Strive CFR

Name: Canyon Strive CFR
Brand: Canyon
Availability: Discontinued

bike5000–7000 EUR

Origin

The Strive is Canyon's dedicated Enduro World Series (EWS) race bike. Designed with input from Fabien Barel and Jack Moir, the geometry is incredibly long and slack to prioritize pure downhill speed. The Shapeshifter allows racers to change the bike's kinematics mid-stage for brutal, techy climbs. Gen 3 (2022-present): Transitioned to CFR-only carbon frames. Massive geometry update (much longer reach, 63 deg head angle in Descend mode). Upgraded Shapeshifter 2.0.

Specifications

Frame: CFR top-tier carbon monocoque, 160/140 mm rear travel, with Shapeshifter 2.0 gas-piston geometry/kinematics adjuster. Claimed frame weight ~2.7 kg with Shapeshifter, no shock.
Weight: kg
Drivetrain: Shimano XTR 1x12 (shifter/derailleur), XT 10-51t cassette + chain, Race Face Next R 32t crank. Higher-tier CFR builds run SRAM X0 Eagle AXS; cheaper builds Shimano XT.
Brakes: Shimano XTR 4-piston hydraulic disc, 203 mm rotors
Wheels: 29" DT Swiss EX511 rims on DT Swiss 350 hubs (DT Swiss EX1700 wheelset on some builds)

The verdict

+Strengths

Wild potential performance — low BB and stable, stiff chassis deliver huge grip and directional control; comes alive at high speed (BikeRadar).
Shapeshifter 2.0 gives genuine dual personality: a 160 mm descender that converts to an efficient 140 mm climber mid-trail, useful across varied terrain.
Near-faultless, race-grade spec (Fox 38 Factory GRIP2, XTR 4-piston brakes, DT Swiss EX511/350) for the money (Loam Wolf).
Strong climbing for an enduro bike thanks to steep 78° seat angle and raised BB in Pedal mode.
Genuine EWS race pedigree — Jack Moir's 2021 EWS overall was won on the Strive.

−Weaknesses

Suspension and frame can feel harsh at low speed and when cruising — punishes anything but committed, aggressive riding (BikeRadar).
Not a playful trail bike: demands skilled, forward technique; casual riders are better on a Spectral or Torque.
Shapeshifter adds mechanical complexity, an extra bar lever, and specific setup pressures; if it fails the bike defaults to Descend mode.
Stock EXO+ casing tires are criticized as not durable enough for hard enduro/race use (Loam Wolf).
Direct-to-consumer only (Canyon) — no dealer fitting/service; sizing must be self-assessed.