Fitting an AeroPack to the Canyon Grizl

A guide to fitting the Canyon Grizl

A very popular bike for bikepacking is the Canyon Grizl, it’s used by many of our customers too (search ‘Grizl’ in our Reviews). One drawback with the Canyon Grizl frame is that there are no dedicated rack mounts on the bike, which at first glance could limit your options for bikepacking equipment. However, this guide is here to show how you can transform your Grizl into a fully capable bikepacking rig, ready for any adventures you have planned.

In this guide, we will show you how to fit the Tailfin AeroPack to a Canyon Grizl as well as a selection of other compatible products too. The bike shown is a 2024 Canyon Grizl SL 8 1by in size Medium, complete with genuine mud

Canyon Grizl bike
2024 Canyon Grizl, size Medium

Configure your Tailfin Order

In this example, we’re showing the Carbon AeroPack with Pannier Mounts, but our Alloy versions (and our Racks) are also compatible with the Canyon Grizl. See our comparison guides here to help make a choice based on your riding plans.


When placing your order, ensure you select either the 1.0mm Thru Axle OR Universal Thru Axle, both are compatible with the Canyon Grizl

Time to assemble

Use our assembly guides to put together your AeroPack. You’ll need a Torx T25 tool and a torque wrench to do this

Tailfin AeroPack Assembly

Fit the new axle

Now you’re ready to fit everything to your Grizl, just one step remains – installing the new Tailfin Thru Axle. As the Grizl does not feature rack mounts this is the only mounting option available. However, this is the strongest option and works for the majority of bikes – not just the Grizl. By attaching your Tailfin system to the axle the stresses on your frame are almost eliminated, making this the safest option for use with light and high-end carbon bikes. It is the mounting approach we recommend above all others.

Follow the steps below to install the new axle

Canyon Bicycle Thru Axle
First, remove the original thru axle
This plastic cover on the frame must be removed
Gently push out the cover
Tailfin Thru Axle
Fit the included spacers to your new axle. For best results, we recommend stacking the two larger spacers as shown

 

Tailfin Thru Axle Installation
Install the new axle in place and tighten to 8-10Nm with a 5mm Hex key
Tailfin Thru Axle
It’s normal for threads to show on the drive-side

 

You can leave the axle fitted even without the AeroPack attached. It’s also normal for threads to show on the drive-side too – it is just as safe as your original axle as the number of axle threads engaged with the frame is the same.

Attach your AeroPack

The last step is to attach the AeroPack to your Grizl. It’s often easier to do this standing behind your bike.

Tailfin Fast Release Dropouts
Connect the Fast Release Dropouts around either side of the axle. 
Tailfin Seat Post Connector
Secure the Seat Post Connector in place and ensure it’s locked shut

The Seat Post Connector is safe to use on carbon seat posts and split seat posts such as those used on the Grizl. See our quick guide here on how to correctly attach the Seat Post Connector.

Now you’re ready to ride!

Optional Extras

If you have a small Grizl frame then we’d recommend including the AeroPack Extender with your order (or Long Top Stay if purchasing a Rack). The Extender will push the bag further away from your saddle and help maximise the space available for the AeroPack’s bag. 

We also recommend this if you have less than 10cm of seat post outside your frame and/or lots of saddle setback. Below shows the difference with and without the Extender

No Extender fitted
Tailfin AeroPack on Canyon Grizl2
Extender fitted

Additional products

The AeroPack has an 18L capacity and the model shown in this guide can also carry additional side panniers. However, if you need extra storage consider these options below;

Canyon Grizl with Tailfin products fitted

Bike shown with additional 0.8L Top Tube Pack, 3L Half Frame Bag, 5L Fork Packs, 10L Mini Panniers, and Small Drop Bar Bag fitted.