Canyon Releases New Endurace CRF and CF SLX Endurance Bikes
Adding two new premium models to enhance its endurance lineup.
Words by Damian Nicholas
CANYON
Canyon has officially launched two high-end models in its Endurace lineup: the Endurace CFR and CF SLX. The revamped designs emphasize greater tire clearance, the adjustable Aerocockpit (previously seen on Canyon's Aeroad and Ultimate models), enhanced aerodynamics, and an integrated top-tube storage system for mini-tools alongside a CO2 inflator.
Notably, the introduction of the CFR model signifies the first instance of Canyon’s pro-level race bike designation in the Endurace range, relegating the CF SLX to a secondary position. Canyon claims that the Endurace CFR stands as “arguably the fastest endurance road bike ever created,” featuring a frame that is 100 grams lighter than the new CF SLX, culminating in a weight of just 7.2 kg in its lightest configuration.
CANYON
Following last year’s updates to the entry-level Endurace AL and CF models, it’s now the premium segment's turn to evolve. However, despite the increased tire clearance, Canyon does not position this bike towards gravel use, unlike other brands venturing into that territory with their endurance offerings. Though Canyon categorizes the Endurace as ‘all road’, it doesn’t market the new models for enhanced off-road capability, reserving that versatility for its Grail and Grizl models. The motto “Go Long” encapsulates the ethos of the new model, with a clear focus on road-bike responsiveness, prioritizing geometry, and handling traits akin to the Ultimate rather than the Grail.
Canyon has maintained that the Endurace platform, in existence since 2014, prioritizes "comfort and speed," which they see as a crucial formula for contemporary cyclists. To refine this latest generation for modern demands without veering from the core principles, the emphasis was placed on adjustability, versatility, integration, aerodynamics, and comfort. Despite "comfort" being mentioned last in their strategic priorities, Canyon excels in this aspect, largely due to its innovative VCLS seatpost technology. This system employs dual carbon blades functioning like leaf springs, fixed at the base and joined by a floating saddle clamp at the top, guaranteeing consistent tilt throughout its full 20mm of fore-aft flex. Canyon asserts that instead of pursuing potentially weighty and complex solutions like mechanical suspension, they chose to address comfort through this fundamental approach.
CANYON
The latest S15 VCLS 2.0 Seatpost works in tandem with DT Swiss's 22mm internal rim widths and a wider tire setup—30mm at the front and 32mm at the rear—culminating in what Canyon claims are their “smoothest-riding bikes to date.” Tire clearance has also increased from 32mm to 35mm, although the recently updated entry-level Endurace AL and CF models already accommodated this width.
Canyon emphasizes that comfort transcends mere ride smoothness; rider positioning is equally critical. The Endurace features Canyon's Sport Geometry, which yields a stack height that is 27mm taller and a reach that is 15mm shorter in size M, resulting in a less aggressive stack-to-reach ratio of 1.56 compared to the Ultimate’s 1.43. This new bike adopts a slightly more upright posture than the preceding CF SLX model, which had a ratio of 1.51. The Endurace CFR and CF SLX are available in eight frame sizes ranging from 3XS to 2XL, accommodating riders from 152cm to over 200cm. Smaller sizes (2XS and 3XS) are equipped with 650B wheels to ensure consistent handling across all frame sizes.
CANYON
Building upon aerodynamic advancements derived from the Aeroad platform—a benefit now extended to the Endurace—the brand underscores that aero optimization significantly enhances rider experience, particularly over longer distances. Canyon notes that the advantages materialize even at lower speeds, as prolonged exposure to wind can yield considerable discrepancies.
The new Endurace models have replaced the H31 Ergocockpit CF with the adjustable Aerocockpit, designed not just for aerodynamics but also for customization, featuring a width adjustment up to +/-20mm and a height adjustment without cutting of 15mm. Structural changes include a narrower head tube, reduced frontal area, a sleeker fork profile with a longer chord, and a more elegant down tube design, collectively delivering a seven-watt improvement in efficiency at 45 kph compared to the prior Endurace model.
CANYON
Canyon's introduction of internal frame storage marks a first for their road bike segment. This storage solution, akin to offerings from competitors like Colnago, utilizes the LOAD top-tube system, consisting of a neoprene sleeve housing multiple pockets accessible via a trapdoor. These pockets are intended for various tools—including a ratchet with eight bits, a CO2 inflator, a cartridge, a tubeless plug, and tire levers—though these items are sold separately upon bike purchase.
There's a notable price difference of nearly $4,000 between the priciest Endurace CFR and the least expensive CF SLX model. The Canyon Endurace CFR is offered in three distinct configurations, featuring the top-tier groupsets from Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo. Both the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and SRAM Red AXS versions come equipped with DT Swiss ERC 1100 45mm wheels, each priced at $7,299.
On the other hand, the Endurace CF SLX offers five options featuring Shimano and SRAM components, with prices starting much lower. The entry-level CF SLX 7, equipped with Shimano 105 Di2, is priced at $3,599, while the SRAM Force AXS-equipped SLX 8 is available for $5,999. All CFR and CF SLX versions come with built-in power meters.
canyon.com
Damian Nicholas covers cannabis, lifestyle, automotive and design in New York. More about Damian Nicholas
Nov 04, 2024
