Canyon have unveiled their 2016 Inflite cyclo-cross range, including the introduction of a new flagship model – the SRAM Force 1-equipped Canyon Inflite AL 9.0 SLX.

The Inflite was introduced at the back-end of 2013 as Canyon’s aluminium cyclo-cross frame though, in reality, it’s something of an all-rounder, with the robust frame, discreet mudguard mounts and disc brakes also making the Inflite a solid winter training or commuting option.

And that’s reflected in the range of builds Canyon offer, though the Inflite AL 9.0 SLX, new for 2016, is an unashamed cyclo-cross race machine – or “a thoroughbred cross bike built for racers”, as Canyon describe it.

As well as SRAM’s single-chainring Force 1 groupset, the £2,399 machine is specced with Reynolds Assault Disc Carbon Tubular wheels wrapped in Challenge Grifo 33 tyres in what is a thoroughly race-ready package. All up claimed weight is 7.85kg.

Meanwhile, four other bikes make up the rest of the Inflite range: two geared towards road riding and two towards off-road riding.

The Inflite AL 9.0 S and Inflite AL 8.0 S are both pitched as “all-weather” road machines thanks to the 28mm Continental Grand Prix 4000S II tyres and custom SKS mudguards, which get well thought out reflective details ideal for winter training rides which take place under cover of darkness, while the ‘velvet green’ paintjob also has smart reflective details. Otherwise, the 9.0 S gets a Shimano Ultegra groupset with hydraulic disc brakes for £1,399 and the 8.0 S wears a Shimano 105 groupset with mechanical discs for £1,099.

Of the two knobbly-tyred machines, the Inflite AL 8.0 is the more affordable option, also at £1,099, and like its roadworthy sibling has Shimano 105 components and mechanical disc brakes, but with Schwalbe Rocket Ron Evolution Line tyres. Finally, the £1,399 Inflite AL 9.0 gets up-specced Shimano Ultegra kit and hydraulic discs, with the same Schwalbe Rocket Ron Evolution Line tyres.

Check out all five 2016 Inflite bikes in the gallery below. Otherwise, we’ll check out the rest of Canyon’s 2016 road range at next week’s Eurobike trade show, so watch out for more on RoadCyclingUK. If you want to see the bikes in the flesh, Canyon will also be exhibiting at The Cycle Show at the NEC in Birmingham on September 25-27. RoadCyclingUK readers can save £1.50 off the advance ticket entry fee by using the code RCUK at www.cycleshow.co.uk.

Website: Canyon