"We wanted to build the fastest race bike in the world." With this statement, Product Manager Julian Biefang starts the presentation of the new Canyon Lux World Cup. The Koblenz-based company is laying the foundations with a completely new main frame and 100 millimetres of travel at the front and rear. We were able to test the two highest-quality models with CFR carbon frames extensively off-road.
At first glance, the newcomer hardly differs from its predecessor, but the changes are in the details: at 1675 grams (BIKE measurement, size L), the frame of the Canyon Lux racing file has shed 91 grams, which is largely due to the new CFR carbon fibres.
However, a lighter construction of the carbon shock linkage also reduces the weight. For comparison: the frames of the biggest competitors, Specialised Epic and Scott SparkAccording to our measurements, they weigh 1441 and 1780 grams respectively. The total weight of the Lux World Cup CFR Team is 10.38 kilos. According to the manufacturer, the second CFR version with black Rockshox suspension and Sram components (photo at the top) should even weigh 200 grams less.
Canyon Lux 2023: Geometry & Price
In line with the trend, the head angle has been slackened from 69.8 to 68.2 degrees. This means that the Canyon Lux promises a slightly smoother ride in the new year, but still holds back compared to the competition with this value.
The reach has increased by 14 millimetres compared to its predecessor, while the chainstays have shrunk by five millimetres. To mitigate the longer reach somewhat, the seat angle is slightly steeper at 75 degrees.
A look at the price reveals that, as usual, Canyon offers a lot of bike for the money. With the Team Edition (reviewed here), you can get a pro-level race bike for as little as € 6999. If you prefer Rockshox and like wireless shifting, you can get the Canyon Lux World Cup CFR LDT for € 7999.
First test of the Canyon Lux
We've already had the pleasure of testing the two CFR models of the Canyon Lux World Cup extensively off-road. Right from the first few metres, both bikes make it unmistakably clear that they're built for the Race track include.
The lightweight wheels accelerate effortlessly. The long reach stretches the rider over the bike in a very sporty manner. To avoid a too stretched Seating position the developers countered the long reach with a slightly shorter stem.
Thanks to a decent saddle rise and steep seat angle, you can climb even the nastiest ramps without having to actively fight against a rising front wheel. What we liked best on the Uphill but the extremely drive-neutral rear triangle. Even when pedalling out of the saddle, the suspension works so efficiently that you can do without the lockout in most cases.
In the Downhill the Canyon Lux is one of the most agile bikes in the world. Thanks to the moderate steering angle and short chainstays, it is easy to manoeuvre around tight bends and even encourages you to play around on the trail.
The limiting factor here is the fixed Seat post. Due to the limited freedom of movement, the Canyon has to let the competition with a dropper post go downhill on technical terrain.
The low gear ratio of the rear suspension was also noticeable. With light riders and low pressure in the shock, the Lux chassis a little too slow despite open rebound.
Conclusion from Max Fuchs, BIKE test editor:
The latest version of the Canyon Lux is still one of the fastest fullys in the world. However, with its moderate geometry, short suspension travel and lack of a dropper post, it really comes into its own on the long haul. On technical cross-country courses, which we see in the World Cup these days, other bikes have the edge.
Technical data Canyon Lux World Cup CFR Team
General information
- Price: 6999 Euro¹
- Website of Canyon
- Frame material: Carbon
- Frame size: XS / S / M / L / XL (tested in 50 cm)
Measured values
- Weight without pedals: 10.38 kg
- Front / rear suspension travel: 100 / 104 mm
Equipment
- Wheels: DT Swiss XRC 1200 Spline 30mm
- Tyres: Maxxis Ikon / 3C MaxxSpeed Exo Protection TR 29 x 2.35
- Fork: Fox 32 Float Factory SC Remote
- Shock: Fox Float Factory
- Brakes: Shimano XTR / 180 / 160 mm
- Gear system: Shimano XTR 1 x 12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 34; 10-51 / 510 %
- Seatpost / Ø: Canyon SP0061 / 30.9 mm
¹ Price may be subject to additional costs for packaging, dispatch and coordination.
Max Fuchs
Editor
