With the new Canyon Torque AL 2026, Canyon's freeride bike returns to its roots: 180 mm travel front and rear, a mullet setup and a simple, robust aluminium frame. There is a choice of models between € 2,499 and € 3,999.
2499 euros: Torque AL 7 - The entry with substance
RockShox ZEB Base - Vivid Air Base - Shimano Deore 12-speed - SLX 4-piston - SunRingle SR309
The entry-level model is not a compromise bike. The ZEB Base at the front and the Vivid Air Base at the rear are solid suspension components without luxury - if you want to upgrade later, you have the option. The Shimano Deore 12-speed works reliably and can take a beating; SLX brakes with 4-pistons are a decent choice. The most obvious compromise: the SunRingle SR309 wheels. They work, but they're not the kind of thing you'd use to shred tough terrain. Anyone who regularly rides in the bike park will probably sooner or later opt for a better quality wheelset.
Who for: Beginners in the gravity segment, budget-conscious freeriders, anyone who wants to upgrade their bike step by step.
2999 Euro: Torque AL 8 - The most sensible package
ZEB Select+ - Vivid Air Select+ - SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission - Maven Base 4-piston - DT Swiss FT1900
The AL 8 offers the best value for money. ZEB Select+ and Vivid Air Select+ offer significantly more adjustment options than the base versions - this makes a noticeable difference when it comes to fine-tuning. The decisive upgrade: the super-robust SRAM Eagle 70 Transmission shifting system. The wireless shifting system works cleanly, is low-maintenance and future-proof. The SRAM Maven Base 4-piston brakes deliver more than enough power, and the DT Swiss FT1900 should also withstand several park seasons - that's all you need to have fun in the park.
Who for: This model is recommended for most Parkrats. Solid chassis, modern drive system, fair price. No technical overkill, but high enough quality to withstand the rough field of use.
3999 euros: Torque AL 9 Factory - The full throttle package
Fox 38 Factory - Fox X2 Factory 2POS - SRAM Eagle 90 Transmission - Maven Silver - DT Swiss EX1700
Fox 38 Factory suspension fork with Grip X2 damping unit, Float X2 Factory 2POS at the rear, SRAM Eagle 90 Transmission, SRAM Maven Silver, DT Swiss EX1700 - that's professional equipment under the four thousand euro mark. If you want to utilise the full potential of the Torque frame without having to upgrade yourself, this is the bike for you. The 2POS shock also offers a quickly accessible platform - practical for all those who also want to use the Torque as an enduro bike and occasionally pedal uphill themselves.
Who for: Experienced park riders, freeriders and enduro riders looking for extra reserves. Here you get maximum control over the setup and the lightest overall package, which also cuts a fine figure as an enduro bike away from the park.
Conclusion from Max Fuchs, BIKE editor
Canyon has skilfully positioned the three models: there is hardly any overlap between the target groups. The AL 8 is the sensible model for the masses, while the AL 9 is the full-throttle package for the discerning. The AL 7 makes sense as an upgrade platform.
Max Fuchs
Editor
