The Canyon Spectral is a perennial favourite in the Canyon lineup and is now available in three different frame options: an aluminium frame, the CF version with a carbon front triangle and aluminium rear end and the CFR model made entirely of carbon. Priced at £5,099, our test bike is the second most expensive Spectral in the range and leaves little to be desired in terms of spec. The Shimano XTR 12-speed drivetrain and the XTR brakes perform just as convincingly as Canyon’s G5 cockpit and the grippy MAXXIS tires which come with the extra soft MaxxGrip compound upfront. The FOX Factory suspension looks just as good. The DT Swiss XMC 1200 wheelset is light and makes a high-quality impression.

The Spectral truly comes into its own on the descents! It constantly goads you to ride it harder and be more assertive with your line choice. The tall front end instils you with confidence, while the small 27.5” wheels make quick direction changes a lot of fun. Take the high line or drift into the corner instead? The Spectral does either with ease! The performance of the rear suspension is sensitive yet very defined, which means that the bike not only generates a lot of grip but is also easy to get airborne off the tiniest of lips. Despite the small wheels, you can just keep off the brakes on steep terrain and lean back. In contrast, flat trails require you to actively work the front of the bike to avoid understeer.