Robust aluminium frame, modern geometry and high-quality equipment: With the Grand Canyon AL 8, Canyon has launched a classic hardtail that wants to be much more than just an entry-level MTB.
BIKE review of the Canyon Grand Canyon AL 8
A lot of mountain bike for the money: The Canyon Grand Canyon AL 8 impresses as a well-balanced trail hardtail with a high level of versatility. The lightweight and robust aluminium frame, the well thought-out geometry and the overall harmonious equipment make for a fun ride - both uphill and downhill. If you are looking for an uncomplicated, honest mountain bike that can handle everyday use as well as moderate trails, you will find a very attractive overall package here.
As a contemporary hardtail with modern geometry, the Grand Canyon AL 8 covers a wide range of uses: from extended tours and sporty trail laps to bikepacking adventures and commuting as a replacement thanks to the mounting preparation for everyday equipment. Canyon approves the frame for trail use in accordance with ASTM category 3 and equips it with numerous mounting points for pannier racks, mudguards, bottle cages or top tube bags - a clear plus for everyday use and travelling. Despite this versatility, the bike remains sporty and conveys a real mountain bike feeling.
Geometry: Modern, but moderate
The heart of the bike is the Canyon Grand Canyon AL aluminium frame. It combines a comparatively low weight with high robustness and contemporary geometry: a 66 degree flat head angle ensures a smooth ride, while the 75 degree steep seat angle supports efficient climbing. The long reach (470 mm in size L) in combination with a short stem gives the bike confidence at speed, but thanks to the short 435 mm chainstays you don't have to force the bike round tight bends.
The facts about the Canyon Grand Canyon AL 8
- Price: 1699 Euro
- Frame material: Aluminium
- Front suspension travel: 120 mm
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Weight: approx. 12.5-13 kg (manufacturer's specification)
- Frame sizes: XS to XL
Good value for the favourable price
With the Fox Rhythm at the front, it is clear that the Grand Canyon is also serious about trail use - the 32 mm fork at least offers reserves for rooty passages and rough gravel descents. Shifting is handled by a Shimano 12-speed drivetrain, which provides sufficient gear range for steep climbs. Hydraulic Shimano SLX disc brakes with 180 mm rotors ensure reliable deceleration, even in wet conditions or on long descents. A retractable seat post is also fitted ex works - an equipment feature that emphasises the trail character of the hardtail.
The equipment in detail
- Suspension fork: FOX 32 Rhythm
- Drive: Shimano Deore XT M8100, 12-speed, 32 x 10-51
- Brakes: Shimano SLX, hydraulic, 180/180 mm
- Impellers: DT Swiss LN XC
- Tyres: Schwalbe Rocket Ron
How to ride the Canyon Grand Canyon AL 8
On the trail, the Canyon shows its greatest strength: balance. Uphill you benefit from the comparatively low system weight and the efficient riding position. The geometry is progressive enough for sporty use, but remains beginner-friendly and easy to control - a trait already emphasised in the BIKE test of the Grand Canyon series. Downhill, the bike conveys confidence and remains predictable - even when it wants to be ridden actively, as is typical of a hardtail. It is precisely this directness that makes for a very precise riding experience. The dropper post gets the saddle out of the way on downhills, and the rider stands securely on the bike. A short stem ensures direct steering behaviour. The Schwalbe Rocket Ron tyres, which roll well but have a moderate tread pattern, limit their use on loose, slippery terrain. With the Grand Canyon, the tour can be a little longer, because the propulsion is strong.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Modern, lightweight aluminium frame
- Versatile range of use from everyday to trail
- Sophisticated geometry for a smooth ride
- Functional equipment at a favourable price
Weaknesses
- Tyres that limit trail use
- not very playful
Josh Welz
Editor-in-Chief
