Canyon Torque AL 2027: The Alloy Freeride Beast That Might Retire the Strive

Jennifer Miller · 2026-10-14

### Canyon Torque AL 2027: The Alloy Freeride Beast That Might Retire the Strive Canyon just dropped a bombshell on the freeride scene. The new Torque AL is back, and it's gone full aluminum. No carbon, no frills, just a burly frame with 180mm of travel front and rear. Starting at just $2,699, it's gunning for bike parks and big mountain lines. We tested the top-tier AL 9 model to see if this metal monster lives up to the hype. ### First Impressions: Simple, Tough, and Ready to Rip The Torque has always been the middle child between the Strive enduro bike and the Sender downhill rig. For 2027, Canyon stripped it down to the essentials. The frame is intentionally simple, with visible welds and sealed cartridge bearings. Cables run through standard ports, not some proprietary system. That means fewer things to break and easier trailside fixes. At 38.1 pounds (size M), it's no featherweight, but it's not a boat anchor either. The mullet setup (29" front, 27.5" rear) keeps things playful, and the smaller XS size gets a full 27.5" setup for shorter riders. ### The Details That Matter Canyon didn't just cut corners; they added smart touches. The integrated multitool on the top tube is a nice touch for quick adjustments. The flip chip lets you tweak geometry, and you can adjust chainstay length. But here's the catch: the chainstay length is the same across all sizes. That's a minor gripe for taller riders who might want a more balanced feel. Still, with five sizes from XS to XL, most folks will find a fit. > "The Torque AL is proof that you don't need carbon to have a blast on the trails. It's a bike that begs to be ridden hard and put away wet." ### Spec and Pricing: Bang for Your Buck Our test bike, the Torque AL 9, comes loaded with a solid build kit. At $4,299, it's not cheap, but it's competitive for a freeride rig. The base model starts at $2,699, which is a steal for 180mm of travel. Both run the same alloy frame, so you're getting the same durability no matter your budget. The suspension is adjustable, and the spec list includes reliable components that can take a beating. ### How Does It Ride? We took the Torque AL 9 to our local bike park and some steep, technical descents. The 180mm of travel soaks up big hits without feeling mushy. The mullet setup makes it easy to throw around, and the adjustable geometry lets you fine-tune the ride. It's not the lightest climber, but it's not meant to be. This is a bike for pointing downhill and grinning. ### Is the Strive Obsolete? Not exactly. The Strive is still a better enduro race bike, with lighter weight and more efficient pedaling. But for pure freeride and bike park laps, the Torque AL is more durable and cheaper to replace if you crash. Canyon now offers a compelling alternative for riders who prioritize fun and toughness over race results. ### The Verdict The 2027 Canyon Torque AL is a refreshing take on a freeride bike. It's simple, tough, and affordable. The alloy frame might add a few pounds, but it also adds peace of mind. If you're looking for a bike that can handle big drops and rough trails without breaking the bank, this is it. The Strive isn't obsolete, but the Torque AL is a worthy stablemate. - **Pros:** Robust alloy frame, adjustable geometry, integrated multitool, competitive pricing - **Cons:** Chainstay length not size-specific, weight is average - **Key specs:** 180mm travel (f/r), 38.1 lbs (size M), mullet wheels (29"/27.5"), five sizes XS-XL, flip chip, adjustable chainstay At the end of the day, the Torque AL proves that aluminum isn't dead. It's alive and kicking, ready to shred.