Canyon Grand Canyon CF SL 6.9 (£1,599)

Another racy option is Canyon’s brand new Grand Canyon CF SL 6.9. It’s essentially a more affordable version of their top-flight SLX carbon hardtail.

It saves the pounds through a lower grade of carbon. It comes out of the same mould though, so you get a frame with oversized tubes, tapered head tube and internal cable routing.

There are three models in the range, with this model at £1,599 being the cheapest. As we’ve come to expect from Canyon, it’s well stocked with decent kit for the money. A Fox 32 Float 29 Evolution fork with a CTD dial, Shimano SLX 2×10 cranks and Deore XT shifters, Formula C1 brakes, Mavic Crossride 29 Disc wheels and Continental X-King 2.2in tyres is all impressive for the money. All that gives a claimed weight of just 10.9kg (24.03lb). Race it. Thrash it in the local woods. Enter a 24-hour race. This is a well sorted and very capable bike whatever your goal next year.

Price: £1,599
More information: Canyon Grand Canyon CF SL 6.9