The CN + C2H4 reaction has been investigated in crossed molecular beam (CMB) experiments at a high collision energy of 42.7 kJ/mol. Differently from previous CMB experiments at lower collision energies and a room temperature multiplexed time-resolved mass spectrometry experiment, we have some indication that a second reaction channel opens, the characteristics of which are consistent with the slightly endothermic channel leading to CH2CHNC + H. The increased energy content of the reactants makes it possible to overcome the exit barrier of this channel and the CN rotational excitation could possibly enhance it by smearing the preference for the C-side attack. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.