The New Neuron CF introduced in 2019 never wanted to be one of those overweight mini enduro bikes and impressed in the first comparison test in BIKE 3/19: "(...) the most complete overall package for long singletrail tours" was the verdict on the Neuron CF 9.0 SL at the time. With its 130 millimetres of travel, the Neuron is one of the most versatile and best-selling bikes from the Koblenz-based direct mail order company. To keep it that way, the Neuron family has been given a new top model with the Neuron CF SLX 9.0 LTD now a remarkable addition.
Lighter and stiffer: the new Neuron CF SLX frame
The lighter SLX frame will be used for the first time from model year 2020, but only on the € 6000 top model CF SLX 9.0 LTD The new carbon frame is said to have been significantly slimmed down again. At 2280 grams (without shock and HR axle) in size M, the SLX chassis is said to be a whole 250 grams lighter than the Neuron CF frame. In the BIKE test lab, the CF frame without shock in frame size L came in at 2572 grams, but we measured including the rear thru axle. Canyon justifies the 250 gram weight saving on the frame by the use of special 40T UD carbon fibres, which should also benefit the frame stiffness. The value to be surpassed: 50 N/mm is the stiff CF frame in the BIKE test lab. To visually distinguish the lighter SLX frame from the CF chassis, the Canyon designers have given the lightweight a special finish: Minimally coloured, clear black paint gives the rider a clear view of the carbon fibre structures of the top tube at all times. Thanks to the impeccable equipment with Shimano XTR 1x12 drivetrain and brakes, Fox Factory suspension and DT Swiss XMC1200 carbon wheels, the Neuron CF SLX 9.0 Ltd. should tip the scales at just 11.7 kg (size M). Unlike the CF version (XS-XL), the SLX frame will only be available in three frame sizes (M, L, XL).
No more Neuron model with 2-fold drive in 2020
Including the new addition, Canyon now offers five models of the Neuron trail bike, including a women's-specific WMN version. The Neuron CF 8.0 marks the entry into the carbon world of 130 mm bikes for 2700 euros. Below that Canyon continues to offer two exciting Neuron models in aluminium from 1600 euros in the programme. Among the other Neuron CF models, it is noticeable that not a single bike is equipped with a 2x drivetrain. In terms of price, individual variants have also become 100-300 euros more expensive compared to 2019. In 2020, the CF 8.0 and 9.0 models feature DT Swiss aluminium wheels, while only the 9.0 SL model and the new top model rely on carbon round wheels. As in 2019, 30 mm rims are used on the front wheel and 25 mm on the rear. All models also continue to come with a 30 mm chainring.
The 2020 Neuron models will be available from 19 November at the Canyon website be available.
You will soon be able to read the first laboratory and practical test of the Neuron CF SLX in BIKE.
