Canyon Neuron:ON Review
E-MTB full-suspensions have been following a clear trend recently: More travel equates to more capabilities. 150 to 160mm of travel has become widely popular, especially among the full-power e-bike range. However, Canyon is taking a different approach with their Neuron:ON, focusing on efficiency and sticking to a modest 140mm of travel at both the front and rear. But how trail-worthy is the Neuron:ON, and can it handle rough terrain despite its shorter travel?
Neuron – a name that’s been synonymous with “quiver-killer” at Canyon for over a decade. It’s no coincidence that the motorless Neuron is Canyon’s most successful mountain bike. Neuron riders value and adore the comfort, efficiency, and balanced handling of this friendly all-rounder.
Those eyeballing the Neuron:ON have likely scrolled past Canyon’s promo shots, which purport to depict the bike in its natural habitat. But to great surprise, there are no images showcasing its touring capabilities—instead, we’re treated to adrenaline-fueled trail escapades. This leaves the impression that the electrified Neuron:ON has morphed into an enduro rig for adrenaline junkies. So, what gives?
For those who find the range of the 750Wh battery insufficient, Bosch’s new PowerTube Range Extender offers an additional 250Wh. That brings the total to a whopping 1,000Wh at your disposal. While Canyon doesn’t explicitly promote the use of the Range Extender, upon inquiry, it was confirmed to us that it is compatible with the Neuron:ON. This means one thing for sure: You won’t be running out of juice.
The Bosch CX motor triples your pedal power, as its support is at 340 percent. In Turbo mode, you’ll ascend as if you were flying. If the full support feels like too much, you can conveniently customize the various modes right on your smartphone.
All you need for this is the free E-Bike Flow App from Bosch. The motor provides solid assistance – so much so that you could tackle demanding trails uphill. Because the Neuron:ON is fundamentally a good climber. However, the uphill adventure is somewhat limited due to the moderate traction on the rear tire and the high front. On steep ramps, the front wheel tends to lift, which makes it difficult to stay on track on extreme uphill trails with so much thrust from behind.
On moderately steep paths, however, the Canyon confidently marches upwards. And for those who don’t intend to take the trail to the summit, the Neuron:ON offers an efficient and fast climber on paved paths.
- Low Weight for a Full-Power EMTB
- Highly efficient on long rides.
- plenty of room for large water bottles
- Comfort-Oriented Complete Package
- thoughtful frame details
- fair value for money
Con´s
- Poor grip damping (moderately comfortable)
- moderate tire grip
- moderate stopping power of the brakes
- no longer the value-for-money marvel that Canyon once was
The comparison: The Canyon and some of its counterparts
Conclusion on the Canyon Neuron:ON
Canyon has specifically tailored the Neuron:ON for long rides on moderate trails. Those who resonate with this type of riding will find a stalwart companion in the Neuron:ON for extended days in the saddle. Ample battery capacity, efficient propulsion, and plenty of push on the climbs. A great bike for long rides, provided the route doesn’t take you into excessively challenging terrain.
However, due to its focused design, the Canyon Neuron:ON isn’t a catch-all Swiss Army knife. Technical descents will demand a lot of strength and concentration from the rider. This bike excels on flowy trails. Riders seeking more can unlock additional downhill potential by swapping in some stickier tires.
