18.6 kg in size M | € 8,999 | Manufacturer’s website
For the 2025 season, Canyon bolted a compact, discrete motor to their popular trail bike, the Spectral, transforming it into a eMTB. The centerpiece of this transformation is the TQ HPR50 motor, which is seamlessly integrated into the bike’s frame silhouette to provide a reliable boost for climbing. Canyon retained the K.I.S. steering stabilizer, which was developed in close collaboration with Syntace. The Spectral:ON CF LTD rolls on a mixed wheel setup with a 29” front wheel and a smaller 27.5” wheel at the rear. Additionally, it has 10 mm more travel than its analog counterpart, both at the front and rear, generating a whopping 160/150 mm of travel.
Weighing in at just 18.6 kg, the Spectral:ONfly CF LTD is the lightest eMTB in our test field, and just 2.5 kg heavier than the heaviest analogue trail bike. Even the top-tier spec variant is very reasonably priced, retailing at €8,999 – which is relatively affordable for a high-end eMTB. But do the impressive numbers translate to strong trail performance? Read the full test to find out!
For an overview of the test field head to our “Best trail bike of 2025” comparison test – 16 of the most exciting trail bikes in our 2025 group test
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD in detail
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD takes on the competition with a minimalist, understated look, and an elegant black “Dark Matter” finish with subtle silver speckles. However, from certain angles, the finish on the carbon frame looks like a badly-applied wrap with air bubbles –a matter of taste really! From the rider’s perspective, the Spectral:ONfly doesn’t appear as streamlined as some of the other eMTBs in this test, like the Orbea Rise and MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL. This is partly due to the K.I.S. steering stabilizer, which comes standard with the bike. The spring system, which is designed to improve steering stability through adjustable resistance, is located under the display in the top tube. One advantage of this system is that the cables aren’t routed through the headset into the frame but neatly guided through cable ports on the frame, ensuring that the bike is pleasantly quiet on the trail. A generously-sized chainstay protector helps keep the noise down too, preventing chain slap and paint chips. A chunky TPU plate on the downtube protector shields the frame against stray rocks and impacts. However, the chain guide, which is mandatory on an eMTB, looks slightly bulky.
The downtube features two mounting points for a bottle cage, though a standard bottle might almost touch the shock, even in size M. We recommend using Canyon’s proprietary FUEL water bottle, which retails at €49.95. The tool mount under the top tube allows you to secure all your trail essentials directly to the frame, though the mounting points are covered with rubber plugs, and screws must be purchased separately– or you can opt for Canyon’s matching frame bag.
The spec of the Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD comes equipped exclusively with a top-tier FOX Factory suspension, featuring a fancy golden Kashima coating. TheFOX 36 Factory fork still relies on the older GRIP2 damper, and is combined with a FOX Float X Factory shock. Although FOX have just released two new dampers,the GRIPX and GRIPX2, the GRIP2 still impresses with excellent trail performance and countless adjustability options. The Spectral:ONfly CF LTD relies on a TQ HPR50 motor, which draws its power from a TQ HPR V01 battery. With a capacity of 360 Wh, this battery has the lowest overall capacity in the entire eMTB test field but can be expanded with an optional 160-Wh range extender that fits in the bottle cage. The TQ LED display is seamlessly integrated into the top tube, and shows all essential riding data, like the battery charge status, support mode, and other information, while the remote provides good haptic feedback.
The electronic SRAM XX Eagle Transmission ensures precise shifting even under full load, and is complemented by powerful SRAM CODE Ultimate Stealth brakes with 200 mm Centerlock rotors front and rear. For the cockpit, Canyon rely on their in-house G5 aluminum components, including the Canyon G5 dropper post, which has a whopping 200 mm of travel and can be be adjusted by up to 25 mm without the need for tools. The Reynolds Trail 329 Blacklabel Expert carbon wheelset is paired with MAXXIS DHR II tires, with the thin EXO casing and hard MaxxTerra compound at the front and the slightly thicker EXO+ casing and same rubber compound at the rear. When the first tire change is due, we recommend switching to a softer rubber compound at the front. To further protect the carbon rims and improve puncture resistance, you should consider upgrading to a more robust casing– EXO+ at the front and Doubledown at the rear.
Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD
€ 8,999
Specifications
Motor TQ-HPR50 50 Nm
Battery TQ-HPR Battery V01 360 Wh
Display TQ 0-LED
Fork FOX 36 Factory GRIP2 160 mm
Rear Shock FOX FLOAT X Factory 150 mm
Seatpost Canyon G5 200 mm
Brakes SRAM CODE Ultimate Stealth 200/200 mm
Drivetrain SRAM XX Eagle Transmission 1x12
Stem Canyon G5 35 mm
Handlebar Canyon G5 Alu 780 mm
Wheelset Reynolds Blacklabel Expert 29"/27.5"
Tires MAXXIS DHR II, MaxxTerra EXO/MAXXIS DHR II, MaxxTerra, EXO+ 2.4"/2.4"
Technical Data
Size S M L XL
Weight 18.6 kg
Specific Features
Range Extender
Tool Mount
Tuning Tip:
– To protect the carbon wheels, consider switching to tires with thicker casings. For improved grip at the front, we recommend upgrading to the softer MaxxGrip rubber compound.
The geometry of the Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD is available in four sizes, S, M, L, and XL. Due to the relatively long reach values, we chose a test bike in size M, which is recommended for riders between 1.75 m and 1.83 m tall. While the reach values grow consistently between frame sizes in 25 mm increments, these are quite long across the board, limiting the options for smaller riders. Although the 470 mm reach on our test bike in size M is one of the shortest in this comparison test, it suited all our test riders, who are between 1.78 m to 1.85 m tall. In size L, the Canyon would have been the longest bike in the entire testfield. Chainstays measure 440 mm across the board, which is neither particularly long nor too short. At 415 mm, the seat tube is very short, allowing you to insert a long dropper post all the way into the frame. This provides excellent freedom of movement on descents and addresses a long-standing issue we’ve highlighted in the past. Well done, Canyon!
The sleek design and seamless integration make it hard to recognize the Spectral:ONfly as an eMTB.
| Size | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube length | 400 mm | 415 mm | 445 mm | 455 mm |
| Top tube length | 594 mm | 621 mm | 648 mm | 675 mm |
| Head tube length | 105 mm | 115 mm | 125 mm | 135 mm |
| Head angle | 64° | 64° | 64° | 64° |
| Seat angle | 76.5° | 76.5° | 76.5° | 76.5° |
| Chainstay length | 440 mm | 440 mm | 440 mm | 440 mm |
| BB Drop | 31 mm | 31 mm | 31 mm | 31 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,221 mm | 1,251 mm | 1,280 mm | 1,309 mm |
| Reach | 445 mm | 470 mm | 495 mm | 520 mm |
| Stack | 620 mm | 629 mm | 638 mm | 647 mm |
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD on the trail.
As expected, the Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD leaves the entire analog test field behind in a cloud of dust. The TQ motor provides reliable, quiet assistance, though it requires more rider input compared to other e-bike competitors in the test. However, this provides a pleasant breeze of artificial tailwind and enables a very natural uphill riding experience. The efficient rear suspension doesn’t bob and generates good traction even on loose surfaces. The Spectral:ONfly reaches the trailhead just behind the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL and the Orbea Rise,– both of which lead the way with their powerful motor support. This leaves just enough time for a quick snack before the rest of the test field catches up.
Riding downhill, the Spectral:ONfly integrates you centrally into the frame, with the weight evenly distributed between the front and rear. The intuitive handling makes you feel at ease from the get go, inspiring huge amounts of confidence. With a relaxed hand on the brakes and a wide grin on your face, you can kick up dirt in style with the Canyon Spectral:ONfly. The firm, lively suspension underlines the bike’s playful character, delivering truck-loads of fun on flowing trails. The additional weight of the motor is barely noticeable. Not only does the Canyon Spectral:ONfly perform as the most agile e-mountain bike on the trail, but also outshines many lighter analogue bikes in terms of agility. Once again, it proves that a capable suspension, optimized kinematics, and well-designed geometry are far more important than a low system weight.
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD delivers tons of fun and excels with its versatile all-round trail performance.
As the terrain gets steeper and more technical, the high front-end and deeply integrated riding position inspire huge amounts of confidence. With bigger drops and botched landings, the suspension has enough reserves to keep you in control. While the Spectral:ONfly surpasses its analog counterpart in rough trail sections, where it rides alongside the MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL, fast, bumpy terrain isn’t its favourite environment. Here, most of the test field pulls ahead. Despite being only moderately composed on rough trails, the Spectral:ONfly proves to be a well-rounded performer that handles a wide range of trail conditions without batting an eyelid. However, one drawback remains: after only a few descents, the shock bushings showed noticeable wear– a recurring issue with its analogue counterpart. Due to the frame’s design, this problem isn’t easy to address.
Who should take a closer look at the Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD?
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD is aimed at playful trail riders who value the additional support of a lightweight eMTB but don’t want to sacrifice agility. The intuitive handling makes it a good choice for beginners too. Important note: When purchasing, ensure you pick the right frame size for optimal performance and comfort.
Conclusions about the Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD
The Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD impresses with a playful character, delivering immense riding fun on the trail. The intuitive yet agile handling caters to both beginners and experienced riders. Uphill, the motor provides a pleasant tailwind with a natural riding feel, enabling a few extra laps before your legs are toast. However, the worn shock bushings slightly dampen an otherwise outstanding performance.
Tops
- High fun factor
- Sleek, inconspicuous design
- Excellent agility
- Natural motor feel
Flops
- Worn shock bushings
- Only available with the unnecessary K.I.S. system
For more information, visit canyon.com
The test field
For an overview of the test field head to our “Best trail bike of 2025” comparison test – 16 of the most exciting trail bikes in our 2025 group test
All bikes in test: Atherton S.150 | Canyon Spectral CF LTD | Canyon Spectral:ONfly CF LTD | Ibis Ripmo XT | MERIDA eONE-SIXTY SL | Norco Optic C1 | Orbea Rise LT M-LTD | Pivot Switchblade Team X0 Transmission | RAAW Jibb V2 | Rocky Mountain Instinct C70 | Santa Cruz Bronson CC X0 AXS RSV | Santa Cruz Hightower CC X0 AXS RSV | Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper 15 | Transition Sentinel X0 AXS | Trek Top Fuel 9.8 GX AXS | YT JEFFSY CORE 5 CF
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Words: Benedikt Schmidt Photos: Peter Walker
