Cheap road bikes with carbon frames on test: Canyon Endurace CF 6 - comfortable cycling
Julian Schultz
· 23.10.2024
As with the Ultimate CF, Canyon is also causing confusion with the inexpensive carbon versions of the Endurace model. Two versions were listed in the Koblenz-based company's online shop for € 1999 during the test period: the CF 6 with Shimano's ten-speed Tiagra component group and the CF 7 with the 11-speed 105, also from Shimano. Due to a lack of availability, the CF 6 rolled into the TOUR lab, but according to the manufacturer, the CF 7 should be available again in many frame sizes this spring.
Confusing variety of models in the Canyon Endurace CF
It should be noted that both variants are similar in their riding characteristics and are designed for comfortable road cycling. At this price, no road bike offers better suspension, and even more expensive bikes do not come close to this level of comfort. The frameset, seat post, cockpit and tyres mesh like cogwheels and noticeably smooth out bumps. The upright riding position, balanced smoothness and 1:1 gear ratio underline the bike's long-distance character, even off-road thanks to the tyre clearance of up to 35 millimetres.
You don't quite get the full roar of a modern all-road bike, as "only" a top tube bag can be attached to the frame and there are no mounts for fixed mudguards. A major drawback is the high overall weight. In particular, the massive compact crank of the outdated ten-speed drivetrain and the simple aluminium wheelset hit the TOUR scales: compared to the CF 7, the CF 6 is 570 grams heavier. Nevertheless, it is difficult to make a clear recommendation for one or the other model.
In addition to a current 100 euro discount, the "six" has a more modern look with a partially integrated cockpit, which the Endurace takes over from older versions of the Aeroad. The "seven", on the other hand, is easier to adapt to the individual riding position thanks to the classic handlebar-stem combination and is somewhat easier to maintain thanks to external cables and lines. By the way: The confusion in the Endurace portfolio culminates in the fact that the Koblenz-based company has also recently launched a CF 7 with new twelve-fold 105 in stock. However, the model is easier to distinguish from its predecessor as it is 500 euros more expensive.
Canyon Endurace CF 6 - Info & test grade
- TOUR grade: 2,3
- Price: 1999 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.2 kilos
- Frame sizes: 3XS, 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL (test size greased)
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 515/540/165 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 607/372 millimetres/1.63
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 656/560 millimetres/1.17
- Wheelbase/caster: 990/64 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano Tiagra (2x10; 50/34, 11-34 t.) | Shimano Tiagra (2x10; 50/34, 11-34 t.) Grade: 2.5
- Brakes: Shimano Tiagra (160/160 mm) | Shimano Tiagra (160/160 mm) Grade: 2.0
- Tyres: Schwalbe One 30/32 mm (eff.: 32/34 mm) | Grade: 1.5
- Impellers: Fulcrum Racing 900
- Impeller weights: 1594/2186 grams (front/rear)
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Outstanding spring comfort, eight frame sizes
- Minus: Very heavy wheelset
Julian Schultz
Editor
