Canyon Spectral CF
98/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts
Type
Release Year
Brand
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
33.9, 33, 35.3, 32.8 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Canyon Spectral CF. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
15 reasons to buy
- Canyon’s Spectral CF comes in four builds, with options for Shimano or SRAM, a coil shock, or mullet wheels.
- The Spectral’s playfulness and confidence at speed make it suitable for a wide range of trails.
- Testers say the bike encourages the rider to pump, push, and hoist it into the air.
- Reviewers of all builds praise the rear suspension’s supple comfort and excellent traction.
- The Spectral excels on technical climbs, with abundant traction and an efficient seated position.
- The “stubbornly grippy” Maxxis DHR II MaxxTerra tires are a good match for this bike, though the front tire’s EXO casing may be too weak for some.
- Experts relish the Spectral’s “exceptional” descending abilities.
- All five sizes feature generous dropper travel.
- Experts say the Spectral’s geometry leaves nothing to be desired.
- A reviewer describes the FOX 36 Rhythm GRIP fork (CF 7) as simple but succulently smooth.
- Testers of the 8 CLLCTV say the FOX DHX coil shock’s small bump sensitivity is a real highlight.
- The Spectral CF can be set up mullet using a chainstay flip-chip. Size XS is mullet-only.
- A rear shock flip-chip alters the head and seat angles by half a degree each.
- The frame has internal storage under the bottle cage and an accessory mount under the top tube.
- Canyon backs the frame with a lifetime warranty.
11 reasons not to buy
- Multiple testers complain about the “unconventional” sizing, which makes it hard to choose the right size.
- Experts report “quite a bit” of pedal bob, saying the Spectral CF feels like a bike with more travel when climbing.
- An expert finds this bike can sit too deep into its travel during heavier compressions, reducing its efficiency.
- The Spectral CF's short rear end requires more care in tight corners.
- Competing 150/140mm trail MTBs are slightly lighter.
- FOX’s Rhythm fork (CF 7) lacks adjustability.
- Some testers feel the steering stabilizer doesn't suit trails with fast, tight corners.
- Three reviewers complain of cable rattle.
- Two reviewers find the front end harsh over rocky chatter.
- An expert bemoans the “hard and slippery” grips.
- There isn't room for a full-size water bottle (max 20oz).
Bottom line
Canyon’s Spectral CF is a 150/140mm trail mountain bike available in four builds with mullet and coil shock options. The integrated steering stabilizer divides expert opinion, but it’s easy to remove. Most testers recommend adding volume spacers to the shock and fork for harder riding. Complaints from testers are mostly minor, especially given the price, but buyers should put extra care into choosing the correct size. Experts conclude that the Spectral CF’s balanced geometry, exceptional performance on descents and technical climbs, playful yet composed nature, and well-chosen kit make it outstanding bang for the buck.Expert Reviews
93/100 based on 3 rated expert reviewsCanyon Spectral CF 7 KIS 2024 Review – The Best Affordable Trail MTB I’ve Ever Ridden
Canyon Spectral CF7 Review | Trail Bike of the Year Contender
Canyon Spectral CF 9 Mountain Bike Review – Top Trail Performance Meets Excellent Value
[Review] New Canyon Spectral CF
Canyon Pulls Out All the Stops on the New 2024 Spectral CF 9 Trail Bike With Less Travel, More Sizes, Internal Storage and Steering Stabilisation as Standard
Field Test: Canyon Spectral – Focused on Fun
2024 Canyon Spectral Review | When Less Is Actually More
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Canyon Spectral CF8 Review: Convinced by K.I.S.?
2024 Canyon Spectral
Canyon Spectral CF 9: First Fortnight Findings
Tested: Canyon Announces New Spectral CF
Long Term Review: Canyon Spectral CF 8 CLLCTV – Broadening the Spectrum
2024 Canyon Spectral Review: A Cult Classic for the Masses
Rankings
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