Canyon also rely on carbon for crucial components such as the 760 mm narrow RaceFace Next handlebars, Next SL cranks and DT Swiss XMC 1200 wheelset. The suspension consists of a 34 Factory fork with a FIT4 damper and DPS Factory shock, both offering 130 mm travel. While the FOX Transfer dropper perfectly matches the FOX Factory suspension, the super-long seat tube (480 mm in L) only allows for a meagre 150 mm drop. The Shimano XTR four-piston brakes are amongst the best brakes you can buy, but generate too little braking power in combination with small 180 mm rotors front and rear, especially for heavy riders. Unfortunately, not all components make sense on the trail. If you look at the spec list of our test bike, youвЂ™ll be amazed at what you get for the price. Nevertheless, the Neuron is also packed with smart details such as the fully-sealed pivot bearings, which Canyon employs to ensure longer service life, and the rear thru-axle, which cleverly tucks the lever away inside, protecting it from impacts when not in use.ДЄffordable price + expensive components = top price-performance ratio?ДЄt в‚¬ 5,599, the CF SLX 9 is the top-end model in CanyonвЂ™s Neuron range. Other manufacturers, like Trek, offer more elegant solutions here. The Impact Protection Unit prevents the bars from rotating and damaging the frame but also spoils the elegant look of the Neuron. However, around the cockpit, bottom bracket and shock, the cables create an unsightly loop, which causes them to rub against each other and on the frame. Despite its discreet looking matte-black finish and subtle yet eye-catching colour accents, the Neuron can no longer hide its age: the cables run through an integrated and removable cable channel on the downtube, which prevents them from ripping and ensures a discreet look and quiet ride. Thanks to the relatively low weight (12.58 kg in size L), Canyon expect the Neuron to get a head start over the latest mountain bikes вЂ“ at least uphill.

Consequently, Canyon entered the race with their lightest Neuron SLX-grade carbon frame built. In this yearвЂ™s group test, the top-end Canyon Neuron CF SLX 9 model had to prove itself against the greatest mountain bikes of 2021. With the affordable alloy models, the German direct-sale brand wants to offer a fair and affordable gateway to mountain biking. Since its launch in 2018, the Neuron has been one of the top sellers in CanyonвЂ™s portfolio.

Smash ultimate frame data spreadsheet