Pedal to Podium

Upgrading your bike is a big decision, and for me, moving to the Canyon Torque AL 6 Mullet 2023 has been a transformative experience. My old Specialized Rumor 650b has been a loyal companion for a while, but as my riding progressed, its limitations became more apparent. I needed a bike that could handle the steep, technical trails I was tackling more frequently and provide the confidence I was missing. Enter the Torque—a bike that has not only met my expectations but completely redefined what I thought was possible for my mountain biking experience.

Why I Needed the Upgrade

The decision to upgrade was born out of necessity. My Rumor was a great bike when I first started riding, but as I began tackling more demanding terrain, it struggled to keep up. The steep descents, rock gardens, and technical features of Tasmania’s trails—whether at Maydena, Derby, or Tolosa Street—felt like battles rather than fun. The geometry of the Rumor made it twitchy and unstable on rough terrain, and the lack of modern suspension technology made even smaller drops feel jarring. I wasn’t just looking for a new bike; I was looking for one that could restore my confidence and help me progress as a rider.

When the opportunity came to purchase the Torque AL 6 from a fellow rider at Maydena, I knew it was the right choice. The bike had been well-maintained and came with some impressive upgrades, including high-performance brakes and an upgraded drivetrain. It was a no-brainer—the Torque ticked every box I needed.

First Impressions of the Canyon Torque

From the moment I first rode the Torque, the difference was night and day. This bike feels like it was built for confidence. The mullet setup (29-inch front wheel and 27.5-inch rear wheel) struck the perfect balance between stability and agility. The larger front wheel rolls over rocks and roots with ease, while the smaller rear wheel keeps the bike playful and responsive in tight corners. The suspension—170 mm in the front and 160 mm in the rear—absorbs impacts effortlessly, making drops and rough terrain feel smooth and controlled.

The Torque’s geometry is what really sets it apart. With a slack head angle and a long reach, the bike feels stable and planted even on the steepest descents. I’ve ridden sections that used to make me pause, and now I approach them with excitement rather than hesitation. The steep seat tube angle also makes climbing surprisingly efficient for a bike with this much travel. It’s not a lightweight cross-country machine, but it climbs better than you’d expect for such a capable downhill performer.

How the Upgrades Enhance the Bike

One of the standout features of this particular Torque AL 6 is the set of upgrades it came with. The brakes have been a game-changer, providing incredible stopping power and control. On steep, technical descents, where precise braking can mean the difference between staying on the bike and flying over the handlebars, these brakes deliver unmatched confidence.

The drivetrain upgrade is another highlight. Shifting is smooth and reliable, even under pressure, and the wide gear range makes climbing much more manageable. Whether I’m grinding up a steep ascent or accelerating out of a corner, the drivetrain performs flawlessly, keeping the ride smooth and efficient.

Fit, Feel, and Ride Quality

One of the biggest surprises with the Torque has been how comfortable it feels, even on long rides. The geometry provides a perfect balance of control and comfort, making it easy to spend hours on the bike without feeling fatigued. The suspension is plush but supportive, soaking up rough terrain while still providing feedback from the trail. It’s a bike that feels intuitive and responsive, no matter the conditions.

The mullet setup deserves special mention here. It’s the first time I’ve ridden a bike with this configuration, and it’s a revelation. The stability of the 29-inch front wheel gives me the confidence to tackle steep, rough sections, while the agility of the 27.5-inch rear wheel makes the bike playful and fun. It’s the best of both worlds and suits the type of riding I do perfectly.

Performance on Trails

While I’m focusing on the bike, it’s worth mentioning how it performs on some of Tasmania’s trails. At Maydena, where steep, technical descents are the norm, the Torque feels unstoppable. The bike absorbs everything the trail throws at it, from rock gardens to drops, and lets me focus on enjoying the ride.

At Derby, it’s just as impressive. On flowy trails like Hazy Days, the Torque glides effortlessly, and on technical descents like Dam Busters, it provides the control and stability needed to navigate challenging features. Even at Tolosa Street, where jumps and berms dominate, the bike’s playful nature shines.

Who Is This Bike For?

The Canyon Torque AL 6 is not a lightweight trail bike or an all-day climber, coming in at a heafty 16kg but that’s not what it’s meant to be. This is a bike for riders who want to tackle steep, technical descents, hit big features, and ride with confidence on challenging terrain. It’s a bike that thrives on variety, making it perfect for someone like me who enjoys a mix of trails, from flowy singletrack to gnarly downhill runs.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to the Canyon Torque AL 6 Mullet 2023 has completely transformed my riding experience. It’s a bike that inspires confidence, handles challenging terrain with ease, and feels equally at home on smooth flow trails and steep descents. The mullet setup, upgraded components, and modern geometry have elevated my riding in ways I didn’t think were possible.

If you’re looking for a bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Torque is an incredible choice. For me, it’s more than just a bike—it’s a tool for progression, adventure, and rediscovering the joy of riding. Whether I’m at Maydena, Derby, or anywhere in between, the Canyon Torque AL 6 is the perfect companion. I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.