Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Review
- Price: $5299
- Category: Full-suspension off-road bicycle
- Frame: Carbon
- Gear: 1x 12
- Tires: 29″ x 2.4″ / 29″ x 2.35″
What we like about it: The generous head angle and optimized reach provide nimble steering for our descents, and the newly designed front and rear suspension lockers make handling easier when adjusting.
What we don’t like about it: The inability to avoid heavier bodies.
Rating (4.8/5.0)
Introduction
The new Canyon Lux Trail series features a lightweight chassis with excellent acceleration and pedaling efficiency. And the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7’s ultra-high suspension design translates our pedaling into raw speed. Plus it comes with an intelligent system that makes our ride hassle-free.
You’ll love this Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 if you want to experience a speedy sprint or want to come out on top in a race.
Next, we analyze the main features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7. If you like it, remember to follow us!
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Climbing Review
To test the real performance of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, we chose Trestle Bike Park, located in the northwestern region of Colorado, USA. The park has numerous bike trails, including all-mountain trails and speed trails.
I rode the Lux Trail CF 7 on the climbs and its bodywork with two shocks didn’t weigh me down at all. In addition to its light frame, the rest of its components are also lightweight.
First of all, the 74.5° seat tube angle doesn’t make me feel aggressive. However, it creates an aerodynamic riding position for me all the same.
With that said, I have to say that the Lux Trail CF 7 deserves a lot of credit for the strength of its drivetrain. On the way, I crossed so many different steep slopes that were subjected to large rock piles that had been sharpened to a point where they were uneven and not at all flat. I dialed in my shifter to shift to the larger gears for the climb. Second, the 1×12 speed drivetrain was easy to operate, the chain gently slid to the larger gears, and my climbing was significantly more efficient and expended less energy than before.
And, I truly felt that the vibration I received on this bike was not violent at all. I love the performance of its front and rear shocks. The responsive rebound and excellent handling made me comfortable while climbing.
Of course, sometimes the leafy trees can block the route, especially when turning corners. This is something for any rider to deal with carefully. If you’re not careful, you could fall down a slippery slope. Fortunately, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7’s braking system was reliable enough that my bike could steer smoothly in a safe direction without any hesitation.
With the excellent performance of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, my interest in climbing has increased a lot.
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Descending Review
During this time, the weather was not always sunny and we tried to avoid the rainy weather. But the rainy, muddy forest roads always attract adventurous riders like me.
We rode the cable bike to the beginning of a rappel route. The mountain was a white haze that gradually dissipated as the sun rose. The dirt was still damp, and the potholes in the road that had been depressed were now filled with rainwater. The dirt at the edge of the trail had also become looser than before. This was a test for us.
However, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 guy put our worries to rest with real action.
You know, this bike is on Schwalbe’s tires, built for off-road use. They are so light that the air resistance is barely perceptible. And the raised tread pattern and the ADDIX material used in the tires provide me with a reliable grip. Even though there will be some mossy rocks ahead, it can still press right through them firmly and smoothly with ease.
The roots of the trees that had been covered with mud before in the rainy woods all appeared as well, with branches and trunks spreading everywhere. There would even be some branches that had been blown down by the wind and were lying directly on the ground.
What was surprising was the gentle head tube angle of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, which made me feel like there was no limit to the direction of maneuvering. It could be turned very sharply so I could avoid the trees. Coupled with the two shocks on the Lux Trail CF 7, the Lux Trail CF 7 was like a little beast that exploded down the road with barely a snag, and I felt the pain in the process.
However, my friend chose another route with a much bigger drop, with many moments of almost vertical descent. He felt that the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 was not mature enough to perform on such terrain.
Main Features
Frame Group
The frame of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 is made of LUX TRAIL carbon fiber.
The lightweight carbon fiber frame makes us light in the mountain cross country. Together with its internal alignment structure, which avoids the cable wires from being worn, the whole frame also looks very clean.
Also, the Lux Trail CF 7 features Step Cast technology on the fork, superior sensitivity, and 120mm of travel. All of these have prepared us well for the trail.
Plus, with the two water bottle mounts it provides, adequate hydration will be a need for every trail rider.
Geometry
The bike has a fully progressive geometry that looks longer and looser. This means we’ll have a much smoother ride on the trail.
The slacker 67.5° head tube angle gives us more maneuverability on twisty trails and downhills. We can maneuver the head tube more flexibly so that we can avoid obstacles even if we do.
Not only that, but the 74.5° seat tube angle puts the saddle slightly forward. This arrangement allows the rider to be able to be in an aerodynamic position when accelerating, subject to less air resistance.
Also, the 435mm rear dropout fork means the rider’s center of gravity is closer to the rear tire and the front tire can be more easily maneuvered off the ground by us. This, combined with the longer wheelbase of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, helps us increase speed and improve stability on rough terrain.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Deore XT M8100 Drivetrain
Shimano Deore XT is the kit trusted by mountain bike riders around the world. This bike is equipped with a Shimano Deore XT M8100 drivetrain.
Not only does the drivetrain use HYPERGLIDE+ technology, but its larger 13T guide pulley improves efficiency and chain management. Combined with its wide-range 12-speed drivetrain, it allows the Lux Trail CF 7 to have faster and smoother shifts.
In addition, the Shimano Deore XT M8100 has lowered the low-range rear derailleur and chain tension and added a new bumper to the rear derailleur pulley carrier. So the silence level of the Shimano Deore XT M8100 drivetrain has also been greatly improved.
The Shimano Deore XT M8100 drivetrain has been optimized for any terrain with this series of performance optimizations.
Shimano Deore XT’s Braking System
The Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 uses Shimano Deore XT M8100 and Shimano Deore XT FLAT MOUNT M8110 for its front and rear brakes, which use a two-piston design that not only makes them lightweight but also has perfectly adequate braking power.
In addition, both brakes have a clean and compact design with fast piston retraction. Our assembly has also become faster and easier.
Finally, we don’t need to worry about the heat dissipation of the braking system. Because they use ICE TECHNOLOGIES technology, the Lux Trail CF 7 can do it consistently, even on long downhill stretches.
Tires by Schwalbe
Front Tire: Schwalbe Wicked Will SR TLE EVO
This tire is up to the task whether it’s an alpine traverse or a fast trail run. It traverses any area smoothly and turns for maximum control. The tire’s shoulder knobs provide a high level of support to the camber section and in the turns, providing a stable grip.
Rear Tire: Schwalbe Racing Ralph SR TLE EVO
The rear tire on the Lux Trail CF 7 is the Schwalbe Racing Ralph SR TLE EVO, which has many grippy edges in the center of the tread to provide superb traction and acceleration. Moreover, the unique shoulder studs provide excellent lateral grip. It is very quiet with almost no rolling resistance when rolling.
Rear Shock: FOX Float DPS Performance 3
The FOX Float DPS is back on everyone’s radar with a new design. This rear shock comes with a three-position DPS damper and dual piston valves that optimize both control and efficiency by improving rebound and compression flow. Moreover, the EVOL SV air sleeve improves responsiveness and sensitivity. This compact shock has everything we need for trail riding on it. This means that when we hit bumpy trails, the shock is improved across the board.
Other versions of Canyon Lux Trail CF
The Canyon lux Trail CF 7 has been reviewed by us and its main features and component specifications, as well as its riding impressions, have been shown to you. We think that the bike performs well on any terrain. Especially with its mountain descents, it will make your ride both safe and fun. You can take it to any scenic nature to start an off-road adventure.
However, to take care of more people’s needs, we have also prepared another version of it, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 6, for your reference. If you are interested, just read on.
Canyon Lux Trail CF 6
The Canyon Lux Trail CF 6 features the same full-suspension carbon fiber frame as the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 in terms of frame, which is lightweight and durable. And there is no difference in geometry.
However, they have some differences in other components. First, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 6 is priced at $3,999, so naturally, its component specifications are a bit lower compared to the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7’s.
Secondly, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 6’s fork FOX 34 Stepcast Performance 3 uses a simpler damper, which in turn is a bit cheaper, though it also weighs a bit more.
Also, the Lux Trail CF 6 uses the Shimano SLX series rear derailleur, which will be less silent than the Lux Trail CF 7.
Once again, the Canyon Lux Trail CF 6’s tires have a good grip as well, but they are aluminum and heavier than the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7’s carbon fiber tires. This may not be easy for everyone to handle.
This Lux Trail CF 6 is just a bit cheaper compared to the Lux Trail CF 7, but not nearly as good in terms of performance. If you wish to have even better off-road adventures, my recommendation 100% is the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7.
There are other versions of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, if you are interested, you can click the link below to learn more.
Learn more: Canyon Spectral 29 CF 7 Review- A Tank-Like, Composed All-Rounder
What we like about it
- Ultra-light FOX 34 Stepcast Performance Elite fork provides fast rebound.
- Both front and rear suspensions have remote control.
- Lightweight chain guide remains stable in rough and uneven conditions.
- A slack head tube helps us achieve more efficient handling.
- The carbon fiber tires have superb traction and are resistant to wear and tear.
What we don’t like about it
- Fewer colors.
- The comfort of the handlebars can not fit everyone.
FAQs
- What is the frame material of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7?
The frame material of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 is Lux Trail CF carbon fiber.
- What is the drivetrain of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7?
The drivetrain of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 is Shimano Deore XT M8100.
- What are the rear shocks on the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7?
The rear shock on the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 is FOX Float DPS Performance Elite.
- What are the dimensions of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7?
| Size | SM | M | L | XL |
| Rider height | < 176cm | 174cm – 184cm | 182cm – 193cm | 191cm + |
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Specs
Build
| Frame | Lux Trail CF, Lightweight, progressive, full-suspension carbon frame for greater control on rough tracks. Weight: 1,905 g. Rear travel: 110 mm. Wheel size: 29″. BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Color: Alps Grey |
| Fork | FOX 34 Stepcast Performance Elite 3-Pos Remote, 120 mm travel. Stanchion diameter: 34 mm. 3-position compression adjustment: open/trail/firm. with handlebar-mounted lockout., 3 Volume spacer. 44mm Offset. |
| Rear Shock | FOX Float DPS Performance Elite 3-Pos Remote, With 3-position compression adjustment: open/trail/firm. with handlebar-mounted lockout. dimensions : 210 x 55 mm., Tune: LCLLRL, CMF. |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano Pressfit BB71 |
| Stem | Race Face Ride |
| Handlebar | Race Face Ride Riserbar |
| Saddle | Selle Italia SLS Boost FeC, Saddle shaped to support a more aggressive riding position. |
| Seatpost | FOX Transfer Performance Elite |
| Pedals | None included |
| Grips | Ergon GA20, High-grade lock-on grips provide comfort and control in equal measure. |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Deore XT M8100 12speed, Precise 1×12 drivetrain. |
| Crank | Shimano Deore XT M8100 34T, 34-tooth single chainring. |
| Shifters | Shimano Deore XT, 12-speed, Rear derailleur shifter, 12-speed, Textured rubber lever pad, Multi-Release, 2-way release, I-Spec EV clamp allows 14mm lateral adjustment and 20-degrees rotation adjustment, 130 g |
| Cassette | Shimano XT, 12-speed (10-51), Cassette size: 10-51T, Gear range: 510% |
| Chain | Shimano CN-M8100 12s |
| Brakes | Shimano Deore XT M8100, 2-piston brake callipers. with ergonomic design and adjustable levers. | Shimano XT M8110, 2-piston flat-mount brake callipers. . With ergonomic design and adjustable levers. |
Wheels
| Rims | DT Swiss XRC 1700 Spline, Robust 29-inch carbon wheel. Internal rim width: 30 mm. Hub dimensions: 15 x 110 mm., Rotor Mount: CL. Hub Width, Axle Front: 110mm. Hub Width, Axle Rear: 148 mm. Tubeless Technology: Taped. | DT Swiss XRC 1700 Spline S12, Robust 29-inch carbon wheel. Internal rim width: 30 mm: Hub: Ratchet SL, 12 x 148 mm., Rotor Mount: CL. Hub Width, Axle Front: 110mm. Hub Width, Axle Rear: 148mm. Tubeless Technology: Taped. |
| Tires | Schwalbe Wicked Will SR TLE EVO 2.4″ | Schwalbe Racing Ralph SR TLE EVO 2.35″ |
| Disk Rotors | Shimano RT-MT800, 180mm | Shimano RT-MT800, 160mm |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| BMC Fourstroke THREE | $5,799 | 1 × 12 | SHIMANO SLX/SM-RT54 Rotors Hydraulic Disc | 29×2.35″ | Click view |
| Trek Supercaliber 9.7 | $5,029 | 1×12 | Shimano hydraulic disc | 29×2.20″ | Click view |
| Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1 | $5,200 | 1×12 | Shimano Deore XT BR-M8100 hydraulic disc | 29×2.25″ | Click view |
| Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS | $4,999 | 1 × 12 Electronic | Shimano XT M8100 Hydraulic Disc | 29×2.25″ | Click view |
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 vs BMC Fourstroke THREE
This BMC Fourstroke THREE has a very cool gradient black and white color on the outside. And its frame is also made of carbon fiber with a complete internal alignment system.
However, it uses a RockShox SID series fork and rear shock with 100mm fork travel, which is shorter compared to Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, and the damping effect in mountain cross country will be reduced. The BMC Fourstroke THREE also uses Vittoria Mezcal aluminum tires, which are heavier in weight than the Lux Trail CF 7.
However, in terms of price, BMC’s bike is more expensive. If it were me, I would certainly choose the cost-effective Canyon Lux Trail CF 7.
learn more：BMC Fourstroke 01 LT TWO Review – The Ultimate Enjoyment For Your Mountain Riding
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 vs Trek Supercaliber 9.7
For these two bikes, I don’t think they are as far apart in price as they are in component performance.
First of all, the Trek Supercaliber 9.7 is just over $200 cheaper than the Lux Trail CF 7. But its components make me think it should be even cheaper than this price.
Secondly, the Trek Supercaliber 9.7 is a bit more aggressive than the Lux Trail CF 7 in terms of geometry. It will be more aerodynamic. But it also has more demanding requirements for the rider.
Also, it has a RockShox Reba fork, which is far inferior to the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7’s fork. It is much less sensitive and adjustable in terms of range.
So, I don’t find the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 more expensive at all. On the contrary, I would consider the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 to be a better choice.
Learn more : Is Trek Procaliber 9.7 Worth Buying? [Trek Procaliber 9.7 Review]
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 vs Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1
Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1 is a hardtail off-road. Generally speaking, hardtails have an advantage in power and speed that softtails can’t match. But after reviewing both bikes, we think the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 outperforms the Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1.
First, the Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1 can reach up to 44km/h, while the Lux Trail CF 7 can reach 47km/h.
Secondly, the Lux Trail CF 7 has a relatively long wheelbase and a somewhat higher seat post height. This means that it is more comfortable and the rider is more stable during the ride.
In addition, the Giant XTC Advanced, SL 29 1 has a RockShox SID SL Select fork, which will be weaker than the Lux Trail CF 7 in terms of travel and rebound response.
Although, it may be considered good in a hardtail. However, I still think I would prefer the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 to have a good off-road experience.
learn more：Giant XTC Advanced 29 3 Review – Is This The XC You Want
Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 vs Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS
The Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS is more geared towards a speed experience than vibration mitigation. So compared to the shock setup of the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7, it has significantly less input in this area.
And the Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS puts more focus on the drivetrain. It uses the electronic shifting of the SRAM X01 Eagle AXS, a drivetrain that will provide wireless shifting. Shifting with the SRAM CN GX Eagle chain is quieter and more precise.
So, my recommendation for this bike would be more neutral. It depends on your personal preference. If you prefer a more comfortable and stable trail ride, you can go for the Canyon Lux Trail CF 7.
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Learn more : Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
