DT Swiss-engineered suspension fork introduced by Canyon, offering 40mm of travel
Canyon Ventures into High-Performance Gravel Racing with the Launch of the Grail CFR RIFT
Canyon, the German direct-to-consumer brand, has entered the realm of gravel racing with a powerful statement - the Grail CFR RIFT, complete with a groundbreaking innovation: the F 132 ONE suspension fork, an in-house development in collaboration with DT Swiss.
This development marks a significant stride for Canyon, signifying not only the creation of a whole new fork platform, a herculean feat on its own, but also a response to the growing demands of elite gravel racing, as terrain becomes faster, rougher, and more technically challenging.
Building one's own fork is uncommon, but for this high-performance gravel platform, which was developed in partnership with DT Swiss over a span of four years, says much about Canyon's faith in the imminent trajectory of the gravel market.
The F 132 ONE fork provides 40mm of travel, and at 1,340g (bare fork), it remains relatively lightweight given its capabilities. Designed exclusively for gravel race bikes, it boasts a 435mm axle-to-crown length, tapered steerer, and a 56mm offset. Tyres up to 50mm wide can be accommodated, although the RIFT frame is limited to a 42mm maximum tire size to maintain its performance-focused race geometry.
In terms of aesthetics, the sleek profile and understated graphics of the fork integrate seamlessly into the Grail's design. Canyon anticipates that this fork will be a valuable asset for racers navigating lengthy distances over tough, beaten tracks and washboard descents. As DNF rates in major gravel events continue to rise, Canyon's approach emphasizes both enhanced speed and durability.
The Grail CFR RIFT is built on an ultralight carbon platform introduced last year, renowned for its responsive ride and racy geometry. With the new suspension fork integrated, Canyon aims to smooth out the edges without compromising the bike's feedback.
The Shimano GRX 825 Di2 2x12 electronic drivetrain completes the Grail CFR RIFT's build, along with DT Swiss GRC1100 50mm wheels and Canyon's own Gear Groove CP0047 Pro cockpit, an aero-tuned design featuring a 16-degree flare and 400mm width. Priced at €7,999, the Grail CFR RIFT is yet to be released in the US but is expected to debut soon.
While the RIFT takes center stage, the rest of the Grail family is also updated: all CFR builds now come equipped with Canyon's CP0047 Gear Groove Pro cockpit, while CF SLX models now have power meters as standard. Additionally, cockpit widths have been refined across the lineup for a more race-focused fit.
The Grail family consists of several models, including the Grail CFR AXS (€8,499) with SRAM Red AXS XPLR 1x13 and DT Swiss GRC1100 wheels; the Grail CFR Di2 (€7,199) with Shimano GRX 825 Di2 2x12; and the Grail CF SLX 8 Di2 (€5,199) with GRX Di2 and DT Swiss GRC1400 wheels. More affordable builds such as the Grail CF 8 1X (€2,999) with GRX 822 1x12 and G1800 wheels, and the entry-level Grail CF 7 (€2,399), featuring GRX 822 2x12 and Gravel LN wheels, also form part of the lineup.
For more information, visit Canyon's official website.
[1] Gravel racing is becoming increasingly complex, with rougher and more technical terrain becoming common.[2] The F 132 ONE fork aims to address the challenges posed by these conditions, offering 40mm of travel to improve comfort and control.[3] This development signifies Canyon's commitment to the high-performance segment of the gravel market.
- Navigating the challenging and technically demanding terrain in gravel racing is becoming more complex, and the F 132 ONE fork, with its 40mm travel, is a testament to Canyon's commitment to improving comfort and control in the high-performance gravel segment.
- Advancements in technology, such as the F 132 ONE suspension fork, are crucial in addressing the growing demands of elite sports like gravel racing, where terrain is becoming faster and more difficult.
