Review Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8 | Long-Term Test

Canyon Bicycles let us hang onto the Spectral 125 for a few extra months following our First Ride Review, to get a bunch more rides and understand exactly what rider this bike is for. The extra test rides we had planned turned into grabbing the mini-Spectral for every trail ride we went on for the past few months. The Canyon Spectral 125 is marketed by Canyon as the shredder’s trail bike and we can’t say they are far off. It is poppy, short, snappy, and responsive in all the right ways. It can’t all be shredding and slapping corners right? For this test we took the bike from our favorite shralpers to repeat loops on our local test tracks to really define where this bike fits in today’s genre-rich market.
THE DIRT
The Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8 model we received has the carbon fiber frame shod with a very solid parts kit, and for a touch over $5,000, it would be hard to get this kind of performance out of any other kit. We were stoked on the predictability of the Shimano Deore XT brakes and drivetrain, and the ease of setup and problem-free performance of the Fox suspension thus far. The paint is a very nice matte/gloss combo that has unfortunately seen some better days after some abusive UTV shuttles, long pedals in the rain, and pina coladas.
You would not expect a raked out, short chainstay bike to be the best climber in the world, but I have been very impressed at the agility and technical climbing performance of the Spectral 125. The poppy suspension allows the rider to move the bike up very technical terrain with short bursts of power and the rear end is compact enough to snap around the tightest of switchbacks. The front wheel can begin to wander a touch on the steepest of pitches, but if you’re a Spectral 125 rider you’ll probably have solid climbing muscles from all the repeat sessioning this bike begs you to do.
Climbing on sustained gradient fire roads is the only drawback of the Spectral 125, where the lively suspension has noticeable pedal bob, but that is easily remedied by flipping the platform switch on the shock to calm things down.
The flats and rolling terrain are really where you start to see Canyon’s Spectral 125 CF8 come alive. It pops off even the smallest of roots, turning every undulation into a natural jump. Pumping through trail compressions generates a reward of speed that’ll have you acting out your best Crankworx dual slalom race run on every descent. The short and stout rear end snaps turns with rabid agility, darting side to side on the trail with a quick tilt of the hips, and airing out of tight linked turns is effortless. The Spectral 125 is the kind of bike that challenges the connection of tire bead and rim frequently, as it encourages corners to be attacked like few others. You probably won’t want to take the most efficient line in wandering terrain, but you will definitely be having the most fun out of your buddies.
On long smooth downhills, the Spectral gives great confidence sending doubles and triples that punch way above the bike’s class. The ultra-progressive rear end feels nearly bottomless even when overshooting a landing, though beyond a certain size of hit your body can begin to take the toll. Thanks to the natural, relaxed position on the bike, it whips and tables with ease and feels like a 29-inch wheeled slopestyle bike on jumps.
The only place we saw the Spectral start to crack its cool demeanor was in rough, square-edged terrain, or repeated hard compressions. At high speeds, the rear shock starts to pack out and has trouble keeping you on line. This is made all the worse by the stable geometry and attacking body position, which can get you into these hairy situations fast. Luckily, you will be able to pop over most of these kind of problems as the bike just asks to be in the air at every opportunity.
The Wolf’s Last Word
The Canyon Spectral 125 CF8 is everything Canyon has marketed it as and more. It is confidence inspiring and can ride terrain we usually don’t think about taking a 125mm bike in. While it is not the fastest XC bike we have tested and starts to show its weakness in sustained big bike territory, it makes up for in good old, plain fun. If you are looking for a one bike quiver and like to keep the bike in the air as much as on the ground, the Canyon Spectral 125 CF8 is a very solid choice. Similarly, if you already have a burly long travel bike but want a bike that lets you maintain your aggro riding style with less travel that climbs and rolls much faster, this could be your match. Just know that this bike isn’t an XC racer and it’s not an enduro machine either, it is designed to offer the speed and playful demeanor of a shorter travel play bike with the geo and confidence of a bigger bike.
Price: $5,199
Weight: 30.4 lbs / 13.8 kg
Website: Canyon.com
Full Review: theloamwolf.com/2022/06/30/re...
#affordablemountainbike #mtbreview #canyonbikes #mountainbiking

[@HoneyBeagle]

Just snagged this exact bike color and all! Price has apparently come way down, I only gave $3200 for it. I had a standard spectral prior but I don’t have the talent or terrain to use that much bike so this thing is perfect for me and it does pedal extremely well in comparison. Where I live there’s nearly as much up as down so works great for me! Great video!

[@zfzmikey]

My Spectral 29 CF7 just got totaled, fell off the back of my dad's rig on the way up to the trail. I start searching around, and find this 125, and I think to myself, "this seems much more fitting for where I live and the trails I ride". Your video is the third I've watched on it, and sure enough, you're in Bend too! Serendipitous. Glad I found your channel, and you've got a local subscriber now!

[@IIISentorIII]

"fell off the back of my dad's rig" I stopped reading right there so i don't waste my time...

[@topchoice1621]

Absolutely love this bike 🚲

[@Pienimusta]

Definitely a category that is very welcome to expand.

[@danielgrafik]

Definitely looking at bikes in this category/style. I’ve had bigger enduro styled bikes before, but frankly I don’t have the skills to give them the speed where they come alive and makes sense, nor do I have local terrain, where they don’t just dull out most features or trails. It’s a bit like having a 1000 horsepower car you’ll never get to use on streets, versus a really lightweight, well handling go kart-ish car that’ll make you feel like a hero, even if you’re not going 10/10ths. Here’s to hoping you do a group test with these kinda bikes, soon.

[@siteofdaniel]

I'm in the same situation, so I'm looking at "down country" like the top fuel or spur or the 125.

[@danielgrafik]

@@siteofdaniel yeah it’s a big and exciting class of bikes. Also looking at the Optic, Tallboy, Ripley AF, RM element too.

[@TheLoamWolf]

As a matter of fact….

[@piciu256]

@@danielgrafik imo it's not the amount of travel that makes those big bikes feel sluggish, it's the geometry, the travel only affects how it feels when pumping, nothing else, and this bike has more aggressive angles than my 170mm travel bike, which I chose specifically because it's pretty dynamic (pedals like an XC bike and 65° ha is not too slack for lower speed trails)

[@danielgrafik]

@@piciu256 I have to say, my experience is quite the opposite. Having gone from a Santa Cruz Nomad, to a Bronson and then a 5010 - all in the same generation of models - the amount of travel plays a really big role, in the "liveliness" of bike. If you're looking to pump, jibb, bunny hop, sprint for take offs etc. etc. - especially on flatter, flowy-er terrain, travel is one of the biggest factors in "dulling" a trail. Heck go try an old school freeride bike from like the mid 2000's with Monster T up front. The may still have a steep (by todays standard) headangle, but they are also a pig to handle on any none black-diamond trail :) But when I wrote enduro-style bike, I wasn't only referring to the amount of travl. For my riding and trails, I don't need super burly forks like the 38's and Zebs, og DH/DD casing tires, or long chainstays, or reinforced frames etc. All stuff modern enduro bikes usually come with. I don't have an interest in all out speed, I'd much rather have a bike that's more nimble and easier to jump, pump, and hop, but with the added security and confidence in a slack head angle and long reach. That's where, I think, that these crop of bikes excel.

[@LexZolnir]

I am so subscribed i may need a 12-step program!

[@Beiberhole69RVA]

Trying to figure out what my next trail bike is gonna be, and this video helped, thanks! What frame-mounted enduro strap are you using for this review?

[@scottl8469]

Looking at this bike. I tend to do more miles, but the trails being constructed near me are getting more and more challenging. More east coast rocky though with no real long downhills. Be nice to see it reviewed in grinding chunk.

[@49cam13]

Im going to buy the new alloy version that comes out in september. Looks like an amazing bike for the price point. I too am on the east coast but I tend to ride more downhills when I can find them, and jump trails. Did you end up buying this?

[@McCoy343]

Cool Review! Are you going to test the Rocky Mountain Element for comparison?

[@justinheiser7605]

Have you ridden the Revel Rascal or Propain Hugene? Those 2 and the Spectral 125 are probably my current top 3 bikes on my wishlist.

[@gregorpeterek9337]

Oh, I just gave you the 912. thumbs up (sorry, no more Porsche numbers), but the video is too good :) Thanks for this beautiful Test.

[@TheLoamWolf]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@gregorpeterek9337]

@@TheLoamWolf should have seen it before I ordered my Jeffsy ... Canyon Germany gots the base model for only 1.599€. I wasn´t sure because of the 125mm but.... now It seems like a really nice bike I miss.

[@joshstokmans5534]

@theloamwolf would you recommend the spectral 125 or the Norco Fluid FS A1 as a daily driver? Climbing and XC makes up about half my riding so that matters a fair bit. Which of the two would you say is a better climber?

[@siteofdaniel]

This cat of bike is prob my next bike.

[@DawnThief23]

Got a v10 and a norco optic with 125/140 the perfect combo!

[@jlcousineau]

I have an optic with 150mm up front and a Scott gambler dh bike. I could not agree more. I still think the optic is the only one to nail this style of bike, the suspension kinemetics cannot be beat.

[@christianbolstad3032]

I’ve got a 2022 torque. Would the spectral 125 be a good addition to the quiver for everyday trail riding or would you recommend the neuron? I’m not sure if it would be too similar to my torque

[@MikiManita]

Hi. Neuron or Spectral 125 for mountain travel and the occasional flow singieltrack? I am 179 cm tall and the leg length is 84 cm also Spectral, I would definitely take M like you and Neuron maybe L as the seat tube allows?

[@kangsterizer]

i find the issue is exactly as stated, short travel works fine on smooth trails. as soon as it gets bumpiers and chattery the bike will still work but not be all that great. i suspect ppl will buy these for the hype and either have multiple bike or sell it back for cheap when they realize its rattly on chunky stuff.. which is when ill buy it lol.

[@wittwer427]

I just ordered one of these. It’s going to be my second bike behind my big enduro bike. Mainly I was looking for something that would be enjoyable on longer less aggressive rides than I would want to take an enduro bike on, and get into some more alpine back country riding.

[@thereignofthezero225]

Most trails are fairly smooth though. I don't know about you, but I dont ride my bike through rock gardens or over washboard bumps all day.

[@kangsterizer]

@@thereignofthezero225 guess i do lol. it really depends where you ride and stuff.

[@christopherhurst4224]

I’ve been on this wip for about 2 months now. Riding Michaux and Mont Alto in southern pa. Plenty of chunck all day around here. I’ve ripped it down some very fast rocky trails and it feels super stable. I’m 200lbs 5’11” riding a larger also. I will be getting 30mm rise bars to shorten the reach a bit and she will be dialed.

[@shanemilehi]

Have you tested the izzo core 4?

[@chrismohr1905]

Curious if this is a good all rounder for a beginner looking to explore the sport, esp in alloy.

[@bitumen83]

I would like to see Spectral 125 b2b 150mm version of this bike testing.

[@hambo76]

Preferably the alloy versions!

[@hambo76]

@theloamwolf Any chance of requesting alloy versions?

[@86309]

is that the Grip or Grip II on the performance level

[@IIISentorIII]

Get ready to shred the gnarly trails with the Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8, the ultimate weapon for sending it with steezy style! This bike is a beast that'll make you feel like a total ripper, tackling the techiest terrain with ease. With its playful and lively geometry, the Spectral 125 CF 8 is built to flow through the trail like a gazelle on a dance floor. The slack head angle and long reach make it a true shredding machine, allowing you to huck those jumps and boost off lips like a pro. No obstacle will stand in your way as you effortlessly nose bonk your way to mountain biking glory. But it's not just about sending it big. This bike is also a techy wizard, thanks to its top-notch components. The suspension, with its squishy travel, will soak up every bit of chunder that comes your way, leaving you grinning ear to ear. The rigid frame ensures precise handling, allowing you to whip through tight corners and jank sections like a champ. And let's not forget about the loam-loving tires that come with the Spectral 125 CF 8. They grip the trail like a vice, allowing you to maintain maximum speed while keeping you glued to the ground. Whether you're railing berms or manualing through sections, these tires will keep you in control and feeling like an absolute legend. When you hop on the Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8, it's time to rake and ride, creating new trails and leaving a trail of stoke in your wake. With its gnarly capabilities, you'll be pinning it down the mountain, shouting "shred!" at the top of your lungs. So, if you're ready to experience the ridiculous awesomeness of the Canyon Spectral 125 CF 8, get your gear on, grab your bike, and get ready to send it like never before. This bike is the epitome of mountain biking excellence, and it's ready to take you on the wildest adventures imaginable. Get ready to unleash your inner mountain bike maestro and embrace the sheer thrill of the ride!

[@Mhirsch85]

Does anyone ride the 125 in the Midwest? I’m moving from Colorado where I have been riding a Yeti Sb5.5 XL. 160/140 travel. Would the 125 cover most trails in MN/MI/Neb/ Wi? Also trying to figure out which side. I’m 6’3 200 lbs with a 34 in inseam. Large or XL?!

[@ianswayne7296]

I was 420th like.

[@souhaibz]

Too bad you didn't try the high setting, which makes sense according to other tests..

[@hambo76]

I'm based in Smithfield, Cairns and my riding is on a hardcore hardtail (Ragley Big Al) and comprises of tight, punchy and rooty climbs, switchbacks and long flowy downhill sections. I'm tempted by the 150mm travel Spectral 29 AL 5 for the value aspect but the 125 AL 6 speaks to me! I'm 6'5" tall and 220lbs so not sure if this should be a factor in my decision! Also, any plans to review the aluminium models?

[@chriscathcart5114]

Hey Hambo I'm based on Sunny Coast love my Big Al. Smithfield definitely on to do list

[@hambo76]

@@chriscathcart5114 I love mine too but it's time to move onto full squish. 34 years of riding hardtails (on and off) isn't a bad run! Don't forget Atherton and Davies Creek.

[@chriscathcart5114]

@@hambo76 I'm hearin ya. My 51 yr old frame does feel it. Also have Ripley AF great bike. Atherton and Davies on list as well. Hopefully next winter

[@hambo76]

@@chriscathcart5114 The Ripley is the bike I really want - but sadly it's $1,500 more than I'd like to pay!

[@Hardworkpays209]

I feel like the regular stumpy is in this category as well super capable trail bike with big bike geo

[@hambo76]

It is a great bike but much more expensive for what you get compared to the Canyon.

[@core-i7413]

@@hambo76 Yeah, the Canyon offers better components for the price range, but Specialized offers a better frame for the price range. I'd lean more onto Canyon, as I never liked how pointlessly expensive Specialized made their bikes.

[@JC-un4bg]

This could be just the bike always wanted a epic. But they are overpriced About the rest of specialized stuff . I like the soft hard tail thing

[@pierrecarriere6845]

Or you can put more volume spacers in your Spectral 29 when you ride mellower trails instead of buying a second bike... :)

[@mrxy4254]

Is it a good allrounder? I wana bye my first fully for 3k. I need a bike for some fun downhill( not too crazy) but also for some tours...

[@TheLoamWolf]

Its decent, but there are better options out there. We would look into something with 130 / 140 mm of rear travel. The Vitus Mythique AMP comes to mind, which is a better pedaler yet very capable on the descents and has one of the best specs for the dollar. YT Jeffsy is also a solid recommendation.

[@JamesRobertMTB]

This thing looks so playful to ride !

[@TheLoamWolf]

It’s so playful!!

[@wtfchazpwnt]

Cool bike but I'd rather have a more playful 125mm travel trail bike and a 150mm+ travel enduro.

[@pukki34]

And the chain hits the chainstay near the front chainring. Somehow you didnt mention this or the lousy headset it comes with :D

[@mutleyadamsracing2684]

Ive got the 125 cf9 and replaced the topcap on the headset as well as the goofy aero spacers with regular spacers. Ive ridden the bike 4 times on chunky trail and havent noticed the chain vs chainstay issue you mentioned. The bike is fun to ride on fast chunky descents and carries speed very well on flowing xc trail. Its not meant for smashing through rough rock gardens or sending off steep drops like a enduro bike.

[@C22RLD]

What about a cross countryists enduro bike? When your soul is fast and steep bikes but need something for inspiring confidence when riding with enduro minded pals

[@MasterChronometer]

Everyone thinks they ride really gnarly shit but in reality most people could get away with a shorter travel bike.

[@piciu256]

Have you ridden a proper Enduro bike though? I agree that most causal riders don't need so much bike, but it doesn't hurt anything either and does give a margin for error if you do screw up on a rougher trail, not even gonna mention the improved control and comfort over roots and rocks. Sure, if someone doesn't rude such terrain, large travel is unnecessary, but I don't see anyone riding only smooth trails on a 170mm Enduro bike, and 140mm isn't too much for anything imo, while 120 is definitely too little for most stuff.

[@MasterChronometer]

@@piciu256 I have 160mm and 120mm bike. The big rig doesn’t get a look in anymore, the trail bike is way more fun. I ride steep rocky trails for reference.

[@jamieplourde8735]

I am 5' 11" and I think you mentioned that was also you height. I am torn between getting a medium which is what the Canyon site specs out or a large. Hearing you say that you would prefer the medium as it would increase your ability to huck it up more makes me lean more towards the medium. Do you have any other advice on the bike size and rider height?

[@pj85438]

I am 179cm (5'10"ish) and I have a Neuron M and it fits great. I find the reach 433mm on the Neuron to be a little short for my riding so I'm thinking of swapping to Spectral. The spectral 125 is 460mm reach and I feel that would be great for my height a d more aggressive riding. My friends Norco has around 475 and I wasn't uncomfortable on that but a little less would be better. The spectral is right in the middle so I think it would be perfect

[@MikiManita]

Hi. Neuron or Spectral 125 for mountain travel and the occasional flow singieltrack? I am 179 cm tall and the leg length is 84 cm also Spectral, I would definitely take M like you and Neuron maybe L as the seat tube allows?

[@jamieplourde8735]

@@MikiManita I ended up taking a chance on a large Spectral and am really glad I did. My legs are average length but my body and arms are on the long side. It fits me great the only issue as you would expect is the dropper length but I have found a possible solution for that with a shim kit.

[@markkumarkku]

Yooo what is that top tube bag?

[@TheLoamWolf]

It's factory straight from Canyon, i believe of their own design.

[@markkumarkku]

@@TheLoamWolf Damn they must not sell it anymore, as it’s not on their website 😔 Looking for something similar for my spectral 125 cf 7!

[@FreeLander5280]

At first glance it looked just like a YT

[@zacharypump5910]

If you end up riding this bike for a flat stretch farther than10 miles, is it basically just going to feel like pedaling a cow? I'm going to guess like 90% of riders want a general purpose trail bike that can handle a verity of situations. If I'm going to the crazy DH chair lift bike park once a year, I'm just going to rent a bike to do that anyways. Geo-wise the spectral 125 just seems like a stupid bike, but by all means someone who's lived with it long term, please LMK :) I predict this time next year, all manufactures will be reverting away from crazy slack HT angles.

[@GHinWI]

So much skidding…

[@gweflj]

So rad bro.