Stevens was the brand name for the bikes produced/ sold by my German distributor (out of Hamburg) back in the early/ mid 90's. I distinctly remember that bike at the EuroBike trade show +/- 1994. Yes it has some Newsboy "influence as well as CBR 3-bar and So. Cal. "strand" riding because I let their main designer (that is seriously a push) hang with me in Laguna and the OC coast for about a week back in '92.
My bet is that the geometry is a little "goofy" because they were still going after the eastcoast US and euro MTB markets with too steep of a headangle and a cramped front end.
I'd bet you could make a KILLER Klunker, Strand cruiser, Pub Krawler by adding Proflex forks and a mild rise set of BMX bars. Myself personally, I'd build a rear wheel with an internal geared hub (Shimano Alfine) and Conti CrossKing tires.
Oh , and don't forget to remove the Stevens decals! The company was TOTAL A-holes to deal with!