The Koblenz-based company has waited a little with its 29er premiere. The entry-level 8.9 model is one of the lightest, and the aluminium frame with X12 thru-axle and direct-mount front derailleur is one of the most sophisticated in this class. However, this time Canyon has overshot the mark with its eagerness when it comes to the riding position: The extremely short head tube (100 mm), the stubby stem and the flat headset force the rider into an overly front-heavy riding position, which seemed too extreme to us. As a result, the Canyon winds its way up the steepest ramps, but tends to bottom out on the downhills. The result: the tough DT fork begs for relief. The wild component mix is atypical for Canyon. Top: the customised double crankset with 36/22 teeth!
PLUS: Two thru axles, lightest bike, customised gear ratio
MINUS: Weak fork, front-heavy seating position
Tuning tip: Fit a slightly longer and positive stem
Conclusionindependent, front-heavy race bike with average equipment and good gearing.
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