Crossbones wrote:If this design is significantly better than a Redshift stem, I think it could be re-engineered with a normal stem placed low and "biplane" bars. But I don't think it will happen. I personally hate when manufacters design areas of normal options with zero options!
Redshift stem provides compliance regardless of your hand position, unlike this bar, which only flexes when your hand weight is on the top of the bars (where you need it least).
spandy24 wrote:Yea i really wish they'd offer that frame with the option to either have the "hover bar" or a traditional stem/bar combo... missed opportunity..
"An Aluminium version with a standard cockpit is slated for release later." - CyclingTips
The SLX Frameset is available to built up, so once the Alu bike is available, they may release the bar to fit, or release a non hoverbar CF model.
Pricing is up now in USD, and it's surprisingly aggressive. Full Ultegra bike is $2,899, and Ultegra Di2 is $3,599. Seems more than fair for what you get. https://www.canyon.com/en-us/road/grail
That is great pricing. I would buy today if it had a more traditional bar, or at least the option for one. Not saying that the hover bar is a complete deal breaker, but have to see how this shakes out.
frontrangegravel wrote:Chas, For what it's worth, that Redshift stem has brought out some of the most positive feedback from readers and listeners we've seen. Admittedly, I was surprised to see that so many people liked it. But it was enough feedback that I can't really dismiss it as just hype.
Agreed. I don't think any of the solutions in my list are hype, just lots of ways to address the issue.
my wrists got beat up riding gravel on my road bike back in the day. These days tubless 40mm tires at the right pressure take care of my needs (and double wrap tape).
I'll edit my post to make it clear the "double wrap tape" comment was specific to the canyon bar only.
SamSam wrote:Some sources state the aluminium version is due later this year, while other sources claim it will be released in 2019
I think the alloy frame and non hoverbar models will come as a 2019 model year. That will probably mean they become available between July and September 2018.
Let's hope they release a CF frame with a standard bar for the 2019 model year too.
Seems like a nice bike for true gravel, though I appreciate the concerns above: if it's windy and/or you're trying to make speed, you lose the hover bar's advantages.
For me, more of a monster-cross rider, I need brake levers up top for when I'm in single track, and I don't think these bars will accommodate in-line levers.
One of the biggest problems in the US, as the bikes are sold specced as is. Something simple like changing the stem length on the handlebars with their integrated handlebars will cost $400 (i.e. the cost of a new bar/stem combo).
In Europe you can swap out seat posts, handlebars and similar with no problem. Not in the US. In Europe there are discounts for racers, or purchase of multiple bikes, etc. Not in the US. Its pretty basic service - maybe that will improve in the future?
I find it strange that a bike with such a radical front end would not be available for a test ride. You have to take a leap of faith and hope that it fits. If I was using the direct market concept I would make something more conventional that experienced riders could at least try to figure out from pictures, geometry charts and reviews. Asking for $3,000 for something very different than any bike that the buyer has ridden before with no way to get seat time in advance seems like a very difficult sell.
It is a hard sell, although there is a 30 day money back guarantee (if the bike is in new and unused condition).
its a little easier in Europe with the ability to swap out parts or customize the build a little. There are even discounts for people who race. Not much of that in the US.
For instance, if you fall between sizes and need a shorter/longer handlebar stem, you'll have to fork over an additional $400 for the integrated carbon handlebars/stem. (makes a case for not getting the fancy stem/handlebar combo).
They are amazing bikes, but it has to be just right for you.
Don't they sell through dealers in Europe? I certainly agree it's a bit of a tough sale to ask people to buy such a unique design without even seeing it in person, much less riding it, but they do have a good return policy and pricing. Still probably riskier than I'd be comfortable with though.
They do have a showroom in Koblenz. I thought I read there was one in California? Maybe not. In Koblenz, you can test ride a bike, find your favorite model and take your boxed bike home with you.
This is about as strong a review I have ever seen. I have to say, I agree with it in my experience. My Canyon puts a smile on my face ever ride, and makes me want to ride more (and has destroyed lots of my PRs and KOMs on my ride).
It's a product of great engineering, not just the frameset but the Canyon components too. It's been designed as a complete package you can call them gimmicks if you like, but wow, they all add up to an awesome ride.
The Grail is fast, smooth, comfortable, light and has great handling, but above all else it's masses and masses of fun.
This article does a great job of articulating the riding experience of my Inflite (given that the Grail is endurance oriented and my Inflite is race oriented).
I have to say, most gravel bikes that I have ridden are rather boring. But the inflite at least (and apparently the Grail too) put a huge smile on my face and make me want to go ride more. I've ridden no other bike that is that smooth and yet accelerates so fast.
. But the review covers only the Grail, not the Inflite. It makes only 1 passing comment on the Inflite, referring to it as 'racy' compared to the grail.
Any word on the release of the Grail aluminum frame? I understand it'll have a standard handlebar (rather than that double-decker thingy).
Any reason why you don't want the AL Inflite? Its a lot more conservative than the carbon race bike, and is basically their do anything commuter bike (you can even configure it with fenders (in EU at least)).
Indeed -- the Inflite (both carbon and AL model) is near the top of my list, but would be interested in the specs of the AL Grail before I decide. (I also will want a 2x drivetrain; hopefully in the US we'll be able to opt for the 2x crank on the Inflite as well)
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