Canyon teases new Citylite bike with belt drive, promising to ‘rewrite’ the city

Canyon teases new Citylite bike with belt drive, promising to ‘rewrite’ the city

The unreleased bike uses a Gates belt drive and has lots of practical features

Stan Portus / Our Media


While Canyon doesn’t have an official stand at this year’s Eurobike, the German brand has clearly found it hard to resist scattering a few new products through the world’s largest cycling trade show. 

Alongside its new handlebar that takes only one minute to manufacture, Canyon has teased a new Citylite commuter bike range at the Gates belt drive stand. 

The Canyon Citylite on show uses a Gates belt drive for quiet and stress-free cycling, according to the small information sign next to the bike that promises “Just the smooth, quiet glide of that goes and goes”.

“Morning commutes. Coffee runs. Detours that turn into your favourite part of the day. Simple to ride. Easy to love,” the sign reads. 

The sign states this isn’t just a new bike: “This is the city – rewritten for effortless city riding.” 

It also hints at the “Citylite family”, which could mean this new bike is one of a new range that would likely complement Canyon’s Roadlite collection. Or simply that by buying the bike you are becoming part of this ménage. 

The bike on display has a variety of practical features. The Gates belt drive will reduce maintenance, while the rack for panniers and mudguards makes the bike’s commuting intentions clear. 

Despite using disc brakes, the bike has quick-release skewers for easy, tool-free wheel removal

Canyon Citylife up-close 

Canyon's unreleased bike has a Gates belt drive and Gates crank.
The Canyon Citylite uses a Gates belt drive and the brand's cranks. Stan Portus / Our Media
Skewer on Canyon Citylite bike.
The wheels have quick-release skewers rather than thru-axles. Stan Portus / Our Media
Shimano dynamo hub on Canyon Citylite bike.
Up front, there's a Shimano dynamo hub. Stan Portus / Our Media
Abus frame lock on Canyon Citylite bike.
The Abus frame lock is another practical detail. Stan Portus / Our Media
It uses Canyon brake levers and there is a light integrated into the handlebar.
It uses Canyon brake levers and there is a light integrated into the handlebar. Stan Portus / Our Media
Rear triangle on Canyon Citylite bike.
The rear triangle has a lot going on. The two bolts on the seatstay enable you to install the Gates belt drive belt, which is manufactured in one piece. Stan Portus / Our Media