CANYON PATHLITE: ON 5
£2499 Brimming with accessories and packing a real punch
Canyon’s new Pathlite:ON 5 follows on from the superb Precede:ON we tested in issue 377, and not just in having an odd name! But where Canyon’s Precede:ON was all about slick integration and futuristic looks, the Pathlite:ON 5 takes its cues from the world of hardtail mountain bikes.
One such cue is the aluminium frame paired with an SR Suntour suspension fork that has a generous 100mm of travel. I found the fork performed remarkably well, even when I tried it down steps and bumping over speed bumps and kerbs. The MTB experts on Mountain Biking UK say it lacks some high-speed bump response and, as a coil spring rather than an air spring, it’s harder to adjust for a particular ride, but I was impressed with it and on smooth roads, you could lock out the suspension to keep the ride efficient.
The off-road flavour is continued in its drivetrain, which uses Shimano’s workhorse Deore components with a 42t chainring and a long-cage rear mech to shift across the super-wide 11-51 cassette. Shimano’s MT200 hydraulic brakes combine with the rotors to provide ample control to stop the bike’s considerable 23.5kg weight.
The big 29in wheels are shod with Schwalbe’s tightly studded G-One All-Round tyres in a huge 57mm width. The combination of such large-volume tyres, front suspension and the tyres’ diameter makes the Pathlite insanely capable over pretty much any surface you encounter.
The Bosch Performance Line CX powertrain is controlled by Bosch’s Purion display that lets you switch between off, Eco, Tour, eMTB and Turbo modes. The display/controller doubles as an on/off switch for the integrated lights and the system also has a Walk+ button that’s handy for pushing the bike up steep ramps.
Canyon claims an impressive 100km/62mile range, and I found that pretty much spot on. My test rides included 64 miles/103km with 2,750ft/838m of climbing and 56 miles/90km with 3,635ft/1108m of climbing on a particularly lumpy route.
Bosch’s latest Gen 4 motor is an ideal companion for commuting. It’s unobtrusive when you’re pedalling above the 15.5mph assist limit, but when the road starts to steepen to a serious degree, the motor has heaps of meaty torque on tap to keep your average speed as high and relative effort as even as if you were on the flat.
I still get a bit of a thrill in switching into ‘Turbo’ and using the 85Nm of oomph to blast up double digit ascents. The eMTB mode takes the motor to a new level of control, the power delivery is progressive and more sensitive than on previous Bosch systems. This means the bike doesn’t respond with a kick as the power is delivered, which boosts your confidence when you’re dealing with wet or loose, gravelly surfaces.
The battery is integrated into the down tube, which not only looks great but is practical for commuters, as one turn of the key lets you drop the battery out. The latest Bosch charger is light and compact too.
The mudguards provide superb coverage from the elements, though over chattery surfaces at speed the front guard does buzz like a classroom ruler. The integrated lights are neatly done, with the front sensitive to ambient light levels and the rear’s three LEDs neatly set into the seatpost. The wide bar and straight-backed riding position is great for navigating busy streets and bike paths and the Fizik saddle isn’t bulky yet is comfy enough that you don’t have to wear padded shorts.
This bike goes far beyond the realms of your average e-commuter. It’s comfortable, but its handling chops let you hit mountain bike terrain. It has a great riding position, powerful motor in an excellent drivetrain and it’s loads of fun. You’ll find it hard to find anything that delivers this many smiles per mile, which isn’t something I often say about a commuting machine. Throw in the range plus Canyon’s usual value and about the only downside is the Pathlite’s weight. But, if you don’t have to haul it upstairs, it’s hard to beat.
The eMTB mode takes the motor to a new level of control, and the power delivery is progressive