Author: ElectricBikeReview.com via YouTube
The CANYON Grail:ON CF 8 is a high performance gravel ebike with carbon fiber frame, fork, and iconic double decker drop bar that introduces comfort and varied body positions. Sturdy 12mm thru-axles, tapered steer tube, and powerful Shimano ICE-Tech hydraulic disc brakes. This ebike is produced in seven frame sizes, but only four were in stock at the time of this review. Available in multiple geographies, this ebike ships with a 4th generation Bosch Performance Line CX motor in Europe or Performance Line Speed motor in the US offering Class 3 28mph performance. Both motors are known for reliability, responsiveness, and power. Combined with the internally mounted Bosch PowerTube 500, the bike looks great and weight is positioned low and center for optimal handling. Gravel specific Shimano GRX derailleur with one-way clutch to reduce chain bounce, a wide 11-42 tooth cassette for navigating varied terrain, and a narrow-wide chainring to reduce drops. Double bottle cage mounts are great, nice optional rear mudguard… but no front mudguard option from CANYON. Faster Bosch 4 amp standard charger included. Direct sales only, and shipping costs $150 to $200 extra. Many sizes for the CF 8 were sold out and the upgraded eTap version had even less at the time of this review. Battery locking core and charge port are positioned low on the non-drivetrain side of the bike, tempting you to either lean the bike up or lay it down on the derailleur side… Basic Bosch Purion display is not compatible with Bosch smartphone apps and does not offer USB charging.
0:00 Introduction and versions (CF 8 vs. eTap)
0:36 Region differences (CX in Europe, Speed in US)
0:56 Bike, battery, and motor weight (37.3lbs total)
1:13 Weight distribution, materials, handling
2:32 Standover height consideration, sizing options
3:26 Brake details, Shimano GRX with ICE-Tech
3:56 12mm thru-axles with quick release, hub spacing
5:17 Chainring and drivetrain details, Shimano GRX
7:07 Tire sizing details, 700c (650b for 2XS-SM)
8:28 Warranty details, accessory mounting options
8:53 Battery pack and charger details, Powertube 500
11:15 Display panel operation overview, Bosch Purion
14:17 Shifter mechanism overview, Shimano right lever
15:26 Motor controller overview (speed, cadence, torque)
17:32 Ride test begins, first person camera
20:10 Frame-mounted camera, drivetrain closeups
21:14 Third person camera, riding past and lifting
21:57 Conclusion and resources (compare tool, forums)