Bike geometries are subject to constant change. We are now used to steeper seat angles, slacker head angles and lower bottom brackets. Not only at Canyon, the trend is now moving towards a longer top tube ("front centre") in combination with a short stem. This trick ensures a central position on the bike, a smoother ride and keeps the bike agile at the same time. While Mondraker has taken this idea to an even more extreme level with the Forward Geometry, Canyon's 2015 Spectral range benefits from a longer reach (e.g. size M increases from 417 to 430 mm) in combination with a 60 mm stem. Because our test all-mountain with the EX suffix is intended to bridge the gap to enduro use, it rolls into the BIKE test lab with a 50 mm stem, 790 mm handlebars and a 66 degree head angle. Add a 150 mm fork, more aggressive tyres and a 1 x 11 drivetrain and you have an expressly downhill/fun-oriented sports bike.
In fact, the Spectral EX is not a bike for doing fast kilometres. You sit too upright for that and the tyres roll too roughly. Instead, you enjoy every metre of trail. The more demanding, the better. Despite its long geometry, the bike is agile and manoeuvrable, remains composed at high speeds, steers precisely and is simply fun. Considering the concept, it climbs very well. Enduro fans' mouths are watering when it comes to the equipment: powerful Sram Guide brakes, cool Roam 50 wheels, comfortable SDG saddle, 170 millimetre short cranks for higher ground clearance and the almost legendary Pike fork. The adjustable high and low-speed damping also enhances the suspension quality. The only annoying thing is that you need tools to adjust it. It's a shame that the bike is only available in silver or metallic red as standard.
Conclusion Consistently equipped thoroughbred all-mountain bike for demanding terrain and equally demanding riders. Also conceivable with a start number for enduro races.
PLUS High-quality, well thought-out equipment, powerful chassis, mature handling, also available in XL
MINUS Rear bolt-on axle, damper only adjustable with tools
