Testing entry-level racing bikes: It is often said that a high-quality racing bike has to be made of carbon. We definitely have a different opinion here and with the Cube Attain SL we looked towards the aluminum frame. A first-class price-performance ratio, an attractive look and a robust construction make this racing bike from the German manufacturer a real eye-catcher for beginners.
If you prefer to take it slower and more comfortably at the beginning and also want to go easy on your wallet, you should take a look at the aluminum frame. These can certainly compete with the entry-level models made of carbon and sometimes only bring a little more weight and a performance that is not quite as sporty. However, the aluminum models are usually more robust and very balanced, which also speaks for everyday use. With the Cube Attain SL, the German manufacturer from the Upper Palatinate has tried to bring the best features into its 6061 aluminum frame. The double-butted tubes combine the lowest possible weight with high stability and rigidity. The slim seatstays and the full carbon fork support comfort and absorb the vibrations of the road at the same time. With a balanced seating position and just over 9 kilograms, you should get a perfect aluminum all-rounder for (re-)entering road cycling for just 1.549 euros.
Cube Attain SL – The frame at a glance
When designing the Attain frame made of 6061 aluminum, great emphasis was placed on comfort and performance. The double butted tubes saved as much weight as possible. Of course, care has been taken to ensure that there are no disadvantages in terms of stability and rigidity, as these can be particularly critical factors for beginners. The conical head tube ensures super-precise steering behavior and balanced handling.
With slim seat stays and a full carbon fork, the Attain SL is additionally upgraded and also gets a good portion of driving comfort. As a result, vibrations and smaller impacts from the ground are better dampened and not passed on directly to the driver. Thanks to the Smooth Welding process, the pipe connections could also be made smooth and clean, which, in combination with the attractive paint finish, ensures a noble look.
Cube Attain SL – The features at a glance
You don't have to make any compromises when it comes to the equipment of the Cube Attain SL either, because with a proven Shimano 105 groupset you get durable and precise shifting pleasure, as you are used to from the high-end groupsets from Shimano. With a gear ratio of 50-43 teeth at the front and 11-34 teeth at the rear, there is also a wide range of gears available to try out and experience racing cycling with all its facets. The handlebars and saddle are designed for comfort and stability and fit so well into the overall picture.
Cube Attain SL review
The Cube Attain SL was able to convince us after just a few kilometers. The aluminum frame is inconspicuous in a positive sense and offers a safe and comfortable driving experience. Newcomers and returnees in particular should definitely get their money's worth here. Of course, as the name suggests, a racing bike should not lack a certain sportiness. At just over 9 kilograms, the Attain Sl doesn't have to hide here either and can also be steered pleasantly precisely and quickly around the corners.
You can find a comparison of the current entry-level road bikes here .
https://www.velomotion.de/magazin/2021/10/einsteiger-rennraeder/
