170 millimetres at the front and 150 at the rear sounds like a classic enduro bike: lots of fun downhill and lots of sweat uphill. That doesn't have to be the case. Behind Canyon's Shapeshifter system is a gas spring that can be controlled using the remote control on the handlebars.

The Uphill mode sets steeper angles for efficient pedaling and a firmer setup for better climbing. The suspension travel is limited to 125 millimetres. At the push of a button, downhill mode releases the full travel and lowers the center of gravity.

The Strive CFR offers even more, Sebastian Mauch (Product Manager MTB Gravity, Canyon Bicycles) names the following points:

"It's important to emphasize the race genes of the Strive. It is the workhorse of the Canyon Factory Racing Enduro Team, which was heavily involved in its development. The CFR series has a weight-optimized CFR frame. It differs from the CF versions in that it contains less resin and is therefore lighter. Added to this are the finest components for a top overall package."

Equipment

As you would expect from the German online retailer, the top models are equipped with high-quality parts across the board. From Rock Shox suspension to Srams Eagle X01 and their "Code RSC" brakes, all the finest goods paired with the rather exotic Mavic Deemax Pro wheels on Maxxis Minions. Thanks to components from Ergon and Canyon, the Strive CFR Team is a true enduro bike. So that everything doesn't sound so overly positive, we'll whine a little at this point. Dear Canyon, please fit this bike with a telescopic dropper post with more travel in future, thank you.

Processing & details

The workmanship of the frame is first class, nothing "chlevelet" or rattles. Details are well resolved and the design scores with appealing lines from the main frame to the rear. The down tube and chainstays are well protected. The large bearings on the rear triangle promise a long service life. The only thing that is not convincing is the remote control of the Shapeshifter. When it is activated, there is not enough room for the hand, which is annoying.

In the plane

To adjust the geometry, you just need to press a button and briefly compress the shock while riding and you are sitting nicely centered over the bike. Pedaling is now upright and noticeably better. The suspension responds more firmly. The geometry of the bike is not as extreme as other enduro race bikes and therefore the handling is more moderate.

Up the mountain

"Click" - and the uphill mode is activated. It climbs with stoic calm and smoothly over obstacles. At 14.5 kilos, the Strive is in the midfield in terms of weight. You only notice this imperceptibly on the climbs. For such a racing machine, it behaves very well uphill.

Downhill

"Clack" - press the Shapeshifter, the bottom bracket is lowered, the seat angle is slack and now it's full throttle. The Strive rides like it's on rails and sticks to the ground. The roles of master and servant are clearly assigned, the pilot is in charge and the bike simply does everything. It loves to fly and ensures a smooth landing, even if you come up short. The suspension is well balanced and offers plenty of travel. The progression is set late and is just right. Whether long, fast bends or tight corners, this enduro masters everything with ease.

Conclusion

The Strive CFR 9.0 Team is a well-equipped enduro bike and with the Shapeshifter technology, it kills two birds with one stone: potent downhilling and efficient climbing. The handling is consistent, regardless of whether you are bolting at race pace or cruising at a leisurely pace.

Recommendation

The suffix CFR stands for Canyon Factory Racing and it does the bike justice. This Strive is ideal for enduro racers or those who simply like to ride fast.

Specifications

Manufacturer/distributor
www.canyon.com

Test report published in issue 01/2020 of Ride Magazine