Brandon McNulty was knocked off his bike by a car while reconnoitring the stage 16 time trial course at the Tour de France, briefly leaving UAE Team Emirates XRG unsure whether one of Tadej Pogacars key mountain domestiques would be able to start. The American was riding the 26-kilometre route fr...

Canyon launched the new Endurace CFR with one goal in mind: to help Mathieu van der Poel win Paris-Roubaix. And while that didnt quite work out, with van der Poel opting to use his Aeroad CFR instead, the Endurace CFR platform is still a mighty impressive bike. After all, van der Poel did win the E3 Saxo Classic on the new Endurace CFR in its first outing, proving its prowess for taming cobbles and tough terrain. For riders seeking a more relaxed geometry, the regular Endurace CF and CF SLX are more in line with the endurance-bike recipe and even boast greater tyre clearances than the CFR, as well as provision for mudguards and on-bike storage. Ive spent a lot of time on the Endurace CFR both at the global press camp in the Flemish Ardennes and back home on the rough surfaces of the UK. With upwards of a thousand kilometres in the saddle to date, the Endurace CFR has failed to disappoint me. If anything, the wider tyre clearances (compared to options from the best aero race bikes), combined with the racy fit and aero-inspired frame, make for one of the most entertaining and rapid machines for broken roads.Its not perfect, however, and some niggles pertaining to the handlebar configuration and specification choices sully an otherwise impressive package.The Endurace CFR tested within 1 watt of the Aeroad at 45km/h in the Tour Magazine wind tunnel test protocol: 204 vs 205w (Image credit: Aaron Borrill)Technical detailsThe similarities between the new Canyon Endurace CFR and Aeroad CFR are glaringly obvious, but by no means a mistake Canyons modus operandi was to create a bike able to compete at the sharp end in the Spring Classics without impacting the fit and rider position of the Aeroad CFR. The most notable changes are the seatpost and seat tube cutouts, which have been tweaked to accommodate wider tyres 35mm versus the 32mm maximum clearance on the Aeroad. The fork and headset hardware, however, are identical to the Aeroad, as is much of the geometry. Keeping things largely in line with the German brands aero bike means the new Endurace CFR is the fastest endurance bike its ever made, testing within 1 watt of the Aeroad at 45km/h in the Tour Magazine wind tunnel test protocol: 204 vs 205w. The Endurace CFR is constructed from Toray T1100, T800, and YS80 pitch-based fibres to balance strength and stiffness. This layup makes the frame naturally very stiff yet compliant enough to ensure comfort over choppy terrain. The Endurace CFR also gets a new SP0093 VCLS Aero seatpost, claimed to improve ride quality - an industry-first aero-comfort post that offers 25 per cent more compliance over a rigid post. The new SP0093 VCLS Aero seatpost is claimed to improve ride quality, offering 25 per cent more compliance over a rigid post. (Image credit: Richard Butcher)Owing to the Aeroad CFR-inspired geometry and blueprint, the big news pertains to the tyre clearance. Canyon reckons 32mm is no longer the upper limit but rather the baseline for Spring Classic race bikes, with the new Endurace CFR now able to clear 35mm front and rear. According to Canyon, tyre widths can be pushed even further to 40mm in dry race conditions, but this is not recommended outside the WorldTour due to potential frame damage and warranty voiding.The new Endurace CFR is available in three colour options (Pro Black, Paradigm Shift, and Dark Matter) and six sizes: 2XS, XS, S, M, L and XL. Sizing is a little larger than other brands', so I suggest checking Canyons sizing chart to ensure the best fit. In retrospect, I should have sized down to a small, but based on my body measurements (I can ride both 54 or 56cm), Canyon reckoned Id get away with riding a medium. The fit is not typical of the classic endurance bikes, as the Sport Pro Geometry allows Canyon-sponsored riders to seamlessly switch between Endurace CFR and Aeroad CFR race setups.While the geometry is not identical to the Aeroad CFR, it is very similar with a marginally longer wheelbase and chainstays for improved stability. In size medium, the parallel head and seat tube angles of 73.25 and 73.1 degrees are spot-on for this racing application and complement the aggressive stack (563mm) and reach (393mm).The 50/37T, 10-33T gearing proved adequate for terrain in and around the Surrey Hills (Image credit: Richard Butcher)SpecificationsThe Endurace CFR can be specced in one of two configurations: SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, it all comes down to your preferences. The bike pictured here came outfitted in the latter, complete with 50/37T, 10-33T gearing configuration, which I felt was an ideal spread for the terrain that comprises the Surrey Hills. As has become de rigueur in the pro peloton, there are a host of crank options available depending on the frame size. My size medium test bike came standard with 165mm crankarms, down from 172.5mm. Your optimal crank length, however, can also be specified from 165 to 175mm in the MyCanyon programme.System weight wasnt a driving motivator when designing the new Endurace, but the engineers still made sure it came in as light as possible. Considering that many of the regular aero race bikes are between 7.4-7.6kg (especially in Spring Classics trim), Canyon has nailed the system weight. Our medium test bikes tipped the scales at 7.55kg without pedals a number you can reduce by 120g by speccing the CP0053 Race bar. The balance of the build comprises a Canyon SP0093 VCLS Aero seatpost, Selle Italia SLR saddle, 65mm DT Swiss Arc 1100 wheels wrapped in 35mm Pirelli Pzero RS tyres and a Canyon CP0048 Pace bar with classic drops. The 65mm DT Swiss Arc 1100 wheels came wrapped in 35mm Pirelli Pzero RS tyres (Image credit: Richard Butcher)PerformanceThe Endurace CFR doesnt ride like a typical endurance bike, and I personally don't think it should be classed as one, if Im honest. Its more of an Aeroad CFR with more utility. The riding position is aggressive, and the geometry has been tuned to deliver a fit similar to the Aeroad CFR, a race-honed platform with no ties to the endurance concept. As a result, riders need to be aware of this and shop accordingly the Endurace CF SLX and CF are the bona fide endurance platforms in the range.When I tested the bike in Belgium, I was blown away by the way it handled cobblestones and poor roads. I was also impressed by its descending prowess and ability to accelerate quickly out of corners, but I was unsure how this would translate to my typical riding routes back in the UK. I didn't expect it to be as fast as some of the racier bikes Ive been riding on home roads, but it blew me away - particularly the average speeds and overall riding manners of the platform. I do feel this stems from the lower pressures of the 35mm tyres, but also the lateral compliance of the seatpost the combination of which has resulted in more tyre staying in contact with the road surface, absorbing imperfections and not skimming over the terrain.The fork and headset hardware are identical to the Aeroad CFR, as is much of the geometry (Image credit: Richard Butcher)I felt the front end was a bit too high for my liking, as the CP0048 Pace bar spacers essentially increased the effective stack height and shortened the reach a touch, resulting in not getting enough weight over the front axle during cornering. The handlebar system, however, is designed to offer 20mm of height adjustment without cutting the steerer or brake hoses, but I couldnt get it sorted in time for this test. Overall, the bike is super grippy in the corners, thanks to the 35mm tyres. I went pretty low on the tyres, with 40psi front/rear proving ideal for my weight. I was very impressed by the stock Pirelli PZero RS tyres the compound is balanced, delivering good grip and rolling efficiency. The shorter cranks also mean you can scythe through corners with ease and confidence, and get on the pedals earlier, thanks to the greater crank clearance at aggressive lean angles. Gearing is impressive, and you won't feel hampered on descents thanks to the 50/37T, 10-33T drivetrain. Theres ample range for steep kickers and longer climbs, too.The boxy frame profile, together with the 65mm DT Swiss Arc 1100 wheels, means the bike can be a handful in crosswinds or gusts, requiring the drops to be kept in check to improve control. Its nothing to be alarmed by and can be totally solved by fitting a shallower front wheel.The CP0048 Pace bar spacers essentially increased the effective stack height and shortened the reach a touch, resulting in a lack of weight over the front axle (Image credit: Richard Butcher)ValueThe Canyon Endurace CFR is an impressive bike. Melding the aerodynamics of the Aeroad CFR platform with wider tyres clearances and comfort has resulted in an outrageously capable machine that can dismiss poor road surfaces at unnoticeably fast speeds.While its not quite what Id consider a veritable endurance bike, I do undersratnd Canyon made this particular bike to solve an issue riders and teams had with the Aeroad CFR: tyre clearance. Should it be called the Endurace CFR? Maybe not, as its more of an Aeroad CFR Plus than a veritable Endurace the Endurace CF SLX and CF prove this, but that doesnt take away from a really impressive bike.I suspect it will appeal more to the Aeroad CFR owner who wants greater tyre clearance and comfort while keeping the same racy fit, but this, coupled with the 8,500 / $10,499 / 9,000 sticker price, puts it out of the picture for a large portion of the cycling demographic. There are other options within the range, including the Endurace CF SLX and CF platform, which offer more relaxed upright fits, greater utility, more affordable pricing and even larger tyre clearances.Tech specPrice: 8,500 / $10,499 / 9,000Brand: CanyonFrame: Canyon Endurace CFR-ProFork: Canyon FK0137 CF DiscWeight: 7.55kg (actual, medium)Sizes: 2XS, XS, S, M, L, XLLevers: SRAM Red AXSBrakes: SRAM Red AXS, 160/140mm front/rearRear derailleur: SRAM Red AXSFront derailleur: SRAM Red AXSCrankset: SRAM Red AXS 50/37TBottom bracket: SRAM Dub Press-fitCassette: SRAM Red AXS 10-33TChain: SRAM RedE1 Flattop, 12-speedWheels: DT Swiss Arc 1100 65mmTyres: Schwalbe One TLR 28mmBar/stem: Canyon CP0048 Pace T-BarSeatpost: Canyon SP0093 VCLS AeroSaddle: Selle Italia SLR Carbon

Tadej Pogacar may hold a five-minute lead at the Tour de France, but UAE Team Emirates XRG are refusing to treat the yellow jersey as secure while the danger of a crash remains impossible to control. The withdrawal of Jonas Vingegaard on stage 15 has removed Pogacars main rival and left the Slove...

Alex Schultz was the first rider to finish the 670-mile Oregon Timber Trail race over the weekend, completing the grueling route in 6 days, 12 hours, and 44 minutes. Find a short written reflection and a few photos from his ride here...The post Alex Schultz Wins 2026 Oregon Timber Trail Race appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Good morning and welcome to the liveblog of the Tour de France. The third and final week of racing gets underway with the individual time trial, where we will find out who will emerge as the fastest man against the clock at the 113th edition of the Tour. Several riders will take their turn in the ho...

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Fantastic performance in varied conditions from a jacket that youll probably wear more than you think

Netcompany INEOS were left furious after a start-line error cost Thymen Arensman around 15 seconds in the stage 16 individual time trial at the Tour de France. Arensman was due to begin his 26.1-kilometre effort from Evian-les-Bains at 4.25pm, but the Dutchman was still inside the start area as the...

Words and photos by Miles Arbour The small, unincorporated town of Pine, Arizona, is seemingly plopped in the middle of nowhere between Phoenix and Sedona. Despite its size, Pine is []The post Highline Trail Overnighter appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

As DH riders are getting faster and faster, offering the most protection possible becomes more and more important. With the new Baracon Carbon full-face helmet, POC has decided its time to level up their protection. This lid earns two certifications usually reserved for motorcycle helmets, but its designed specifically for DH racing or freeride.Alongside the new Baracon Carbon helmet, POC developed their new Zygon goggles. These goggles feature a unique angled strap that fits nicely with the Baracon full face. They also include adjustable ventilation and are offered with two different cylindrical Clarity lenses.POC Baracon Carbon Full Face Helmet:The new Baracon Carbon helmet features a carbon fiber outer shell, in-moulded with an EPS liner. Instead of gluing the two layers together, POC has fused both into one piece with sandwich construction. This increases strength and structural rigidity while keeping weight low. The density of the EPS liner has also been optimized for protection and low weight.This helmet is certified to not only the usual DH and BMX standards, but to DOT penetration standards and ECE R22.06 (European motorcycle) standards for high-speed impacts. POC says some DH racers have moved to wearing motocross helmets for their higher level of protection, but those helmets are heavy, not as ventilated as bike helmets, and theyre not designed for DH racing. The Baracon Carbon seeks to bridge that gap, providing MX protection within a DH race-specific design. POC does want to remind everyone that despite its certifications, the Baracon is NOT a motorcycle helmet!The Baracon Carbon employs a MIPS Evolve liner to reduce rotational forces on your brain. Should you crash hard, the helmet also features removable cheek pads so you can pull it off with minimal disruption to the head and neck.Another feature that helps reduce rotational forces is a multi-directional breakaway visor. The visor is held on by magnets, and whether it takes a hit from the side or front it pops off the helmet. Assuming it survived the crash, the visor can simply be popped back on afterwards.Like other POC helmets, the Baracon Carbon features ventilation channels to enhance cooling. POC uses CFD (computational fluid dynamics) to optimize their helmets ventilation and aerodynamics. Theyve also kept the vents away from where the goggle strap sits so they dont get blocked.The helmet comes with extra padding to adjust the fit to your head, and the interior pads leave open space around your ears so you can hear whats happening around you as you ride. POC stuck with the racers favoured D-ring buckle on the Baracons chin strap.Weights per size are as follows: Small 1030g, Medium 1040g, Large 1160g. Given the Baracons protection certifications, POC feels this weight is exceptionally low.The Baracon Carbons high level of protection doesnt come cheap, with an MSRP of $900 USD. It comes in Carbon Matt only, and in sizes S/M/L which cover heads from 51- 62 cm. It is available on POCs website now and will ship to POC retailers or e-tail partners later this summer.Zygon Goggles:POCs new Zygon goggles are intended for DH or enduro riders. Making sure they mate well with their own products, POC gave the Zygons an angled strap designed to fit nicely with the Baracon helmet. The angled strap allows for even pressure on the face and ideal positioning of the goggles.The Zygons wide outriggers enable the goggles to sit close to your face (with any helmet). The flexible frames design and outriggers ensure good peripheral vision, and a large overall field-of-view in all directions.A cylindrical lens with POCs Clarity technology provides a distortion-free view tuned to enhance definition and contrast. The 1.8mm thick lens is double layered to resist cracking.The Zygon goggles also offer adjustable ventilation: A ventilation lid that sits on top of the foam can be removed to open up more airflow. To ensure secure positioning, the goggle strap is 45mm wide.*Images c. POCTriple layer foam matches the contours of your face for a secure fit, and a layer of Coolmax fabric on the inside helps keep your face cooler. The face foam is also DWR treated to repel water and dirt.The Zygon goggles retail for $150 and are available now. Frame color options are Hydrogen White or Uranium Black. Either color comes with your choice between a Clarity Trail/Cloudy Brown lens or a Clarity Universal/Cloudy Grey lens. poc.com