Find the Canyon Grizl: The Ultimate Off-Road Trip Bike
If you’re looking for an off-road trip bike that can handle rough terrains and offer a smooth, stable ride, the canyon grizl might just be the perfect fit for you. This guide will help you understand why.
Quick facts to know about canyon grizl:
- Purpose: Built for extreme off-road riding with larger tires and more mounting points.
- Frame Options: Available in both carbon and alloy frames, with some builds featuring a suspension fork and even an electric motor.
- Tyre Clearance: Can accommodate up to 50mm wide tires, providing better grip and cushioning.
- Weight: Lightest build starts at 8.86kg.
The canyon grizl is designed for those who crave versatility, rugged terrain capabilities, and comfort. Launched in May 2021, it differentiates itself with wider tires, a variety of mounting options, and configurations that cater to extreme off-road trips. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an avid bikepacker, the Grizl’s platform promises stability and durability, ensuring a smooth ride no matter the conditions.
Let’s explore the Canyon Grizl’s features and models in detail.
Canyon Grizl Overview
The Canyon Grizl is Canyon’s new trip-oriented gravel bike designed for riders who love exploring off the beaten path. Launched in May 2021, the Grizl offers a range of features that make it perfect for long-distance gravel rides and bikepacking trips.
New Trip-Oriented Gravel Platform
The Canyon Grizl is built on a trip-oriented gravel platform, making it ideal for trips that require durability and versatility. It stands out from Canyon’s other gravel bike, the Grail, by focusing more on off-road capabilities and carrying capacity.
Standard Handlebar
Unlike the Grail, which is known for its unique biplane handlebar, the Grizl uses a standard handlebar. This makes it more customizable and user-friendly for those who prefer traditional setups.
Tire Clearance
One of the key features of the Canyon Grizl is its generous tire clearance. It can accommodate tires up to 50mm wide, compared to the Grail’s 42mm limit. This allows for better grip and cushioning on rough terrains, making your rides smoother and more comfortable.
Cargo Mounts
The Grizl is designed for bikepacking and long-distance rides, featuring multiple cargo mounts. These mounts allow you to attach bags, bottles, and other gear, making it easier to carry everything you need for your trips.
Carbon Frame Platforms
The Grizl offers two carbon frame platforms: SLX and SL. The SLX is the lighter, more premium option, while the SL provides a more affordable yet still high-quality alternative. Both options ensure a strong and durable frame to withstand the rigors of off-road riding.
Aluminum Models
While the initial release of the Grizl featured only carbon frames, aluminum models are expected to be available later this year. These will provide a more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance and durability.
Ready to learn more about the different models and builds of the Canyon Grizl? Let’s explore the specifics of each one.
Canyon Grizl Models and Builds
The Canyon Grizl lineup features six models available in the USA, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout builds:
Canyon Grizl CF SL 8
The Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 is a high-performance gravel bike designed for serious triprs. Here’s what you get:
- Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 810, 11-speed, known for its reliability and smooth shifting.
- Wheels: DT Swiss G 1800 Spline, robust and perfect for gravel riding.
- Tires: Maxxis Rambler SilkShield 700 x 45mm, tubeless-ready for better traction and durability.
- Handlebar: Canyon Ergo AL HB0050, ergonomic for better control and comfort.
- Stem: Canyon Stem V13, 90mm, providing a stable and responsive ride.
- Seatpost: Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF, offering exceptional comfort with its flexible design.
- Saddle: WTB Volt Medium 265 steel, a comfortable choice for long rides.
This model is priced at £3,099, currently discounted to £2,899.
Canyon Grizl CF SLX 8 eTap Suspension
For those looking for top-tier performance, the Canyon Grizl CF SLX 8 eTap Suspension is a prime choice:
- Drivetrain: SRAM Force XPLR eTap, a wireless electronic groupset for precise and effortless shifting.
- Price: Originally £4,999, now discounted to £4,519.
- Features: This model includes a dropper post and front suspension, making it ideal for tackling rough terrain.
Canyon Grizl AL
The Canyon Grizl AL series offers aluminum frames, making them a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance:
- Frame: Durable aluminum, perfect for all-year riding and weekend bikepacking trips.
- Price Range: Starting at £1,799, these models provide excellent value for money.
- Trip-Focused Features: Multiple cargo mounts, tire clearance for up to 50mm, and robust construction to handle long-distance trips.
Overall, the Canyon Grizl series offers a range of models to suit different needs and budgets, all featuring high-quality components like Shimano GRX drivetrains and DT Swiss wheelsets. Whether you’re looking for a high-end carbon frame or a reliable aluminum build, there’s a Grizl model for you.
Ready to hit the trails with the Canyon Grizl? Let’s explore how these bikes perform in real-world conditions.
Canyon Grizl Ride Impressions
Handling
The Canyon Grizl excels in handling, especially on dirt and singletrack. With a longer wheelbase, short stem, and wide handlebar, it feels almost like a mountain bike. This makes it very stable and confidence-inspiring on steep downhills and loose dirt.
Dirt and Singletrack Performance
On dirt roads and singletrack trails, the Grizl is a joy to ride. It carves through curves intuitively and maintains its line even on bumpy and loose surfaces. The Maxxis Rambler tires play a big role here, offering excellent traction and predictable breakaway.
“The Grizl is planted with almost mountain-bike-like handling,” notes a reviewer who tested it on various terrains.
Pavement Performance
When it comes to pavement, the Grizl’s performance is a bit mixed. The large, low-pressure tires can make it feel sluggish, and the handling can get awkward as the tire casings flex in high-traction corners. However, these tires roll well enough for short pavement sections between gravel paths. For those who spend more time on pavement, switching to narrower, higher-pressure tires is recommended.
Ride Comfort
The ride comfort on the Grizl is above average, thanks to the 45mm Maxxis Rambler tires and Canyon’s innovative VLCS leaf spring post. The tires do most of the cushioning, especially when run at lower pressures (around 20 psi). The VCLS seatpost adds extra comfort, particularly when seated on rough roads.
“The bone-shaking gravel roads outside of town were no match for the Grizl’s smooth-riding carbon frame and fork,” says an early tester.
Maxxis Rambler Tires
The Maxxis Rambler SilkShield 700 x 45mm tires are a standout feature. They offer a great balance between rolling speed and cornering traction. These tires are tubeless-ready, adding to their durability and performance on gravel.
Canyon’s VLCS Leaf Spring Post
The VCLS 2.0 seatpost is another highlight. Its flexible design significantly improves seated comfort, making long rides on rough terrain more bearable. However, it does have some quirks. For instance, adjusting the saddle tilt requires removing the seatpost from the frame, which can be cumbersome.
“The flexible design is incredibly compliant, soft enough to flex by hand, and the added comfort is noticeable while riding rutted-out roads and rough gravel,” reports a reviewer.
The Canyon Grizl proves to be an excellent all-rounder for gravel riding, offering a smooth and stable ride on various terrains. Next, let’s dive into the specifics of the Grizl frames.
Canyon Grizl Frames
The Canyon Grizl frames come in both carbon and aluminum options, catering to different needs and budgets. Let’s break down the key features and specifications of these frames.
Carbon and Aluminum Frames
At launch, the Grizl is available in carbon frames, with aluminum models expected later. The carbon frames are divided into two categories: the SL and the lighter SLX. The top-tier SLX frame weighs in at a claimed 950 grams, while the SL frame adds 75 to 100 grams depending on the frame size.
Weight
The weight difference between the SL and SLX frames is minimal, but noticeable. The SLX frame is optimized for riders looking for the lightest setup, ideal for faster, more efficient rides.
Water Bottle and Cargo Mounts
Both SL and SLX frames come equipped with multiple mounts for water bottles and cargo. The SL frame features a third water bottle mount under the downtube, a feature not found on the SLX due to its internal Shimano Di2 battery holder.
Internal Shimano Di2 Battery Holder
The SLX frame includes a mount for the internal Shimano Di2 battery holder. This integration is designed to keep the battery secure and out of the elements, ensuring reliable electronic shifting.
Fork Mounts
The Grizl’s fork is designed with versatility in mind. It features dual three-pack mounts for water or cargo cages, offering additional storage options for long rides or bikepacking trips.
Fender Mounts
Both frames come with fender mounts, making it easy to add fenders for wet or muddy conditions. This adds to the bike’s versatility, making it suitable for year-round riding.
Press-Fit 86 Bottom Bracket
The Grizl uses a press-fit 86 bottom bracket. This type of bottom bracket is known for its wide stance, which helps improve power transfer and stiffness.
Internal Housing
Cables and hoses run internally through the frame, giving the bike a clean look and protecting the cables from dirt and debris. This is particularly beneficial for gravel bikes, which often encounter harsh conditions.
Dropped Drive-Side Chainstay
The Grizl features a dropped drive-side chainstay. This design improves tire and chainring clearance, allowing for wider tires without compromising the drivetrain.
Tire Clearance
The Grizl offers generous tire clearance, accommodating tires up to 50mm wide. This allows for better traction and comfort on rough terrain. Canyon states that with 6mm of space all around for debris, you can even fit something slightly bigger if you’re willing to take a gamble.
Wheel Size
The Grizl is designed around one wheel size for most frame sizes, which is 700c. However, the XS and S frames are built around 650b wheels to maintain proper geometry and handling characteristics for smaller riders.
Flat-Mount Calipers
The Grizl uses flat-mount calipers with a modified standard for a minimum 160mm rotor. This setup provides powerful braking, essential for the varied and often challenging terrain encountered on gravel rides.
System Weight
The maximum system weight for the Grizl, including the bike, rider, and cargo, is 120kg (265lb). This makes it robust enough to handle the demands of bikepacking and gravel trips.
The Canyon Grizl frames are thoughtfully designed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of gravel riding scenarios. Next, let’s explore how the Grizl compares to its sibling, the Grail.
Canyon Grizl vs. Canyon Grail
When comparing the Canyon Grizl and Canyon Grail, it’s clear that these two gravel bikes are built with different priorities in mind. Let’s break down the key differences.
Canyon Grail
The Canyon Grail is a fast gravel race bike designed for speed and efficiency. It underwent a major update in October 2023, changing it into a dedicated gravel race machine. Here are some of its standout features:
- Fast and Light: With the high-spec CFR frameset, the Grail’s weight can be as low as 8kg.
- Double Drop Bars: These bars improve aerodynamics, saving up to 9.1 watts at 45kph according to Canyon’s wind tunnel tests.
- Narrower Tire Clearance: The Grail accommodates tires up to 42mm wide, making it more suited for smoother, faster gravel paths.
- Fewer Mounting Points: This bike is all about speed, so it has fewer mounts for gear, although you can add more if needed.
- Carbon Frames Only: The Grail is available in three carbon grades: SL, SLX, and CFR.
- Price Range: The Grail’s price starts higher than the Grizl, with the entry-level Grail CF SL 7 priced at £2,599 and the top-tier Grail CFR at £7,649.
Canyon Grizl
The Canyon Grizl is designed for off-road trips and bikepacking. It offers more stability and versatility for rough terrain. Key features include:
- Off-Road Focused: The Grizl is more stable on rough terrain, making it ideal for bikepacking and long-distance rides.
- Wider Tire Clearance: It can accommodate tires up to 50mm wide, providing better grip and cushioning on rough trails.
- Extensive Mounting Points: The Grizl has numerous mounts for gear, including fork mounts and multiple bottle cage mounts.
- Frame Options: Available in both carbon (CF SL and CF SLX) and aluminum frames.
- Suspension Fork and Motor Options: Some builds include a suspension fork for added comfort, and there’s even an electric version.
- Price Range: The Grizl starts at £1,749 for the aluminum model and goes up to £2,999 for the higher-end carbon models.
Tire Clearance and Mudguard Compatibility
The Grail comes with 40mm tires but can fit up to 42mm, while the Grizl starts with 45mm tires and can handle up to 50mm. This makes the Grizl better suited for rougher terrain.
Geometry
Both bikes have relatively upright geometries for comfort and stability. However, the Grail’s geometry is more aggressive for faster riding, while the Grizl offers a more relaxed geometry for better control on rough trails.
Handlebars
The Grail’s unique Double Drop bars are designed for aerodynamics, whereas the Grizl uses more traditional drop handlebars, allowing for easier customization.
Frame Mounts
The Grail focuses on minimalistic, aero storage options, while the Grizl is loaded with mounting points for bikepacking gear.
Dropper Compatibility and Suspension
The Grizl has the option for a dropper post and comes with models featuring a suspension fork for added comfort. The Grail, on the other hand, sticks to a more traditional setup with an aero seatpost.
Price Comparison
The Grail’s carbon-only lineup starts at a higher price point, reflecting its race-oriented design and materials. The Grizl offers a wider range of prices, starting with more affordable aluminum models.
In summary, the Canyon Grail is your go-to for fast, competitive gravel racing, while the Canyon Grizl is perfect for adventurous off-road riding and bikepacking. Choose based on your riding style and needs.
Next, we’ll dive into some frequently asked questions about the Canyon Grizl.
Frequently Asked Questions about Canyon Grizl
Does Lebron James own Canyon bikes?
Yes, basketball superstar LeBron James is a minor shareholder in Canyon bikes. LeBron’s involvement with Canyon is part of a broader partnership aimed at promoting cycling and making it more accessible. His influence helps Canyon reach new audiences, encouraging more people to enjoy the benefits of cycling.
How heavy is the Canyon Grizl?
The weight of the Canyon Grizl varies depending on the model and build. For example, the lightest carbon build, the Grizl CF SLX, weighs around 8.86 kg. Factors affecting weight include the frame material (carbon vs. aluminum), wheel size, and additional components. For instance, the Grizl CF SL 8, a popular model, weighs approximately 8.86 kg in a size small.
Are Canyon gravel bikes any good?
Absolutely, Canyon gravel bikes are highly regarded for their performance and versatility. The Canyon Grizl excels in high-speed handling and stability, making it a top choice for off-road trips. Its wide tire clearance and robust build allow it to handle rough terrains with ease. The bike’s Maxxis Rambler tires and Canyon’s VLCS leaf spring post contribute to a smooth, comfortable ride, even on challenging trails. Whether you’re bikepacking, racing, or just exploring, the Canyon Grizl offers a reliable and enjoyable cycling experience.
Conclusion
In summary, the Canyon Grizl is an exceptional gravel bike designed for versatility and trip. It stands out with its extensive tire clearance, numerous mounting points, and impressive handling on rough terrains. Whether you’re hitting singletrack trails, starting on bikepacking trips, or simply cruising around town, the Grizl offers a smooth, reliable ride.
Our ride impressions highlight the bike’s stability and comfort, thanks to features like the Maxxis Rambler tires and Canyon’s VLCS leaf spring post. The Grizl manages to balance the need for ruggedness with the desire for comfort, making it a well-rounded choice for various cycling activities.
For those comparing the Canyon Grizl with other models, it’s clear that the Grizl is custom for off-road trips, while the Grail focuses more on speed and performance. The Grizl’s wider tire clearance and additional mounting points make it ideal for longer, gear-laden excursions.
At Doot Scoot, we believe in providing comprehensive, SEO-optimized guides to help you make informed decisions. This guide on the Canyon Grizl is part of our broader mission to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For more information, check out our eBike buying guide.
Final Thoughts: The Canyon Grizl is a fantastic all-purpose gravel bike that combines Canyon’s signature value with versatility and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer to gravel biking, the Grizl offers something for everyone.
