Canyon, the German direct-to-consumer bike manufacturer, has once again pushed the boundaries of innovation with the launch of its lightest electric road bike to date: the Endurace:ONfly. Weighing in at just 9.86 kg for its flagship SUB-10 model, this bike is a groundbreaking addition to the e-road bike category, blending the agility and feel of a traditional high-performance road bike with subtle electric assistance. Unveiled on June 25, 2025, the Endurace:ONfly series aims to address the long-standing compromises of e-road bikes—excessive weight and compromised ride quality—while delivering a sleek, powerful, and versatile ride. This article dives into the features, technology, and impact of Canyon’s latest masterpiece, exploring why it’s being hailed as a game-changer in the cycling world.
The Evolution of Electric Road Bikes
Electric road bikes have often been criticized for their heft and lack of natural ride feel compared to their non-assisted counterparts. While electric mountain bikes have seen rapid advancements in lightweight design and integration, e-road bikes have lagged behind, often weighing significantly more due to bulky motors and batteries. Canyon’s foray into this space with the Endurace:ONfly signals a shift, addressing these pain points with a bike that not only weighs under 10 kg but also promises a ride experience akin to a traditional road bike.
Canyon’s goal was clear: create an e-road bike that doesn’t feel like one. By partnering with TQ, a leader in lightweight e-bike motor systems, Canyon has crafted a bike that integrates cutting-edge technology without sacrificing the aesthetics or performance that road cyclists demand. The result is a bike that looks, feels, and handles like a high-performance road bike while offering subtle electric assistance for those challenging climbs or long rides.
Key Features of the Endurace:ONfly
1. Unprecedented Lightweight Design
At just 9.86 kg for the flagship Endurace:ONfly SUB-10, this bike is significantly lighter than competitors like Trek’s Domane+ SLR 9 (around 11.86 kg) and Scott’s Addict RC eRide Ultimate (10.66 kg). This featherweight construction is achieved through Canyon’s innovative NeoBeam technology, which reduces the wall thickness of the carbon tubes while maintaining frame stiffness. The entire system—motor, battery, and supporting hardware—adds only 2.7 kg, making it one of the lightest e-road bike systems on the market.
2. TQ HPR40 Motor and Battery Integration
The heart of the Endurace:ONfly is the TQ HPR40 mid-drive motor, weighing just 1.17 kg and delivering up to 40 Nm of torque with 200 watts of assistance. Unlike bulkier motors, the HPR40 is compact and whisper-quiet, ensuring a natural pedaling experience. The motor is paired with a fully integrated 290 Wh TQ battery, seamlessly tucked into the frame to maintain the bike’s sleek profile. For extended rides, an optional 160 Wh range extender in the shape of a water bottle can push the range beyond 100 km and 2,000 meters of climbing on a single charge.
3. Smart Integration and Features
Canyon has gone beyond weight savings to ensure the Endurace:ONfly feels like a traditional road bike. The bike features a built-in GPS tracker powered by the main battery, offering live tracking and motion detection for security, with a standby battery life of up to four weeks. The Shimano Di2 electronic groupset and lights are also powered by the TQ battery, reducing the need for additional power sources. This level of integration ensures functionality without clutter, maintaining the bike’s clean aesthetic.
4. Versatile Model Range
The Endurace:ONfly lineup includes four models to cater to different budgets and preferences, all equipped with the same TQ HPR40 motor and carbon frame:
|
Model |
Price |
Weight |
Groupset |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Endurace:ONfly SUB-10 |
€9,999 |
9.86 kg |
Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 |
Top-tier components, lightest model, premium carbon frame |
|
Endurace:ONfly CF8 |
€6,999 |
11.01 kg |
Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
High-performance groupset, excellent balance of price and performance |
|
Endurace:ONfly CF7 |
€5,149 |
~10.5 kg |
Shimano 105 Di2 |
Affordable yet high-quality, ideal for enthusiasts |
|
Endurace:ONfly CF6 |
€4,499 |
~10.8 kg |
Shimano 105 Mechanical |
Entry-level model with reliable performance, great for new e-road bike users |
All models are available in seven frame sizes (2XS to 2XL), accommodating riders from 159 cm to 204 cm.
5. Ride Quality and Handling
Early reviews praise the Endurace:ONfly for its natural ride feel, particularly on climbs. The TQ motor’s subtle assistance kicks in seamlessly, making it ideal for gradients around 4%, where many e-road bikes struggle to maintain a natural feel near the motor’s cut-off speed of 25 km/h. Testers note that the bike’s handling is indistinguishable from a non-electric road bike, thanks to its optimized geometry and lightweight construction. The carbon frame ensures stiffness for responsive handling, while the integration of components like hydraulic disc brakes enhances control in varied conditions.
Why the Endurace:ONfly is a Game-Changer
Breaking the E-Road Bike Stigma
E-road bikes have often been viewed as a compromise, with added weight and less dynamic handling deterring purists. Canyon’s Endurace:ONfly challenges this perception by delivering a bike that rivals non-electric models in weight and performance. As one reviewer noted, “If electric road bikes keep getting better, only bravado is standing in the way.” The Endurace:ONfly’s ability to blend electric assistance with the agility of a traditional road bike could broaden the appeal of e-road bikes, attracting both seasoned cyclists and newcomers.
Competitive Pricing
While the SUB-10 model, priced at €9,999, sits at the premium end, it undercuts competitors like Trek’s Domane+ SLR 9 (€11,750) and Specialized’s top-tier offerings. The lower-tier models, starting at €4,499, make the Endurace:ONfly accessible to a wider audience, offering high-end features like electronic shifting and hydraulic disc brakes at a competitive price point. This pricing strategy aligns with Canyon’s mission to deliver value without compromising quality.
Sustainability and Versatility
The Endurace:ONfly’s lightweight design and efficient motor system make it a more sustainable choice for long-distance rides, reducing the need for frequent charging. The optional range extender further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for everything from daily commutes to epic endurance rides. The bike’s ability to handle both tarmac and light gravel also positions it as a versatile all-rounder, appealing to cyclists who want a single bike for multiple terrains.
Market Impact and Consumer Sentiment
The launch of the Endurace:ONfly has generated significant buzz in the cycling community. Posts on X highlight the excitement, with users calling it a “masterpiece of engineering” and praising its sub-10 kg weight and TQ motor integration. Cycling publications like BikeRadar and GRAN FONDO have lauded its ride quality and smart design, with reviewers noting its potential to redefine the e-road bike category. However, some skepticism remains, with a few users questioning whether the high price of the SUB-10 model justifies the investment compared to non-electric alternatives.
Canyon’s timing is strategic, as the e-bike market continues to grow rapidly. With e-road bikes still a niche segment, the Endurace:ONfly positions Canyon as a leader in this space, potentially capturing a significant share of the market. Its focus on lightweight design and natural ride feel could also pave the way for other manufacturers to follow suit, driving further innovation in the category.
Comparison with Competitors
To understand the Endurace:ONfly’s position in the market, let’s compare it with other leading e-road bikes:
|
Bike |
Weight |
Price |
Motor |
Battery |
Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Canyon Endurace:ONfly SUB-10 |
9.86 kg |
€9,999 |
TQ HPR40 (40 Nm) |
290 Wh |
100+ km (w/ extender) |
|
Trek Domane+ SLR 9 |
11.86 kg |
€11,750 |
Bosch Performance |
500 Wh |
~100 km |
|
Scott Addict RC eRide |
10.66 kg |
€8,199 |
Mahle X35+ |
250 Wh |
~100 km |
|
Specialized S-Works Turbo |
~12 kg |
€12,000 |
Specialized SL 1.2 |
320 Wh |
~130 km |
The Endurace:ONfly stands out for its lower weight and competitive pricing, particularly against Trek and Specialized. While the Scott Addict RC eRide is slightly cheaper, its Mahle motor offers less torque, and its battery has a lower capacity.
Future Implications for Canyon and the Industry
Canyon’s Endurace:ONfly is more than just a new bike; it’s a statement of intent. By addressing the core challenges of e-road bikes—weight, integration, and ride feel—Canyon is setting a new standard for the industry. The success of this model could encourage other manufacturers to invest in lightweight e-bike systems, potentially leading to a broader acceptance of e-road bikes among traditional cyclists.
For Canyon, the Endurace:ONfly strengthens its position as an innovator in the direct-to-consumer market. The company’s ability to offer premium features at accessible price points could attract a new wave of cyclists, from enthusiasts to beginners looking for a versatile, high-performance e-bike. As Canyon continues to expand its e-bike lineup, including models like the Pathlite:ON SUV 9 and Spectral:ON CF 8, it’s clear the brand is committed to leading the charge in e-bike innovation.
Looking Ahead
The Canyon Endurace:ONfly is a landmark achievement in the e-road bike category. With its sub-10 kg weight, advanced TQ HPR40 motor, and seamless integration, it delivers a ride experience that rivals non-electric road bikes while offering the added benefit of electric assistance. Whether you’re tackling steep climbs, embarking on long-distance rides, or simply seeking a versatile bike that can handle both road and light gravel, the Endurace:ONfly is a compelling choice. Priced competitively and backed by Canyon’s reputation for quality, this bike is poised to redefine what cyclists expect from an electric road bike. As the cycling world continues to embrace e-bikes, the Endurace:ONfly stands as a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets passion.