Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 1BY review

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Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 gravel bike
(Image credit: Graham Cottingham)

The gravel-sphere is a very different place than it was just a few years ago. Like any ‘new’ cycling discipline, there are growing pains. As companies and riders explore the direction and possibilities, bike technology and riding progression seeks to find a status quo. Gravel has been no different, what was once simply gravel riding has now developed into an umbrella term that covers all off-road riding and racing between road cycling and XC mountain biking. The encompassing 'gravel' term can cover everything from high-octane racing to loading the bike with bikepacking bags for a multi-day adventure. Previously one bike would cover all duties but increasing specialisation and demands by consumers have resulted in gravel bikes becoming niched.

Graham has been part of the Cyclingnews team since January 2020. He has mountain biking at his core and can mostly be found bikepacking around Scotland or exploring the steep trails around the Tweed Valley. Not afraid of a challenge, Graham has gained a reputation for riding fixed gear bikes both too far and often in inappropriate places.