In order to successfully follow in the footsteps of the series winner Nerve XC, Canyon took three years to develop the carbon fibre successor. It was worth it. Because with the CF version, the Koblenz-based company has managed to go one better than the aluminium model. The monocoque carbon frame and carbon fibre rocker alone save 500 to 600 grams. On the trail, the Nerve handles as stiffly as a racer: highly precise and lightning-fast wherever you direct it. The steep 74° seat angle even ennobles it for the marathon starting block. However, the super sensitive and potent chassis feels really at home in the low mountain ranges and when galloping over the mountains. Even on twisty, rougher terrain, the playful character and the saddle lift of the finely integrated Reverb dropper post quickly put a grin on your face. Although our test bike was fitted with the RP2 shock (in series with Fox's new CTD shock), it also utilised the full travel and went hand in hand with the Fox fork. With the new shock, the kinematics should be even more efficient. A laminated plate in the bottom bracket area and an integrated rubber protect the sensitive carbon structures of the chainstay.
ConclusionThe carbon fibre Nerve successfully follows on from the aluminium version and even goes one better in the higher price league. The playful, stiff trail bike is one of the best in its class and will shake up the test fields in 2013.
PLUS Steep seat angle, playful handling, stiff frame
MINUS Expensive compared to aluminium
