Canyon Spectral AL 8.0 on test

BIKE Magazin

 · 19.12.2016

Canyon Spectral AL 8.0 on testPhoto: Daniel Simon
Canyon Spectral AL 8.0 on test
Is this the new definition of all-mountain? Is the Spectral 8.0 Canyon's interpretation of a plus-size bike? Or is this even a mini enduro bike on test?

When you first see the brightly coloured bike, you don't know where to look first. The 30 millimetre wide rims are covered by 2.4 inch fat Conti tyres - almost B-Plus-like. The large brake discs (good) and the chain guide (unnecessary) look like something from the Enduro shelf. The versatile adjustable suspension elements come from Fox, and Shimano supplies the state-of-the-art 22-speed XT gear system. For 3099 euros (including shock pump and torque tool), Canyon will send the Spectral to your door - plus shipping, of course. A very fair deal, provided it is delivered on time. On the trail, the high front end is noticeable, the bike seems more rear-heavy than others, and you don't get much pressure on the front wheel on the descents. The fact that the Spectral still rides very confidently is due to the wheel combination. This concept definitely makes downhill riding easier for beginners. Also suitable for heavy bikers!


ConclusionThe Spectral impresses with its high-quality equipment concept and conquers difficult terrain with ease. A lot of bike for the money!


The alternative: The CF suffix on the Spectral CF 9.0 stands for the carbon chassis, which saves a few hundred grams of weight. The concept and equipment (XT 22 speed, Fox 34) remain similar. Price: 3499 euros.

  + Canyon: The top suspension components from Fox allow experts to perfectly tune the bike to the terrain via the compression damping.Photo: Georg Grieshaber + Canyon: The top suspension components from Fox allow experts to perfectly tune the bike to the terrain via the compression damping.  Canyon Spectral AL 8.0Photo: BIKE Magazin Canyon Spectral AL 8.0  Canyon Spectral AL 8.0Photo: BIKE Magazin Canyon Spectral AL 8.0  Canyon Spectral AL 8.0: Don't ride too much sag at the rear, otherwise it will rock. Uphill platform on medium. Downhill on Open and compression on 3. Top fork!Photo: BIKE Magazin Canyon Spectral AL 8.0: Don't ride too much sag at the rear, otherwise it will rock. Uphill platform on medium. Downhill on Open and compression on 3. Top fork!
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