2019 CANYON NEURON CF REVIEW | A Longterm Test Of Canyon's New Carbon Trail Bike
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- čas přidán 26. 07. 2024
- Wil's been putting the miles into a 2019 Canyon Neuron CF 9.0 SL, and is now ready to deliver the verdict on this slick carbon fibre trail bike.
Unveiled just before the end of 2018, the Neuron CF has arrived to take the mantle as Canyon’s brand new carbon fibre trail bike.
Plugging the gap between the Lux (Canyon’s 100mm travel XC racer) and the Spectral (the 150mm travel AM bike), the Neuron brings 130mm of bounce front and rear. Depending on frame size, it’s built around either 29in wheels (M/L/XL) or 27.5in wheels (XS/S).
Canyon offers both full-alloy (AL) and full-carbon (CF) versions of the Neuron. Both are new for 2019, though the alloy frame is more of a refresh, and carries over the existing frame shape and suspension platform from the pre-2019 model. Of note is that the 2019 Neuron AL shares almost identical geometry to the Neuron CF, and we’re told that the suspension leverage rate is very similar too.
It’s the smooth, plastic-fantastic frame that we’ve got on test here though, and this particular model - the CF 9.0 SL - sits right in the middle of the five-bike range, which starts off with the CF 8.0 and peaks with the 9.0 LTD. There are also two women’s models that utilise the same frame, but are spec’d with a lighter suspension tune, narrower bars, a shorter 50mm stem, and a women’s saddle.
Got any questions? Drop 'em into the comments section below and we'll get some answers for you!
Wanna read the full review? You can do that right here: singletrackworld.com/2019/02/... - Sport
Man, what an in depth review with all of your settings and whatnot..... This is how a bike review is done everyone else!
Thank you very much, and glad you liked it!
It's pretty long (both the video and the review itself), but I always like to cover as much detail as possible to help provide that info to anyone who might be interested in buying that particular bike.
Will have plenty more videos and reviews coming in the near future!
[ST Wil]
You say it first, that is so true.
Hands down, this is probably the best bike reviews i have ever seen. Really helpful with personal opinions from someone who clearly know biking. thanks :-)
Thank you very much for the feedback Stefan, and really glad you enjoyed the video!
I've got several other test bikes on the go at the moment, so we'll have plenty more ride videos and reviews coming your way :-)
[ST Wil]
Way to go mate. Incredible review. One of the most detailed reviews I’ve ever heard. Thanks for doing it.
Wow, this is the most valuable review of the Canyon Neuron I've ever seen. Not just detailing the specs but also the settings and recommendations, really nice job!
Thank you for the kind words, and stoked you liked it mate!
Plenty more videos coming your way in the near future :-)
[ST Wil]
wow, this is how a bike review should be like, I'm not interested in this bike but watched the whole review because it's so good
The best bike review I have ever seen. Short legs and dropper issues...I feel your pain brother!
Amazing review. Great flow to the review, as soon as I think of a question like “how about adding volume spacers?”, Will quickly answers it in the normal flow of the review. Super concise review on a bike that appeals to a wide range of riders.
Dude, I need you to review everything! This is an awesome review.
Thanks for a really detailed, in-depth and objective review of this bike. The UK reviewers gushed soooo much about this bike, I thought it could do no wrong (best in test x 2). Thanks for being a voice reason in a sea of advertising platitudes.
Mate these are the best mtb reviews on the internet. Keep going Wil.
This is an incredible good review - congratulations!
Get the full review right here! singletrackworld.com/2019/02/review-canyons-2019-neuron-cf-9-0-sl-a-step-up-from-the-old-model-but-it-isnt-for-everyone/
This is probably the best bike review I've ever seen, and unfortunately, I've probably watched thousands. Well done!
Thank you very much for the feedback, and really glad to hear you liked it mate!
[ST Wil]
Very extensive review. I am very impressed good job!!! Keep it coming mate🤟🏼
Stoked you liked it mate! And not to worry - got plenty of video action I'll be working on over the coming weeks :-)
[ST Wil]
Excelent review. I watched every frame.
You guy give the best reviews.
Excellent review. Very thorough. Thanks
A review at its best! Top work!
Great detailed review. Thanks.
Thanks for what I found to be a clear and informative review. I am trying to decide between Fuel Ex, Neuron or StumpJumper, so your review was really helpful.
Glad the video was helpful for you mate, and appreciate you taking the time to pass on your feedback!
[ST Wil]
Great review. I’ve been trying to decide between this and pivot trail 429. This helped loads given lack of demo bikes. Hard to beat the value.
everything i needed to know. thanks wil :)
Well, I know this is an old video (more than a year) but it helped me a lot choosing my new bike.
I've sold my 2011 scott spark 26 wheels, and bought a canyon neuron 9.0 cf. The size question, and contrary to your opinion, I trusted the canyon size tool (I'm 173 cm and 79 cm inseam leg), which advices an S size for my height.
It was the best thing I could do! The bike fits me like a glove, and I manage to ride with the seatpost 3 cm above the frame, which gave me the clearance to ride with a seatpost bag with the dropper post on lowest position.
Concerning to the bike, it is a little bit heavier than my previous spark (12,8 vs 12,0) but it feels nimbler and lighter than the spark. And no pedal bob also, during the sprints.
I also bought a Neuron CF 9 and it has been very suitable for me!
Great review as always Wil!
Thank you very much, and cheers for checking out the video!
[ST Wil]
What a review - thanks mate!
Thanks for watching and for the feedback mate, much appreciated!
[ST Wil]
this video deserves more "likes"..i just can't find any reason not to complete this fantastic review! definitely helpful in making decision to opt for this neuron 9 CF..thanks!
Maybe, but that annoying background "music" deters some watchers.
Really comprehensive review, thx
Cheers mate - glad you liked it!
[ST Wil]
That bike looks so awesome 👌
Great video.
Great review. So this is definitely an XC bikes for trail riding or going downhill quietly without sending it too much.
please please please do this on the 2019 spectral
Very good review that helps me make a decision, thanks.
Good stuff Mark, and glad we could be of help!
[ST Wil]
Everything youre saying about the suspension just makes me want this bike more. Its not made to be super plush and smooth out everything. Its supposed to be better than an xc on the down and better than an enduro on the up.. And thats what it does, it seems ;) I want it!!
Apart from the bike review which is great, this bike is so well thought out and designed.
Perry Meister huh? Apart from the seat tube that’s too long, the limited space for rear tyres and the crappy brakes?
@@nl3712 so which trail bike would you recommend that is as competitive (price) as this canyon ?
@@cracotator Canyon competes well on price (well, except where i live...). My point was that, while it may be cheap (relatively), it's not perfect. I only repeated what was mentioned in the review, IIRC.
My first choice on my latest mtb purchase ..sadly none for sale in the states. Settled with a Tallboy
Thanks for talking about frame stiffness. At 220 lb I really feel the flex in frames that my lighter riding buddies don't even notice. I'm also an aggressive descender so it's hard to tell the difference between the goats and the sheep until I'm already going Mach Chicken down a familiar trail. By then it's too late.
Thanks for watching and for the feedback Will!
I think chassis flex is a pretty crucial element for how a bike handles on the trail, though admittedly it isn't always an easy thing to disseminate. Wheel, tyre, fork and even stem/bar flex can all muddy the waters. Because I was able to try other wheels, tyres, and a different bar/stem on the Neuron CF though, it was pretty evident to me how solid this bike is.
From what I can tell via some online comment sections, Canyon has received a bit of flack for the increase in frame weight of some of their high-end carbon trail bikes. Given how capable the new bikes are though (compared to previous models), I think these beefier frames are bringing significant improvements to stiffness, strength and overall ride quality. And in theory, we should be getting longer-lasting bikes too.
[ST Wil]
@singletrack_magazine thank you for the great review I have been considering this against the giant trance 29er as somebody who tends to be ground bound your review while still indicating this is a good bike the Trance is the better bike for my riding even with the limited travel
Hey there Jay!
Thank you for your kind words, and glad you found the review helpful!
The Giant Trance 29 is a cracking bike for sure, and compared to the Canyon Neuron, the Trance is a whole lot more stable at speed and more confident on the descents too.
I'll have the full review on the Trance 29 coming in the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned!
[ST Wil]
Thorough and professional review. Well done! Am I mistaken or does the frame only fit one water bottle?
All that granite looks like Harcourt. Great review.
Good spotting!
I actually shot an on-board ride video at Harcourt just a couple of weeks ago, which you can check out on CZcams here mate: czcams.com/video/5U3V8qVdiLE/video.html
[ST Wil]
Great review. Do you think a heavier rider would soften the ride make it more plush?
This is probably the most insightful and helpful review I've seen in ages. To the point, practical comments that average Joe's like me can relate to. Keep them coming.
I'm in the market for a new bike and have narrowed my option to a Neuron Al 7 and a Trek Fuel EX 8. Similar price points and components, I guess it comes down to geometry. Any thoughts on which one would be best assuming price is same for both?
Thank you for the kind words Erick, and glad you liked the video!
Great question on the Neuron AL 7 vs the Trek Fuel EX 8. I've spent a bit of time on the Fuel EX 8 lately, so I can definitely provide you a comparison between the two bikes.
Personally, I prefer the Fuel EX. It isn't as efficient to pedal as the Neuron, but the suspension is much more active, with a deeper feel in the latter 2/3rds of the travel.
Because the suspension is a lot more independent of braking and pedalling inputs, rear wheel traction is excellent, and the whole bike can absorb hits more comfortably. It feels really stable at speed and on rough descents, particularly with those big Bontrager XR4 tyres.
I have found I need to toggle the compression settings on the RE:aktiv shock to get the most out of it. For the descents, I'd set it in the full open mode for maximum squish. For smoother trails and climbs, the middle position gives a firmer feel at the pedals and helps to lift the whole bike's ride height.
In comparison, the Neuron's suspension design is more efficient without need to toggle the compression switch so much. On smoother machine-built trails, it's a quick and agile bike to ride. But once you're on rougher terrain, you will get more feedback due to the firmer feeling suspension design.
Hopefully that helps answer your question, but if you've got any more, feel free to shoot Erick!
[ST Wil]
Thanks for the quick response. I suspected that this was the case based on your reviews, but good to confirm. Although I really like the idea of a canyon (brand and looks), trek fuel seems to be a more sensible choice as you said.
Good info! I'm caught between getting the Neuron CF 8 and the Spectral AL 5. Looks like some things you wanted changed have been modified on the new Neurons, but this still gives me a pretty good starting point.
Totally depends on your type of riding. Prior to my neuron I bought a super aggressive enduro bike which was terrible for the many uphill trails near me (bay area). After a ton of research I went with the neuron cf 8 and it has been great, incredible on the uphills and also really good enough for me for some of the more intense Downhills. So id say if you need something that can handle both up and down go with neuron, but if you’re more into just downhill then do the spectral
@@stueey I waited too long to get a Neuron on clearance, so I ended up with a YT Jeffsy ;P
Excellent review, thanks! I'm on the older side things and looking at replacing my Santa Cruz Blur that is approximately 12-13 years old. Admittedly, technology has changed substantially since I purchased my Blur. Im considering a 2019 Santa Cruz 5010 or Hightower in the S build with a carbon frame. I believe in that build the component package would be comparable with the 2019 Neuron CF 8.0 but the Canyon comes in about $1400 U.S. cheaper. Hopeful that you may be able to shed some light on differences between those bikes in ride quality, components, and offer some insight on whether the price difference is either way is worth the purchase.
@@singletrack thank you for the reply and now plenty to think about!
I am between sizes and as you said, I was a bit worried about the tall seat tube so went with the S w/ 27.5 wheels. Obviously I could use a slightly longer reach but it wasn't anything too unreasonable. The nice thing is, the size S is spec'ed with a 29er fork (Canyan's logic was this ensured consistent handling with other sizes which I did not quite understand), so I ended up replacing it with a 150mm RS Pike 275 fork. The crown to axle measurement was the same as the 130mm 29er Fox, but offers 20mm more travel. Now the bike is 130/150 on the rowdier end of the trail bike spectrum. Worked out nicely.
This is exactly what I'm planning to do, but going from the Fox 34 to a 150mm Fox 36, which will slacken the head angle by a degree. Has it changed how the bike behaves? Is it less nervous on steep DH now? Thanks!
very beautiful
It would be nice to learn what you think about the Neuron AL shocks config as comparison. What config suits what terrain and riding style?
You should try a different rear shock and see if you like the feel better. My old bike came stock with that same rear shock and I HATED it. That was the first thing to go and it made a worlds difference. I ride a Canyon Strive now with a Rock Shox Super Deluxe and it feels more plush and planted than my Santa Cruz Bronson with an Ohlins coil shock.
Hey man, nice video!
Neuron Vs Fuel Ex vs Tallboy? Which is your pic? Also I am shifting to full sus for the first time and the next bike is going to be years away... So carbon fibre or aluminium? I come from aluminium background in hard tails and road bikes, doing long rides on road+trails but nothing too technical till now(may be because of my rudimentary skills set). I would like to have a do it all mountain bike before I can see if I want to continue with it on a daily basis.
What about that wishbone linkage? The way it moves in and out, is it prone to being damaged by rocks, mud?
Excellent review. You just convinced me yo got a canyon neuron alux. I have a question, that bike comes bike 29 x 2.4 in the rear and back. Is it possible to change them for 29 x 2.5 minion dhf in the front and 29 x 2.5 agressor in the back? Thanks in advanced
Nice review. This confirms me I did the right choice (waiting for Neuron in a few weeks): I was looking for a MTB to replace my Canyon Lux that I could easily pedal but that could give me more easiness in descent.
Sounds like you've made the right choice Gian - enjoy that new bike when it arrives!
[ST Wil]
@@singletrack Bad news: great delay on Canyon Neuron (have to wait mid june :-O ). Turnin to a Transition Smuggler. Tested it: amazing
@@ilgiampi mine comes end june :-(
I want it, NOW!
@@rasimtoy4768 Do a ride with the Smuggler and then tell me ;-)
@@ilgiampi I mean the Canyon Neuron.
Mundane question - how do you transport a bike with this rear suspension setup, and a dropper post, if you only have the old style "hang it from the top tube" bike rack?
Will it damage the dropper post to use one of those extendable bars that goes from your handlebars to your seat post and hang it from that?
Hey mate great reviews. I always get confused with the geometry. How did you find the size of the bike, I am 167cm but some of the neuron range only offer a medium do you think I could ride a medium?
Please do a review of Santa Cruz Bronson vs 5010 I’m confused which is a trail and enduro bine
I'm 188cm or 6 foot 2 inches tall. Canyon size guide puts me in a large but I feel that might be a bit small as my other hardtail bike is an xl and fits perfectly. Any advice is much appreciated 🙏
Saw u on the live chat
See Canyon has moved from the Nerve’s 4-bar rear linkage to single pivot rear end. Is 4-bar design like Giant or Spesh still has the edge on responsiveness n ride quality or has modern shocks evolved to a stage where the average rider won’t feel the difference.
shit, thats a great review. You kick ass!. Thanks. Suscribed.
Курка ты😢
This video really helped! I am currently looking for a bike that’s pedal efficient for long days on the bike as well as confident and playful in the decents. Do you think I should get the nueron or the Spectral?
Yo Jack - cheers for the feedback, and glad the video has helped you out!
I reckon the Neuron CF is a solid all-day trail bike, since it is both efficient and comfortable to ride.
As to choosing between the Neuron or Spectral, it really comes down to how technical your riding will be. If you lean more towards riding really steep descents that are rough 'n' rocky, and you love hitting gaps and big drop-offs, then the Spectral is likely the better choice for you.
In comparison, the Neuron is less playful and less confidence-inspiring on the descents. If you're not riding gnarly black diamond type trails though, and you prefer riding smoother, faster, XC-type singletrack, then the Neuron is the one I'd pick.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
Hi Will, coming from a hard tail and may only get a foot or two of air, would u recommend as a solid trail bike in stock form?
Will, looking at the neuron and the whyte s120. Which bike is a better climber? Overall what bike did u prefer and would recommend for primarily flowley trails with small drops/jumps?
Hi Mate, cracking review and i am considering the Lux Trail and The neuron CF9 and probably favouring the Neuron for more compliance on my 52 year old bones. Just trying to work out sizing and i know yu mentioned seat tube length issues. I am a similar height at 176cm and inseam is 83cm, would that suit a Medium OK in your opinion? I dont want to sound creepy and ask your inseam length.....:-)
Hi, thanks for your nice review.
Which one of the SC bikes you compare Neuron more, Tallboy or reg. Hightower? I have no idea how Neuron feels like, but SC bikes I have tested.
My pleasure mate - glad you enjoyed the video!
I reckon the Neuron CF is more comparable to the Santa Cruz Tallboy than the Hightower. The reason I say that is because the handling and descending capabilities of the Tallboy - especially with the bigger fork - are really good for a bike with 110mm of travel, and more comparable to what the Neuron CF is capable of. The Hightower feels like a bigger and burlier bike that I reckon is more comparable to the Spectral.
A big reason is the VPP suspension, which does perform differently - it has a plusher and more active feel through the middle of the travel, so it swallows square-edge hits quickly and efficiently.
In comparison, the Triple Phase Suspension on the Canyon Neuron CF is firmer throughout the travel, which gives excellent pedalling efficiency and a great platform for pushing off of. However, it is firmer and potentially less comfortable when pummelling through rock gardens - at least in my experience anyway.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
do you know if a maxxis ardent tubeless tyre can fit on bike
Hey. Great review. How big do you make? I measure 1.74m and I will buy a medium. Thank you for your answer.
Hi guys, please I have this neuron and I would like to know which type of headset has this bike. I’m playing with idea to slack a little bit head angle. Can somebody help me? Thanks 🤙🤙🤙
Nice that it has no pressfit BB looks like a sweet bike
It does seem like building a tough, practical, and easy-to-work-on bike was the priority with the Neuron CF. I asked Canyon why the Neuron has a threaded BB, when the Lux, Spectral and Strive all come with press-fit BB's, and the designer stated that ease of maintenance (rather than weight) was more important for them on a trail bike that's designed for big miles. So there you go :-)
[ST Wil]
I know this is an older review, but I'm hoping you still read the comments! Merida 120 or Canyon Neuron? Most of my riding is at Lysterfield, and I think I can get a 2018 Neuron on sale, at around $1000AUD cheaper than the lowest spec 2020 One Twenty Carbon model. Thanks.
Thanks for the review! What would you buy, this 9.0 SL or equivalent Trek Fuel EX? Which differences would you highlight?
Luis Miguel Batista I have same question. Did you end up buying?
@@johnguillaume5919 I got tired of waiting for a bike with very few references and tests against other competitors. Ended up purchasing a Orbea Oiz TR (120mm) almost 1kg lighter, with suspension lock system and kashima on both suspensions for only +300€.
Will and all, I'd love to know your opinion on the latest Neuron offering. They seem to have upped the front fork travel to 140mm. Would this change the geometry (head tube angle) compared to the 130mm? Feeling more keen on it now, but at 174cm am worried the M size might be too big??
Curious as to the height of the rider with regards to seat being too high.
Where are your knee pads! Great review BTW. That's a great looking bike.
Thanks for watching and for the kind words mate, appreciate it!
I must admit that I've been a bit lax with the old knee pads over summer, since it's been super hot, and the trails I ride locally aren't particularly gnarly. Now I've said that though, I've basically guaranteed that I'm going to crash on my next ride - I'll start wearing those knee pads again :-)
[ST Wil]
Some help with choosing the appropriate size? I am 173 cm (5 feet 8 inches) with a 84-85 inseam (33 inch). My guess would be M. Any advice?
im not sure about the sizing of canyon. im 5'11 but it tells me to get a medium.
Clean your bike man.Nice review.
Looking for a full susp. Carbon trail bike that’s great for climbing. For around 3-4K. Any recommendations?
Great review on the Neuron! 👏🏼🙏🏼 I’m very interested in this model… But… I’m still not sure if i should go for the AL7 or this CF.. I have only one question.. How easy/hard is it to damage a carbon frame like this? All answers welcome!
After 2 years I have got the same question. What did you choose?
@@KnjazGromowladny i boiled it down to two options… Aggressive Hardtail, like the Nukeproof Scout… or Canyon Spectral..
Can you even go fast with that minute 32T chainring , if you're not rolling downhill?
Hey, what a great review.
Still, I'm struggling to decide between the neuron and the lux. After a 3 years stop, I want to get back on track again, and my last bike was a 2005 Scott Tampico hardtrail. I'm looking for a fitness / fun bike (does that exist?): something light enough tho handle long climbs and at the same time that don't compromise fun and confidence in descents.
can you help me?
Thanks
Which one did you end up buying? I am debating between Lux and Neuron. Want the light feeling for good climbing and good handling in decents, technical trails, no bike parks. Also looking for long 40-60 mile rides.
Did you have fun on Follow Me? It also looks like Harcourt trails too? Nice review.
Certainly did Wayne!
I haven't ridden Lysterfield for years but it was good fun to have a cruise around there. The Harcourt trails are a bit more local to me in Bendigo, so I've been riding there fairly regularly. Some great riding in Castlemaine too up in the Pineys, so there's been plenty to explore around the whole Goldfields region.
And glad you liked the review mate - cheers!
[ST Wil]
Hello, I'm the same size 175cm, în PPS recomends size M. Can you do a short review on L size to are how it feels? I cant test it in my country, I have to order online and not sure witch size to buy M or L. Btw this of the best review ive watcht. Thanks
Had the same issue HDS. Have you already bought one? In which frame saze? I'm 175 cm tall as well.
Wat size bike did you test and how tall are you? I'm kinda in between sizes but tend to be at the bottom of the L size
Hello, nice review. What would you recommend to me : a Canyon Neuron or SC Blur with 120mm fork. I currently have a SC Blur and Im thinking of upgrading to a 120mm fork... or give it a try to a Canyon Neuron...
Good question Jose!
Personally, I really enjoy the Blur with the 120mm travel fork. It's still a light and tight XC bike, and the rear travel is still quite firm and efficient. But with the bigger 120mm travel fork and some burlier tyres, it is a load of fun to ride on techier trails and fast downhills.
I recently reviewed the Blur with a 120mm travel fork, and you can check that out right here: singletrackworld.com/2018/12/review-120mm-fork-santa-cruz-blur-pocket-rocket-trail-bike/
As to how it compares to the Canyon, funnily enough I've actually found the Blur to be more fun and stable on the descents, even though it has less travel. The geometry is just a bit more high-speed friendly on the Blur, whereas the Canyon feels a little steep in the head angle for proper flat-out riding.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
awesome review! may I know how tall the reviewer is please?
Hey there Keyshey!
I stand at 175cm tall, which is around 5'9".
Hope that helps, and appreciate you checking out the video and for your feedback!
[ST Wil]
Hello
Thanks for this perfect review.
I wan't to order this bike but I can't decide what frame size to choose: I'm 179cm and 86cm inseam. The PPS says size M. What do you think about that ? My riding isn't agressive. Thanks a lot !!
Glad you liked it mate!
I think you should definitely go for the Large size - you are taller than me, and you have a longer inseam than me too. If you went for the medium, the cockpit would end up feeling quite short.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
Thanks a lot for your answer ! I don't understand why the PPS says siza M then :(@@singletrack
Canyon Spectral or the neuron al?
Hi, great review! I`m conisdering buying Neuron CF 8.0 to ride on local trails do some mountain journeys and ocasionaly race some marathones and most of all have fun on bike. I like to go uphill so im looking for bike that climbs well but with good downhill abilities. Im wondering if it will be a good choice for that. Also my height is 182 and inseam length 84 which size should i choose? M or L? Canyon calculator suggest M.
Which one did you end up buying, I am similar sized.
same size here! would be interested which size you choose? thank you
Which size did you choose? Are you happy with your choice?
Giant trance 29.The best.
Its ugly
Very very good review ! i'm looking for a new trail bike and i like this neuron 9 sl, my girlfriend have a Nerve AL 7.I also have the choice with a Santa Cruz Hightower kit S GX 2018 for 3600€, did you 've advises ? whish is the best climber ?i am living en France and enjoying many days trails once a year.Thanks
Thanks David, and great question!
The Santa Cruz Hightower is a great trail bike, though the VPP suspension design and overall ride quality/handling is different to the Canyon Neuron CF.
In general, the Neuron CF is a better pedalling bike, and more efficient on longer, steadier climbs. The suspension design is noticeably firmer, which gives you a great platform with excellent mid-stroke support. This means you get plenty of feedback through the chassis, which is great on smoother trails, but it does mean it can be less comfortable and less forgiving on rougher trails - both uphill and downhill.
The Santa Cruz Hightower comes with more travel; 135mm at the back and 140mm at the front. It's also a touch slacker, and it also has a shorter seat tube, which means you could run a longer stroke dropper post. Combined with the more active VPP suspension design, it's a little better suited to chunky, technical riding at speed, where you want the rear wheel getting out of the way as quickly as possible.
Hope that helps you, but let me know if you have any more questions!
[ST Wil]
Thank you very much for your answer ! i thnik i'll go for the Neuron ! I think i can find better for that price !
How come Canyon bikes are so much more expensive in the US compared to Euro prices?
Im looking for a Canyon MTB and i cant decide between the Lux, Neuron and Spectral. I am looking to do mainly rough gravel tracks, riding in woods and want something that is a good all rounder and not too focused in any one discipline. What would you recommend?
Did you decide? I am debating between Lux and Neuron. I want a light bike capable of climbing well, and verstility of handling good technical trails. No bike parks or drops. But also long 40-60 rides in mixed terrain.
Hi, i am deciding betven strive And neuron. On decents i am totally for strive, uphill it seems BEcause of the weight, that neuron will be a better option. My normal ride looks like 600 m uphill, than the same way back. I am 6,5. What would you recomend me?
You gotta decide on which you want to enjoy more. Blasting downhill or flying up a hill. Both bikes can climb well and descend well, but it’s obvious that the neuron climbs better, and the strive descends better.
cool review! "Wriggly?" Is that the same as "wiggly"?
You've got it Greg!
And glad you liked the review mate :-)
[ST Wil]
Really good review, I want to buy this bike, but for women. There is only one big problem I have - what frame size should I choose? I am 173 cm tall, the inseam length is 82 cm. I am afraid that medium size would be too long. I do not know what to do. Hate this problems!
Hey @Michaela - great question!
At your height of 173cm, you are only 2cm shorter than I am. However, your inseam is a little longer than mine. That means your saddle-to-BB height will be a little taller than mine.
Because of this, I would recommend the Medium size for you. Your ideal saddle height will be fine because it is slightly longer than mine, and I think you will get on just fine with the reach of the frame. If anything, I would have liked a slightly longer reach/top tube on this Medium test bike.
If you went to a Small size, I think the bike would be too short for you, and too cramped in the cockpit.
And really, at 433mm, the reach isn't super long on the Medium. If you did find it a little long, and you wanted to shorten the cockpit, you could always bring the stem back 10mm to a 50mm length.
That said, you might want to consider the WMN model, which already comes with a 50mm long stem, along with a women's specific saddle. The frame (and therefore the suspension, geometry and handling) is exactly the same between the men's and women's bikes though.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
@@singletrack Thank you so much for that quick answer and what is your arm lenght? When I simulate to hold the handlebar, is it 62-63 cm. The Canyon Perfect Positioning System recommends the size small, but the man on live chat told that I could buy Medium too. I ordered both sizes, but which one should I pay. I plan to have a bike for a further x years, so I have to make a good decision.
@@MJACUS1996 - My arms (from my armpit to the end of my finger) measure about 70cm. But that is not measuring while holding a handlebar like you are talking about.
While you could fit both sizes at your 173cm height, I just think the Small is going to feel really tiny - it will be a very short distance between the saddle and the handlebar.
I hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
whats the perfect size for a 5'7?
Love everything about this bike except the Crap Sram brakes the last 4 bikes that I have bought I have had to replace them with Shimano XT I don"T know why anyone would build bikes these days and put these things on.
Ron Shuler I agree. Just bought a yeti sb4.5 gx with Sram guide r brakes. I have only a few rides and the lever is hitting my right knuckles! I truly miss my xt brakes I had on my previous bike. Can’t understand how these brakes are oem on a yeti. I will replace like you said!
I have this bike, 2020 model, and agree with most everything said. I do want to change front tire as well. How was the clearance on 2.6"? I want to get a minion 2.5" but Canyon states max tire width is 2.4" for the Neuron.
I suspect that width # is limited by the narrow rear clearance. Front looks like a ton of clearance so I think a 2.5 could work fine and be sweet.
yep Jay got it right. the 2.4" is for the rear/the frame. the front tire max will be provided from the suspension fork you are using.
How about a comparison to the AL neuron? 700€ jump to a CF seems a bit too much for a weekend rider... your thoughts?
Agree!!!
Great question!
I've tested the pre-2019 Neuron AL, but I've not tested the 2019 version, which does have an updated suspension design and new frame geometry. As mentioned in the video, the 2019 Neuron AL and Neuron CF share basically identical geometry, and Canyon told me that the suspension rate (and therefore behaviour) is very similar between the two bikes - even though the layout looks quite different. So you can expect the handling to be pretty similar.
The Neuron CF frame isn't that much lighter than the alloy one (there's less than 200g difference), so you wouldn't buy it to get a significantly lighter bike. But the carbon frame has clearly been built to be stiff, strong and reliable, and there are some really neat details that you won't get on the alloy frame, such as;
New bearing concept: industrial cartridge bearings with dual-lip seals, external pivot caps, and a dual-row bearing arrangement for the main pivot (for stiffness)
Cable Channel: routes the cables internally underneath bolt-on downtube armour
Quixle thru-axle: offers tool-free wheel removal with a very clean look
IPU (Impact Protection Unit) headset: prevents the bars from over rotating in a crash
As for the parts on the Neuron CF 8.0 vs the Neuron AL 7.0, here are the upgrades I can spot that you get on the CF 8.0;
Wheels: The DT Swiss M1900 is likely to be a stronger option, and interestingly, Canyon specs the front wheel with a 30mm internal width and the rear with a 25mm width, which is pretty cool! The Mavic XA Pro wheels on the AL 7.0 are a little skinnier with fewer spokes (24 vs 28)
Tyres: Maxxis Forekaster 3C tyres have a better compound and casing
Brakes: The Neuron CF comes with SRAM Guide T, rather than Shimano MT400
Otherwise the suspension package and drivetrain are very similar between the two.
For a weekend warrior, the alloy model is likely going to be a great bike, and certainly good value for money too. If you're looking for a bike to own for a long time, and something that you can steadily upgrade over the years, then it may be worth going up to the carbon model to get that higher quality frame and bearing system.
Either way, I'm sure you'll be stoked with whatever you get!
Hope that helps, but just shout out if you've got any more questions :-)
[ST Wil]
@@singletrack actually old geometry bikes are still available. The best option would be to test 3 bikes back to back on the same track. But just testing 2 new models AL 7.0 vs CF 8.0 is good. Well I am riding in weekends, because I work in workdays, so maybe I am weekend rider, but when I am during long weekend ride (we are doing about 40km on mountain trails daily if I am 40km from my car on Saturday and planning to go back on Sunday I don't even want to think about cracked carbon frame. I have not seen any impact test, etc showing comparison between AL frame and CF frame. This side actually biggest problem that I have with new bike. And regarding brakes - well... both bikes have brakes that need upgrade. And tires are not worry as in Rocky areas they don't last too long. Some people want bike they can trust dourng 2-4 days runs and I am one of them. I don't trust CF as frame material without proof of impact tests etc. I am riding for over 30 years and every year me or my wife have smaller or bigger crash, so this is significant factor for me. Also there is no info about crash replacement cost. So if You can get answer for those points I am sure more people could decide better with their next steps. Currently safer option for me is AL...
Hi, Wil Now I'm still deciding between Scott spark 920 & the Neuron 8.0 CF. Looking for shorter travel 29r for all-around distance as well as mixed trails. The Neuron is hard to ignore the package & price just don't want to regret not buying the proven spark, can't get any demos done on either bike as I need to buy online. what one would you choose
Hi Colin P!
That's a really good question, since the Scott Spark is a very well regarded lightweight trail bike.
In direct comparison, the Spark has a little less suspension travel (120/120mm vs 130/130mm), but it otherwise share some pretty similar dimensions to the Neuron CF - the head angle and reach are almost identical, for example.
I haven't ridden the Scott Spark - I've only reviewed the Spark RC, which is the 100mm travel version. However, the Spark RC and Spark essentially share the same frame, just with different length shocks and forks that change the travel between the two.
I really like the Spark's suspension design, which is actually pretty supple and active. And because you have the 3-position TwinLoc remote, you can tune the suspension to be a little softer for descending comfort and traction, while being able to flick into the firmer 'Trail' mode when you need efficient pedalling. It's a nice system that works well.
Some people aren't big fans of the extra cables that comes with the TwinLoc system, but having tested it on the Spark RC, the Genius and Ransom, I have to say it's a big performance booster on all those bikes.
In comparison, the Neuron CF has a simpler approach to its suspension, and it's designed to pedal efficiently without having to adjust levers on the rear shock. While it pedals and climbs well, I wouldn't say it's super plush though.
The frame on the Canyon Neuron CF does appear to be a little beefier than the Spark, and it is really nicely finished too - the pivot bearing system, IPU headset, and semi-internal cable routing design all work well.
Personally? I'd probably prefer the Scott Spark 920. I like that Scott is spec'ing the Spark with a shorter fork offset (44mm), which should help to stabilise the steering a little at higher speeds. That was something I found lacking on the Neuron, as it was a little twitchy on more technical high-speed descents.
Hope that helps!
[ST Wil]
Thanks, Wil. It is probably worth the extra money just for the ride quality alone. Helps with my decision 👍👍👍
@@chloemuffin1 - Glad I could help out mate!
Let me know if you've got any other questions in the meantime.
[ST Wil]
Great review, did he mention how tall he is? Ive always ridden Large bikes but Canyon says I should ride a medium, im guess because that seat tube is so long.