Issue #042, Review - February 4, 2020

Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL on test – let’s get rowdy!

The Canyon Spectral CFR has gone through quite the makeover in recent years. From good-natured, almost boring trail bike with 2.6” tires to an overwhelmingly fun bike that constantly begs to be ridden harder. How did it do it?

Click here for an overview of the best trail bike in test.

The Canyon Spectral is a perennial favourite in the Canyon lineup and is now available in three different frame options: an aluminium frame, the CF version with a carbon front triangle and aluminium rear end and the CFR model made entirely of carbon. Priced at € 5,499, our test bike is the second most expensive Spectral in the range and leaves little to be desired in terms of spec. The Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain and the XTR brakes perform just as convincingly as Canyon’s G5 cockpit and the grippy MAXXIS tires which come with the extra soft MaxxGrip compound upfront. At first glance, the FOX Factory suspension looks just as good but we would have preferred the GRIP2 damper instead of the FIT4 model it comes with. The DT Swiss XMC 1200 wheelset is light and makes a high-quality impression, but it’s unlikely to last long with an aggressive riding style – one of the spokes on our test bike failed after a few rides. A XM1501 wheelset wouldn’t just save money but would likely have proven to be more durable.

Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL

€ 5,499

Specifications

Fork FOX 36 FLOAT Factory FIT4
Rear Shock FOX DPX2 Factory
Seatpost FOX Transfer Performance Elite 150 mm
Brakes Shimano XTR M9120 200/180 mm
Drivetrain Shimano XTR / Race Face Next SL 32/10-51
Stem Canyon G5 50
Handlebar Canyon G5 Carbon 780 mm
Wheelset DT Swiss XMC1200
Tires MAXXIS MINION DHR II EXO 2,4

Technical Data

Size S M L XL
Weight 12,88 kg
Wheelsize 27,5"
Travel (f/r) 160/150 mm

**Poor choice?**
With its wild character, the Spectral is aimed at experienced trail riders and they, in particular, would likely appreciate the added performance of a GRIP2 damper.

**Get low!**
Because of the long head tube, we recommend removing all spacers under the stem immediately.

**Fancy, but unnecessary**
The DT Swiss XMC 1200 wheels look nice and are super high-end, but their durability proved to be limited – this bike demands more robust wheels.

**Nice clamp, but far too long**
The seat post clamp in the Spectral is designed to protect the post by clamping a large surface area. However, at 480 mm the seat tube is far too long for a size L bike. Riders with short legs will be limited in their choice of dropper post length and upsizing for more reach isn’t an option.

**Assault**
Saddles are always a matter of personal preference, but we can confidently say that the SDG won’t suit anyone.

**Added protection**
The linkage bearings are covered by an additional seal to protect them from dirt and weather ingress, which also gives the bike a cleaner look.

Geometry of the Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0

In terms of geometry, two values should immediately jump out at you. Both the long 480 mm seat tube and the extremely long 147 mm head tube. The chainstays are rather short at 430 mm, while the reach, as well as the head and seat tube angles, are average.

The small 27.5” wheels underline the fun character of the Spectral but they also come with some disadvantages!

Size	S	M	L	XL
Seat tube	425 mm	440 mm	480 mm	520 mm
Top tube	579 mm	605 mm	633 mm	661 mm
Head tube	92 mm	116 mm	147 mm	170 mm
Head angle	66°	66°	66°	66°
Seat angle	74.5°	74.5°	74.5°	74.5°
Chainstays	430 mm	430 mm	430 mm	430 mm
BB drop	27 mm	22 mm	22 mm	22 mm
Wheelbase	1141 mm	1172 mm	1204 mm	1235 mm
Reach	419 mm	440 mm	460 mm	482 mm
Stack	588 mm	605 mm	634 mm	655 mm

The Spectral CFR on test

Before you climb aboard the Canyon Spectral, you should take five minutes to remove all the spacers under the stem. While we generally like tall front ends, you can have too much of a good thing. Without the spacers, the riding position is central and upright but it’s worth pushing the saddle forward if you’re going to be tackling steep climbs. On technical climbs, the front end of the Spectral tends to lift off the ground relatively quickly and you’ll notice the disadvantages of the small 27.5” wheels, which get hung up on obstacles more easily. Having said that, the Spectral masters relaxed climbs on forest service roads with ease, not least thanks to the efficiency of the rear suspension.

If your buddies challenge you to a race uphill, you better just give them the finger and let them win – the Spectral isn’t the fastest climber.

The Spectral truly comes into its own on the descents! It constantly goads you to ride it harder and be more assertive with your line choice. The tall front end instils you with confidence, while the small 27.5” wheels make quick direction changes a lot of fun. Take the high line or drift into the corner instead? The Spectral does either with ease! The performance of the rear suspension is sensitive yet very defined, which means that the bike not only generates a lot of grip but is also easy to get airborne off the tiniest of lips. Despite the small wheels, you can just keep off the brakes on steep terrain and lean back. In contrast, flat trails require you to actively work the front of the bike to avoid understeer.

Tuning tip: sell the carbon wheels and get a sturdy aluminium wheelset!

**Helmet** Giro Tyrant MIPS | **Glasses** Oakley Anorak | **Jersey** Fox Ranger Jersey | **Pants** Fox Ranger Shorts | **Kneepads** Fox Enduro Pro

How does the Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL compare to the competition?

The Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL and the YT JEFFSY are very similar in character. While the Spectral has the more defined feeling rear suspension, the JEFFSY scores with significantly better climbing capabilities, more freedom of movement on the bike and 29″ wheels. At the moment, if we had to choose we would take the JEFFSY.

Riding Characteristics

Uphill

sluggish
efficient

Agility

cumbersome
playful

Stability

nervous
confident

Handling

demanding
balanced

Suspension

harsh
plush

Fun Factor

planted
poppy

Value for money

terrible
very good

Intended Use

XC

Trail

Enduro

Downhill

Conclusion of the Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL

Let’s get loose! The Canyon Spectral CFR 9.0 SL is a bike for everyone who’s after maximum downhill fun. In demanding terrain, the bike instils you with confidence and offers super agile handling. Slight inconsistencies in the spec and its somewhat lacking climbing capabilities cloud the overall impression.

Tops

fun and precise handling
capable rear suspension
quiet

Flops

seat and head tube are too long
climbing is only a means to an end
the FIT4 damper isn't up to par with the new GRIP2

For more information head to canyon.com

The test field