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First Ride Review: Canyon Neuron AL Young Hero 2020– a children-specific full-suspension mtb at a fair price

Kids and parents prick up your ears! With the Canyon Neuron AL Young Hero, the German mail order specialists introduce thir first full-suspension mountain bike for kids. With 130 mm of travel, a low system weight and fair price, the Neuron AL Young Hero makes a very positive first impression. We took a closer look for you.

The new Canyon Neuron AL Young Hero is the first children-specific full suspension mountain bike from the German direct to consumer brand. The bike retails at € 1,499, rolls out of the factory on 27.5 ”wheels and weighs in at 13.6 kg (manufacturer’s specifications).

By signing Fabio Wibmer, Canyon have taken the biggest star of the up-and-coming MTB generation under their wing. Now, the German mail-order specialists add a kids-specific MTB full susser to their portfolio: the Neuron AL Young Hero. As a basis, Canyon use the XXS version of the Canyon Neuron AL, which was launched not long ago. Amongst Canyon’s priorities were a low total system weight and a suspension system specifically trimmed to the needs of light riders. Compared to the adult 29″ Neuron version, the small frame features specially adapted kinematics and a custom shock tune.

The rear end of the Neuron AL Young Hero, which was optimised to suit lighter riders, should perform efficiently.
A 130 mm RockShox Judy Silver takes care of the front end
Low standover height combined with an unnecessarily long seat tube. We would have preferred a straight seat tube for maximum seatpost insertion.
The head tube, on the other hand, is pleasantly short, which means that, despite the large wheels, little shredders should be able to get a good amount of pressure on the front wheel.

The Neuron AL Young Hero is suitable for kids measuring between 140 and 165 cm. It has 27.5 ”wheels, 130 mm of travel both front and rear and retails at € 1,499. Given the fair price point, the spec is spot on. This includes a 12-speed SRAM SX drivetrain, Schwalbe tires and Shimano MT200 brakes. Having said that, we’re not entirely sure whether the long brake levers are suitable for small children’s hands. On top of this, we really miss a dropper post. A RockShox Judy Silver fork takes care of the front end. If you take a closer look at the spec, it becomes clear that Canyon tried to keep the weight as low as possible – aggressive little shredders will need a sturdier, grippier set of tires to take full advantage of their new bike. That’s not a problem, because the 27.5 ” wheels give you a massive choice of aftermarket tires.

The relatively long stem and low profile tires underline the touring-oriented character of the bike.
A Schwalbe Nobby Nic in the front …
… and narrow, low profile 2.25 ” Racing Ralph at the rear should provide grip.
A 12-speed SRAM SX drivetrain takes care of the shifting.
The 30t chainring combined with the massive 51t cog of the Eagle cassette should make even the steepest of climbs a little less scary.
Shimano’s MT200 brakes have a large 2-finger lever – we still have to see whether the long lever suit the small hands of little riders.
Sorted – The mainframe has enough room to accommodate Canyon’s inhouse Eject Hydration system, which allows you to carry two 400 ml bottles.
Unfortunately, the Neuron Young Hero comes ex works with a conventional seat post – which is understandable considering the price. Moreover, this allows you to lower the saddle even more, which is great especially at the beginning.

Our first impressions of the Canyon Neuron AL Young Hero

While the Canyon Neuron AL Young Hero might not be a crazy display of innovation, it’s a very solid children-specific full-suspension MTB with a very fair price tag. The bike should be suitable for a wide range of applications, from long, relaxed rides to full-on bike park sessions. In the long run, it would make sense to upgrade the tires and swap the seatpost with a dropper. However, straight out of the box, the Neuron AL Young is a great choice for parents who want to introduce their kids to mountain biking – especially considering the price!

For more information head to canyon.com.

All adults who are interested in the all-new Neuron AL shouldn’t miss our first ride review.

Hit it like your idols! The Neuron AL Young Hero is a great option for keen little shredders
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