Canyon Torque AL Test: Is the Strive Now Redundant?

Robert Wilson · 2026-10-14

Canyon has completely reworked the Torque for 2027, and the big news is that it's now aluminum-only. With 180mm of travel front and rear, adjustable geometry, and a starting price of around $2,700, this bike is aimed squarely at bike park laps and freeride lines. We tested the range-topping Torque AL 9 to see if the simpler approach pays off. ### First Impressions and Key Specs The Torque AL 9 we rode came in at 17.3 kg (38.1 lbs) in size M and costs $4,300. That's competitive for a bike with this much travel and kit. The mullet setup (29" front, 27.5" rear) returns, and the smaller sizes get a full 27.5" setup for consistency. Canyon has kept things simple: visible welds, sealed cartridge bearings, and external cable routing through standard ports. The idea is to reduce failure points and keep the price down. > "The Torque AL feels like a bike that's meant to be ridden hard and put away wet, without fussing over fragile carbon or complex integration." ### Adjustability That Matters One of the standout features is the flip chip, which lets you tweak geometry and suspension kinematics. You can also adjust chainstay length, though it's the same across all sizes. That's a minor gripe for taller riders who might want a longer rear end for stability. Still, the ability to fine-tune the ride to your style or terrain is a big plus. ### On the Trail We took the Torque AL 9 to some rough, steep trails and bike park laps. The 180mm of travel soaks up big hits without feeling mushy, and the aluminum frame has a reassuring stiffness. The integrated multitool on the top tube is a nice touch for quick adjustments. The bike climbs better than you'd expect for a freeride rig, though it's no XC race machine. Where it really shines is pointing downhill: the mullet setup keeps the front end lively while the rear tracks well through loose corners. ### Is the Strive Obsolete? The Strive is Canyon's enduro race bike, with slightly less travel and a more race-focused geometry. The Torque AL, with its freeride focus, is more playful and forgiving. For most riders hitting bike parks and freeride lines, the Torque AL makes more sense. But the Strive still has its place for enduro racing and riders who want a sharper, faster feel. So no, the Strive isn't obsolete—but the Torque AL is a compelling alternative that might make you question the need for a dedicated enduro bike. ### The Verdict The Canyon Torque AL 9 is a solid, no-nonsense freeride bike at a fair price. It's not the lightest or the most refined, but it's built to take a beating and keep coming back for more. If you're in the market for a burly bike that won't break the bank, this one deserves a close look.