Canyon has released its new Spectral CF 8 K.I.S, the brand’s first bike featuring the Keep It Stable (K.I.S) system that uses custom springs, polymer fibre bands and a special cam ring to actively centre your bars while you ride. 

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Self-centring control systems are already used on many other vehicles such as cars, boats and planes, so bikes were just the next logical step. According to Canyon, the new K.I.S system does not rely on friction like its predecessors but creates a smooth, perfectly tuned centring force to make riding trails comfier, faster and more controlled. 

Canyon KIS system, by Canyon

The brand says K.I.S offers increased stability at all speeds and more predictable handling that filters out front-wheel deflections and reduces rider fatigue. K.I.S also claims to make climbing more efficient by combating wheel flop and reducing power surges required from the rider to maintain balance. 

Inside, K.I.S also has a built-in rotation stop that prevents the system from over-extending or breaking in the event of a crash.

But while this makes K.I.S seem like another steering damper, the K.I.S inventor - Klieber - has pointed out it isn't one. Many other systems use friction and hydraulic damper to stabilise the steering, which might make the bike feel slow to react. Klieber, however, says the K.I.S doesn't create a restrictive feel through the bars.

K.I.S is claimed to be maintenance-free, which is a relief as the system is integrated inside the frame. It adds 110g of weight to your set-up, but the only thing visible outside is the adjustment slider on the top tube, allowing the K.I.S to be tuned for the rider’s size, weight, style and riding terrain. 

The Canyon Spectral CF 8 K.I.S

2022 Canyon Spectral CF 8 KIS, by Canyon

The K.I.S system is exclusively available on selected Canyon and Liteville bikes, with the Spectral 8 K.I.S being Canyon's first bike featuring the system. The Spectral 8 is available now with the following specs.  

Frame: Carbon, 150mm travel
Fork: Fox 36 Performance Elite, 160mm travel
Shock: Fox DPX2 Performance Elite
Drivetrain: Shimano XT
Brakes: Shimano XT
Wheels: DT Swiss XM1700
Price: £4,999

• www.canyon.com

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