BIKE conclusion on the Torque:On CF 9
For a long time, only entry-level E-MTBs were available for 4999 euros. The Torque:On CF9 delivers a full carbon frame and absolutely downhill-compatible equipment. You can go full throttle in the bike park and on tough descents without hesitation. However, the Shimano EP8 is no longer quite up to date. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, test editor
More is not possible in Canyon's e-bike portfolio: with 180/175 mm travel, the Torque:On CF ranks right at the top. A true e-freerider that focusses fully on the downhill. If you see your area of use somewhere between enduro, freeride and downhill and are looking for an e-bike as a shuttle replacement, this is the bike for you. Not a matter of course in this class: Canyon relies on a full carbon frame that accommodates wheels in a mullet setup. Brand new is However, the Torque:ON CF is no longer available. Almost exactly three years ago, the Koblenz-based mail order company presented its e-freerider. But it is currently experiencing a renaissance.
Canyon has designed a completely new battery for this purpose. Following safety problems with the original battery, the Koblenz-based company developed a particularly robust energy storage unit with an aluminium housing. With 800 watt hours, it offers a good range. The battery is still removed from the bottom of the closed down tube. Although this is somewhat more complex than conventional folding systems, it can be carried out quickly if necessary.
Boost provided by Shimano's EP801 e-bike motor (tested here). Compared to the modern competition, the somewhat outdated motor can no longer quite keep up. However, the Shimano unit provides more than enough powerful and smooth support for the vast majority of applications. Trail fans will be particularly annoyed by the rattling on the descents.
The facts about the Canyon Torque:On CF 9
- Price: 4999 Euro
- Motor: Shimano EP801, 85 Nm max. torque
- Battery: New aluminium battery with 800 Wh, removable
- Frame material: Carbon
- Suspension travel: 180 / 175 mm
- Wheel size: 29 / 27.5''
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Weight: 24.9 kg (BIKE measurement without pedals, size S)
- Max. permissible system weight: 130 kg
The frame geometry follows a clear concept: long and flat makes you fast and calm. Both the wheelbase and reach are extremely long. In general, the bike appears very generously dimensioned. If in doubt, we recommend choosing a smaller frame size. Four sizes are available from S to XL. The bike weighs 24.9 kilograms (measured in size S). Considering the robust equipment and the attractive price, the weight is absolutely reasonable for a downhill bike of this type.
How the Torque:On CF 9 rides
Mini downhiller is an overused term. But it simply applies to the Torque:On CF. If you're looking for an e-MTB that you can use to chase seconds on fast, rough downhill tracks, this is the bike for you. And the CF 9 is suitably equipped for this. With the Fox 38 Performance Elite and thick X2 shock, the suspension is already at the top level. The brakes are also uncompromising with Srams Maven Silver. This means that you can hold on without hesitation on fast bike park tracks. Smooth running and traction qualities are right up there with the best.
The bike really comes into its own when riding fast and sportily. The defined character of the chassis is particularly appreciated by experienced riders on rough terrain. Here, the bike has almost endless reserves. However, if you are travelling downhill at a moderate speed, you will have to compromise on comfort and handling in tight bends. This means that this bike is not necessarily the perfect touring partner. There are also better bikes for steep climbs. Even the Shimano EP8 motor prevents top marks on technical terrain. Furthermore, the riding position is not optimised for extreme climbing. The high-traction rear triangle, on the other hand, is fully convincing. And this e-bike takes on classic climbs without batting an eyelid. So if you use the bike as a shuttle replacement, you won't have any problems.
Equipment Canyon Torque:On CF 9
- Motor: Shimano EP801
- Battery: Canyon Custom aluminium battery (800 Wh)
- Suspension fork: Fox 38 Performance Elite
- Shock: Fox Float X2 Performance
- Gear system: SRAM S1000 Eagle AXS Transmission
- Brakes: SRAM Maven Silver
- Wheels: DT Swiss HFR1700
- Tyres: Maxxis Assegai 3C MaxxGrip Exo+ / Maxxis Minion DHR II 3C MaxxTerra Doubledown
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Super equipment
- ...at a fair price
- powerful on rough terrain
Weaknesses
- Older engine
- demanding handling, needs speed
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
