Admittedly: A new app triggers real enthusiasm among very few bikers. No wonder, after all, even e-bikes are rather analogue constructs in principle. Simply getting on and riding off is what makes them so appealing. However, Canyon's new app, for which the Koblenz-based mail-order company has set up its own 10-strong department, could also inspire even the staunchest of digital shufflers. In a clever move, Canyon has bundled everything important about its bikes into a single mobile application.
From shipping and initial set-up to setup and maintenance, right through to technical data and direct contact with the service centre in the event of a problem. In the future, it will also be possible to integrate other bike apps, such as for suspension, motor or gears, into the Canyon app. And for the new e-bike models, Canyon even offers effective theft protection in the app - the most exciting feature of the new app for the time being.
Theft protection for your e-bike: the Canyon GPS module makes it possible
Canyon's vision: All e-bikes that leave the warehouse should be equipped with a GPS module for theft protection. With the new Bosch models Strive:On CFR and the Grand Canyon:On Canyon has already started with the Bosch Connect module. For the Shimano bike Spectral:On the Koblenz-based company has gone one step further. A GPS module has been specially developed for theft protection and tracking functions.
The idea behind it: The system knows where the e-bike is at all times and whether it is currently moving. Using the new Canyon app, the owner of the e-MTB can determine the location of their sports equipment at any time and from anywhere in the world. To do this, the IoT module uses a mobile phone connection to send the bike's location to the app. A motion alarm can also be activated. If the bike is unintentionally moved from its location, the user receives a push notification on their smartphone. This works via a motion sensor in the 175 gram module.
IoT module: Only in new models with EP801
The tracking system is factory-installed in the motor of all new Spectral:On models. Canyon doesn't reveal where exactly. There is no retrofit option, which is probably also due to the fact that the module only works with the new EP 801, but not with the EP 8 or EP 800. Accordingly, it is not plugged in in the new Torque:On CF, which still has the EP 800 installed. The module is supplied with power from the e-bike's main battery, but also has its own backup battery. According to Canyon, the system should continue to work for several days after the main battery is empty. However, this also means that the IoT module is only intended for motor-assisted bikes for the time being.
Anyone who buys a Canyon Spectral:On can access the tracking functions of the module free of charge for one year. After that, a fee of a maximum of 35 euros per year will be charged. However, the exact price has not yet been finalised. For comparison: Bosch's Connect module currently charges an annual fee of 40 euros. If you want to do without tracking altogether for data protection reasons, you can of course deactivate it in the new Canyon app or even remove the IoT module completely.
Further functions of the Canyon app: much still up in the air
In addition to theft protection, the Canyon app currently (May 2023) only offers the basic functions. In other words, you can add your bikes to a digital garage using a QR code or serial number, have the assembly assistant help you set them up and view technical details including dimensions and serial numbers for spare parts. This works for all current bikes from 2020 onwards, with older models to follow.
In the future, it will also be possible to order more specialised spare parts, such as thru-axles or bearing shells, directly in the app using the "Store" function. Under the overarching theme of "Control", Canyon wants to integrate all other apps for the bike, such as the engine manufacturer's apps or for electronic shifting and suspension, into the Canyon app. Using "Activity", the rider should be able to record rides and create a digital logbook. In the future, the Canyon app will also alert the rider to necessary maintenance work based on mileage and provide corresponding do-it-yourself instructions for simple tasks. It should then also be possible to share a location, for example so that family or friends can follow the bike tour. This could be a relevant safety feature for anyone who is often travelling alone, even if other apps or bike computers already offer similar functions.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
