Uploaded June 2021 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago

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Reviewer Stats: 5’11” & 215 lbs

Canyon’s Spectral 29 CF 9 is described by the German company as a “true all-rounder for all off-road conditions.” For a rider like me who loves the simplicity of a bike that can handle just about anything, Canyon’s vision statement is one I can get behind. So, eager to see how the Spectral would fare on Bellingham’s diverse terrain, I put it through its paces—riding everything from ultra-fast low-angle trails that are common close to town, to steeper lines farther afield. Our test model arrived with 150 millimeters of progressive rear travel and a 150-millimeter RockShox Pike Ultimate fork. Before we go on, one important note regarding spec: Riders who purchase the Spectral 29 CF 9 in North America will receive a slightly different build kit with a Fox DPX2 shock and a slightly longer 160-millimeter Fox 36 Factory fork instead of the RockShox setup included on the bike I received for the purpose of this review.

The Canyon Spectral 29 CF 9 lives up to its promise as being the ultimate single-bike quiver. I felt just as comfortable dropping in on any double-black trail as I did pointing the Spectral up technical climbs. This bike taught me that 150 millimeters might be the Goldilocks zone for travel. If you’re looking for a bike that feels great on any trail, don’t pass up a chance to ride a Canyon Spectral.

**Geometry Specs reflect X-LOW Setting**
Wheel Size: 29"
Rear Travel: 150mm
Fork: 150mm
Wheelbase: 1251mm
Chainstay: 437mm
Reach: 485mm
Head Tube Angle: 64.5°

SEE FULL REVIEW HERE: freehubmag.com/reviews/canyon-spectral-29

CANYON WEBSITE: canyon.com/en-us/mountain-bikes/trail-bikes/spectral/spectral-29-cf-9/2831.html?dwvar_2831_pv_rahmenfarbe=BK%2FRD

#pov #bikereview #freehub
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