Canyon Inflite CF SL 8.0

£2249

THE LATEST INFLITE

When the Inflite launched two years ago, we rated the CF SLX model as the best ready-to-race out of the box ’cross bike we’d ever ridden, so there are high hopes for this CF SL version. With its different carbon layup, fork, seatpost, wheelset and saddle, but identical tyres, drivetrain and integrated carbon cockpit, our medium example weighs in at an impressive 7.93kg, just 210g heavier.

CYCLOCROSS SPECIFIC

The Inflite’s frameset is perfectly tailored for ‘cross racing, and with clearance for 40mm tyres, plus wide Reynolds rims, it has a life beyond the marker tapes too. That kinked top tube maximises the main triangle’s size, makes the top tube easier to grab, and along with the 1.5-degree steeper down tube, quicker to shoulder, while still allowing extra exposed seatpost to flex. The tight rear triangle is stiff, with efficient power delivery that’s nearly on a par with the SLX, the down tube and chainstay tops are shaped to shed mud, and all muck entry points are sealed.

FINE HANDLING

It takes just moments to feel the Inflite’s perfect poise, and excellent weight distribution. Its 90mm stem and generous 1018mm wheelbase ensure confident stability, while telepathic steering inputs to surf the wildest sloppy off-cambers and nail technical turns at speed. Along with low pressure in the brilliant Schwalbe X-One Allround tubeless tyres, the frameset’s bump-smoothing ability when seated is very good. While the H13 Ergocockpit smoothes the bumps well, we felt the SP0043 VCLS seatpost was less effective than the S13 VCLS model fitted to the SLX bikes.

ONE THING WE’D CHANGE SITTING COMFORTABLY

Selle Italia’s SLS saddle has a similar shape to the SLR, but feels firmer. We’d prefer more inbuilt flex and comfort.