2021 Canyon Spectral 29 Review | An All-New Long Travel Granite Smasher

The Spectral 29 arrives to fill an important gap in the Canyon mountain bike lineup. As part of the Ride High Country Test Sessions, we took it to Beechworth to put it to the test!
Canyon Spectral 29 CF 8.0 Review: flowmountainbike.com/tests/20...
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2021 Canyon Spectral 29 Video
0:00 - Intro
0:27 - Ride High Country Test Sessions
1:00 - Spectral 29 Overview
1:46 - Beechworth ASMR
2:06 - Frame Features
4:03 - Pricing & Specs
5:16 - Ned Kelley Bombshell
5:57 - Spectral 29 Geometry
7:30 - Climbing
9:30 - Descending
12:05 - The Verdict
16:25 - Things Get Weird
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[@zzlat_]

The most insightful and informational review on the Spectral 29. It definitely helped me and contributed to placing my order for this bike! Awesome job guys! Keep em' coming :)

[@jackgracy]

I love this new production. New quality that makes me really miss riding my bike in this gloomy autumn times. Bang on guys!

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Glad you dig it mate, thanks for the feedback!

[@Windband1]

Well done mates. Appreciate the new format. Keep it up for sure.

[@meteormedia7021]

Lovely little video, I enjoyed this a lot:)

[@thatfre4k180]

I love the creative camera movements, keep it up with that!!

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Cheers for watching and for the feedback mate! Lots more of this coming in the future mate! [Wil]

[@adamlake9507]

One of the best review formats I've seen! great share boys, thanks

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks Adam, glad you enjoyed it! [Wil]

[@Alfonso_111]

Just ordered a CF 7! Frothing! Cheers for the great videos and reviews guys. Excellent work as always.

[@Allinho2008]

Always thorough and entertaining reviews. Really covers all aspects of the bike. Even answered the question I had of Spectral vs Strive. Lovely footage of the town of Beechworth! That steak looked awesome, and so did the pizza at the end of the review. Those cafe and restaurants seem bike friendly also.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed the review and the new Ride High Country Test Sessions format - we'll keep 'em coming! [Mick & Wil]

[@benmason7620]

Tough job mick but someone’s got to do it! Rad review and combining it with a look around Beechworth is even radererah 🤙

[@kilasracingfactory]

Fantastic video guys! Love the videography and you guys seem very chill and knowledgeable.

[@jarrodglenister1248]

Quality as always gents 👌

[@kinch04]

your video qualities are far and away the best... and I've watched all of the youtubes lol

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks very much Alex, glad you enjoyed the review! [Wil]

[@ds4pave]

Yay!!!... Mick is back - the world regains some order. Love the review and thanks, but, still love my Rocky Mountain Instinct BC.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks Lisa! I wish I could help regain world order with more than this video, but we will keep trying! [Mick]

[@StraightLine_MTB]

Love the vibe of this review. Looks amazing.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Cheers mate, glad you dig it! [Wil]

[@double-oseven5725]

Fantastic u blokes...what a day out!! Appreciate it

[@michaelferguson7371]

You guys have the best job in the world!

[@jeffreykeena9050]

Keep up the awesome reviews! Wouldnt mind seeing a video comparing the agressive trail bikes.

[@Jump-n-smash]

Excellent review. Thank you.

[@polo94700]

Very pleased and happy with this bike.

[@dominiquejaner7424]

Thank you , super vidéo !!! 👌👌👌

[@brownsworthy7323]

Looks like a beautiful place to ride with a bonus of great brewers nearby, what more could you ask for!

[@ShitStefanShoots]

Here comes the Canyon Jeffsy. Was about time ;o)

[@MikhailLiakhovskiy]

Hello! Privet from Moscow. How do you do? ..

[@jantok9217]

Not really, Jeffsy is somewhere between Neuron and Spectral :)

[@ShitStefanShoots]

@@jantok9217 wrong. I just looked at the dimensions and angles of the 150/150 version for a 1.96m rider (me). They are nearly EXACTLY the same - the Spectral has a 4mm longer wheelbase but a shorter reach, so they slackened the fork by 1° The Neuron is not playing in that league. The wheelbase is 55mm shorter, the fork stands way more upright and the reach is about 40mm shorter than on the Jeffsy (fourty millimeters! that's like two frame sizes!) Next to the fact that the Neuron is a 130/130mm bike while Jeffsy and Spectral are both available in 150/150 and 150/160. I like Canyon bikes. When I bought my new bike (a YT Jeffsy), I started looking at Canyon and I would immediately have ordered a Spectral if it was available in 29. Canyon had the Neuron or the Strive ... and nothing in-between. By that time my choice came down to Jeffsy, Ibis Ripmo AF or Propain Tyee. I am happy with my bike and I see that Canyon now finally has a bike in that range, too.

[@janjayed]

Nice one lads

[@oskarstaudte]

Yeah I'm getting one I'm sold

[@dannysmtbaventures3464]

sick vid im going to buy one soon

[@sliedude]

Fantastic video guys. Not only informative about the bike but really showcases the Beechworth trails and surrounds. Great stuff

[@NotTheLarryDavid]

Terrific review mixed with some welcomed lifestyle shots, chaps! Cheers.

[@bergiep]

Great review. I'm sure that the restaurant will allow you to enjoy your meal without your helmets..😁

[@valgeirg]

My order has now been placed!

[@tcandeuyt]

Hi guys. Thanks a lot for the great review. I’m very curious to know how this bike compares to the specialized stumpjumper (non-evo) when it comes to climbing. I’m trying to decide which one to buy, and for me, climbing easily is very important. Thanks a lot!

[@MrSupermugen]

if you didnt make up your mind, the spectral(mullet) climbs better than my evo did.

[@mitchturton8527]

Wonder if they will make a torque 29 or a strive 27.5

[@drappennen5704]

Great review, as always. I’m on the Strive and love it but this evolution Spectral looks awesome! Ps that turtle was like don’t put me over there. Don’t you know how long it took to get where I was?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

😂

[@idado72]

Great review , the pizzas are getting cold eat it!

[@surfinwaves4769]

Thanks guys for another review ... the one I’m waiting for though is the Supercaliber.... is that happening soon?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Certainly is mate! We're deep in testing with the Supercaliber at the moment, with some pretty rad changes to explore its versatility - stay tuned to the website for the in-depth review coming soon! [Wil]

[@rubenconzales9718]

Your pizza is getting cold while summarizing the bike!

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

I can tell you it didn't last long once the shoot was over! [Wil]

[@Sarncho]

Very tempted to swap my 27.5 Spectral for this...have been toying with switching to a 29er....Dunnnnnooo

[@NotTheLarryDavid]

I'm doing it!

[@tinman8888]

Awesome review guys 👌🏼How do you think the 160mm fork rig would go on the Blues & Blacks in Derby?

[@dbmscreen]

love it also. I hope there's a 27.5 version for this beautiful frame

[@gordonbloe6959]

Did you buy it? Or hear something good of it?

[@camwells9726]

How would you compare it to other trail bikes ? Such as fuel , trance etc .

[@wilcomtv]

How I wish can offord this bike Shout out lods Watching from taiwan

[@petesahad3028]

For everyone buying it, the 22 and 23 models are the same, it's a great bike but i highly recommend getting rid of the Canyon stem IMMEDIATLY. Otherwise you'll be experiencing the "creak frog" which tends to drive riders insane😬 you'll have to find a fitting upper head set but it works and gets you a quiet ripper.

[@finbox1000]

Great review lads, as always. How does it compare to the Norco sight c2?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks for the feedback Finn! I've not ridden the Sight C2 myself, only the Sight A1 (reviewed here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ramXhKKmebaoZrs). Both bikes are pretty similar on paper, with progressive geometry, the same amount of suspension travel and a tough build kit, though on the trail the experience is a bit different. Overall the Sight is a great pedalling bike, and the suspension is plenty supple and active, though I found it to be an easy bike to bottom out, unless I packed the rear shock full of volume spacers, and even then it felt a bit linear to me. In comparison, the Spectral is much more progressive, and I actually had to downsize the volume in order to free up the end of the travel. Overall the suspension is a bit peppier than the Sight. Bear in mind that the Sight A1 I tested had a RockShox Super Deluxe shock - I haven't ridden the C2 with the Float X2 shock, so I can't comment on the suspension performance with that setup. We've also found the Spectral 29 to be a pretty easy trail bike to manoeuvre for a big travel bike, and a lot of that comes down to the stiff carbon chassis, though it's also due to the dynamic geometry and handling package. The Sight does have more trail (136mm vs 122mm), which means the steering is exceptionally stable, but quite lethargic at lower speeds and on more undulating terrain. Hope that helps Finn! [Wil]

[@finbox1000]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin mate that’s epic! Thanks very much. Just got to decide what’s best for my local trails. Queenstown NZ. Everything from alpine, to flow and steep technical trails 🤔 Thanks again guys. 👊

[@jfinn9827]

Can you switch the pedals on this bike to flat ones and if so what flat pedal options are available for the shimono xt cranks?

[@martosbasslines1984]

Did you take it down the Woolshed falls trail. Thought I saw a glimpse of the accommodation at the start of the clip

[@djsaintb]

Thoughts the US version of CF 7 components? I know it's all relative, but worth ponying up the extra $1K for the CF 8 (for an occasional rider just getting back into the sport after 20 years)?

[@colhutchins]

Thanks for the review. You guys produce some really great and helpful content! Are you going to review the new aluminium version? I'm keen to see how it compares being 15 plus kg. Cheers :-)

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey there Colin! We're hoping to get our hands on the alloy version, though they're a bit thin on the ground at the moment - fingers crossed we'll have one in soon for a review! [Wil]

[@colhutchins]

Cheers for the heads up mate. It seems most bikes are a bit thin on the ground these days. I'll keep an eye out for it.

[@hambo76]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin I'd love to see a AL 29/125 back to back review - I ride Cairns so I don't know which would suit me better (I don't do jumps or extreme steep stuff).

[@1969Escobar]

Nice bike but THAT PIZZA !! WINS !! cheers ✌

[@djavenmora3405]

Should I expect the bike i ordered to be shipped earlier than expected or later?

[@ronandodoyle]

Hey guys great video, can you tell me what height you guys are to get an idea of sizing I see you are on a Medium test bike. Thanks

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey there Ronan! There's a lot more info on sizing and setup in the full review - have you had a chance to check it out? flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ As mentioned in the review, Mick stands at 178cm tall, and I stand at 175cm tall, and we've both been riding a Medium. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@cas_waterpas8629]

I love te see the aluminium version getting added. Otherwise I will still get the 27.5 model

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Us too - an alloy Spectral 29 would surely be a very popular option. Though given the alloy Neuron took 12 months to come out after the carbon Neuron, we wouldn't be surprised to see Canyon do a similar thing with the Spectral 29. [Wil]

[@chrisrenton4941]

Hey Will - Great review! Would you go Spectral CF 8.0 or Pivot Switchblade Race XO1?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Cheers Chris, glad you enjoyed the review! Ooh good question on the Spectral vs Switchblade. Though straight up, there's a hefty difference in price between those two bikes, with the Switchblade Race X01 coming in at $9,999 AUD. Even with shipping factored in, the Spectral CF 8.0 still costs considerably less at $6,477 AUD. Price and spec aside, both bikes are extremely capable long-travel trail/AM bikes, which are well suited to riding some very technical terrain. And short of some of the gnarlier EWS race tracks, they'd make for fine enduro race bikes too. While there's little to complain about on the Spectral, the finish quality of the Switchblade is just that little bit higher, and the suspension performance and ride quality is impeccable too. It's a little more efficient under pedalling, but it's the way the rear suspension gobbles up square-edge hits that makes it so impressive on rough terrain. It has a lovely floaty quality, which gives it terrific stability at speed, without having to resort to really slack geometry. The price is right up there for sure, but so is the performance and build quality. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@chrisrenton4941]

Hey Will, great perspective thanks as respect your opinion. Bought a Giant Trance advanced pro 1 29 last year based on your review. And have ordered the Pivot partially due to your review but also the best bike I could actually get with supply Covid Supply Challenges. Your review of the Spectral got me thinking. Even though the Picot is pricy as hell rode a mates bike and loved it. Thanks again Will - keep the stellar reviews coming.

[@URockMyWorlds]

Great ! What about occam comparison?

[@adrianch3539]

Would you say it's more trail or enduro bike? I'm looking for the bike that will be really universal , so I can do long routes with both uphill and downhill, but also more technical downhill in bikepark from time to time. I was looking at Trek Fuel EX 8 GX, but this Canyon in CF 7 version looks interesting too. Which of the two would you choose for that job?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Good question Adrian! Canyon is referring to the Spectral 29 as an aggro trail bike, and keeping the Strive as the enduro race bike. However, the geometry is more progressive on the Spectral 29, and given the amount of travel that's on tap, I'd have no qualms using it for enduro racing. Compared to the Fuel EX, the Spectral 29 is for sure the bigger and burlier option. It's got more travel, a slacker head angle, and a longer reach, which means it'll be better suited to more technical downhills and bike park use. For that kind of job, I'd recommend the Spectral 29 for sure. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@lorenzo_maggi]

What you think compared to the 27,5 model for a trially riding style? Does the wheel size and geometry affect the maneuveability and exchange playfulness for speed and stability?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hullo Lorenzo! There's a fair bit of comparative info between the Spectral 27.5 and the Spectral 29 in both the video and in the full review (check it out here if you get the chance: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/), where we talk about the advantages of the smaller 27.5in wheels when it comes to playfulness and agility. Canyon will be keeping the Spectral 27.5 in its lineup for that reason, though it'll be interesting to see if they introduce a newer version at some point in the future, as there are a few shortcomings with the geometry on that bike. [Wil]

[@lorenzo_maggi]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin thank you!

[@ioannisparaskevopoulos1120]

Awesome bike! Can a Fox 38 or Zeb be fitted on the bike? How does it compare to the new Evo as far as overall performance is concerned? Keep up the good job!

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks Ioannis, glad you enjoyed our video review! Sure, you could fit a Fox 38 or ZEB onto the Spectral 29, though I believe 160mm is the maximum travel you can fit up front. In regards to the comparison with the Stumpjumper EVO, we made a detailed comparison in the review, which I reckon will help answer your question; flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ Hope that helps pal! [Wil]

[@ioannisparaskevopoulos1120]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Thanks a lot guys , you always make very detailed reviews on the bikes, keep up the good work!

[@dominichook8423]

Any updates on the Turtle Friend???

[@markdalpra5702]

Hi Wil, Firstly, I really appreciate your great reviews. I bought a Spectral 29 CF9 with the Rockshox / SRAM package. I was riding it in Bright on Hero trail. I was on the rough section through the forest after the first road crossing and the bike bucked me as I was going over repeated bumps (bizarrely, it hadn’t done this on the prior dozen runs). I avoided going over the handle bars, but lost my pedal, landed on the rear wheel and jammed my abdomen into the back of the seat. V painful! I’m trying to decide if this bike is inherently likely to buck or if this can be fixed with further suspension tuning? I’m quite light at 67kg. I never experienced this on my prior bike (Trance Advance). While your test bike had Fox suspension, Canyon told me they are tuned to be similar. Did reducing the volume token fully fix the bucking issue for you? I’m trying to decide if I keep the bike or return it, hence I’m interested in your views. Thanks, Mark.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hello Mark, thanks for watching and for your feedback - much appreciated mate! In regards to your question about your Spectral CF 9, that's quite strange, particularly if you had a dozen runs on the same trail without issue. Has the overall feel of the shock changed, or was it just a single isolated incident? And how have you found the suspension performance overall? If the bike is riding fine 95% of the time, and it was just that single isolated incident, then it could have simply been a random impact that caused the back end to behave in a particular way. Personally, I'd be pretty knackered after a dozen runs down Hero trail myself! However, if you're finding the bike is bucking all the time, then there may be an issue that can be resolved with tuning, or there may be a problem deeper within the shock damper. In our experience, we found the stock tune on the Spectral CF 8 to be too progressive out of the box for our riding style. I downsized the shock volume spacer to increase the air volume and create a more linear feel to the suspension. That allowed me to access more of the travel, and it also gave a more compliant feel, especially deeper in the travel. We're a similar weight, so you may want to explore doing the same with your CF 9. If the suspension is too progressive, then it can certainly result in more of a 'bucking' sensation on faster impacts. Try removing a volume spacer, and see how you go. If you're still finding the suspension is doing weird things, then I'd recommend getting in touch with SRAM to investigate further. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@markdalpra5702]

Hi Wil, Thanks for the quick reply and advice on the volume spacers. To answer your questions, the suspension was generally fine and I hadn’t noticed a change. While it was my 12th run, it was over 2 days and it was my 3rd of the day, so I was fresh. This was the first time I experienced the bike ‘bucking’ (I retired for the day thereafter!), so it could have been a random hit, but still something I’d like to avoid! I’d be interested to know if you experienced any further ‘bucking’ after you downsized the spacer or if this seemed to resolve it? Thanks, Mark. and

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

​@@markdalpra5702 - I can't say either of us experienced the rear of the bike bucking that badly, either pre or post-volume spacer change. It's not to say it couldn't happen, just that it wasn't a serious issue that we encountered. That said, I definitely found the suspension too progressive out of the box, which meant I struggled to get full travel. And on faster rapid-fire, machine-gun rock gardens, I did find the back end to feel overly firm in the latter part of the travel. Being on the lighter side, this isn't a totally uncommon for me on big travel bikes. I had a similar experience with the Pivot Switchblade, and like the Spectral 29, I downsized the volume spacer to give the back end a more appropriate setup for my weight and riding style. In both cases, downsizing the volume spacer got me access to more travel, and it helped to smoothen out the last portion of the stroke. You do get a slightly 'calmer' feel from this change, particularly on really rocky, high-speed chunder, though it's something that's more noticeable with flat pedals (I generally favour a more linear setup with flat pedals). Swapping around volume spacers is a relatively quick and easy process, so I'd recommend trying that to see how you go. Evaluating sag and travel use is also key to making a judgment call on volume, so make sure you keep an eye on those with any changes you make. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@markdalpra5702]

Thanks Wil. Much appreciated.

[@PBeBeR974]

same FlipCHip que le Jeffsy... Le défaut connu(fissure/cracked) base arrière a été corrigé : +de matière au Point piVot et ajout 1 Bridge entre les 2 haubans suP... Dommage pr le DownTube Protector . On attend la version FULL Alu !

[@mjmtb3246]

Can we wait for an al version

[@jeffloucks2120]

I'm sure it's coming but growing tired of waiting to pull the trigger on a bike for the past year.

[@stephenrodger8423]

Thanks for all the great reviews guys. Currently in the market for a new whip! Looking at a Spectral CF 7 which is a touch slacker at 64.5 upfront than I was intending to go. Had been looking around a Fuel EX, Stumpjumper etc...but hey :) How would you guys compare the Spectral to the Trance X - would probably be the X 2 as Giant Carbon is $$$$. Thanks

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Thanks for watching and for the question Stephen! The Trance X is a terrific trail bike with a comfortable riding position and nicely progressive geometry - the steep seat angle in particular makes it a great climber. It's got a bit less travel than the Spectral 29 (10mm less at the front and 15mm less at the back). On bigger hits, you notice the extra suspension and support from the Spectral 29, which is more progressive too. The geometry is also longer and slacker on the Spectral 29, and that gives it a roomier cockpit and it's more planted feel at speed, the front end is very confidence inspiring. If I was to generalise, I'd say the Trance X gives off more of a trail vibe, while the Spectral 29 gives off more of an enduro vibe. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@stephenrodger8423]

Thanks Wil 😎 Decisions decisions....

[@Adzzaa]

@@stephenrodger8423 I’ve got the same decision to make Giant Trance X advanced 2 or the Spectral ...Have you made your decision yet?

[@dutchdude123]

So i am not the only one having this options. Still doubts about spectral trance and radon slide trail.

[@Adzzaa]

@@dutchdude123 💯 I’m actually now thinking shorter travel might go for the YT Izzo ...If only I had enough money to buy 2 bikes.

[@mitchbloxsom5695]

I'd love to see how it compares to the Commencal Meta TR.

[@mitchturton8527]

Or the YT jeffsy

[@joeblack4026]

agree

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Good news Mitch! We've got a Commencal Meta TR on test right now, and the full review will be hitting the website in the coming weeks - stay tuned for that, as we'll also be comparing it directly with the Spectral 29 after testing both bikes back-to-back on the same trails. [Wil]

[@mitchbloxsom5695]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Awesome!

[@pierrebroccoli.9396]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Good stuff but also, how does it stack against the established mid travel 29er's like the Norco Sight or the newer Trek Slash? I'm on the previous version of the Trek and aside from the seat tube angle, the Spectral 29 seems quite similar but with nicer spec to the 2019 9.8 Slash. Though it has a stiff frame the Spectral in your build is still rolling on Al but good quality rims which would help a bit with harshness. If I was in the market for a mid travel 29er - it would be high on the list. BTW Beechworth Bike Park looks great. Wish one day to get out there when all this virus thing has quietened down but for now, I 'll stick to my snow and ice laidened chunk tech forest trails in Finland on the Slash. :)

[@ZachD]

I am 6'3" w/ 35 inch inseam and canyon says I would be a large. Was expecting them to recommend an XL. Anyone have any feedback on sizing?

[@wesleybiesen4502]

I’m the same as you. Almost 6’4 and 35” inseam. Never been told I need a Large

[@fogo1832]

What size bike was used in this and how tall are the rider/s?

[@riffmeisterkl]

It’s so crazy slack looks more like DH bike of old

[@slickdusud]

hi, i'm interested in this bike but i'm afraid to find the very progressive rear suspension too hard for my tastes .. could you tell me more about the comfort of this bike on small and medium shocks ? is all travel used correctly ? Does it still provide a soft feeling on the trails or is it very (too) hard? Thanks you for your answers and sorry for my poor english ;-)

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hi there pal! Hopefully we got across the point regarding suspension performance, chassis stiffness and overall comfort in the review, though if you haven't checked it out already, be sure to read it here: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ Personally, we found the suspension to be too progressive out of the box, and downsizing the volume spacer helped to free up the travel considerably, making the suspension a little softer and more active in the last 3rd of the travel. Once dialled in, the suspension works really well, though it's not as gooey as a bike like the Stumpjumper EVO or the Trek Slash. Instead, the Spectral 29 is a little poppier and more responsive, with excellent pedal efficiency and big-hit support. I wouldn't describe it as being uncomfortable at all, but if you're riding at slower speeds and with less aggression, the stiff frame does pass on more feedback to the rider. That's the tradeoff for having a tight and responsive feel elsewhere though, and it's a big reason why the Spectral 29 is surprisingly agile for its size and travel. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@slickdusud]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin thank you very much for your answer !

[@glenvanhest7778]

Given all the new bikes out at the moment is it still worth spending all that money on the Pivot Switchblade?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey there Glen! The Switchblade is for sure one of the most refined bikes going in this category - the build quality and engineering is outstanding, and the quality of the dw-link suspension is one of the best I've ridden. Loads of natural efficiency, but still able to swallow big hits quickly, keeping you rolling along smoothly and confidently at speed. The geometry is a little less raked-out compared to the Spectral 29, which gives the Switchblade a slightly more nimble and manageable feel on the trail. It's a helluva a lot more money than the Spectral 29, but if you're looking for something different with the premium performance to back it up, it's a top choice for sure. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@tinman8888]

How did Mick find the reach on the M at 178cm tall?

[@expositovisuals2921]

Did you try a M size during the testing? I am 1,73 and was suggested to purchase a S size, what do you think?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

We certainly did mate! There's quite a bit more info about sizing and fit in the review if you get the chance to check it out: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ You're a bit shorter than me (I stand at 175cm tall), so there's a chance you'd find the Medium to be too big. It's definitely a long bike in terms of the reach and effective top tube measurement, which is different from previous Canyon's I've tested that have always sized up a bit small. Take a close look at that reach measurement on the Small and Medium sizes, and consider what you've ridden previously and how it would compare. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@expositovisuals2921]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin well, it helps a lot, the video was clear and very informative. The article was spot on. I decided for a S size. Thanks for your support

[@Johnvdubable]

Will, I'm sure I read or watched you say you are 175cm tall. The spectral 29 sizes are S up to 175 and M 175-183. I am also bang on 175cm and just ordered the M. Do you think it'll be too big. I'm not an experienced rider but happy on reds and the occasional black in a bike park.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey there John! We went into quite a lot more detail regarding sizing and fit in the full review (check it out here if you get the chance: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/). As mentioned, Mick is 178cm tall and I'm 175cm tall, and we both got along with the Medium size well. I've had issues in the past with other Canyon trail bikes being too long in the seat tube, and that meant the minimum saddle height could occasionally be too tall for my legs. The Spectral 29 is a bit shorter in the seat tube, which helps, but it's still something to watch for riders who are on the border between two sizes. For that reason, Canyon states its minimum and maximum saddle heights for each frame size, which should help prospective buyers. [Wil]

[@Johnvdubable]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin thanks for the reply. I have my medium now. Its a big bike and would have liked the opportunity to try a small for comparison. It'll never happen due to direct sales. I just made the LSR faster to make it more poppy. Feels super stable.

[@jg8273]

Wonder how this compares to the Ripmo V2....hmm

[@johnnnewmex]

Props to canyon for a threaded bb

[@Andrea-qg5yk]

i don't like that the RockShox equipped models are stepped down from the fox equipped models... no piggyback shock and shorter fork.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

I kind of agree with you, mostly from a consistency perspective - it seems strange that two models get a 150mm fork and lighter build kit, and the other two get a 160mm fork and heavier build kit. That makes things a little confusing from a buyer's perspective. That said, I'd love to try out the Spectral 29 with the lighter RockShox/SRAM build kit, just to see how it rides in comparison to the CF 8.0 [Wil]

[@dieseldog5964]

Do a comparison between a commercial meta tr 29 and the spectral 29

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

If you ask nicely, we'll consider it ;-)

[@nathancutler743]

Can you guys do a direct comparison video between this bike and the stumpy Evo?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey there Nathan! Not sure if you've seen the full review already, but we did make a direct comparison between the Stumpjumper EVO and the Spectral 29: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@nathancutler743]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin thanks. I just read the comparison! In the states the price gap is only 200 dollars between the Evo expert and the cf8!

[@thaZwizz]

What is the rider height ? Said he was riding a medium size. How the bike felt size wise ?I'm still struggling between the large and medium haha

[@yourickdh9467]

What did you buy?

[@leonardomirabal5898]

Hi, i ´m 170cm tall, i deffinitly would go for a size M 27er spectral but for the new 29er spectral that i want it seems like i should go to Size S, i´m affraid it would be too small for me, what do you guys think? thanks!

[@eymericvrsch4953]

Hello, I'm 171cm, and I've just ordered a S. I hope it will suit me 👍

[@chrisice007]

@@eymericvrsch4953 Do you got your bike yet? If so, does the S fit you well?

[@Adzzaa]

Which bike would you choose Giant Trance x pro 2 or the Canyon Spectral cf 8 ? And why

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hello pal! Personally, I don't think you'd go wrong with either, as the Trance X and Spectral 29 are both terrific trail bikes. In terms of spec for the money, the Spectral 29 is the better value option, with higher quality suspension, a piggyback shock, and a Shimano XT groupset. The geometry is pretty similar between the two, though the Spectral 29 is a touch slacker. The frame is also stiffer, and that gives it a more robust feel on the descents. If I were to generalise, I'd say the Spectral 29 feels a little more enduro overall, whereas the Trance X is a little more trail. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@Adzzaa]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Thanks champ....Too many great bikes to choose from.

[@lukeeastonwright1651]

Wish there was an aluminium

[@matissebeck265]

It’s fucking beautiful!

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Mick or Wil?

[@ladydominque3720]

I’m 6’5 which bike should I order?

[@motoface5984]

Ah man I miss Beechworth in so many ways....perhaps the climb up to the carpark not so much!!!

[@mellord83]

yeh me too. Used to go there often, an awesome 10km loop! Live down in Tassie these days so can't complain about places like Derby and St Helens not too far away. New trails popping everywhere around here at the moment.

[@maxvigna4781]

Do you think is possible to consider this new bike as an Enduro weapon instead of strive?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Absolutely Max! It's certainly capable for enduro use, and some riders may actually prefer it due to the slacker and longer front end (compared to the Strive). Of course it misses out on the Shapeshifter function of the Strive, which is a neat feature for improving pedal efficiency and the climbing position. But if you're not too worried about that, and you prefer a simpler setup, the Spectral 29 would make for a great enduro race bike. [Wil]

[@jirex1]

Hi guys, I am 182cm, canyon web site recommends to take M, I never had M before, shall I take L, what do you think? Thx

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hello mate! Good question - you're a fair bit taller than us (Mick is 178cm, I stand at 175cm), so I'd suggest that the cockpit on the Medium frame size might start to feel too compact for you. At 182cm tall, you're just on the cusp of fitting a Large size, so I'd take a close look at the geometry and the reach measurement to see if it might be the better option over the Medium. Here are the main differences in dimensions between those two sizes; - Reach: 485mm vs 460mm - Head tube: 115mm vs 105mm - Seat tube: 460mm vs 430mm I would look at the reach, effective top tube length, and stack height of your current bike, and compare that to the Spectral 29 to get an idea of how it will fit in comparison. One other thing you will need to consider is your saddle height. Canyon lists both the minimum and maximum saddle heights for each of its frame sizes in the geometry chart, so you'll want to make sure that your saddle height fits into that range, whether you're looking at a Medium or Large. Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@thefloydtube]

Hey mate, did you end up getting the large? If so how does the 485 reach work for you? I am also 182 and looking at the large.

[@joachimchigozie951]

Whats the size of the disc brakes?

[@samysdefer]

4:13 Excuse me? It says 5.999€ ($7.229) for the Spectral LTD. on their webpage.

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hello pal! You might be getting confused with different currencies there? All prices listed in our review are in Australian Dollars (AUD). Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@dominiquejaner7424]

Maybe another one About orbea rallon ? 😉

[@chrissouthwood2144]

How tall are Mick and Wil?

[@MikhailLiakhovskiy]

Hello! Privet from Moscow. How do you do? ..

[@MrChadLedford]

Has their customer service got any better? My experiences were pretty awful.

[@Excedorfine]

Torque or Spectral? What to choose?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Really depends on what sort of riding you want to do. The Torque is much more of a freeride/park-oriented bike with a greater priority on descending performance, whereas the Spectral 29 is more of an all-rounder trail bike. [Wil]

[@LeadMunitions]

Man you guys in Australia pay a bunch!!😂

[@BICIeCOMPUTERconGabriele]

An Australian dollar has way less value than US dollar, that has less value than Euro, than had less value than British pound.

[@YanDoroshenko]

That pizza tho.

[@glenvanhest7778]

Would you buy the Specialised Evo or this bike?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Personally? I would probably buy the Spectral 29 CF 8.0 over the Stumpjumper EVO Expert. If you get the chance Glen, we've made quite a detailed comparison between those two bikes in the review, which I reckon you'll find pretty useful: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ [Wil]

[@glenvanhest7778]

Totally agree with you regarding Specialised (would I really use those extras?) vs Canyon (fantastic value)

[@Windband1]

Okay so Mick was on a Commencal. When do we get to hear about that?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Good spotting! We spent a few days back-to-back testing the Meta TR with the Spectral 29, and while they're quite similar on paper, there are some clear differences on the trail. Full review of the Meta TR is coming very soon - keep your eyes on flowmountainbike.com for that one mate! [Wil]

[@Windband1]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Sounds great, I'll keep my eye out! Cheers mates.

[@slickdusud]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin please full review of the meta very soon ! i have to decide between spectral or meta !! :-)

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

@@Windband1 - Not sure if you saw this already, but the Meta TR review is now live, and it includes a detailed comparison with the Spectral: flowmountainbike.com/tests/review-2021-commencal-meta-tr-29-signature-aggressive-andorran/ [Wil]

[@bullcity5057]

Canyon Neuron CF 7 or Spectral 29 7

[@Bieffe]

May I know what's your rider hight for a M?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey pal! Loads of information about sizing and fit in the full review if you get the chance to check it out: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ As mentioned in there, I stand at 175cm tall and Mick is 178cm tall. [Wil]

[@RLICGNT]

Anyone know what that bottle and cage combo is?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey Ramon, the bottle cage is a Canyon Sideloader (www.canyon.com/en-au/gear/accessories/bottle-cages-and-bottles/bottle-cages/canyon-sideloader-bottle-cage/9100088.html?dwvar_9100088_pv_farbe=BK) and the bottle is a Canyon Fuel 600ml (www.canyon.com/en-au/gear/accessories/bottle-cages-and-bottles/bottles/canyon-fuel-bottle/9100041.html?dwvar_9100041_pv_farbe=BK). [Wil]

[@RLICGNT]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin Thank You! BTW This review is very informative and overall cinematically superb.

[@eymericvrsch4953]

At 5'7.5 would you guys recommend the medium or small ?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hi there pal! I stand at 175cm tall and Mick is 178cm tall, and we tested the Medium size in the Spectral 29, which fit us both well. It's quite a long bike with a 460mm reach and a nice, open cockpit. My saddle height is around 70cm, and I had a little bit of adjustment left in the seatpost height, so it could have gone about 10mm lower if needed. You're a little shorter than I am, so there's a chance you might find the Medium to be a little too long in the top tube, and depending on the length of your legs and your saddle height, you may find the minimum saddle height to be too tall. I'd recommend having a close look at the reach measurements for the Small and Medium, and compare those with the bike you're riding now. Also have a look at the 'Seat Height' range in Canyon's geometry chart, as that will tell you what the min/max saddle height is for each size. Hope that helps! [Wil]

[@martsmarts]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin hello Wil, interesting reply. I'm at 180cm and tossing around Medium or Large. With your given height, how small or how large does the medium frame feel for yah?

[@kilasracingfactory]

@@martsmarts same mate, what size did you go for?

[@martsmarts]

@@kilasracingfactory medium! More playful. i could chase the large frame reach with just a longer stem

[@kilasracingfactory]

@@martsmarts Thanks mate, really appreciate it. Looks like Canyons new Medium is like their old Large.

[@rileycornell8335]

Hey mate how tall and how do you feel on the medium

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hello Riley! I stand at 175cm tall, and Mick is 178cm tall. You'll find a load more info about sizing and fit in the review (flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/). Hope that helps mate! [Wil]

[@rileycornell8335]

@@FlowMountainBikeKZbin thankyou

[@akissparaskevopoulos]

How does it climb?

[@FlowMountainBikeYouTube]

Hey cobber! Did you miss the whole segment on climbing? It starts from the 7:30 mark. There's also a load more detail about climbing in the full review here: flowmountainbike.com/tests/2021-canyon-spectral-29-cf-8-0-review/ That should answer your query pretty comprehensively, though just shout out if you've got any more questions mate! [Wil]