Entry-level hardtails 2023: Canyon Grand Canyon 8 - Traditional hardtail on test

The Grand Canyon from Canyon already has a very long tradition and was the first top model from the mail-order company. The model name has endured for over 25 years and is still emblazoned on an aluminium hardtail. The latest version offers a very good compromise between sport and trail and is therefore recommended for a wide range of applications. Despite the rather short stem, you sit in a slightly sporty position but still retain secure control off-road. The reason for this is not least the Fox 34 Rhythm, which stands out favourably compared to the other suspension forks in the test field of 9 hardtails.

In our overview article Hardtails from 1199 to 1799 euros: 9 sporty entry-level hardtails in the test you will find all the bikes tested.

The rest of the equipment is also of high quality. Only the simple four-finger brake levers and the narrow rims, which somewhat limit the potential of the wide tyres, spoil the picture. In terms of overall weight, the Canyon is on the lighter side, and the wheels could also accelerate better.

Conclusion on the Canyon Grand Canyon 8 by Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager:

Thanks to its wide range of uses, the well-equipped Grand Canyon cuts a fine figure everywhere and is aimed at beginners who don't yet know where the journey will take them.

Technical data and notes Canyon Grand Canyon 8

Manufacturer information

• Price: 1449 Euro¹
• Available by mail order
• Material / Sizes: Aluminium / XXS / XS / S / M / L / XL (tested in size L, 48.5 cm)

Measured values

• Weight without pedals / frame: 13.86 kg / 2282 g
• Weight of wheels: 5626 g
• Frame stiffness (absolute / STW): 52 N/mm; 22.8 N/mm/kg

Equipment

• Fork: Fox 34 Float Rhythm
• Suspension travel: 124 mm
• Cranks / gears: Shimano MT 611 / XT, SLX
• Gear ratio, range / handlebar width:: 1 x 12, 510 %, 740 mm
• Brake system / Disc (front / rear): Shimano 410, 180 / 160 mm
• Seatpost / seat comfort: Iridium dropper / 6.4 mm
• Wheels / tyres: n/a A. Hubs; Iridium rims /
• Schwalbe Nobby Nic Speedgrip / Performance 29 x 2.4

BIKE test rating²: good - 159.8 out of 250 points

¹Price may be subject to additional costs for packaging, dispatch and coordination.

²The BIKE judgement reflects the laboratory measurements (BIKE laboratory measurement) and the subjective impression of the test riders.

The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (250-205 P.), very good (204.75-180 P.), good (179.75-155 P.), satisfactory (154.75-130 P.), with weaknesses (129.75-105 P.), unsatisfactory (104.75-0 P.).