With the introduction of the fourth generation of the Aeroad, Canyon cancelled the model variants with a simple SL frame. Since then, the CF SLX has formed the new (more expensive) basis. As with its predecessor, a very fast version has emerged that sits closely in the slipstream of the High-end variant CFR and can easily compete with professional machines that are more than twice as expensive.
Light as a feather
The model name CF SLX 8 Di2 refers to the carbon quality of the frame (Super Light Extreme). Unlike some of its competitors, this is hardly inferior to the top model, which Canyon calls CFR. The SLX version weighs around 110 grams more with almost identical stiffness values. Both platforms share the same fork. Even with the wheels - the test bike has a somewhat simpler version from DT Swiss - the difference in weight is hardly worth mentioning. This makes the Canyon, which even just undercuts the manufacturer's specification with Aerothan tubes in the tyres, one of the lightest bikes in the under € 7000 price range. Nevertheless, at around 7.6 kilograms when ready to ride, it is a good way off the UCI weight limit. Those who place more value on low weight will either have to pay more; the CFR Di2 saves a total of 350 grams thanks to the lighter Dura-Ace groupset. Otherwise, Canyon's Ultimate model could be an option. However, the lightweight bike, which the mail-order company offers in three quality levels from 2499 euros, does not come close to the first-class aerodynamics of the Aeroad.
Top wind values
The bike only needs 204 watts at race speed to overcome its own air resistance. The Canyon CF SLX 8 Di2 is therefore just as fast as the CFR ridden by superstar Mathieu van der Poel on his triumphant rides to San Remo or Roubaix. With Cannondale, Cervélo, Simplon and Storck, only four manufacturers have so far put a faster machine in the wind tunnel. It is therefore no secret that almost all of the candidates in our big competition race festival will have to nibble at this fabulous value.
Fast and cosy at the same time?
On the road, the Aeroad impressively underpins its fast character. The steering is responsive and the balanced riding position means that the racer is not only aimed at well-trained professionals. Only the frame comfort is a little out of line, but thanks to the supple tyres, the Canyon is not uncomfortable to ride. With space for up to 32-millimetre tyres, the racer could also be set up to be more springy. The powerful appearance is rounded off by well thought-out details such as a uniform bolt standard (TX25) and easy adjustment of the seating position. With optionally available handlebar ends, so-called aero drops, the control centre takes on professional dimensions. Triathletes will be interested in the retrofit option for a time trial attachment on the upper handlebars. On the so-called Gear Groove, which Canyon combines with the Gravelbike Grail computer or smartphone can also be attached.
With a final score of 1.7, the Aeroad CF SLX 8 Di2 is a challenge to the competition that will be hard to beat. After all, the test bike is only two tenths of the price of the current best competition bikes around the CFR Di2, which is at least 3500 euros more expensive. The SLX fleet starts at 4199 euros.
Facts & figures on the Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Di2
- Price: 6499 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 7.4 kilos
- Frame sizes: 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL (test size greased)
- TOUR grade: 1,7
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 533/575/139 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 566/398 millimetres/1.42
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 627/568 millimetres/1.10
- Wheelbase/caster: 985/57 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: Shimano Ultegra (2x12; 52/36, 11-30 t., PM) | Grade: 1.0
- Brakes: Shimano Ultegra (160/140 mm) | Grade: 1.0
- Tyres: Conti Grand Prix 5000S TR 25/28 (eff.: 25/28 mm) | Grade: 1.0
- Impellers: DT Swiss ARC 1400 Dicut 50
- Impeller weights: 1,158/1,688 grams (f./h.)
Measured values
- Weight of complete wheel: 7,390 grams | Grade: 2.3
- Aerodynamics: 204 Watt | Grade: 1.0
- Driving stability: 8.0 N/mm | Grade: 2.0
- Rear comfort: 170 N/mm| Grade: 2.7
- Comfort front: 74 N/mm | Grade: 2.0
- Ride/ bottom bracket stiffness: 75 N/mm | Grade: 1.0
Advantages and disadvantages of the Canyon Aeroad CF SLX 8 Di2
- Plus: First-class aerodynamics, including power meter, a screw standard
- Minus: -
How TOUR tests
Weight (25 per cent of the overall grade): The weighed complete wheel weight in the standardised test wheel size of 56-57 centimetres counts for the evaluation. However, we also show the wheel weights for orientation purposes. The grading scale is designed so that the physical effect of weight and aerodynamics on the average speed is comparable for an average route profile of 1,000 metres in altitude per 100 kilometres. For orientation: the aerodynamic optimisation of the bike can compensate for up to almost four kilograms of weight on such a route. Simultaneous top marks in weight AND aerodynamics are mutually exclusive, but there are racing bikes that find a very good compromise. If the route is more hilly than our reference route, weight becomes more important; if the route is flatter, aerodynamics become more important.
Air resistance (25 per cent of the total score): Dynamically measured in the wind tunnel, with TOUR dummy, rotating wheels, moving legs and over a wide range of flow angles. Summarised to an aerodynamic grade for typical environmental conditions.
Front stiffness (10 per cent of the total score): Important parameter for steering precision and confidence in the bike at high speeds, determined in the TOUR laboratory. The overall stiffness is determined on the fully assembled frame set, i.e. including the fork. The stiffness values are capped. The aim is not an infinitely stiff frame, but one that is sufficiently stable to ride.
Bottom bracket stiffness (10 per cent of the total score): Reveals how much the frame yields under hard pedalling, for example when sprinting. This measurement also takes place in the TOUR laboratory, with realistic clamping, in which the frame can deform as it would when riding.
Rear comfort (10 per cent of the overall score): A measure of compliance under road shocks, measured in the TOUR laboratory. A suspension travel is measured when the seatpost is loaded. The measured value correlates very well with the riding impressions and the feeling of comfort. Good marks also mean decent riding dynamics, which have a positive effect on speed on poor roads.
Comfort front (5 per cent of the overall score): The deformation of the handlebars under load is determined in the same way as for the rear. A good score means a lot of suspension comfort, which takes the strain off your hands on long rides. However, strong sprinters who want a lot of stiffness should look for stiff handlebars.
Switching (5 per cent of the total score): The shifting characteristics are determined in the driving test. It is not the price or the quality impression of individual components that is assessed, but exclusively the function of the entire gearbox. For example, the cable routing, the quality of the cables and the mounted chain also play a role.
Brakes (5 per cent of the overall score): As with shifting, the test on the road also counts here, and the experience from our countless tests of brakes is also incorporated into the assessment. It is not the component itself that is assessed, but the function of the interaction between the brake body, pads and discs: How well can the brakes be modulated? How durable are the brakes, how long are the braking distances?
tyres (5 percent of the overall score): Rolling resistance and grip are evaluated - if known from one of our independent tyre tests or based on driving impressions. The overall score is calculated arithmetically from the differently weighted individual scores (percentages in brackets). It primarily expresses the sporty qualities of the tyre.
The overall score is calculated arithmetically from the individual scores weighted differently (percentages in brackets). It primarily expresses the sporting qualities of the bike.
Jens Klötzer
Editor
