CUBE Reaction Hybrid ONE 720 review

Where the Reaction Hybrid ONE 720 fits

The clearest match is riders wanting a powerful, long-range hardtail for mixed road, bridleway and moderate trail use without paying for the Pro’s stronger brakes, dropper post and RockShox fork. This review is based on the Evans specification, manufacturer information and clearly identified independent coverage; it is not presented as a RideIn hands-on test.

Motor, controls and UK legality

Evans lists Bosch Drive Unit Performance Line CX, max. 120 Nm (BDU38).. The controls are described as Bosch Purion 200 with Integrated Display.

Evans and the exact CUBE listing specify the BDU38 Bosch Performance Line CX with a maximum 120Nm software configuration. That is ample support for steep climbs, but maximum figures depend on enabled mode and updates; a dealer should confirm the delivered UK tune and current Bosch settings.

The mid-drive works through a Deore 10–51T cassette, so selecting an easier gear helps both rider and motor on sustained gradients. Single-click shifting is intended to reduce drivetrain shock under electric load, though the rider should still ease pressure during changes.

For use as an electrically assisted pedal cycle in Great Britain, the maximum continuous rated motor power must not exceed 250W, assistance must cut out by 15.5mph and the pedals must be able to propel the bike. Check the label and delivered configuration rather than relying on a category name.

Battery, charging and realistic range

The listed battery is Bosch PowerTube 720 Wh. No numerical range is stated in the accessible listing; route, rider, weather and assistance level materially affect distance

The integrated 720Wh PowerTube splits the difference between CUBE’s 600Wh and 800Wh alternatives. It offers substantial ride time without automatically carrying the largest pack in the range, which is a sensible balance for mixed leisure use.

CUBE does not promise one universal distance because elevation, assistance, surface and rider mass dominate consumption. A two-amp charger is gentle but relatively slow for 720Wh, so an overnight charging routine is more realistic than a rapid lunch-stop refill.

Use only the approved compatible charger, charge away from escape routes and stop using a battery that is damaged, swollen, leaking or unusually hot. Ask for the replacement-pack price and warranty conditions before the original battery becomes a problem.

Frame, fit and ride character

The frame specification is Aluminium Superlite, Gravity Casting Technology, Agile Ride Geometry, Boost148, Fully Integrated Battery, Advanced Internal Cable Routing, 1.5 Headtube, Kickstand/Fender/Carrier Mounting Points. Fork and suspension details are SR Suntour XCM32 LO-R Air, Tapered, 15x110mm, 120mm travel (27.5: 100mm). The tyres are Schwalbe Smart Sam, Active, 2.6.

A 120mm Suntour XCM32 air fork can be adjusted to rider weight and is a meaningful advantage over a basic coil unit. Wide 2.6-inch Smart Sam tyres add grip and comfort, while the aluminium hardtail frame keeps power transfer direct and maintenance simpler than full suspension.

Shimano MT200 brakes with 180mm rotors are serviceable everyday hydraulics, not the four-piston trail brakes fitted to the Pro. They suit moderate speeds and terrain, but heavier riders planning long, steep descents should prioritise the brake upgrade rather than motor output.

Brakes, transmission and everyday equipment

The bike uses Shimano BR-MT200, Hydraulic Disc Brake, 180/180mm. Transmission is Shimano Deore SL-M6210, Single Click; Shimano Deore RD-M6200-SGS, ShadowPlus, 12-Speed; Shimano Deore CS-M6100, 10-51T. The equipment information is CUBE Performance Post, 31.6mm.

CUBE includes mounting points for a kickstand, mudguards and carrier, so the chassis can become an all-road commuter or tourer. Those items are not listed as fitted, and the standard fixed seatpost is less useful than a dropper on repeated steep descents.

Size Split uses smaller wheels and 100mm fork travel on the smallest format, while larger sizes use the 120mm arrangement. Buyers should therefore compare the exact size specification and not assume every photograph or geometry number applies across the range.

What the published evidence tells us

Evans listed this build at £2,599 when RideIn checked it on 29 August 2026. Prices can differ by colour or size, and stock can change; a discount against a reference price does not by itself establish value.

The Evans listing and CUBE’s exact product page align on the 720Wh battery, Deore twelve-speed drivetrain, air fork and utility mounts. Bosch torque availability can change with software and market configuration, so the maximum is treated as a configurable ceiling rather than a permanent output in every mode.

There is little rigorous independent testing of this exact new build. Current range coverage and established Reaction reviews support the family’s clean integration and versatile hardtail behaviour, but this assessment primarily analyses verified equipment rather than claiming a hands-on verdict.

Advantages and disadvantages

The useful comparison is whether the complete build suits the regular route, storage and service plan. A premium motor cannot compensate for poor fit, while a modest component can be entirely sensible on the right type of bike.

• Advantage: Powerful current Bosch CX platform
• Advantage: Well-balanced 720Wh capacity
• Advantage: Wide-range Deore twelve-speed gearing
• Advantage: Air fork and useful accessory mounts
• Disadvantage: Entry-level two-piston brakes
• Disadvantage: No dropper post as listed
• Disadvantage: Two-amp charging is slow for a large battery
• Disadvantage: Exact-build independent testing is limited

Buying checks and RideIn verdict

Confirm the exact product code, frame size, colour, battery capacity, assistance configuration and included equipment before paying. Ask which Evans branch or authorised dealer will handle electrical diagnosis, warranty labour and replacement components, then test the brakes, controls and fit before committing to regular use.

The ONE 720 is the sensible middle-ground Reaction: stronger and more adjustable than an entry hybrid hardtail, but without paying for every trail upgrade. Its main question is not motor capability but whether MT200 brakes and a fixed post fit the intended descents.