I am coming from a MTB background
I want to treat myself & buy myself a new bike, but I am stuck between two models that I can get delivered straight away:
The Ultimate CF SLX 8 AXS https://www.canyon.com/en-gb/road-bikes/race-bikes/ultimate/cf-slx/ultimate-cf-slx-8-axs/4067.html?dwvar_4067_pv_rahmenfarbe=R100_P09&dwvar_4067_pv_rahmengroesse=S#
& the new Endurace CF 8 Di2 https://www.canyon.com/en-gb/road-bikes/endurance-bikes/endurace/cf/endurace-cf-8-di2/4429.html?dwvar_4429_pv_rahmenfarbe=R129_P03&dwvar_4429_pv_rahmengroesse=S
I know the Ultimate is the "better" bike, but do you think it is worth the price difference? What sort of things would be noticable when riding? I don't mind spending the money, I just don't want to get to the point of diminishing returns.
Equally, I am open to suggestions of in-stock, fast delivery bikes in the middle ground of these two? It doesn't have to be Canyon. I am really not overly fussy on the bike, I just want something that looks cool & I am getting good value!
by Grand_Register_8160
7 Comments
Read about endurance and race bike geometries. That’s the most relevant difference for anyone new to road cycling.
Personally, I would go with the Endurace. Even if the Endurace has bad wheels, the Ultimate has Zipp wheels that are hookless which is a non-starter for me. You can always upgrade the Endurace wheels down the line.
Plus I don’t really understand the appeal of an Ultimate over an Aeroad which just seems better in every way. Aeroad same weight, more aero, same price, same geometry and looks better.
Have a look at the new Endurace SLX 8 too. It’s priced in between these albeit not in stock for a while.
If you’re coming from MTB I would think the Endurace would be more suited as it has slightly more relaxed geometry. I have an Endurace CF SL8 from 2021 and love it!
You compare a Bike for more than 5000 to a Bike for 3000
The ultimate is better! But is it better for you? No one heare can answer it.
I think what is “better” is based on your needs as a rider. That’s why there’s different product lines 🙂
If you want something that looks cool, start there. Because all these bikes will provide value in their own regard.
As far as diminished returns, my opinion is you will get out of any bike what you are willing to put into it(how much you invest in being a more frequent rider). You really have a bunch of wins ahead of you and I’m excited for you and Please post your bike when you get it!
The Ultimate isn’t the better bike – what is better comes down to what is right for the individual.
I had the first and second gen Endurace and have the current Ultimate. I’ve just ordered the latest Endurace CF SLX. The Ultimate has been great for the last 3.5years and I bought it largely based on looks and the wheels it came with, but, it’s far too aggressive and firm for the terrible roads where I live hence going back to the Endurace.
I’m not sure there’s a compelling reason to suggest the Ultimate these days on performance grounds. Both the Aeroad and Endurace CF SLX are more aerodynamically efficient than the Ultimate, and similar weights. If you like the look of the Ultimate and that’s your thing then go for it, but reckon the Endurace is best for most people.
Do you live in a hilly area? And do you like cycling holidays in the Alps? If so, get the Ultimate.