New Canyon Strive CFR | Two Bikes In One, Less Weight

In 2019, the new Strive was launched with an overhauled Shapeshifter system. For 2020 the carbon racer sees the launch of two new Canyon Strive CFR models – designed for pro level racing.

Here’s the press release:

CFR stands for Canyon Factory Racing: these bikes are designed and crafted to win in the hands of the world’s best riders on the toughest EWS stages on the planet. Pros like Dimitri Tordo and Ines Thoma demand only the very best equipment: and the new Strive CFR 9.0 and Strive CFR 9.0 Ltd. – closely developed in unison with Canyon Enduro riders – are ready to deliver true world-class performance at the highest level. Using cutting-edge carbon fibre construction techniques, Canyon’s engineers have reduced the frame weight by a huge 300 grams – making a total build weight of 13.3 kg possible on the lightest bike in the range, the Strive CFR 9.0 (size M). With FOX Factory 170/150 mm suspension, Shimano XTR shifting and brakes, and DT Swiss EXC carbon wheels, it’s one of the lightest full-suspension enduro bikes on the market. The flagship model is the 14.2 kg Strive CFR 9.0 Ltd., with top-end 170/150 mm RockShox suspension, SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS groupset, Reverb AXS dropper post, SRAM Code RSC brakes, and ZIPP 3Zero Moto carbon wheels with the latest TyreWiz air pressure monitoring tech.

The Strive is designed and built around the Shapeshifter, which transforms the geometry and characteristics of the bike on the fly, between uphill and downhill modes. With the flick of a handlebar-mounted switch, the Shapeshifter gas spring activates, lowering the bottom bracket height by 4 millimetres, and reducing the seat angle and steering angle by 1.5° – advantages that make all the difference on fast, steep descents. And when it’s time to climb, just press the button again to optimise the bike’s pedalling efficiency, with the rear travel limited to 135 mm.

If you fancy yourself in need of a top level race bike, they’re on sale now at Canyon:

• Strive CFR 9.0 – £5,599
• Strive CFR 9.0 Ltd. – £8,399

Hannah Dobson

Managing Editor

I came to Singletrack having decided there must be more to life than meetings. I like all bikes, but especially unusual ones. More than bikes, I like what bikes do. I think that they link people and places; that cycling creates a connection between us and our environment; bikes create communities; deliver freedom; bring joy; and improve fitness. They're environmentally friendly and create friendly environments. I try to write about all these things in the hope that others might discover the joy of bikes too.

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