Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9: A Comprehensive Overview with Avinox Motor

Canyon has introduced a new version of the Spectral:ON, meticulously designed around its latest motor. The bike's profile and specifications clearly indicate its focus on being sleek, lightweight, and powerful. Over three days of rigorous testing, we explored whether it truly lives up to Canyon's claim of being a versatile all-rounder. Spoiler alert: it certainly reached exhilarating speeds at times.

During the Canyon Spectral:ON press event, we covered numerous kilometers on the trails surrounding Aosta, gaining insights into the bike's development and conversing with the design team.

The updated Canyon Spectral:ON replaces both the previous full-power model featuring the Shimano EP801 motor and the lightweight Spectral:ONfly equipped with the TQ HPR50 motor. The objective is to merge the strengths of both bikes into one: delivering full power while maintaining a relatively light weight, starting at just 20.8 kg for the lightest variant. Canyon aims to attract a diverse audience, from downhill enthusiasts to those transitioning from traditional mountain bikes, who seek a lightweight and playful electric option. Tech lovers will appreciate the integration of the Avinox drive system, known for its robust power and extensive customization capabilities.

We examined the Spectral:ON CF 9, weighing in at 21.7 kg and priced at €6,999. With its premium specifications, this model presents a compelling offer at a competitive price point. But does it truly fulfill its promise of versatility across various terrains, riding styles, and skill levels? Continue reading for our insights.

In-Depth Look at the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

The design of the Spectral:ON CF 9 is striking, showcasing a sleek profile and clean lines that remain consistent across all frame sizes. The straight seat tube facilitates the full insertion of long dropper posts. A closer inspection reveals additional thoughtful features, such as the Avinox display integrated seamlessly into the top tube.

Canyon has responded to community feedback concerning cable routing, now allowing cables to enter at the front of the head tube. For those who prefer a tidier cockpit, an Integrated Cable Routing (ICR) headset cover can be added to conceal most cables. The oversized upper headset bearing also permits adjustments to the bike’s head angle by fitting an angle-adjust headset.

Inside the frame, cables are guided through continuous plastic tubes molded into the frame, preventing cable rattle and simplifying the process of replacing cables and hoses without the need for complicated tools. This design allows the battery and motor to remain in place during maintenance. The precise routing also eases battery installation and removal, minimizing the risk of cables becoming trapped. This thoughtful design will be appreciated by both mechanics and owners alike.

Canyon's meticulous design extends to the rubber components on the rear triangle. The chainstay protector features a smooth exterior that prevents dirt accumulation, while internal cavities allow it to flex slightly, reducing chain slap noise. Additionally, a cover seals the gap between the chainstay bridge and the bottom bracket, safeguarding the main pivot bearings from debris. As the suspension operates, a rubber lip slides along the protector’s front extension, minimizing noise and wear.

All rear suspension pivots are designed to extend bearing life, featuring additional seals to keep dirt and moisture out. For servicing convenience, Canyon employs a single bearing type throughout: 6902 (15 × 28 × 7 mm). Another smart detail is the seatpost clamp, which includes two slots on either side to significantly reduce water ingress into the seat tube and subsequently into the bottom bracket.

The Avinox battery is permanently integrated into the downtube but can be removed easily by loosening the motor and swinging it down. This setup allows for a lightweight, completely rattle-free battery mount. To minimize the need for removal, Canyon provides a 12 A charger that can recharge the battery from 10 to 80% in just 45 minutes, compact enough to fit in a backpack for longer rides. The charging port is conveniently located above the bottom bracket shell, protected by a spring-loaded cover.

A flip chip on the chainstays enables geometry adjustments for a 29" rear wheel, raising the rear axle position by approximately 20 mm and increasing chainstay length by 8 mm.
A fold-out tool for rear wheel removal is cleverly integrated into the thru-axle, with clearly marked torque specifications on all key bolts of the rear triangle. Just as it should be!

Insights into Canyon's Product Development

Canyon approached the development of the new Spectral:ON with great seriousness. The bike underwent over 1,000 documented test rides, accumulating more than 26,000 km and 1,104,000 vertical meters before pilot production began. This included 50 days in bike parks and over 1,700 hours in various weather conditions, proving its durability.

The suspension setup was initially optimized to ensure that experienced downhill and enduro riders could enjoy challenging terrains. The suspension can be adjusted using available settings and volume spacers to cater to riders of varying skill levels.

Canyon also customizes the stiffness of the frame and rear triangle according to each frame size, alongside chainstay length, to accommodate the average rider weight differences across sizes. The target stiffness values are informed by Canyon's experience with their established models.

The Avinox M2S motor is configured with preset support modes suitable for a variety of riding styles, from energy-efficient assistance with limited output to maximum power for aggressive riding. Additionally, riders can fine-tune all settings to match their preferences.

Specifications of the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

Canyon has equipped the Spectral:ON CF 9 with top-tier suspension components. It features a FOX 36 Factory fork with 160 mm of travel, utilizing the new GlideCore air spring and a GRIP X2 damper, offering extensive adjustment options for optimal performance based on riding style and terrain. The rear is managed by a FOX FLOAT X Factory shock.

Shifting is facilitated by an electronic SRAM X0 AXS drivetrain, controlled via a Rocker Paddle Pod on the handlebars. Stopping power is provided by powerful SRAM MAVEN Silver B2 four-piston brakes with a revised Swing Lever design. The wheels are DT Swiss HXC 1700s, featuring durable carbon rims.

In terms of tires, Canyon has made a solid choice: a 29 × 2.4" MAXXIS Minion DHR II with the grippy MaxxGrip rubber compound upfront ensures excellent traction, while the slightly firmer MaxxTerra compound on the 27.5" rear wheel strikes a balance between grip and durability. However, the chosen casings may be a concern; the EXO type upfront and EXO+ at the rear seem inadequate for such a capable eMTB. A more robust EXO+ casing at the front and a tougher DoubleDown version at the rear would enhance puncture resistance and stability during aggressive riding.

Another notable feature is the fully insertable dropper post, offering 200 mm of travel. Depending on the frame size, travel ranges from 170 mm on size S to 230 mm on size XL. The ability to reduce travel by up to 25 mm allows riders to customize the dropper to their height and preferences. An Ergon SM10 Enduro saddle completes the setup.

Variants of the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

The CF LTD, CF 8, and CF 7 models are set to be revealed on Canyon.com between November 2026 and January 2027. We will provide updates on specifications and prices once these models launch.

Orders for these bikes will open on December 4, with shipping for all models commencing on January 19, 2027.

Geometry of the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

In comparison to previous models, the head angle has been slackened to 64° for improved high-speed stability. The seat tube angle has been steepened to 78.5°, helping to position the rider's weight forward on climbs, ensuring the front wheel remains grounded when the motor is engaged. Reach has also been extended by approximately 10 mm across all sizes.

A new feature includes size-specific chainstay lengths, measuring 442 mm for sizes S and M, and 447 mm for sizes L and XL. To run a 29" rear wheel, the flip chip must be adjusted, increasing chainstay length by an additional 8 mm.

The Spectral:ON offers 160/155 mm of travel. The shock measures 230 mm eye-to-eye with a 60 mm stroke, and Canyon has validated the extension of the stroke to 62.5 mm by adjusting the travel limiter, which adds about 6 mm of rear travel. Forks with up to 170 mm of travel are also approved, allowing for a more aggressive enduro setup.

On the Trails with the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

Climbing with the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

The riding position is upright, complemented by a relatively steep seat tube angle. While it's necessary to shift your weight slightly back on climbs with limited traction, the forward position works well with the Avinox M2S's substantial power, helping to keep the front wheel grounded. Even with minimal motor support, the bike offers a smooth and natural pedaling experience without noticeable pedal bob.

As you increase the assistance, the Spectral:ON transforms into a personal ski lift, making even the steepest climbs feel surprisingly achievable. However, solid riding skills remain essential, as traction can be a limiting factor.

Maintaining flow on technical climbs requires balance and control, especially on steep sections with roots, steps, or tight turns, where the front wheel may lift or the rear tire might lose grip.

The bike's geometry facilitates a balanced position, even on steep and challenging terrain, providing agile and confidence-inspiring handling. The Avinox system enhances this experience with smooth, manageable power delivery. In higher assistance modes, you can focus more on balance and line selection instead of battling gravity.

On particularly steep climbs, we seldom utilized maximum assistance, as the motor's power and quick response could make control more challenging. However, the lively acceleration impressed us, allowing for momentum maintenance on steep sections or overcoming large trail obstacles rather than climbing slowly.

Descending with the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

From the outset, the balanced riding position and forgiving handling impressed us. The Spectral:ON leans into corners with ease, combining agility with excellent stability.

The suspension effectively absorbs impacts, ensuring the bike remains stable on rough terrain, even under hard braking or during high-speed runs. The bike itself instilled confidence, even when navigating narrow lines through tall grass or dealing with loose ground and dust from preceding riders.

When we adjusted the DT Swiss DEG DF rear hub to 10° of free movement, the rear suspension became even more responsive, virtually eliminating pedal kickback.
The Spectral:ON does not exhibit a distinct character; rather, it is remarkably composed and balanced, instilling confidence and delivering enjoyment on every ride. This quality is what makes it such a capable all-rounder.

As a taller rider, I found the bike slightly front-heavy with the standard cockpit, particularly when lifting the front wheel over obstacles or initiating a bunny hop. Switching to a handlebar with a 50 mm rise made a significant difference, alleviating that sensation. However, the suspension setup, tuned for a grounded feel and ample ground contact, may also have played a role.

In its full 29er configuration, the Spectral:ON requires more effort to lean into corners, as expected. The longer chainstays also complicate lifting the front wheel.

While playful riding is certainly achievable on the Spectral:ON CF 9, the planted suspension setup, combined with chainstay length and stack-to-reach ratio, necessitates a bit more effort to pop off obstacles or lift the front wheel. However, at 21.7 kg, this is not an unassisted trail bike. Among full-power eMTBs, the Spectral:ON ranks high in fun factor on the trails.

Initially, we were somewhat disappointed with the new SRAM Maven B2 brakes during our early runs. With their new Swing Lever and smaller slave pistons, they provide noticeably less initial bite, particularly upon first pulling the lever. SRAM states this change aims to enhance modulation of braking power. However, I found myself needing to apply significantly more force to achieve the same stopping power, losing some of the aggressive feel that previous Mavens were known for.

Additionally, the rear brake occasionally emitted loud noises and vibrations, a problem that persisted even after replacing the brake pads. Most other test riders did not encounter this issue, suggesting it may have been specific to the brake pads on our test bike.

Who is the Canyon Spectral:ON Best Suited For?

Final Thoughts on the Canyon Spectral:ON CF 9

The Spectral:ON stands as a full-power eMTB that excels in nearly every aspect. The Avinox M2S motor delivers impressive performance, while the sleek frame encompasses numerous thoughtful features. The suspension remains stable on rough and fast trails, appealing to both beginners and seasoned riders. Canyon has successfully created a convincing all-rounder.

Pros

• Intuitive handling suitable for all skill levels
• Confidence-inspiring suspension and handling
• Powerful motor with excellent modulation and extensive customization options
• Relatively low weight for a full-power eMTB

Cons

• Less agile and slightly front-heavy with a 29" rear wheel
• 1,500 W of power can alter the bike's character…

For more details about the Canyon Spectral:ON, visit the Canyon website.