Never would've thought a video on a bike (that I've decided to order last week, with the help of your video) would get me longing back to my internship time in New Zealand. Thanks so much for the extensive and great video and hope you'll upload more! I've ordered the 6 which's basically the same apart from being an 8-speed which should probably suffice for the flat Netherlands ;). Thanks again!
Just got this bike a week ago and I love it! Not using it for commuting per se mostly as an around town pleasure bike, I use it to head into my town centre to run errands also. I mounted a Thule bike basket to the rear pannier, it fits really well and securely, great for a few groceries, library books and so on. Thanks for the video, there’s not a lot of info on this bike available but it helped my decision.
I just got this, best decision ever. Not a "cyclist", just a dude enjoying bicycles. I've been doing day trips with a cheap hardtail for 3 years now, switching to this bike is just amazing. And I can finally ride all year round since this thing requires no maintenance.
I've had this bike (actually a Commuter 8) for a couple of years. I really love it. Unfortunately it is not marketed in the US, but I was able to get it via the Canyon website somehow. It rides smoothly and brakes well. No real complaints, other than it came with slick tires, which I changed to a more treaded tire in case of rain. Shifting with the internal gears took a bit of getting used to, mainly, you need to stop pedaling while you change the gear. Not sure that would work in competition, but for getting around town, it is brilliant. And since everything is internal, no need for making sure everything is greased up!
I am a year-round commuter in Vancouver, BC, with a 53km daily commute. I've had to dial back the wet-weather commuting this past winter because it's just become so maintenance intensive, so I've been looking at going to a belt drive for a commuter bike. With the dyno hub and always-on lights (ask me how fun it is to ride home after dark when you've forgotten to charge up your headlight) this bike looks like it could be what I'm looking for. Only thing I really wish it had was a drop bar. How do you find the belt feels efficiency-wise versus your chain drive bikes? Does it feel noticeably slower? I have studded tires I use on occasion when it's icy, and they feel ponderously slow -- I'd be worried about the bike feeling like that all the time.
It does feel a bit less efficient than a well maintained chain drive, but it's way faster and easier than riding on a less efficient tyre like a MTB tyre (can't comment on studded as don't have them here). If you care absolutely 100% about maximum performance , this bike won't meet your needs, but if you're happy to compromise a bit on performance for needing to do very little maintenance on it during winter, this will be a solid option. I'd describe it as "riding a chain bike that maybe need some lube, but it's still okish to keep putting off". 53km is a decent ride, I did 40km around the bays (mostly flat) yesterday with this bike and honestly didn't notice anything too bad re efficiency, my only real complaint is on the steep hill climbs, but it's more a ratio issue than efficiency loss. Re drop bars, unfortunately it's not available in that configuration. There are some after market drop bar shifters for the alfine 11, but a lot of them look like they use cable pulled brakes, not hydraulic and by the time you're changing bars, shifter, brakes... might be better sourcing an alternative model that's more aligned with exactly what you're after (eg a gravel bike that uses an IGH like Alfine straight from factory). Here in NZ there's not a heap of options, but with you being in North America, should be a lot more selection. Cycling About's buyers guide could be an option? He focuses on touring bikes, but when you're doing 53km/day in mixed conditions, the needs aren't that dissimilar, and he's a big advocate for IGHs so I would expect a number of models to be covered. www.cyclingabout.com/touring-bicycle-buyers-guide/
love your bike collection, i also love the idea of belt drives not needing constant annoying cleaning and lubricating like chains do, but at the same time i dont know if i would get a belt drive bike if im cycling in hilly areas, its been proven that its not as efficient as chains, weights like 2 kilos on the rear tire dragging you down when youre goin uphill, and requires you to stop pedaling if u wanna switch gears which is of course not ideal while climbing. i dont know.. im still deciding between the roadlite and the commuter.
Thanks Ali, I would say that the Roadlite would be the better choice if you really want maximum efficiency and lowest weight - on paper, it looks like an excellent bike. The weight on the rear with the commuter doesn’t feel too bad for me, but a more sporty bike will absolutely be nicer on climbs. The easing off aspect isn’t much of an issue, but I’m pretty good at always easing off when changing gear, got into the good habit with the ebike to avoid stressing the chain with the high torque. If you do for either bike, I’ll be curious how you find them!
That front end of the belt drive you highlighted as possibly missing a cover piece concerned me in two ways: (a) it looked like there was exposed grease, which dirt will stick to and then potentially work its way into the mechanism and cause premature wear, probably on bearings. If true, definitely should have a cover (b) being a new bike it should have a new belt that hasn't stretched much yet, and it looked like the eccentric was already toward the "longer" end of its adjustment range?
Looked up the bottom bracket, seems its just the design of it … hopefully it doesn’t suffer long term dirt or water ingest. But yeah its a bit weird. Interestingly Gates claim that their belts never stretch, although I’m slightly dubious of that claim. Guess we won’t know until the long term, you are correct in that there isn’t much room for additional tightening atm.
@@jethrocarrnz It's a pretty normal design for an eccentric BB, it's just that most are painted on the face, the exposed aluminium is just a bit visually jarring. Also, don't worry about any extra grease on the spindle, just wipe it off. In other news, I ordered one of these this morning, partly based on the fact that your review answered a couple of questions I had that would have been embarrassing to ask Canyon directly.
Hiya! Great review, thanks. I'm trying to decide between the Commuter 5 (Should be similar enough to this one) and the Marin Presidio 3. Nice to see that Canyon provide tools needed for assembly (Although I think I have everything by now), but was there anything missing from that? How are you finding it now, 4 months later?
Has every tool you'll need. It's been a great bike, my only two complaints are a) the rack being a little limiting for anything other than QL3 bags and b) the bottom bracket on mine likes to squeak sometimes, but sounds like that's a common issue with eccentric bottom brackets which are used on many of these belt drive bicycles.
@@jethrocarrnz Great to hear about the tools, and glad you're enjoying the bike. Yeah, saw the 2nd video after I posted that comment. It made me notice an issue with the Presidio 3, it comes with a thumb twist shifter... I don't want that crap! I'm checking if it's compatible with the Alfine SL-7000. If it's not, then I'm going for the Boardman URB 8.9. Better specs and cheaper, but not as pretty.
I think there might be official and aftermarket trigger shifters for Nexus 8 speed, so that's another option if you aren't phased at changing the shifter (and probably grips) to get the bicycle you really want. But they need to specifically be Nexus 8 shifters, can't just use any old 8-speed shifter due to how these hubs work. Best research this carefully if you go down this path.
@@jethrocarrnz Yeah, there are some aftermarket options but I'm not sure on compatibility. But good news! Canyon Commuter 5 is on sale right now, £200 off! I might go for it. Have you noticed any paint related issues on yours? I've read somewhere that scratches happen easily on the Commuter series bikes.
I really like the fit/feel, it's sporty yet still reasonably comfortable. On paper, looking at geometry specs, it's not too dissimilar to a Trek FX. It's more relaxed than my Merida endurance road bike for sure.
I'm liking it as an around town commuter. Maybe not perfect for steep climbs and I have a few of those around me, but aside from that, it's been great.
As a pedestrian, a couple of weeks ago I saw a cyclist split that group at the stock exchange crossing and ran what wasn't even a stale orange, it was totally red and the cross alerts were in effect. Yet some people think I'm an asshole 🤷♂. I'm definitely a slow reader and would welcome a little more hang on your entertaining captions. At least now I know the voice in your head sounds a lot like mine... Nice introduction. How many drinks do i need to buy you before I can take a test ride?
I've had this bike for several days now and I have not had problems with it so far. ruclips.net/user/postUgkxn_jUDSlprMIeubd9rHdEAnv59nKfjcKv The handlebars, seat+ seat post, pedals, and front wheel were detached for shipping. It was easy to reassemble, but I did need to go out and buy a set of tools in the metric system to reattach parts. Use lubricant (WD-40 works well) on screw threads and hinges before re-assembling.(NOTE: Do Not Throw Away Any Of The Packaging Until After Assembly Because Some Of The Packaging Contains Small Parts That You Will Need To Reattach Parts!!!)Took it to a bike kitchen for fine tuning afterwards, and for refilling the tires (they'd lost some air during shipping) and then practiced riding on it. It fits me perfectly at 5'4" with the seat at the lowest possible setting--would not recommend for anyone shorter, as it may be difficult to get on and off the bike without assistance of some kind. The aluminum body is beautifully welded together--the only thing that irks me somewhat is some of the plastic parts, but oh well. Not too experienced with bikes (haven't owned one in years) but if you're not willing or are unable to spend $600+ on another bike, I would say this is a good way to get started. Just check everything before you go out riding--air levels in the tires, wobbling of the seat, handlebars, or pedals, loose screws/parts, you know, as it will happen over time. Common sense. Good luck to ya, and hope my review helps.
Never would've thought a video on a bike (that I've decided to order last week, with the help of your video) would get me longing back to my internship time in New Zealand. Thanks so much for the extensive and great video and hope you'll upload more! I've ordered the 6 which's basically the same apart from being an 8-speed which should probably suffice for the flat Netherlands ;). Thanks again!
Hey Sander, how is the 6? I’m thinking of purchasing one. Also living in the Netherlands! :)
Just got this bike a week ago and I love it! Not using it for commuting per se mostly as an around town pleasure bike, I use it to head into my town centre to run errands also. I mounted a Thule bike basket to the rear pannier, it fits really well and securely, great for a few groceries, library books and so on. Thanks for the video, there’s not a lot of info on this bike available but it helped my decision.
I just got this, best decision ever. Not a "cyclist", just a dude enjoying bicycles. I've been doing day trips with a cheap hardtail for 3 years now, switching to this bike is just amazing. And I can finally ride all year round since this thing requires no maintenance.
I've had this bike (actually a Commuter 8) for a couple of years. I really love it. Unfortunately it is not marketed in the US, but I was able to get it via the Canyon website somehow. It rides smoothly and brakes well. No real complaints, other than it came with slick tires, which I changed to a more treaded tire in case of rain. Shifting with the internal gears took a bit of getting used to, mainly, you need to stop pedaling while you change the gear. Not sure that would work in competition, but for getting around town, it is brilliant. And since everything is internal, no need for making sure everything is greased up!
I am a year-round commuter in Vancouver, BC, with a 53km daily commute. I've had to dial back the wet-weather commuting this past winter because it's just become so maintenance intensive, so I've been looking at going to a belt drive for a commuter bike. With the dyno hub and always-on lights (ask me how fun it is to ride home after dark when you've forgotten to charge up your headlight) this bike looks like it could be what I'm looking for. Only thing I really wish it had was a drop bar.
How do you find the belt feels efficiency-wise versus your chain drive bikes? Does it feel noticeably slower? I have studded tires I use on occasion when it's icy, and they feel ponderously slow -- I'd be worried about the bike feeling like that all the time.
It does feel a bit less efficient than a well maintained chain drive, but it's way faster and easier than riding on a less efficient tyre like a MTB tyre (can't comment on studded as don't have them here). If you care absolutely 100% about maximum performance , this bike won't meet your needs, but if you're happy to compromise a bit on performance for needing to do very little maintenance on it during winter, this will be a solid option. I'd describe it as "riding a chain bike that maybe need some lube, but it's still okish to keep putting off".
53km is a decent ride, I did 40km around the bays (mostly flat) yesterday with this bike and honestly didn't notice anything too bad re efficiency, my only real complaint is on the steep hill climbs, but it's more a ratio issue than efficiency loss.
Re drop bars, unfortunately it's not available in that configuration. There are some after market drop bar shifters for the alfine 11, but a lot of them look like they use cable pulled brakes, not hydraulic and by the time you're changing bars, shifter, brakes... might be better sourcing an alternative model that's more aligned with exactly what you're after (eg a gravel bike that uses an IGH like Alfine straight from factory). Here in NZ there's not a heap of options, but with you being in North America, should be a lot more selection. Cycling About's buyers guide could be an option? He focuses on touring bikes, but when you're doing 53km/day in mixed conditions, the needs aren't that dissimilar, and he's a big advocate for IGHs so I would expect a number of models to be covered. www.cyclingabout.com/touring-bicycle-buyers-guide/
love your bike collection, i also love the idea of belt drives not needing constant annoying cleaning and lubricating like chains do, but at the same time i dont know if i would get a belt drive bike if im cycling in hilly areas, its been proven that its not as efficient as chains, weights like 2 kilos on the rear tire dragging you down when youre goin uphill, and requires you to stop pedaling if u wanna switch gears which is of course not ideal while climbing. i dont know.. im still deciding between the roadlite and the commuter.
Thanks Ali, I would say that the Roadlite would be the better choice if you really want maximum efficiency and lowest weight - on paper, it looks like an excellent bike. The weight on the rear with the commuter doesn’t feel too bad for me, but a more sporty bike will absolutely be nicer on climbs. The easing off aspect isn’t much of an issue, but I’m pretty good at always easing off when changing gear, got into the good habit with the ebike to avoid stressing the chain with the high torque. If you do for either bike, I’ll be curious how you find them!
@@jethrocarrnz love your blogs btw, very interesting and somtimes hilarious :) youre a proper handyman well done!
That front end of the belt drive you highlighted as possibly missing a cover piece concerned me in two ways:
(a) it looked like there was exposed grease, which dirt will stick to and then potentially work its way into the mechanism and cause premature wear, probably on bearings. If true, definitely should have a cover
(b) being a new bike it should have a new belt that hasn't stretched much yet, and it looked like the eccentric was already toward the "longer" end of its adjustment range?
Looked up the bottom bracket, seems its just the design of it … hopefully it doesn’t suffer long term dirt or water ingest. But yeah its a bit weird.
Interestingly Gates claim that their belts never stretch, although I’m slightly dubious of that claim. Guess we won’t know until the long term, you are correct in that there isn’t much room for additional tightening atm.
@@jethrocarrnz It's a pretty normal design for an eccentric BB, it's just that most are painted on the face, the exposed aluminium is just a bit visually jarring. Also, don't worry about any extra grease on the spindle, just wipe it off.
In other news, I ordered one of these this morning, partly based on the fact that your review answered a couple of questions I had that would have been embarrassing to ask Canyon directly.
Nice thanks for that info Alasdair. Hope you enjoy the new bike, I’ve had a heap of fun riding it so far.
@@jethrocarrnzMine did not come with a bottom bracket cover.
great vid JC!!! looking forward to the full review :)
Coming soon!
Thans you! What is the Max speed of the bike? I mean what speeds does the motor give support?
This is the manual version - you're thinking of the Canyon Commuter:ON which is a different bicycle that I can't comment on sorry.
Hiya! Great review, thanks. I'm trying to decide between the Commuter 5 (Should be similar enough to this one) and the Marin Presidio 3. Nice to see that Canyon provide tools needed for assembly (Although I think I have everything by now), but was there anything missing from that?
How are you finding it now, 4 months later?
Has every tool you'll need. It's been a great bike, my only two complaints are a) the rack being a little limiting for anything other than QL3 bags and b) the bottom bracket on mine likes to squeak sometimes, but sounds like that's a common issue with eccentric bottom brackets which are used on many of these belt drive bicycles.
Also I assume you saw it, but posted a more review focused video at ruclips.net/video/IDl-RQbl9sY/видео.html on this bicycle
@@jethrocarrnz Great to hear about the tools, and glad you're enjoying the bike.
Yeah, saw the 2nd video after I posted that comment. It made me notice an issue with the Presidio 3, it comes with a thumb twist shifter... I don't want that crap! I'm checking if it's compatible with the Alfine SL-7000. If it's not, then I'm going for the Boardman URB 8.9. Better specs and cheaper, but not as pretty.
I think there might be official and aftermarket trigger shifters for Nexus 8 speed, so that's another option if you aren't phased at changing the shifter (and probably grips) to get the bicycle you really want. But they need to specifically be Nexus 8 shifters, can't just use any old 8-speed shifter due to how these hubs work. Best research this carefully if you go down this path.
@@jethrocarrnz Yeah, there are some aftermarket options but I'm not sure on compatibility.
But good news! Canyon Commuter 5 is on sale right now, £200 off! I might go for it. Have you noticed any paint related issues on yours? I've read somewhere that scratches happen easily on the Commuter series bikes.
Thanks for the first Look!
But this is not the Commuter:On 7,right? This looks quite different on the Canyon site..
Correct this is a different bike , their non-ebike commuter.
how do you like this bike ? It looks really aggressive compared to a trek fx or specialized sirrus ? Is this as aggressive as a endurance road bike ?
I really like the fit/feel, it's sporty yet still reasonably comfortable. On paper, looking at geometry specs, it's not too dissimilar to a Trek FX. It's more relaxed than my Merida endurance road bike for sure.
@@jethrocarrnz what size is that bike and how tall are you?
Came here for a bike review, but man Wellington is a great city
Good bike?
I'm liking it as an around town commuter. Maybe not perfect for steep climbs and I have a few of those around me, but aside from that, it's been great.
As a pedestrian, a couple of weeks ago I saw a cyclist split that group at the stock exchange crossing and ran what wasn't even a stale orange, it was totally red and the cross alerts were in effect. Yet some people think I'm an asshole 🤷♂.
I'm definitely a slow reader and would welcome a little more hang on your entertaining captions. At least now I know the voice in your head sounds a lot like mine...
Nice introduction. How many drinks do i need to buy you before I can take a test ride?
Good call, I realised the captions go about as fast as I talk… might need to slow them down. And yes, lets do a catchup sometime soon!
These bikes aren't open source and I'm offended.
I've had this bike for several days now and I have not had problems with it so far. ruclips.net/user/postUgkxn_jUDSlprMIeubd9rHdEAnv59nKfjcKv The handlebars, seat+ seat post, pedals, and front wheel were detached for shipping. It was easy to reassemble, but I did need to go out and buy a set of tools in the metric system to reattach parts. Use lubricant (WD-40 works well) on screw threads and hinges before re-assembling.(NOTE: Do Not Throw Away Any Of The Packaging Until After Assembly Because Some Of The Packaging Contains Small Parts That You Will Need To Reattach Parts!!!)Took it to a bike kitchen for fine tuning afterwards, and for refilling the tires (they'd lost some air during shipping) and then practiced riding on it. It fits me perfectly at 5'4" with the seat at the lowest possible setting--would not recommend for anyone shorter, as it may be difficult to get on and off the bike without assistance of some kind. The aluminum body is beautifully welded together--the only thing that irks me somewhat is some of the plastic parts, but oh well. Not too experienced with bikes (haven't owned one in years) but if you're not willing or are unable to spend $600+ on another bike, I would say this is a good way to get started. Just check everything before you go out riding--air levels in the tires, wobbling of the seat, handlebars, or pedals, loose screws/parts, you know, as it will happen over time. Common sense. Good luck to ya, and hope my review helps.