Canyon has literally taken the covers off their newest enduro creation and introduced the new Strive CF. The bike joins along side of the aluminum Strive, but much more than just a carbon version of the same bike, Strive CF introduces a completely new suspension technology to Canyon’s bikes – Shapeshifter.
If you’ve ever wished for two different bikes, one for the climbs and one for the descents, this could be your answer. Shapeshifter is just as it sounds and changes the bike based on your needs. How does it all work? Shift modes…
While we can’t say the idea is completely new, Canyon offers their own take on the similar concept found in the Kona Magic Link. The main difference between the two, is that the Canyon Shapeshifter system is an on/off affair, with the suspension controlled by a remote lever at the handlebar. It also relies on a miniature air shock to actuate the two modes, which is simply an actuator and doesn’t compress with the suspension. Think of it as an air powered switch.
With the flick of a switch, you’re not only changing the rear travel of the bike, but also the spring curve and geometry as well. Based on the position of the rear shock, the Strive CF sees a 1.5 degree change in head and seat tube angle (66/67.5 degree and 73.5/75 degree), as well as a 20mm drop in bottom bracket height. In XC mode, the frame is limited to 130mm of travel with 17% sag compared to DH mode with 160mm of travel and 25mm of sag. Better still, all of this is accomplished with standard rear shocks since the Shapeshifter spring is a separate unit.
Once packaged into the frame, you can barely see the Shapeshifter spring as it is hidden under the rear link. Access holes are available for the air valve, as well as an indicator to tell you what mode you are in. Other highlights of the 2400g frame include fully internal cable routing, Canyon’s own 12mm QR rear axle, and a carbon down tube protector.
Canyon bikes still aren’t available in the US, though that might be changing soon. If you happen to live in a country where Canyon will ship with their direct sales model, the Strive CF will eventually be offered in 5 different models, the CF 8.0, CF 8.0 Race, CF 9.0 Race, CF 9.0 Team, and CF 9.0 SL (coming soon). For full bike specs and detailed geometry head over to Canyon.com.
