Canyon Lux Era 32” Concept: A glimpse into the future of cross-country cycling

With the Lux Era concept bike, Canyon aims to explore the potential of an uncompromising 32-inch cross-country mountain bike. However, the Koblenz-based company is not only focusing on interesting approaches to the new wheel size, but also on the increasingly important topic of aerodynamics.

Double-decker cockpit for a low seating position

Cross-country races are getting faster. The average speed in XCO MTB World Cup races was 18 km/h in 2016. Today, riders are already reaching 24 km/h. Winners of the Leadville 100 MTB Marathon even manage 28 km/h.

As speed increases, aerodynamics become increasingly important. The rider accounts for around 70 per cent of the air resistance. Conventional mountain bike frames and components have so far only allowed for limited aerodynamic positions without posing any safety risks.

The Lux Era’s cockpit is reminiscent of the double-decker handlebars found on earlier generations of Grail gravel bikes. The lower grip position allows for a maximally aerodynamic riding position. Fedja Delic, chief designer at Canyon, explains the issue: In the world of cross-country racing, athletes need to ride faster and, in doing so, resort to solutions that can be dangerous. They have only a few hand positions available to maintain long aerodynamic positions. The double-deck cockpit is designed to offer additional grip positions and greater safety in low riding positions. A minimalist computer display is housed in the top cap and provides the rider with information such as speed, distance, time, power output and heart rate.

Upside-down fork and 32-inch wheels

The inverted fork design of the Canyon Lux Era concept bike promises several advantages: greater stiffness, more stable braking, less unsprung mass, better lubrication and more precise handling. The integrated, narrower fork crown is designed to improve aerodynamics, whilst the tapered head tube profile further reduces drag.

According to Canyon, the larger 32-inch wheels on the Canyon Lux Era lose less speed due to their roll-over characteristics, provide better traction and offer greater comfort. Luca Schwarzbauer of Canyon XC Racing emphasises: “In World Cup or marathon races, athletes are constantly trying to go even faster. Every second counts. With a conventional cockpit, you eventually reach a limit.” A cut-out in the frame allows a direct view of the shock and makes it easier to adjust the sag.

Tests and presentation at Eurobike

The Lux Era is purely a prototype. Canyon has not yet submitted the bike for UCI approval. Professionals such as Luca Schwarzbauer and Jenny Rissveds will not be competing in World Cup races on it for the time being. Canyon is currently testing the bike with athletes and in the wind tunnel to verify its performance benefits. The concept bike will be on display at the Canyon stand in Hall 11.0, Stand B50, at Eurobike in Frankfurt from 24 to 27 June, alongside other prototypes and concepts.

Conclusion

Wherever rolling speed is key – such as in cross-country cycling – 32-inch wheels offer clear advantages. However, from an aerodynamic perspective, they are the largest parts of the bike and therefore create greater air resistance. In relation to the rider, however, this is only a minor factor. That’s why it’s exciting to see how the Canyon Lux Era attempts to combine 32-inch wheels with aerodynamics. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

​Cycling innovations: Canyon – Eurobike preview featuring 32-inch bikes and smart safety features

​World premiere in the 32-inch category: Keller takes a podium place on his 32-inch bike

​Canyon Roadlite:On V2X: A voice for e-bikes