Cannondale Synapse

Cannondale Synapse

Hi, Burt Lane here with a review of my favorite bike.  If you are looking for an excellent performance road bicycle, then the Cannondale Synapse is for you. There are 9 different styles so there is bound to be one that will meet all of your biking needs. Perfect for those long rides, whether those rides are just cruising around or if you are racing.

Let me tell you why I love this bike.  Recently, I've taken my racing to the next level by working with an awesome training program along with the Synapse.  I can go farther and faster, about 20% faster, on my synapse and it didn't take that long to get there.  If you want to get there too, check out their program here, or with the link I provided in the upper right column.

Also, when your ride is longer than the average rider's, you demand comfort. The Cannondale Synapse has a longer wheelbase which is combined with carbon forks and an excellent suspension system and all together add up to a great ride. No wonder the Synapse won Top Velo's "Cyclosportif Bike of the Year" award and the Bicycling Magazine's 2010 "Best Plush Bike" award. The 9 different models are:

The price points range from about $6,399 to $879 respectively. There is a bike for everyone's budget and since each retailer is independently owned, you will need to check to see what your local dealer has available. In addition, Cannondale is constantly updating features if necessary so the specifications you read here may be slightly different than when you test ride one at the dealer.

In regards to the Cannondale Synapse suspension, the company has provided a system which they call "Save Micro-Suspension System." This system creates a rear stay assembly which can deflect heavy road shock and vibration and at the same time be able to stay very rigid laterally for a good power transfer and excellent cornering. With most of the vertical shock eliminated, you can concentrate on the finish line.

The longer wheelbase of the Cannondale Synapse offers the availability of more relaxed angles which can put the rider into a more upright position. Sitting upright gives you more control of the bike; with more control you are confident which increases your self-esteem and encourages you to finish the race and win. The head tube is approximately 2 to 2.5cm taller than the SuperSix.

The frame sizes are available in 48, 51, 54, 56, 58 and 61 with the tires being 700x25c (Schwalbe Ultremo ZX) which are on Mavic Kysrium SL black rims and spokes. The crank is Cannondale's Hollowgrab SL BB30, 50/34, FSA DA-79 chainrings with a Dura-Ace 10-speed chain. The brakes and brakelevers are Shimano Dura-Ace 7900 while the saddle is a comfortable Fi'zi:k Aliante Gamma with Kium rails.

We haven't even begun to discuss the differences between each of the styles because the basics of any Cannondale Synapse are undeniably great products. The overall balance of the bike is good; however, the seat may need to be changed due to individual needs. In addition, pedals are not included so this gives you the opportunity to choose what you like the best.

Cannondale has a limited warranty that covers only the bikes which are purchased by a licensed Cannondale dealer and the products that Cannondale produces and is not transferable. With that said, the Cannondale Synapse is a great road bike that will get you through the race comfortably and at a reasonable price.