent grip while also having excellent traction.
In addition, Double Defense technology provides safe protection for the tires. This also makes the tires last longer and reduces our maintenance.
It is worth mentioning that the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 has tires that support vacuum tires, which means you will need to replace them yourself if you want to switch to vacuum tires.
X-Fusion MIG32 Air Shock Front Fork
The simple X-Fusion MIG32 Air fork is firmly mounted on the front of the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500, and the 120mm of travel is our guarantee of an effective shock.
Also, the air springs are responsive enough that the relatively small stones on the road can be handled very quickly in response.
In addition, the adjustable rebound can help every rider have the best shock absorption effect. With this shock fork, we have full confidence to go off-road on various terrains.
Other versions of CUBE REACTION HYBRID
The performance of the 2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has been optimized to get a big boost. To give you a better idea, we found the 2021 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 ALLROAD to compare the performance between them.
2021 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 ALLROAD
The 2021 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 weighs 25.2 kg and is equipped with a Suntour XCM fork that offers 100mm of travel. Also, it uses SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 speed rear derailleur and Shimano BR-MT200 brakes. In addition, the bike’s battery uses a Bosch PowerTube 500 and a Bosch 2A charger.
Compared to this bike, the 2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has been upgraded in the fork section and electrical system, with better shock absorption and a larger battery capacity. As a result, the 2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has an improved ability to cope with complex terrain.
As for the drivetrain, the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has a reduced speed range. But at the same time, it also changed the maximum gear to 51T.
After our comparative evaluation, we think the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 will be more effortless when climbing upwards. Also, its Shimano transmission is always smooth and a little faster.
Most importantly, the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 improves performance and battery life while reducing weight.
What we like about it
- Gravity Casting aluminum frame provides reliable load-bearing capacity.
- X-Fusion MIG32 Air fork to reduce vibration and bumps for us.
- Riders can experience the intelligent E-BIKE SYSTEM.
- Ergonomic geometry design provides a comfortable and smooth ride.
- Schwalbe tires have excellent traction.
What we don’t like about it
- The capacity of the battery is not suitable for too long a trip.
- Underperforms in extremely cold weather.
FAQs
- What is the frame material of the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500?
The frame material of the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 is aluminum.
- What is the drivetrain of the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500?
The CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has a 1×11 speed drivetrain.
- If you want to go riding in well-known terrain or special terrain, where is the most convenient place to stay?
You can book your accommodation on IHG Hotels & Resorts, which is not only rich in variety but also easy to operate.
- What is the drive unit of CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500?
The drive unit of the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 is a Fourth-generation, Smart System-equipped Bosch CX drive unit.
2023 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 Specs
Build
| Frame | Aluminium Superlite, Gravity Casting, Agile Ride Geometry, 1.5 Headtube, Boost 148, Fully Integrated Battery, Advanced Internal Cable Routing, Kickstand/Fender/Carrier Mounting Points Color: Flashwhitenblack |
| Fork | X-Fusion MIG32 Air, Tapered, 15x110mm, 120mm, Lockout (EE: 100mm) |
| Headset | ACROS AZF-1035, ICR (Integrated Cable Routing), BlockLock 120°, Top Zero-Stack 1 1/2″ (ZS 56mm), Bottom Zero-Stack 1 1/2″ (ZS 56mm) |
| Stem | CUBE Performance Stem E-MTB, 31.8 mm |
| Handlebar | CUBE Rise Trail Bar Pro, 740mm |
| Saddle | Natural Fit Sequence |
| Seatpost | CUBE Performance Post, 30.9mm |
| Pedals | ACID PP MTB |
| Grips | ACID React Pro / EE: ACID Hybrid Perform |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore RD-M5100-SGS, 11-Speed |
| Crank | ACID E-Crank, 38T, 175mm |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore SL-M5100-IR, Direct Attach, Rapidfire-Plus |
| Cassette | Shimano Deore CS-M5100, 11-51T |
| Chain | KMC X11 |
| Brakes | Shimano BR-MT200, Hydr. Disc Brake (180/180) |
Wheels
| Rims | Rodi Tryp 30, 32H, Disc, Tubeless Ready |
| Front Hub | Shimano HB-MT400-B, 15mm, Boost, Centerlock |
| Rear Hub | Shimano FH-MT400-B, 12mm, Boost, Centerlock |
| Tires | Schwalbe Smart Sam, Active, 2.6 |
Electric Components
| Motor | Bosch Drive Unit Performance CX Generation 4 (85Nm) Cruise (250Watt), Smart System |
| Battery | Bosch PowerTube 500 |
| Remote | Bosch LED Remote |
| Charger | Bosch 4A |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 | $3164 | 1× 11 | Shimano BR-MT200 Hydraulic Disc | 27.5″ / 29″×2.6″ | Click view |
| 2022 Scott Aspect eRIDE 940 | $3099 | 1 × 9 | Shimano BR-MT200 HydraulicDisc | 29″x2.6″ | Click view |
| 2022 Voodoo BIZANGO-E | $2999 | 1× 10 | Shimano BL-M315 Hydraulic Disc | 29″ x 2.25″ | Click view |
| 2022 Liv Vall E+ 2 | $3320 | 1× 10 | Tektro HD-M280 hydraulic disc | 27.5/29″ x 2.4″ | Click view |
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 vS 2022 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625
The CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 has very little change in most of its components. However, the battery has been replaced with a Bosch 625Wh, which means the REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 can go further. Of course, the point that cannot be ignored is that the higher-capacity battery will be a little more expensive.
Therefore, you can choose a bike that suits your needs according to your usual riding habits. If your off-road trips are usually not too far, you can choose the cheaper REACTION HYBRID PRO 500.
Learn More: 2022 CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 625 Review – Unstoppable Adventurer
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 vS 2022 Scott Aspect eRIDE 940
The Scott Aspect eRIDE 940 is an aluminum-framed electric hardtail trail bike. In terms of shock, it is prepared with Suntour XCM’s 120mm fork, which is a nice fork.
However, in our actual ride, the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500’s X-Fusion fork had better shock absorption and was more responsive.
In terms of drivetrain, the 2022 Scott Aspect eRIDE 940 offers a 1×9 speed drivetrain. It is adequate for most off-road routes. However, if you’re going off-road on some of the more difficult trails, it may be a bit of a struggle.
So, all things considered, I would recommend the REACTION HYBRIDPRO 500.
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 vS 2022 Voodoo BIZANGO-E
The biggest difference between the Voodoo BIZANGO-E and the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 is that they use different drive units.
In addition, the Voodoo BIZANGO-E uses the Shimano Steps power system, while the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 uses the Bosch power system.
In our review, the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500 would have been better at climbing. This is because its mid-drive can utilize the bike’s gears, making our pedaling more efficient.
In addition, the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 mid-drive will be a little easier to maintain and repair.
So, I think CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 will be more suitable for our choice.
CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 vS 2022 Liv Vall E+ 2
Liv Vall E+ 2 is a bit more expensive than CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500.
However, the drivetrain and motor performance of the Liv Vall E+ 2 are not as good as those of the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500.
Because the Liv Vall E+ 2 drivetrain offers a 1×10 speed range, while the REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 has a much wider speed range.
In addition, the Liv Vall E+ 2 has chosen the SyncDrive Sport 70Nm motor. It is lower compared to the REACTION HYBRID, PRO 500.
Therefore, in terms of cost-effectiveness, CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 is more worthy of our choice.
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