E-bike duel Canyon Neuron:On AL 9 vs Cannondale Moterra 3: Are these the best e-MTBs under 6000 euros?
Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 28.09.2025
Exclusive, powerful and expensive: If you look at the new releases in the e-MTB sector, you might think that every e-biker wants to fly through the terrain at Mach 10 - and also has the necessary small change to invest five figures in their new playmate. We took a look at the more dignified side of the E-MTB spectrum. Don't get the wrong idea: Even with the two aluminium fullys Cannondale Moterra 3 and Canyon Neuron:On AL 9, you can easily venture into difficult terrain. Our practical test proved that. But the developers also explicitly had everyday rides and leisurely forest trail tours in mind.
Price question: What is cheap, what is expensive?
Admittedly: At a good 5500 euros, these bikes are still no real bargains. But realistically speaking, we are in the lower range of off-road and trail-ready E-Fullys. And: both models are the top versions of their aluminium series. With an identical frame and motor, Cannondale starts at 4999 euros and Canyon at 3799 euros.
The candidates in the fact check
Canyon Neuron:On AL 9
- Motor: Bosch Perf. CX, 100 Nm max. torque
- Battery: 800 Wh (removable)
- Frame material: Aluminium
- Suspension travel: 150/145 mm
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: 5499 Euro
- Weight: 24.95 kg (test bike in size L, BIKE measurement)
- Max. System weight: 130 kg
- Warranty: 6 years
Cannondale Moterra 3
- Motor: Bosch Perf. CX, 100 Nm max. torque
- Battery: 800 Wh (removable)
- Frame material: aluminium
- Suspension travel: 160/150 mm
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Price: 5899 Euro
- Weight: 26.9 kg (test bike in size L, BIKE measurement)
- Max. System weight: 150 kg
- Warranty: lifetime on the frame
Proven Bosch technology
It almost sounds a little boring: Like the majority of current e-MTBs, our two duelists also roll out of the warehouse with the Bosch Performance CX and a large 800 battery. That's not exactly innovative - but it's tried and tested. The motor impresses on difficult climbs with plenty of power, unique modulation and excellent acceleration. In leisurely touring use, the system delivers an extremely long range and sensibly coordinated support modes. No wonder so many manufacturers rely on this justifiably popular Swabian technology. The uncomplicated removal of the batteries will also appeal to the broad mass of e-bikers.
A damper on the scales?
Aluminium frame, large, quickly removable battery, cheaper components. It goes without saying that these bikes don't break any records on the scales. Canyon has the pounds much better under control. Just under 25 kilos is a decent figure. The aluminium Moterra weighs around two kilos more. A noticeable difference. This also applies to the equipment, where Canyon mercilessly exploits its advantage as a direct mail order company. Suspension, wheels, brakes - the Koblenz-based company has upped the ante everywhere.
Sram's electronic wireless drivetrain in particular stands out. However, despite the more favourable setup, we liked the Shimano brakes and the excellent Conti tyre combination on the Moterra better than their counterparts on the Canyon. Cannondale also scores points with a lifetime warranty on the frame and a very generous weight allowance. That inspires confidence in the bike.
American offensive in the field?
If you take a seat on the two aluminium bikes, you immediately notice clear differences. The Neuron has a rather long and classic seat, which almost feels a size larger when seated. In contrast, the Moterra has an almost progressive design. The very steep seat angle places the rider far forward. With a moderate reach and short stem, you sit a little squat. On long tours, especially when there are flat sections, the slightly higher position on the Neuron is more comfortable. This puts less pressure on the hands. The situation is reversed on steep climbs. Then the Moterra pulls over key sections with incredible confidence. The front wheel remains relaxed on the ground and the bike follows the steering inputs purposefully and directly. Traction on the rear wheel is also excellent. A small damper: At very slow speeds, the steering tends to tip a little and the high weight is also noticeable.
In direct comparison, you have to be a little more active at the wheel of the Neuron:On to stay on track. On the other hand, the Canyon steers more neutrally. All in all, the Koblenz-based mail-order bike with its long chainstays is also an above-average climber with top traction and a powerful motor. However, the Cannondale pulls away on extreme climbs.
Off to the trail
While really tough uphill challenges only play a minor role in most bikers' everyday lives, descents on trails are much more frequently on the touring agenda. Here, too, the Moterra and Neuron:On are no slouches - but with different characters. The aluminium Neuron:On glides smoothly and easily over obstacles and can be controlled intuitively. Although it is not a nimble trail bike, it remains pleasantly manoeuvrable and lively in view of its high weight.
However, if you like to accelerate on difficult trails, you could quickly push the Neuron to its limits. The bike offers a generous amount of travel. And even if the rear suspension is superior to the favourable fork, it is not designed for extreme hits or big jumps.
The Moterra has significantly more reserves in this respect. The rear suspension works really well and doesn't get swallowed up even on fast root sequences or hard hits. The clear end progression still has room for manoeuvre, even for botched landings or the wrong line in the rock gardens. This is complemented by the smooth geometry, which gives the rider a lot of confidence - even in full throttle mode. Unfortunately, the favourable Psylo Silver suspension fork clearly limits the otherwise excellent riding performance.
The second disadvantage of the Cannondale: the high weight and length inhibit playfulness. The bike feels sluggish, especially on narrow trails or when riding slowly. Like the Neuron:On, it is extremely difficult to pull onto the rear wheel. However, you don't have to be afraid of off-road use with either candidate. In view of the favourable price range, the trail qualities are top.
Points classification: Canyon vs Cannondale
The BIKE conclusion
"Cannondale and Canyon are fighting a duel at eye level. If you're focussing on difficult terrain, the Moterra has significantly more reserves. On the other hand, the Neuron:On offers more comfort and more relaxed handling. Weight and equipment ultimately tip the scales in favour of the Neuron:On." - Florentin Vesenbeckh
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
