The Canyon Nerve is probably the archetype of the mail-order bike. It has held its own on the market for over twelve years and is still as popular as ever. There's hardly a bike that we've ridden more often on our test tracks and that has won tests and BIKE tips with such consistency. The Nerve rolled into the test lab 44 times and scored "super" 14 times and "very good" 19 times. On average across all tests, the fully from Koblenz scored an impressive 122.76 points. The bike is as versatile as a chameleon.
The first Canyon Nerve was launched in 2002
When it was launched in 2002, suspension specialist Lutz Scheffer developed a lightweight MR version for marathon use. One year later, the longer-travel Nerve ES was added to the model range. With its 125 millimetres of suspension travel, it could even be considered an early enduro bike. Just two years after its market launch, the Nerve received an extensive update. In order to save weight, the shock of the four-bar linkage was moved from the underside of the massive top tube to the front of the seat tube and was now suspended vertically.
In 2009 there was a new frame for the Canyon Nerve
Things got exciting from the 2009 season onwards, when the Nerve's frame was virtually reworked. A butted head tube increased stiffness, and the new rear suspension kinematics with more anti-squat proved to be significantly less susceptible to drivetrain influences. From 2009, Canyon also opted for modern standards such as post-mount brake mounts and suspension travel, which are still relevant today.
Top in terms of equipment
The Nerve continues to score points, especially in terms of spec. Canyon bikes traditionally lack nothing. Critical voices are usually in vain, both in forums and in BIKE tests. The sturdy aluminium frames are not among the lightest on the market, but there are hardly any known frame breakages. Even three endurance tests did not reveal any weaknesses in the bearings or the components. The Nerve can confidently be described as a carefree bike for second-hand buyers with top equipment, harmonious suspension and mature geometry.
Nerve AM 8.0 2010 - from 1200 Euro
The models in the 8.0 series offer an excellent price/performance ratio and are usually fully equipped with XT groupsets. From 2010, Canyon Fox forks are fitted with the FIT cartridge. When buying, make sure that the service intervals have been adhered to. If the fork has to go to the workshop, it can quickly cost over 100 euros.
New prices 2002: 1899 to 2399 Euro
New prices 2014: 1399 to 4199 Euro
Driver profile Since the second model year, the Nerve has had two souls. One for marathon bikers and one for all-mountain bikers. The current target group is called All Mountain Sport.
Strengths Top equipment, harmonious chassis, efficient kinematics
Problems Some problems with new Fox forks, some inflated prices for allegedly little-used bikes
Our recommendation
Models from 2009 onwards already feature modern standards such as post mount or butted head tube. Suspension travel, seat position and rear triangle kinematics are still state of the art.
