Mathieu van der Poel's recent decision to opt for his old bike over the Canyon Endurace at Roubaix has sparked an interesting discussion about the brand's new range of endurance bikes. While it may seem like a surprising choice, it highlights the fact that not all racers are swayed by marketing and product launches. But what makes the Endurace range truly noteworthy is its versatility and practicality, which sets it apart from many other endurance bikes on the market.
The Endurace CFR, a racing thoroughbred, has garnered plenty of attention as Mathieu van der Poel's weapon of choice for the Spring Classic campaign. However, the Endurace range is more than just a racing bike; it's a cornerstone of Canyon's public road offering. The CF SLX, in particular, stands out for its wider remit and versatility.
One of the key features of the CF SLX is its 38mm tyre clearance, which allows for high-volume options designed to tackle a variety of surfaces. This, combined with a slightly more relaxed geometry, makes it a comfortable choice for long days in the saddle. The higher stack and shorter reach combination, with measurements of 586mm and 388mm respectively in a size medium, offer a more endurance-focused riding position.
The CF SLX also boasts a SP093 VCLS Aero seatpost, which is a carry-over from the CFR. This seatpost is designed to blend aero enhancement with greater vertical compliance, helping to reduce road chatter and keep the body feeling fresher after a few hours in the saddle. The Pace Bar cockpit, another carry-over from the CFR, features 50mm of width and 20mm of height adjustment, achieved with only the TX25 tool necessary.
The CF SLX has genuine racing pretensions, and these likely include gravel events. Its suitability is enhanced by the inclusion of down tube storage, which is well-suited to the self-sufficient nature of such races. The frame also features top tube and frame bag mounts, making it a practical solution for those who like to carry everything but the kitchen sink on a ride. The option of running Canyon's full-length mudguard system, Defend, further adds to its practicality.
Other notable highlights of the CF SLX include a move to shorter cranks, 165mm on a size medium, and the inclusion of Canyon's new ED 42 CF carbon wheelset on the CF SLX 7 AXS build. The CF is the entry point to the new Endurace lineup, and with a starting price of €1,699, it's one of the most affordable carbon road bikes around.
The Endurace CF lineup starts at €1,699 for the Endurace CF 5, with build options featuring mechanical and electronic drivetrain options, as well as carbon and aluminium wheel builds. The CF range offers a range of options for riders looking for an affordable, versatile, and practical endurance bike.
In my opinion, the Endurace range is a significant step forward for Canyon, offering a range of bikes that cater to a variety of riding styles and needs. The CF SLX, in particular, is a standout choice for those looking for a versatile and practical endurance bike, while the CF provides an affordable entry point to the world of carbon road bikes. Personally, I think the Endurace range is a testament to Canyon's commitment to innovation and accessibility in the cycling world, and I'm excited to see how it continues to evolve and improve in the future.
