Canyon Torque CF 9 29 - the "Freeduro" on test

Laurin Lehner

 · 07.08.2022

Canyon Torque CF 9 29 - the "Freeduro" on testPhoto: Wolfgang Watzke
Freeduro: Canyon Torque CF 9 29 on test
The Canyon Torque is the original freerider from the Koblenz-based mail order company. Yes, that's right: freerider! We deliberately did not request the actual enduro bike (Strive) for the test.

For two reasons: 1. it is currently only being sold off before a new one arrives. 2. for the first time, Canyon is advertising its 2022 Torque as the right tool for enduro racing. A lot has been revised. The Canyon Torque is now also available as a mullet and 29-inch version. The carbon frame has shed 150 grams and the geo has been modernised, including a super-steep seat tube for a more compact riding position on the climbs.

For 5000 euros, you get a harmonious spec including Fox Factory suspension. On the trail, the bike quickly found its fan club among the testers. "Sit on it, feel good" is the first impression of the German Enduro Champion, Christian Textor. Last but not least, star Fabio Wibmer also relies on the Torque. The bike positions its rider low on the bike and is therefore very stable on downhill sections. But even on tamer sections, the bike is fun to ride with pop and direct handling. It steers willingly in turns and provides pleasant counter-pressure. "The best of all worlds", noted one tester. There was only something to complain about on the climbs. Here, the heavy wheels cause inertia. Without a platform, the rear tends to bob and manuals require a lot of arm pull.

PLUSChassis, Geo, Price

MINUSheavy wheels

Conclusion on the Canyon Torque CF 9 29:

The Torque remains a freerider, even with 29-inch wheels. The feel-good geo and the plush suspension allow a lot of speed and require no familiarisation. Everything done right.

  Christian Textor, celebrity tester: "With the Canyon Torque CF 9 29, you can really get stuck in, I like that. It allows a lot of speed and still has reserves. That's why it's one of my favourites."Photo: Wolfgang Watzke Christian Textor, celebrity tester: "With the Canyon Torque CF 9 29, you can really get stuck in, I like that. It allows a lot of speed and still has reserves. That's why it's one of my favourites."

Technical data Canyon Torque CF 9 29

  • Material / Sizes: Carbon / S, M, L, XL (Tested size L)
  • Price / weight without pedals: 4999 euros / 15.3 kg
  • Suspension travel: 170 / 170 mm
  • Fork / shock: Fox 38 Float Factory / Float X2 Factory
  • Cranks / drivetrain: Race Face Next R CF / Shimano XTR
  • Brake system: Shimano XTR Trail BR-M 9120
  • Wheels: DT-Swiss FR 560 system wheelset
  • Tyres: Maxxis Assegai 3C MT Exo + 2.5 / Minion DHR 2 2.4
  • Reach: 484 mm
  • Stack: 643 mm
  • BB drop: -30 mm
  • More info->
 FREERIDE recommendation for the Canyon Torque CF 9 29Photo: FREERIDE Testabteilung FREERIDE recommendation for the Canyon Torque CF 9 29

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Born in South Baden, Laurin Lehner is, by his own admission, a lousy racer. Maybe that's why he is fascinated by creative, playful biking. What counts for him is not how fast you get from A to B, but what happens in between. Lehner writes reports, interviews scene celebrities and tests products and bikes - preferably those with a lot of suspension travel.

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