Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero – All in the name of speed and distance?

The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero features that classic Canyon look, with added comfort, and a super-clean monocoque cockpit. It’s also got a convenient tool roll integrated into the top tube. Can this combination outperform the all-road competition, and does it live up to its Endurace name?

This bike was tested as part of the 2024 all-road shootout – you can find an overview of the test field here: 2024 all-road shootout – The four hottest all-road bikes head to head.

The Endurace has a very long tradition in Canyon’s portfolio. The first model was launched as far back as 2016. Even then, the focus was on long distances, for what used to be called “marathon”. Either way, the Canyon Endurace is and has always been a bike for long days in the saddle. Also on board since 2016: the now iconic Canyon S15 seat post. And, as hard as it is to believe, they even had models with rim brakes and mechanical shifting back then! But how does the current version fare, priced at € 5,499, featuring an integrated tool roll, weighing 8.30 kg, and available exclusively with a wireless drivetrain and disc brake?

What’s the 2024 Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero made of?

High-tech performance meets modern flair in the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero. That’s according to some. To others, it looks like a cold, functional engineering design. In any case, the new Endurace has an edgy, rocket-ship look that isn’t necessarily aggressive but definitely hints at performance. The structured surface on the fork, seat stays, and seat tube isn’t just eye-catching, it also offers aero gains, according to Canyon. Unfortunately, the “Desert Grey” colour isn’t exactly a feast for the eyes. It looks quite vintage and gives the bike a 1996 Opel Astra vibe. Of course, this is a matter of taste, though we feel that it detracts from the bike’s otherwise modern look. Fortunately, there are other colours to choose from. Be that as it may, pairing the bronze shimmer with tan-wall tires is a definite no-go! With aero in the name, the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero isn’t complete without aero details. These include elongated tubing profiles, a cut-out for the rear wheel, and flat faces. The one-piece handlebar and stem unit also matches the bike’s aero ambitions.

The spec of the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero leans more toward road cycling, especially compared to the other three all-road bikes on test. The deep profile rims, svelte look, and 30/32 mm front and rear tires are clearly at home on the asphalt. However, there is clearance for 35 mm tires, which would cater to gravel road excursions. A knock-block steering limiter prevents the handlebar from damaging the frame. You’ve got a 12-speed SRAM Force AXS groupset paired with a 10–33 t cassette and 46/33 t crankset ensuring rapid shifting, as well as a power metre. The gearing suits the build and offers sufficient range, provided you don’t leave the road. The DT Swiss ERC 1400 DICUT wheelset is an excellent choice, featuring 35 mm deep profile rims with a relatively wide 22 mm internal width, which is in line with the current trend of increasing tire widths. Canyon also include a chainstay protector, which makes perfect sense, despite the road-oriented build. The Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF seat post also matches the bike’s looks while offering added comfort.

How does the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero fare on our test track?

Once you’ve swung your leg over the saddle and are rolling along, the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero will soon have you in a compact and comfortable riding position. It’s rather aggressive, nevertheless. As such, the name EnduRace suits the bike perfectly in this respect. In contrast to the comfort-oriented Specialized Roubaix, it feels significantly more like it wants to race, which is further underlined by the handling. The bike is stiff and responsive, resulting in a very direct power transfer. It feels super lively upon acceleration as well as on the climbs, raring to go at every opportunity. Add to that the agile and direct steering, letting you control the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero with pin-point precision. This combination lets you summit mountains and hills in no time, and ride down even quicker. The hardest part is reigning in your enthusiasm and not pedalling all out all the time. It’s a completely different riding experience, especially compared to the more comfortable FOCUS PARALANE 8.9.

The seat post and cockpit on the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero compensate for what the stiff frame lacks in terms of compliance. In fact, the Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF seat post made the Endurace by far the most comfortable bike on test, at least at the rear. It takes the sting out of all road conditions, no matter how rough or poorly maintained. The Continental GP5000 tires offer plenty of grip and excellent rolling characteristics on asphalt, though you’ll want to avoid gravel and dirt roads with this setup. A second wheelset with grippier 35 mm tires, like the Schwalbe G One RS, could make the Endurace significantly more versatile.
Let’s address the tool roll in the top tube. On the one hand, it’s extremely convenient and easy to reach, but on the other hand, it is always in your field of view. The tool set includes all the essentials, made up of eight bits, one ratchet, tire levers, a CO₂ cartridge, and Dynaplug, available for an additional € 14.95. The set comes to 192 g. Unfortunately, it can be a bit fiddly to use, and the flap got jammed several times during our test. The plastic closure is more reminiscent of a battery compartment on a children’s toy than a premium bike. Overall, it’s a good idea, but the execution leaves room for improvement.

We can’t think of a better name for this bike than Endurace!

Who is the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero for?

The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero is a fast endurance bike for winding and fast descents. It’s ideal for those who like to ride long AND fast, and predominantly on asphalt. However, with a second set of 35 mm gravel tires, you could turn the Endurace into a gravel racer. It doesn’t invite you to cruise along and take in the sights, but rather to churn out watts and eat up kilometres. Group rides, all-day epics, and long-distance events are where it’s most comfortable.

Tuning tip: Black tires and an Opel Astra in the matching colour

Our conclusion on the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero

The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero certainly lives up to its name. It combines race-oriented elements with long distance comfort. It’s a bike that makes you want to ride long distances at a fast pace. However, this build is aimed more at asphalt. Before venturing off onto dirt roads, you will need to swap out the tires on the Endurace and max out the 35 mm tire clearance. With the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8, all-road actually means road, and EnduRace.

For more information visit canyon.com

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Words: Martin Staffa Photos: Jan Richter