Industry veteran Jose Gonzalez brings high level suspension expertise to new global Canyon role, focused on working with suspension partners and pro teams to drive further MTB innovation
KOBLENZ, GERMANY | EMBARGO: 27 FEBRUARY 2025 — Global bicycle brand Canyon has today announced a significant change in its Research and Development department. Experienced bike industry engineer Jose Gonzalez begins a new role in 2025 as Canyon's Director of Suspension Technology.
The new role has been created to allow Canyon to increase its collaboration with suspension partners including Rock Shox, Fox and DT Swiss, especially in mountain biking. Gonzalez will also be working with Canyon's professional MTB racing teams - including Canyon CLLCTV DH and XC teams - to pioneer innovative approaches to suspension-focused bicycle designs.
The role will be seen as a significant investment for the future at Canyon, especially in e-mountain biking as new hardware, such as batteries and motors, is expected to increase the need for progressive frame developments and sophisticated suspension designs.
Canyon's drive for progressive innovation, performance bicycle designs and commitment to working with the world's best athletes is also what drove my desire to become part of this incredible group. I'm super excited to be joining Canyon on this journey and I'm beyond stoked to return to my life's work and origins in the MTB industry: the blending of my passion for both suspension R&D and MTB racing. I truly look forward to sharing my knowledge and insight, while also continuing to learn from some of the world's best riders, to elevate the riding experience for all and create new ideas that inspire riders to choose Canyon.Jose Gonzalez, Director of Suspension Technology
Gonzalez's role will be divided between the USA - where Canyon has facilities in California - and Canyon's global HQ in Koblenz, Germany, where he will work with Canyon's wider MTB research and development teams.
Gonzalez joins Canyon with an extensive background in racing and almost 30 years of experience in the bicycle industry following senior roles at Trek and Manitou where his work included the creation of suspension development and elite level World Cup race programmes as well as being responsible for numerous suspension technology patents.
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About Canyon
What started in founder Roman Arnold’s garage has grown into the world’s leading direct-to-consumer bicycle manufacturer. Renowned as one of the most innovative brands in the industry, Canyon designs bikes for every discipline – from road, triathlon and gravel to mountain, city, trekking, and e-bikes.
Canyon partners with the finest athletes and teams on the planet, taking insights from the toughest race conditions to engineer bikes and components for the highest levels of the sport. The result: award-winning bikes that set the standard for performance, innovation, and engineering – built to deliver at the highest level on any terrain.
“Inspire to Ride” is the mission driving Canyon to ignite a passion for cycling around the world thanks to a streamlined direct-to-consumer model, smart digital services, and Canyon Stores and service partners offering expert advice, community experiences, and full support. At the same time, Canyon is committed to responsible business practices, sustainable production, and the safety and well-being of employees, partners, and the environment.
Canyon bikes are available at canyon.com, through the Canyon app, and at selected Canyon Stores worldwide.
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