Although the tried and tested Grizl CF, which slipped into our big group test as a latecomer, is one of the more affordable bikes, Canyon has given it the very latest SRAM Apex AXS. The shifting comfort and range is therefore the absolute best in this field, although the difference to mechanical groupsets is not quite as extreme in setups without front derailleurs as with. The Canyon looks even more elegant without any shift cable.
Canyon Grizl CF SL 6 AXS with excellent comfort
Of the gravel models from Koblenz, the Grizl is the more comfortable and more suitable for travelling, the more upright position on the top handlebar is comfortable even for hours. With significantly more weight on the saddle than on the handlebars, the imbalance between the two in terms of comfort is absolutely non-existent. On the contrary, the stiff front end actually provides good control, especially in the lower handlebar position, which is even just sporty. A carbon seatpost designed for significant flex gives the bike excellent comfort.
Thanks to the short shifting travel, there is a feeling of racing without having to change your grip on the handlebars, although this is held back a little by the weight. This is where the Grizl loses points in the overall standings to the Rose Backroad GRX RX820with which it shares the joint test victory. It is noticeable that the angle of the seat tube remains the same in all seven sizes, meaning that the riding position is somewhat sportier for smaller riders.
Our test rider attested to the Canyon's comfortable and touring-suitable riding position, which, with the Conway GRV 9.0 or Rose Backroad GRX RX820 is comparable. As up to 50 millimetre wide tyres fit through the fork and frame, the Grizl would be our choice for off-road adventures.
Riding comfort, equipment, travel features and, last but not least, the awesome price: the Canyon is a remarkable gravel bike. The only thing missing to make it a top all-rounder is a touch of sportiness.
More gravel bikes from the test
The Canyon Grizl CF SL 6 AXS in detail
- Price: 2499 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.73 kilos
- Frame sizes: 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL (test size greased)
- Note: 2.0 (test winner)
Features of the Canyon Grizl CF SL 6 AXS
- Brakes: SRAM Apex (160/160 mm) | Grade: 1.5
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Apex AXS (1x12; 40, 11-44 t.) | Grade: 2.0
- Tyres: Schwalbe G-One Bite 45 mm (eff.: 44 mm) | Grade: 1.0
- Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
- Impeller weights: 1872/2484 grams (front/rear)
Geometry of the gravel bike
- Seat/top/head tube: 501/565/139 millimetres
- Wheelbase/caster: 1040/65 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 597/395 millimetres / 1.51
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 643/557 millimetres / 1.15
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Modern shifting technology, excellent comfort, strong price-performance ratio
- Minus: Heavy wheels
