Never change a running system! If this motto applies to anything, then it applies to the Endurace CF from Canyon. Although the Koblenz-based company is relaunching its marathon racer for the 2022 model year, it is relying on almost the same virtues as its predecessor. This comes as no surprise, as the Endurace has been the manufacturer's best-selling model since its market launch eight years ago. Although the CF 7 that we tested does not deserve an innovation award, the marathon classic shows that it is far from being outdated. The mail-order company has put a comfortable bike on its tyres and continued an early Canyon virtue: an excellent price-performance ratio, which is even more impressive on the Endurace 7 with aluminium frame.
Endurance 7 carbon vs. aluminium
If we at TOUR were to have a "Separated at birth" section, in the style of a football magazine, the Endurace CF 7 and Endurace 7 would be predestined for it. After all, both models look so similar and are so close to each other in terms of equipment that they can only be distinguished from each other by nuances. The biggest contrast lies in the frame material - and therefore in the weight. While the carbon frame of the Endurace CF 7 weighs less than a kilo, its aluminium counterpart is almost 600 grams heavier. In this relatively favourable price segment, both tend to be among the lighter bikes.
The geometry of the Canyon Endurance 7
There are no differences in the geometry, which remains unchanged on both the new carbon and the revised aluminium frame. Both bikes are relatively short, resulting in a slightly upright and relaxed riding position. Canyon thus remains true to its line and continues to position the Endurace - in contrast to some of its competitors - as a marathon bike suitable for long distances. The comfortable riding behaviour is supported by the very well-damping carbon seat post. Because the integrated clamp on the carbon frame is positioned slightly lower than on the aluminium frame, the CF 7 absorbs impacts better.
Tyre clearance Canyon Endurance 7
The biggest plus compared to the previous models is the option of fitting wider tyres. Our test bikes are fitted with 30 millimetre tyres at the front and 32 millimetre tyres at the rear. Poorly constructed cycle paths, flat kerbs or rough cobblestones? The Endurace just shrugs its shoulders and rolls calmly over them. It even forgives off-road detours. For even more or more demanding off-road excursions, the frame and fork can be Space for 35-millimetre tyres.
Details and areas of application
An optional bag for mini-tools etc. can be attached to the top tube. The Koblenz-based company is thus responding to recent developments, according to which a marathon racer should cover a wide range of uses - and accordingly also offers a so-called all-road version.
However, none of the models are made for speed chases. The range of gear ratios allows for fast rides, but for an average speed of 30 km/h you need a lot of pressure on the cranks with the rather heavy wheels. Measured against the good basic equipment and the great workmanship - the aluminium bike has no visible weld seams - the heavy aluminium wheels and the saddle with its somewhat "sticky" feel fall somewhat short. Shimano's 105 drivetrain, on the other hand, performs flawlessly, only the brakes show the familiar problems in wet conditions and squeal to the point of being a stone's throw away.
Equipment variants
The Endurace CF 7 tested by us is the cheapest carbon model, it is available for €1,999; with Shimano's mechanical Ultegra drivetrain, a surcharge of €300 is due. The CF 7 eTap and CF 7 Allroad versions come with electronic SRAM Rival gears and cost €2,999 each. Canyon offers the aluminium-framed models with either rim or disc brakes, ranging from €1,099 to €1,699 for the Endurace 7 tested.
The new models should therefore continue to be in great demand - provided Canyon is able to ship them in view of the known delivery problems. However, the wait for the ground-breaking and innovative Endurace, which was rumoured last year, continues. Alongside the more affordable models, the Koblenz-based company has simply given the higher-end SL and SLX platforms a makeover. Or to put it another way: Never change a running system.
Facts about the Canyon Endurace CF 7
- Price 1,999 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel 8.6 kilos
- Info www.canyon.com
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 977/470/44 gram / Frame sizes** 3XS, 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL / Seat/top tube/head tube 515/540/164 mm / Stack/Reach/STR*** 592/378 mm/1.57 Wheelbase/caster 995/54 mm
Features of the carbon version
- Drive/gear shift Shimano 105 (2x11, 52/36, 11-34 t.)
- Brakes Shimano 105 (160/160mm)
- Wheels/tyres (weights) Fulcrum Racing 900 DB/Schwalbe One 30/32 mm (front/rear 1,478/2,042 g)
Canyon Endurace 7
- Price 1,699 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel 9.3 kilos
Weight frame/fork/steering bearing* 1,570/465/43 grams / Frame sizes** 3XS, 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL / Seat/top tube/head tube 525/550/166 mm / Stack/Reach/STR*** 591/377 mm/1.57 Wheelbase/caster 990/54 mm
Features of the aluminium version
- Drive/Circuit Shimano 105 (2x11, 52/36, 11-34 t.)
- Brakes Shimano 105 (160/160 mm)
- Wheels/tyres (weights) Fulcrum Racing 900 DB/Schwalbe One 30/32 mm (f./h. 1,539/2,055 g)
More new bikes 2022 in the test at TOUR:
Cube Agree C:62 SLT- sporty marathon bike, agile with average comfort
Cannondale Synapse Carbon 2 RL - Road bike with integrated battery light and radar
Orbea Orca Aero M10iLTD - Is it as fast in the wind tunnel as it looks and feels?
Trek Checkpoint SL 6 ETAP - Gravel bike with impressive comfort and a very sporty riding position
Read more about the Canyon Endurance: Comfortable marathon road bike at an attractive price
Julian Schultz
Editor
