With aero cockpit and storage compartment: First test of the new Canyon Grail

Hardly any other model from the German mail order company and manufacturer has led to more discussion in the recent past than the original Grail model. Not everyone liked the design with double handlebars, and the cockpit could hardly be customised to individual requirements. Five years later, Canyon is saying goodbye to the unconventional concept and giving the second-generation Grail a comprehensive makeover: with a new handlebar-stem combination, aero optimisation and many luggage options.

Aero cockpit instead of double bar

"The Grail is one of the best gravel bikes - but not necessarily because of the double bar," was the TOUR verdict in the test of the first model (grade 1.6). The suspension effect was only minimally noticeable in the top handlebar position, so the benefit was limited. In addition, the conspicuous design offered plenty of resistance to the wind - not the best prerequisite for a competitive gravel bike like the Grail.

The new one-piece cockpit with a single bar and large flare (16 degrees) is now designed to combine ergonomics with aerodynamics. Due to its wing shape, the control centre in Koblenz is jokingly referred to as the "Antonov" in reference to the legendary transport aircraft. The so-called "Gear Groove", a small recess in the centre of the handlebars, can be used to mount a computer, smartphone or even a time trial attachment.

Canyon Grail: The facts at a glance

• Weight: 8.0 to 9.8 kilogrammes
• Stack/Reach/STR: 591/411 millimetres/1.44
• Frame material: Carbon (CFR, CF SLX, CF SL)
• Maximum tyre clearance: 42 millimetres
• Special features: One-piece cockpit, storage compartment, luggage options
• Sizes: 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL
• Prices: 2699 to 10000 Euro

In combination with optimised tube shapes, the design of the fork is based on the Ultimate, and partially integrated cables under the handlebars, the new model should be around nine watts faster at 45 km/h than its predecessor. With an optionally available frame bag, which was designed in co-operation with Fidlock and snaps into place with a magnetic lock, Canyon promises a further 1.5 watts.

In general, the Koblenz-based company places great emphasis on luggage transport on the new Grail. The highlight is the storage compartment integrated into the down tube, which is comparatively large and can easily hold a full puncture repair kit: A multi-tool and mini air pump can be clipped onto the plastic lid, while the inside of the frame has space for a bag with a CO₂ pump and cartridge, spare inner tube and tyre levers. A saddle bag is therefore superfluous.

For adventurers, Canyon has also developed a special sleeve that can be pulled over a fork leg and fitted with a bottle cage or pannier rack. The patented "Fork Sleeves" allow a maximum load of three kilograms and are designed to be held in position by a notch on the inside of the fork. Fitting mudguards should be made easier as they can be attached to the rear dropout using a quick release and without tools.

For the first time as a lightweight CFR variant

The total of eight equipment variants show a wide range in terms of weight. In addition to the CF SL and CF SLX, the Koblenz-based company is also offering a CFR version for the first time. Like the road bikes, its frame set is characterised by a lower weight and higher stiffness. Compared to the CF SLX, the CFR should weigh 120 grams less and be 10 per cent stiffer at the bottom bracket and steering head. Canyon quotes total weights of between 8.0 and 8.3 kilograms for the CFR models. The CF SLX versions are between 8.1 and 8.5 kilograms, while the CF SL versions weigh between 8.7 and 9.8 kilograms.

Canyon Grail: First ride impression

Discussions about the second generation will now be much less frequent. After all, the new handlebar/stem unit fits more harmoniously into the overall concept and - more importantly - impresses with its high level of comfort. The cockpit flexes noticeably, especially on the lower handlebars. At the rear, a new flattened carbon seat post does not quite provide the same level of damping as the leaf spring seat post of the predecessor. Nevertheless, the gravel bike - we tested the CFR Di2 with 40 millimetre wide Schwalbe G-One RS tyres - smoothes out bumps much better than comparable models. The relatively low tyre clearance of 42 millimetres does not interfere with this. However, in our tubeless setup with low tyre pressure (2.5 bar), the seat post tended to bob, which heavy riders in particular should bear in mind. Due to its special dimensions, it cannot be replaced with just any model.

The extremely long wheelbase (1057 millimetres) sets new standards in terms of smoothness. Smaller obstacles such as stones or branches hardly upset the Grail. Thanks to its comparatively low weight and excellent stiffness, the Canyon flies over gravel. On fast and tight turns, however, the bike reacts somewhat sluggishly. The riding position is more upright than the STR ratio (1.44) of the Koblenzer would suggest because the handlebars are relatively short.

The many transport options are unusual in the race category - but very practical: The frame bag can be attached in a few simple steps, the puncture repair kit is easily stowed in the down tube, quickly accessible and does not rattle on bumpy roads. The integrated computer mount is also a smart solution. However, it is doubtful whether mounts from other suppliers will also fit here. Accessories such as the computer holder (19.95 euros) or frame bag (79.95 euros) are (of course) all subject to a surcharge.

Equipment and prices

For the first time, Canyon is offering the Grail in three quality levels and seven frame sizes. The top model is the CFR LTD for 10,000 euros. The special model, limited to 70 units, is a tribute to the successful prototypes of Gravel world champion Kaisa Niewiadoma or Unbound winner Carolin Schiff and comes with special paintwork, SRAM Red AXS and carbon wheels from DT Swiss. The other CFR versions - optionally with Shimano GRX Di2 or SRAM Red AXS - cost 6999 and 7999 euros respectively.

The two model variants of the CF SLX platform also shift electronically with Shimano GRX Di2 or SRAM Force AXS, roll on carbon wheels from DT Swiss or Zipp and are available for € 4999 and € 5299. The three CF SL versions cost between 2699 and 3499 euros. In contrast to the more expensive models, Canyon has dispensed with the storage compartment in the down tube. It also has a carbon cockpit without an integrated mounting solution for computer mounts etc. and aluminium wheels from DT Swiss.

Canyon Grail CFR LTD

• Weight: 8.0 kilogramme
• Drive: SRAM Red AXS XPLR (1X12; 42, 10-44 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss GRC 1100
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One RS (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar with gear groove
• Price: 10,000 euros

Canyon Grail CFR AXS

• Weight: 8.0 kilogramme
• Drive: SRAM Red AXS XPLR (1X12; 42, 10-44 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss GRC 1100
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One RS (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar with gear groove
• Price: 7999 Euro

Canyon Grail CFR Di2

• Weight: 8.3 kilogrammes
• Drive: Shimano GRX Di2 (2x11; 48/31, 11-34 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss GRC 1100
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One RS (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar with gear groove
• Price: 6999 Euro

Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 AXS

• Weight: 8.1 kilogramme
• Drive: SRAM Force AXS (1x12; 42, 10-44 t.)
• Impellers: Zipp 303 Firecrest
• Tyres: Pirelli Cinturato RC (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar with gear groove
• Price: 5299 Euro

Canyon Grail CF SLX 8 Di2

• Weight: 8.5 kilogrammes
• Drive: Shimano GRX Di2 (2x11; 48/31, 11-34 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss GRC 1400
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One RS (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar with gear groove
• Price: 4999 Euro

Canyon Grail CF SL 8

• Weight: 8.7 kilogrammes
• Drive: Shimano GRX 820 (1x12; 42, 10-45 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss G1800
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One R (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar
• Price: 2999 Euro

Canyon Grail CF SL 7 AXS

• Weight: 9.2 kilogrammes
• Drive: SRAM Rival AXS (1x12; 42, 10-44 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One R (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar
• Price: 3499 Euro

Canyon Grail CF SL 7

• Weight: 9.2 kilogrammes
• Drive: Shimano GRX 620 (2x12; 46/30, 11-36 t.)
• Impellers: DT Swiss Gravel LN
• Tyres: Schwalbe G-One R (40 millimetres)
• Cockpit: Double drop bar
• Price: 2699 Euro