Canyon Spectral - a well thought-out all-mountain bike

Christoph Listmann

 · 19.01.2015

Canyon Spectral - a well thought-out all-mountain bikePhoto: Georg Grieshaber
Canyon Spectral - a well thought-out all-mountain bike
Canyon has long since stopped selling on price alone. The Koblenz-based company scores with its own developments, good concepts, elegant design and a very good price/performance ratio.

With the Spectral, for example, the product managers have paid attention to the details. Chain guide and 36/22 cranks, 2.4 inch wide mixed tyres, a high-quality frame with good cable routing, Tele post with internally routed cables, large front brake disc and so on. The only savings are on the chain and sprocket. The Spectral is a flawless all-mountain, a reliable touring bike. It climbs well uphill, rushes confidently downhill and remains uncomplicated in handling. If you like it sportier, fit a longer stem. To be honest: you don't need more bike. By the way: The wheels were treated with latex milk and we adjusted the weight to the tubular level in the measurements.


ConclusionA well thought-out all-mountain bike that lacks nothing. You only need to spend more money if you absolutely need a lighter bike.


PLUS High-quality frame, chain guide, suitable gear ratio, good choice of tyres
MINUS Rear bolt-on axle, weak damper platform


The alternativeIf you're looking for a sportier and lighter bike, you'll find it in the Nerve AL 29 9.0 for 2499 euros. It has 110 mm travel (Fox), Shimano XT gears and a telescopic seatpost.

  Canyon & Rose: Both mail-order companies equip the SLX/Deore brakes with 200 mm brake discs at the front. This is not a mistake for the range of use.Photo: Georg Grieshaber Canyon & Rose: Both mail-order companies equip the SLX/Deore brakes with 200 mm brake discs at the front. This is not a mistake for the range of use.  If you're going to go for two-speed, then this is the way to go: 36/22 with a real climbing gear is a sensible gradation for (heavy) 29er all-mountain bikes like the Canyon Spectral.Photo: Georg Grieshaber If you're going to go for two-speed, then this is the way to go: 36/22 with a real climbing gear is a sensible gradation for (heavy) 29er all-mountain bikes like the Canyon Spectral.  Canyon Spectral: very good suspension and good usable travel. The platform on the shock could be firmer in climb mode.Photo: BIKE Magazin Canyon Spectral: very good suspension and good usable travel. The platform on the shock could be firmer in climb mode.
How do you like this article?

Downloads:

Most read in category Bikes