Canyon Spectral AL

92/100
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
34.09 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Canyon Spectral AL. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

11 reasons to buy

  • Testers relish the Spectral AL’s lively and playful handling on flowy jump trails and singletrack.
  • The Spectral AL 6 is lighter than competing alloy trail MTBs.
  • Reviewers praise the highly adjustable FOX 36 Performance Elite fork’s excellent small-bump sensitivity.
  • The Spectral AL frame has a down tube bottle cage mount, a top tube accessory mount, and SRAM UDH.
  • Testers find the “enduro-lite” Spectral AL stable and confident on steep descents, thanks to the supportive suspension and downhill-oriented geometry.
  • Reviewers say the bike climbs better than expected, with the steep seat tube balancing weight well between the wheels.
  • All sizes include a dropper post with generous travel.
  • Experts say the Maxxis Minion DHR II tires provide good grip and comfort for all-around trail riding.
  • The Shimano SLX drivetrain and brakes deliver reliable shifting and stopping throughout testing.
  • The BSA threaded bottom bracket is easier to service and less prone to creaking than press-fit.
  • Canyon backs the frame with a lifetime warranty.

7 reasons not to buy

  • The Float X shock lacks compression adjustment, and a tester notes it sinks too deep in its travel on steep climbs, leading to pedal strikes.
  • The cranks are long at 170mm, and they're the same across all five sizes.
  • Two testers complain of pedal bob on climbs.
  • The Spectral's long reach makes finding the right size tricky; experts recommend sizing down.
  • Some testers find the rear suspension overly active and "vague," reducing confidence on gnarlier trails.
  • A 200lb reviewer complains of the rear frame flexing and twisting during hard cornering.
  • Two reviewers complain of chain slap and drivetrain noise over rough terrain and descents.

Bottom line

Canyon's Spectral AL is a 150/140mm aluminum-framed trail MTB. Unlike the carbon version, the AL lacks geometry adjustments, internal storage, and the KIS stabilizer spring. Reviewers praise the AL 6's lively handling, comparatively low weight, and confident downhill performance. Opinions on climbing performance are mixed: some think the bike climbs reasonably well; others find it poorly suited to technical climbing. Unconventional sizing and harshness at speed are other notable drawbacks. Nevertheless, experts think the Spectral AL offers strong value.

Expert Reviews

88/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
84
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This review has been given a score. Read more here
Flow Mountain Bike

2025 Canyon Spectral AL 6 Review | A Promising Package With Plenty of Potential

There’s a lot to like about the Canyon Spectral AL 6, and with some tweaking, this could be one of the best trail bikes in its category.

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90

I Tested Three of 2025’s Most Exciting Trail Bikes – And the Winner Is One of the Best I’ve Ever Ridden

A great, well-rounded package that delivers a surefooted ride on a wide variety of trails. It might not be the lightest or sprightliest, but for the money, it’s hard to beat.

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90
off-road.cc

Canyon Spectral AL 6 Mountain Bike Review

With the Spectral AL 6, Canyon has managed to deliver one of the best value bikes I’ve ridden for a long time.

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Sam Pilgrim

My New Bike Is the Ultimate Do Everything Fun Machine!!

… the brand new Canyon Spectral AL 6 is hugely capable of shredding trails and hitting jumps.

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Samantha Soriano

New Canyon Spectral AL: I Got Early Access!

It’s really all fun and no filler.

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Freehub Magazine

Canyon Spectral AL 6 Bike Review

It takes an award-winning formula from the carbon version, and makes it even more affordable. But look below that veneer, and you’ll find an absurdly light, absurdly affordable bike with a solid build that’s available via non-traditional distribution channels.

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Canyon Aluminum Trail Bike: Cheaper, but Just as Good? [German]

The new aluminum Spectral follows in the footsteps of its carbon sibling and, as a well-balanced trail bike, delivers a whole lot of fun!

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User Ratings

100/100 based on 2 ratings
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Bike Comparison

Canyon Spectral AL in comparison to averages

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