About Cannondale Bikes Made? Are Cannondale Bikes Good Brand 2023. Are cannondale bikes good

About Cannondale Bikes Made? Are Cannondale Bikes Good Brand 2023?

Cannondale is a brand that offers a diverse range of bicycles for various riding styles, including road, mountain, and urban biking.

Their road bikes are designed for speed and performance, with lightweight frames and aerodynamic designs.

Their mountain bikes are built for challenging terrain, with full suspension systems and durable frames.

Their urban bikes are perfect for commuters and city riders, featuring features such as fenders, racks, and integrated lights.

The company is also renowned for its innovative suspension systems, such as the Lefty fork, which was introduced in the 1990s.

The Lefty fork is a single-sided suspension fork that is lighter and more adjustable than traditional forks, providing smoother and more comfortable rides on rough terrain.

History

The history of Cannondale Bikes begins in 1971, when Joe Montgomery and Murdock MacGregor founded the company in a small loft above a pickle factory in Connecticut, USA.

Originally, the company focused on producing high-quality bike accessories such as bags and racks.

However, Montgomery and MacGregor soon realized that there was a demand for high-performance bikes that could compete with the best in the industry.

In the early 1980s, Cannondale introduced their first bike, the ST500, which featured a lightweight aluminum frame that was stronger and more durable than the steel frames that were common at the time.

This innovation proved to be a game-changer for the cycling industry, and Cannondale quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, innovative bikes.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Cannondale continued to push the boundaries of cycling technology, introducing a range of new technologies and innovations.

One of the most significant of these was the oversized head tube, which allowed for a stiffer and more responsive front end, improving the bike’s handling and control.

Cannondale also introduced the Lefty suspension fork, which was lighter and more adjustable than traditional forks.

This technology proved to be a significant advancement in mountain biking, as it allowed for smoother and more comfortable rides on rough terrain.

Cannondale’s commitment to innovation and quality has made them a trusted name in the cycling industry.

They have sponsored professional cycling teams, including the famous Cannondale-Drapac Pro Cycling Team, and have won numerous awards for their products and innovations.

Today, Cannondale continues to be a leader in the cycling industry, producing high-quality bikes for road, mountain, and urban riding.

They are also committed to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices, using recycled materials in their products and implementing energy-efficient processes in their manufacturing facilities.

Cannondale Bikes Types

Cannondale is a well-known brand in the cycling industry, known for producing high-quality and innovative bikes for a range of riding styles.

We will explore the different types of Cannondale bikes in more detail, including road bikes, kids bikes, electric bikes, mountain bikes, and active bikes.

Road Bikes

Road Bikes Cannondale’s road bikes are designed for speed, efficiency, and performance.

These bikes are built with lightweight materials, aerodynamic designs, and top-of-the-line components.

They are ideal for competitive cycling, long-distance rides, and commuting. Some of the most popular Cannondale road bikes include the SuperSix Evo, CAAD13, and Synapse.

The SuperSix Evo is a flagship road bike from Cannondale, built with a carbon fiber frame and advanced aerodynamics for maximum speed and efficiency.

The CAAD13 is another popular road bike from Cannondale, featuring a lightweight aluminum frame and Shimano Ultegra components.

The Synapse is a comfortable and versatile road bike, perfect for endurance rides and rough roads.

Kids Bikes

Kids Bikes Cannondale offers a range of bikes for children of all ages, from balance bikes for toddlers to full-size bikes for teenagers. These bikes are designed with safety, durability, and fun in mind.

They feature lightweight frames, high-quality components, and vibrant colors. Some of the most popular Cannondale kids’ bikes include the Trail 12, Trail 20, and Cujo.

The Trail 12 is a balance bike for young children, featuring a lightweight aluminum frame and adjustable seat height.

The Trail 20 is a full-size bike for older children, with a suspension fork and Shimano components. The Cujo is a mountain bike for kids with a lightweight frame, wide tires, and disc brakes.

Electric bikes

Electric Bikes Cannondale’s electric bikes, or e-bikes, are built with powerful motors and long-lasting batteries.

These bikes make cycling easy and effortless, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors.

Cannondale offers a range of electric bikes, including city bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrid bikes.

Some of the most popular Cannondale electric bikes include the Quick Neo, Mavaro Neo, and Moterra Neo.

The Quick Neo is a lightweight and agile city bike, perfect for commuting and running errands.

The Mavaro Neo is a comfortable and versatile e-bike with a suspension fork and integrated lights.

The Moterra Neo is a powerful and capable electric mountain bike with a Bosch Performance CX motor and full suspension system.

Mountain bikes

Mountain Bikes Cannondale’s mountain bikes are built for challenging terrain, with full suspension systems, durable frames, and high-quality components.

These bikes are perfect for off-road adventures, from rocky trails to steep descents. Some of the most popular Cannondale mountain bikes include the Scalpel, Habit, and Jekyll.

The Scalpel is a lightweight and agile cross-country mountain bike with a carbon fiber frame and advanced suspension system.

The Habit is a versatile trail bike with a full suspension system and progressive geometry.

The Jekyll is a capable and aggressive enduro bike with adjustable geometry and advanced suspension technology.

Active bikes

Active Bikes Cannondale’s active bikes are designed for riders who want to stay active and healthy, whether they’re commuting to work, running errands, or going for a leisurely ride.

These bikes are perfect for fitness enthusiasts, commuters, and casual riders. Some of the most popular Cannondale active bikes include the Quick, Althea, and Treadwell.

The Quick is a lightweight and nimble fitness bike, perfect for urban environments.

The Althea is a versatile and comfortable hybrid bike with suspension and wide tires for a smooth ride on rough terrain. The Treadwell is a stylish and fun bike, perfect for leisurely rides and exploring the city.

Where Are Cannondale Bikes Made?

Cannondale has its headquarters in Wilton, Connecticut, USA, but the company’s bikes are manufactured in a number of locations around the world.

Cannondale has manufacturing facilities in Taiwan, where the majority of its frames are produced, and also in Bedford, Pennsylvania, USA. The company also has production facilities in Europe, including in the Netherlands and Portugal.

Cannondale’s manufacturing process is highly automated, using the latest technology and robotics to ensure precision and consistency in every bike they produce.

This advanced manufacturing process allows Cannondale to produce high-quality bikes at a relatively low cost, making them accessible to a wide range of riders.

Cannondale is known for its commitment to innovation, and the company’s manufacturing facilities are no exception.

The company’s engineers and designers are constantly pushing the boundaries of bike design, using the latest materials and manufacturing techniques to create bikes that are faster, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before.

Despite having manufacturing facilities around the world, Cannondale maintains a strong commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.

The company uses eco-friendly materials wherever possible and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce waste and energy consumption in its manufacturing process.

Is Cannondale a Good Brand?

Cannondale is a highly regarded brand in the cycling industry with a reputation for producing quality bikes.

The company is known for its innovative designs, use of top-of-the-line components and rigorous testing to ensure durability and high performance.

With a lifetime warranty on frames and responsive customer service, Cannondale’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction further reinforces its reputation as a good brand.

Although Cannondale bikes may come at a higher price point, the investment is worth it for serious cyclists looking for a reliable, high-performing bike.

Overall, Cannondale’s dedication to innovation, quality, and customer service makes it a trusted and respected brand in the cycling community.

FAQs about Cannondale Bikes Made

Where are Cannondale bikes made?

Cannondale bikes are primarily made in Taiwan, but some models are also made in Vietnam.

What types of bikes does Cannondale make?

Cannondale makes a wide range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes, active bikes, and kids’ bikes.

What sets Cannondale bikes apart from other brands?

Cannondale’s use of cutting-edge materials and technology, rigorous testing, and attention to detail in design and manufacturing set it apart from other bike brands.

Does Cannondale offer a warranty on its bikes?

Yes, Cannondale offers a lifetime warranty on its frames, demonstrating its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cannondale is a highly respected brand in the cycling industry that has been producing innovative and high-quality bikes for over 40 years.

Its commitment to using the latest technology and materials, rigorous testing, and attention to detail in design and manufacturing make it a trusted and reliable brand for serious cyclists. With a wide range of bike types and models, there is a Cannondale bike to suit the needs of any cyclist, from road bikes to mountain bikes, electric bikes to kids bikes, and more.

While Cannondale bikes may come at a higher price point, the investment is worth it for those looking for a high-performing, durable, and reliable bike.

Overall, Cannondale’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer service makes it a brand that cyclists can trust and rely on.

Cannondale F7

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Reviews

Great entry level bike. Also makes a fantastic back up or work-out bike. No regrets. ProsGreat price point when originally purchased. Bike has responded to everything I’ve thrown at it while learning how to ride and what kind of riding I enjoy the most. Nimble, sturdy, light, and easily maintained.ConsHad to replace front derailleaur after about a year and a half. Upgraded to SRAM X5. Also had to replace the seat and stem. Reply | Thank

Love the bike, highly recommend for entry level rider like me. Recommend purchasing from a store that sells a tune up plan. Buy better pedals. ProsLight weight, durable, tires great for rock and dry areas ConsFront derailleaur needs constant tuning, pedals break, tires not so good for mud Reply | Thank

highly recommend for someone that looking to get out and ride for a reasonable cost for a bike. Prosvery light, easy to ride. great trail bike for all around, super brakes, Consnone, Reply | Thank

Great all around bike,especially for Midwest riding. I ride with a group of friends and their bikes range in price from 500 to 3k. And although there components are better i do not have a hard time keeping up with(or passing) any of them.ProsVery light weight, fairly pricedConsfront fork i know its not a downhill bike or anything but a little bit more travel would have be nice. So i would recommend this bike for the mountains or aggressive downhill. Reply | Thank

Great bike for the money. Perfect for anyone just getting into mountain biking. ProsHandles good. Not to heavy. Sturdy frame. Good entry level components. Tires! ConsPedals suck, no biggie. Reply | Thank

Don’t buy a bike from anywhere other than an actual bike shop. I got mine at a sports shop on an army installation. The bike is great for its price. I paid 503.99 for mine. I would recommend the bike to anyone who is interested in buying it. ProsI like the frame a lot. It is lightweight and sturdy. The Avid BB7 disc brakes are alright. I had to spend a little time to get them adjusted right and broken in, but they work great now. ConsI am having constant problems with both derailleurs. None of the owners manuals that came with the bike explain how to adjust them. It tells you how to install components, but if I’m like everyone else, I purchase bikes that are fully assembled. I’m sure once I take the bike to a tech it will be fine though. Reply | Thank

ProsLightweight, handles great! Shock lockout is great! Can’t go wrong with cannondale! ConsThe seat, first thing I changed. Had to modify my hitch rack to fit because the frame is think (not a problem, just had to do it) Plan to update the cranks, and derailer soon. Other than that this bike is fantastic! Reply | Thank

Cannondale Lefty Fork Review: Should You Buy It? Pros Cons

Let’s dive into the history and technology behind Cannondale’s iconic Lefty fork. It may look a little funny, but there are some good reasons why a Lefty might be right for you.

Lefty history

The Lefty story begins with a suspension product that plenty of vintage mountain bike nerds will know: the HeadShok.

In the early ‘90s, mountain bike suspension was emerging. The first forks lacked stiffness, which compromised control. Cannondale sought to fix that problem with the HeadShok. Introduced in 1992, this new design moved the spring and damper away from the fork legs to inside the head tube and provided 50mm of travel.

Even back in the ‘90s, Cannondale employed a key design feature that would find its way into the Lefty: needle bearings. Instead of bushings used in other forks, the HeadShok rode on four strips of needle bearings sandwiched between the inner and outer tubes, keeping stiction to a minimum.

As riders demanded more travel, Cannondale moved the technology outside of the head tube and created the downhill-oriented Moto fork in 1996. The Moto was essentially a dual-crown fork made up of two HeadShoks mounted on each side. The fork went through several iterations that provided 100-120mm of travel. The most famous version was the Moto DH fork found on the legendary Fulcrum downhill bike.

Soon, Cannondale engineers began experimenting to create a lighter version of the Moto fork for XC and trail riding. They realized the simplest solution was to rely on the Moto’s extremely stiff design and essentially chop the fork in half. The Lefty was born, officially launching in 1999.

The Lefty has taken many forms over the last 20 years but was primarily an XC fork with 100-120mm of travel. Recently, the Lefty Supermax provided longer-travel versions for trail and enduro bikes with 130mm-160mm of travel, and the Lefty Olaf was made specifically for fat bikes. In 2015, the Lefty Oliver was introduced as the first production suspension fork for gravel riding. It was found on the Slate gravel bike and provided 30mm of travel.

Cannondale’s latest Lefty, the Lefty Ocho, is a cross-country fork with 100-120mm of travel. It is a huge leap forward, packing all of that technology into a single-crown design. Unlike its dual-crown predecessors, the Ocho uses a conventional tapered steerer, compatible with any modern frame. It’s currently found on the F-Si hardtail and Scalpel full-suspension XC bikes. It is also the basis for the second-generation Lefty Oliver on the Topstone Lefty gravel bike.

Brazilian Champion, Henrique Avancini on the Lefty Ocho | Photo: Bartek Wolinski/Red Bull Content Pool

Over the years, the Lefty had great racing successes. Italian Marco Fontana won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics (where he finished without a saddle!). Henrique Avancini won XCO and XCC races in the 2020 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, and multiple riders won Unbound Gravel titles aboard Cannondale Slates equipped with the Lefty Oliver.

Lefty technology

The Lefty fork consolidates all the components of a conventional fork into a package that’s essentially half the size. To accomplish this, Cannondale used clever engineering to help the Lefty match and even exceed the performance of conventional XC forks.

Keyed stanchion

Note the flat sides in the upper part of this Lefty Ocho stanchion | Photo: Cannondale.

If you’ve ever played with a rear shock that’s been removed from a bike, you’ll notice that it’s easy to rotate the shaft within the body of the shock. This is because the shock is essentially a cylinder within a cylinder. This is also true of a conventional fork leg. Obviously, rotation is undesirable because the front wheel has to stay aligned with your handlebars to maintain control. To prevent twisting, forks need to be “keyed.” For conventional forks, this is handled by the fork arch and axle that tie the lowers together and prevent them from rotating independently.

Because the Lefty is single-sided, there’s no fork arch or axle with two fixed sides. Instead, it uses a design feature from the first HeadShok. The stanchion itself acts as a key. The upper portion of the stanchion has four flat sides that slide into a tube with matching flat sides to prevent the shaft from twisting. Rather than a conventional cylinder-in-cylinder design, the Lefty is square-in-square. The one exception is the new Lefty Ocho which is three-sided, but more on that later.

A keyed stanchion has a couple of benefits. First, the shape of the tube provides greater fore-aft and torsional stiffness than the round tubes used on conventional forks of the same travel and weight. This stiffness reduces front-wheel deflection and improves steering precision and control in rough terrain. Second, the flat sides allow a Lefty fork to use needle bearings instead of bushings.

Needle bearings

Strips of needle bearings used on the flat sides. In the new Lefty Ocho, the three-sided bearing strip is called the Delta Cage. | Photo: Cannondale.

Needle bearings are a type of roller bearing with long, thin cylindrical rollers resembling needles. Compared to ball bearings and ordinary roller bearings, needle bearings have more surface area in contact with the races, so they can support high loads like those experienced by a suspension fork. A Lefty moves on thin strips of needle bearings that are placed on each flat side of the inner tube.

Conventional forks with round tubes move on bushings, which are essentially plastic rings. Bushings have more “stiction,” or static friction that needs to be overcome before the fork moves into its travel. Compared to bushings, needle bearings feel nearly frictionless and allow the Lefty to quickly and easily move into its travel.

Bushings can also bind when the tubes flex from torsional forces. Needle bearings, however, aren’t affected by this. In a Lefty, the vertical movement of the fork is separated from other forces because the bearings can still spin and move as the fork flexes, allowing it to continue responding to the terrain.

Upside-down design

A Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup KTM with an inverted or USD fork. Note the stanchions are at the bottom. | Photo: Gold Goose/Red Bull Content Pool.

For years, high-performance motorcycles used inverted or upside-down (USD) forks, with the stanchions at the bottom. Because upside-down forks are thicker and stiffer at the head tube, where leverage is greatest, they perform better under hard braking and cornering.

Many manufacturers attempted to bring upside-down forks to mountain biking but most products have been short-lived. The discontinued RockShox RS-1 is a good example, and before that, Manitou’s Dorado, Maverick’s Duc, and Marzocchi’s Shiver, to name only a few. Manufacturers were never able to strike a balance between stiffness with weight. Plus, upside-down forks often required proprietary hubs. Due to its low weight and Cannondale’s continued commitment to the design, the Lefty has been the most successful upside-down mountain bike fork to date.

The Lefty Ocho

The Lefty Ocho was released in 2018 and is the eighth (hence the name) iteration of the Lefty fork. It has a few key design improvements that made it the best-performing Lefty yet.

The biggest difference between the Ocho and its predecessors is the single-crown design. Up until the Ocho, Lefty forks used a dual-crown design, similar to those found on downhill forks. A crown both above and below the head tube added stiffness but posed some compatibility issues with frames and stems.

With the Ocho, Cannondale made a fork that is elegant — and compatible with most frames. The upper assembly has been made thicker than a conventional fork crown to achieve rigidity comparable to the previous dual-crown designs. This allowed Cannondale to use a conventional tapered steerer that will fit most frames and stems.

The four-sided stanchion used in all Lefty forks for nearly 20 years was changed to a three-sided design in the Ocho. The reasoning is simple: Three strips of roller bearings weigh less than four. Cannondale also claims that there is less friction in the system with fewer contact surfaces.

Because the overall length on the Lefty Ocho is shorter, the air piston and damper were redesigned with a lower stack height to fit into the new chassis. In previous Lefty forks, it was technically possible to add volume spacers, but it generally required aftermarket spacers or a homemade bodge. The Ocho now has proper OEM volume spacers, called Ramp Clamps, for those looking to tune the air spring. Adding a Ramp Clamp increases the force needed to bottom out the fork by about 10 percent.

The Ocho also uses a new StopLock brake mount that lets you remove the entire caliper (necessary to remove the front wheel) by turning a single 5mm hex bolt 180-degrees. It’s quicker and easier to use than the old sliding mounting system, and it provides perfect alignment every time you reinstall the mount.

2021 Cannondale Scalpel Hi-Mod.

The Ocho comes on the 2018 F-Si hardtail and Scapel full-suspension XC bikes. It is also available aftermarket. There is an alloy version (1,000, 1,735 grams) that uses a forged aluminum upper, and a top-of-the-line carbon version (1,500, 1,446 grams) that costs more but weighs nearly 300 grams less. It comes in 55mm offset for 29” models and 50mm for 27.5” models, which Cannondale says suits the slacker head angles of modern XC bikes.

For 2021, Cannondale announced the Lefty Ocho Carbon 120mm (1,550 grams), a longer travel version of the original Ocho with a thicker, stiffer stanchion. It’s designed to compete with light 120mm trail forks like the Fox 34 Step-Cast and RockShox SID.

The Lefty Oliver

Cannondale Slate with the Lefty Oliver.

Gravel cycling is a relatively new genre and gravel bikes are still evolving. When Cannondale’s revolutionary Slate gravel bike was released in 2015, suspension forks weren’t available for drop bar gravel bikes. Cannondale saw an opportunity to use the stiff and lightweight Lefty design in this new application.

The Slate came with a gravel-specific version of the Lefty called the Lefty Oliver. It had the same lightweight chassis as the Lefty PBR carbon with the travel reduced to a modest 30mm. The fork was efficient but took the edge off rough and bumpy gravel roads. The Lefty Oliver achieved success with multiple wins at Unbound Gravel, the world’s premier gravel race. Other brands followed suit and brought gravel-specific suspension forks to market, such as the RockShox Rudy, Lauf Grit, Fox AX, and MRP Baxter forks.

After the Slate was discontinued in 2019, the Topstone Carbon replaced it as Cannondale’s flagship gravel bike. In 2020, Cannondale unveiled the Topstone Lefty, the Slate’s successor. The Lefty Oliver gravel fork returned, this time based on the sleeker single-crown Lefty Ocho.

Lefty forks: Pros

Greater rigidity and reduced stiction

The tube shapes and upside-down design contribute to the greater overall stiffness. Needle bearings reduce stiction compared to bushings and eliminate bushing bind when bending and twisting forces are applied to the fork.

Compared to a conventional fork of the same travel, the stiffer Lefty should provide more precision, control, and active suppleness in rough terrain, or under hard braking and cornering.

These performance benefits can be seen in this demonstration by Beukers Bike Centre below:

The impressive rigidity of the Lefty chassis is clear when the presenter is able to lean his full weight on the fork without substantial flex. With a wheel mounted, the demonstration shows that torsional forces applied to the wheel (like you’d experience riding through a rock garden or a fast corner) have a great effect on the conventional fork’s ability to move, while the Lefty still compresses freely.

Of course, this demo was put on at a Cannondale dealer by a Cannondale representative so it should be taken with a grain of salt. It’s also over 10 years old and features forks that are no longer in production. But the key differences shown in this video are still applicable to forks produced today.

Also, watch Pinkbike’s “28 Bikes Bottomed Out In Ultra Slo Mo (1000 FPS)” video. Viewed in slow motion, the Lefty Ocho visibly flexes less than its competitors, the Fox 32 Step-Cast and the RockShox SID. It even appears stiffer than several heavier trail forks like the Fox 34 and RockShox Pike. It’s not scientific, but it supports the Lefty’s claim to superior rigidity.

The Lefty is more than light enough for World Cup XC racers. The stiffness helps Henrique Avancini navigate this gnarly rock garden. | Photo: Bartek Wolinski/Red Bull Content Pool.

Lighter weight

This increased rigidity comes without a significant increase in weight. Through the years, the Lefty has remained competitive with the lightest XC forks. The current Lefty Ocho carbon has a claimed weight of 1,446 grams which makes it comparable to the Fox 32 Step-Cast (1,443 grams) and the SID SL Ultimate (1,326 grams) while having stiffness comparable to heavier, more trail-oriented forks like the Fox 34 Step-Cast (1,623 grams) and the 35mm stanchion RockShox SID Ultimate (1,610 grams).

Easy tire removal

Given it’s only one-sided, it’s possible to change a flat without removing the front wheel — there’s no right fork leg in the way. This can make changing tires or performing trail-side puncture repair slightly easier. It’s not a big deal given the prevalence of tubeless and tire repair plugs, but a fun party trick nonetheless.

Lefty fork: Cons

Proprietary technology

The biggest issue for the average rider is the Lefty’s proprietary technology. Conventional forks can take advantage of widely available components like wheels, headsets, and stems, and easier serviceability.

Because the Lefty is single-sided, it can’t use a conventional fork axle. It requires a proprietary Lefty hub that mates with the tapered axle. (The axle is actually another contributor to the Lefty’s stiffness. It is forged as a single piece with the stanchion, and the tapered shape creates a strong and rigid structure.) Because it requires a special hub, replacing or upgrading wheels can be an added expense. Riders looking to change their front wheel have limited off-the-shelf options and may need to rely on custom wheelbuilders.

Wheel removal requires another step

Removing the front wheel also requires removing the brake caliper because the wheel is removed horizontally rather than vertically. This is a non-issue with the Lefty Ocho’s StopLock brake mount, but on older models, it can be a slightly annoying procedure requiring riders to undo brake mount bolts to remove the caliper.

Unusual steerer tube dimensions

The previous generation dual-crown Lefty forks also used a straight 1.5” steerer that required Lefty-specific headsets and stems. That is no longer the case with the new Lefty Ocho, which uses a conventional tapered steerer.

Serviceability

Serviceability is the biggest potential concern. Most conventional forks are easily serviced at most bike shops. However, due to proprietary technology, parts, and tools, Lefty forks need to be serviced by Cannondale dealers or authorized HeadShok service centers. Older Lefty models could potentially face limited parts availability and higher prices. Buyers looking at discontinued versions of the Lefty (essentially everything besides the Lefty Ocho and new Lefty Oliver) should carefully consider serviceability and parts availability.

As models like the Lefty Ultra, Supermax, and Hybrid age, parts and people who know how to fix them will be harder to find.

Intrepid home mechanics can potentially do the work themselves since service kits and instructions can be found online. Or, if you don’t live near a Cannondale dealer, you could also ship your Lefty to an approved service center. There are good options in the U.S. that specialize in Lefty forks.

Lefty service intervals aren’t too different from those suggested for Fox and RockShox forks. Major services for the air spring are recommended every 100 hours/annually, and every 200 hours/biannually for the damper.

The one notable difference is the suggested 50 hour “bearing reset.” All Lefty forks need periodic resetting of the needle bearings. Over time, the needle bearing strips can migrate from their original position, reducing the available travel. A bearing reset is actually required service for all linear/needle bearing devices. Resetting the bearings is a quick and easy process. Simply remove the air and firmly bottom the fork out a few times and the bearings will be repositioned. It takes about the same amount of time as putting air in your tires or lubing your chain.

There is one final thing to note: For many Lefty skeptics, the greatest downside is its appearance. Humans are a species drawn to symmetry, and some have become so accustomed to the appearance of conventional forks, that the single-sided Lefty can seem unnatural. Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I for one think the Lefty forks look incredibly cool. And no, Lefty forks don’t pull to one side.

My experience: Lefty Ocho review

I have always been a bit Lefty-curious, eyeing the many Lefty-equipped bikes that come and go through The Pro’s Closet. I had tested an older Scalpel, but didn’t actually ride a Lefty long-term until the Cannondale Slate. It wasn’t a mountain bike, but the precision and feel of the Lefty Oliver gave me a taste of what to expect from its longer-travel cousins.

I finally got a Lefty mountain bike when I picked up a special-edition F-Si hardtail. I wanted to know how the Lefty would perform on technical trails so I tested the bike at Hall Ranch, a local spot known for fast and loose descents and a technical, extended rock garden with rugged features that can overwhelm most lightweight XC bikes.

Though not excessively heavy, I am no featherweight XC rider. I weigh 185 pounds and I can easily exceed 200 pounds with riding gear. Because of my weight, I can feel most XC forks flex when charging into rough terrain. The flex I felt riding the Fox 32 Step-Cast was a major reason why I’ve ridden a Fox 34 Step-Cast on my last two XC bikes. The stiffer fork makes me feel more confident on tough descents. That isn’t a knock against the 32 Step-Cast. XC forks serve a specific purpose and low weight is their biggest priority. Experienced XC racers know how to ride these forks and respect their limitations.

The carbon Lefty Ocho, however, feels nothing like the Fox 32s and RockShox SIDs I’ve ridden in the past. It’s so torsionally rigid that it feels closer to the trail-oriented Fox 34 Step-Cast. It’s perhaps even a touch stiffer. I was impressed with how immediately confident I felt smashing the front end of the F-Si into rocks and landing deep off jumps and drops. The suggested air pressure was pretty close to bang on, and I haven’t feel the need to add any volume spacers.

I can’t say I’ve ever noticed a conventional fork bind when loading it up through rough terrain, g-outs, or fast corners. But I can say that the Lefty Ocho always feels extremely supple, especially for a fork with a mere 100mm of travel. Thanks to the needle bearings and the fork’s ability to remain active under torsional forces, the traction and sensitivity are both exceptional.

I’m pushing the bike harder than expected with the Lefty Ocho. I put trail tires on to complement its excellent downhill performance.

My personal opinion right now is that the Lefty Ocho is the best performing XC fork on the market. Though its main competitors, the Fox 32 Step-Cast and RockShox SID SL, edge out the Lefty Ocho in the weight department, I don’t think they come close to the Lefty’s stiffness or initial sensitivity. To me, it’s most noticeable when hitting a square edge at speed, plowing into chattery roots and rocks, or landing nose-heavy off a drop. The Lefty is simply more adept when the riding gets rough and wild.

I have yet to service the fork, but I live near a Cannondale dealer so I don’t foresee any issues. The only item on my wish list for the Lefty Ocho is the option for a lock-out control on the crown. Currently, it’s only available with a remote lockout. I’d welcome an option similar to the previous generation Lefty PBR which used a push-button lockout on top of the fork to cut down on handlebar clutter. The new Lefty Ocho 120mm (1,550 grams) discards the remote, and could be the answer if I ever want to upgrade to an even stiffer fork with a bit more travel.

Verdict: Should you ride a Lefty fork?

Riding is believing, so it’s at least worth seeing how the Lefty feels on the trail. However, the current generation Lefty Ocho only provides 100-120mm of travel and is aimed at XC and trail riding, so it won’t work for every type of mountain biker. Though it’d likely be welcome, there are no plans to create a long-travel version of the Lefty Ocho. Cannondale seems happy to keep the Lefty in the short-travel realm, turning to Fox and RockShox forks for its longer-travel trail and enduro bikes.

The Lefty Ocho is ideal for hard-charging XC riders who value stiffness and handling more than having the lowest weight possible (though keep in mind that at 21.5 pounds, my F-Si is still very light). When it comes to maximizing downhill and cornering performance in a lightweight package, the Lefty Ocho is hard to beat. It works so well on the F-Si that I expect it can only get better when paired with the full-suspension Scalpel or the Topstone gravel bike (reviews to come).

The Lefty Ocho also suits me because I actually enjoy all the curious looks it gets out on the trail. Nerds like me love weird bike tech and the odd “you’re missing half your fork” quip has actually led to some fun, in-depth conversations. Most people just want to know how the fork rides. Overall, it’s left a strong impression on me and I speak very highly of it. I wasn’t ever a Lefty skeptic, but after spending time on a Lefty, I’m definitely becoming a believer.

Are you a Lefty skeptic or believer? Do you ride a Lefty fork? Do you want to? Let us know in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев!

Shop men’s mountain bikes by Cannondale, built to withstand extreme terrain and conditions.

For more than 40 years, Cannondale has built some of the world’s most innovative, technologically advanced men’s mountain bikes. Whether you’re just getting started on your off-road journey, or you’re a veteran singletrack slayer, there’s a Cannondale mountain bike that can help you take your riding to the next level.

Today, we’ll walk through the important considerations when buying and introduce you to two incredible new Cannondale mountain bikes. This article will FOCUS on traditional non-powered mountain bikes, but we’ve also got you covered if you’re looking for an electric mountain bike.

Wheel Size: Is Bigger Really Better?

Today, nearly every men’s mountain bike is equipped with one of two primary wheel sizes: 27.5-inch, or 29-inch, which roughly equates to the diameter of the inflated fat tire. Both wheel sizes are larger than the 26-inch wheels that came standard on early mountain bikes.

The larger tires put more rubber on the ground for superior traction in rough terrain, and the increased wheel diameter isn’t as easily affected by bumps. Because of their larger diameter, 29-inch wheels ride smoother over rough ground. We use 29-inch wheels on virtually every Cannondale mountain bike, aside from the small and extra-small sizes of the Cannondale Trail models. The larger wheels deliver more fun, confident handling, a faster roll, and a smoother ride. That’s a winning combination for you.

Front Suspension or Full Suspension?

Most modern mountain bikes have some type of suspension, either at both wheels, or at the front wheel alone. Which type you choose depends a lot on your riding style, budget and ultimately, what you’re looking to do with your mountain bike.

Front Suspension Mountain Bikes

Front suspension mountain bikes, also called hardtails, are the cornerstone of the mountain bike world. Capable of riding everything from basic beginner trails to the most technical singletrack, hardtail mountain bikes are a great choice for the dedicated off-road rider looking for one bike to ride any trail. Some riders are also drawn to the simplicity of a hardtail, which typically requires less overall maintenance than a full suspension mountain bike.

The Cannondale Trail is a good example of a modern hardtail trail bike. Available in two versions, both of which feature rugged alloy frames and smooth-rolling 29-inch wheels. Higher-end Trail SE models feature our SmartForm C2 aluminum frame, 120mm (4.9-inches) of high-quality front suspension, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes. Most Trail SE models also feature a dropper post, which makes it easy to quickly drop the seat for extra clearance during descents or technical riding. Our affordable Trail models use a SmartForm C3 alloy frame, with 75-100mm (3.0-3.9-inches) of front suspension and premium WTB tires for a smooth, confident ride.

Full Suspension Mountain Bikes

When it comes to making every trail seem easier to ride, it’s tough to beat a modern full suspension trail bike. The smooth ride and balanced feel make it easier to traverse more technical terrain, and because the suspension better isolates you from bumps and vibrations, you can ride stronger and longer. That’s a big reason why most professional cross-country racers have embraced full suspension mountain bikes, despite the minor weight disadvantage relative to hardtail mountain bikes. But you don’t have to be a professional to take advantage of full suspension. In fact, the benefits may actually be greater for everyday riders.

With more than five inches of suspension at both ends, the Cannondale Habit defines modern full suspension trail bike performance. Available with a choice of SmartForm C1 alloy or BallisTec carbon fiber frames, Habit models feature our Proportional Response rear suspension, which uses size-specific center-of-gravity data to customize suspension performance by frame size. This ensures that every rider, from the tallest to the smallest, experiences optimal suspension performance.

What Do You Get for Money?

Generally, as you move up in price, mountain bikes will become lighter and more capable, with lighter frames, stronger brakes, smoother shifting, and higher quality suspension components. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each area.

As the most expensive single part of a bicycle, the frame of a mountain bike plays a big role in how expensive the bike ends up being. But it also has the largest overall impact on the performance a mountain bike offers, so it makes sense to buy the best frame you can for your budget.

The SmartForm alloy frames used on our Trail mountain bikes are great examples of this. Our entry level Trail models feature a SmartForm C3 frame that utilize a blend of mostly round alloy tubing. It’s a great combination of strength, value, and good looks. Moving up one step to the Trail SE models, you upgrade to a SmartForm C2 frame with shaped and butted tubing, which is thicker on the ends for extra strength, but thinner in the middle of the tubes. This reduces weight and increases ride quality, but the additional tubing manipulation costs more as well.

While the Cannondale name will always be synonymous with high-end alloy frames, today our premium mountain bikes use carbon fiber frames, which offer the ultimate blend of strength and light weight. Carbon frames are considerably more expensive to build however, so they’re typically found on mountain bikes costing 3,500 or more.

Every Cannondale mountain bike is equipped with motorcycle-style disc brakes, because they offer more power, better modulation, and more consistent performance in wet or dry conditions. There are two types of disc brakes that come on mountain bikes today –– mechanical and hydraulic –– which refers to the way the pads are pushed to the brake rotor. Mechanical disc brakes, which are most commonly found on entry-level mountain bikes, use a cam mechanism to push the brake pads to the rotor. Hydraulic disc brakes perform the task using hydraulic fluid (either DOT brake fluid or mineral oil) pushing pistons which engage the brake pads.

Hydraulic disc brakes are typically more powerful and easy to modulate than mechanical disc brakes. That’s why you’ll find hydraulic disc brakes on almost every Cannondale mountain bike model.

Drivetrain/Shifting

The level of refinement and shift quality of modern mountain bike drivetrains is pretty amazing, regardless of what price level you’re shopping at. But there are still advantages as you move up the ladder. For example, while most entry-level mountain bikes use traditional drivetrains with multiple gears in the front as well as the rear, more expensive mountain bikes use 1x (say ‘one-by’) drivetrains. Instead of multiple front gears, or chainrings, 1x drivetrains use one front chainring, with an extra wide-range gear cluster on the rear to offer roughly the same gearing range. This simplified system has a number of advantages for mountain bikes, including less weight, less complexity and shifting that’s intuitive and easy to understand.

While each Cannondale mountain bike model is equipped with either front suspension or full suspension, the actual suspension components change as you move up in price. For example, with suspension forks, as you go up in price, you’ll switch from steel coil springs to lighter air springs, with better control over a wider range of bumps thanks to a more advanced damper. expensive suspension components are also easier to adjust and optimize for your weight, riding style and conditions.

Bottom Line

When it comes to choosing the right men’s mountain bike, it’s important to think of how you intend to use the bike, set a budget, and then head down to your local Cannondale dealer to test ride some bikes. We hope this article has given you some useful insights that will help make your decision process easier.

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Review of Cannondale Electric Bikes

Cannondale has become one of the biggest and most influential bicycle companies in the world, selling millions of traditional and electric bicycles in more than 100 countries around the world. The company’s headquarters are in Wilton, Connecticut, USA.

Over the years, Cannondale has become a synonym for quality, innovation, and diversity. It produces a variety of bicycles in different quality classes and price ranges, intended for recreational riders and competitors.

Cannondale is one of the biggest and most influential bicycle companies in the world.
The company manufactured its bikes in the USA until 2011, but then moved the production to Taiwan.
Cannondale is owned by Dorel Industries, which also owns Schwinn, GT Bicycles, Mongoose, and a few other brands.
Cannondale’s high-end bikes are often ridden by elite road and MTB riders in top-tier competitions.
This USA-based company is one of the greatest pioneers when it comes to innovative cycling technologies.
Cannondale started manufacturing bicycles a decade after the company was established in 1971.

In this article, we’ll give you a detailed rundown of this behemoth of a cycling brand and an in-depth overview of their electric bicycle lineup.

Cannondale History and Overview

Cannondale began in 1971 under Joe Montgomery manufacturing the industry’s first bicycle trailers. Touring frames followed in 1983 and road racing and mountain bikes in 1984, all featuring hand-crafted, oversized aluminum tubes. It was the first company to mass-produce aluminum frames.

Later on, it developed carbon fiber composite frames, introduced a clothing apparel line, and even tried a move into motorsports. In 2003, facing bankruptcy, Cannondale sold off the division. The company was then bought by Dorel Industries in 2008, which is still the owner.

Over the years, Cannondale has also positioned itself as one of the biggest and most innovative manufacturers of electric bicycles in the world.

They call their e-bikes Neo, which is a suffix that’s usually added to the original model name of the bike that’s being electrified. That said, at the moment of writing this article, Cannondale offers almost 50 e-bike models in all the popular categories, such as:

Let’s take a closer look at some of its most popular and most innovative models.

Popular Cannondale E-Bike Models

Cannondale is one of the biggest manufacturers of electric bicycles in the world. The company build a variety of models in different categories, that vary in price and intended use.

Below is just a fraction of its offering of high-end and mid-range road, mountain, fitness, and other kinds of e-bikes.

Top Models

Treadwell Neo – MSRP From 2,300 – This is a selection of e-fitness bicycles intended for casual riding and commuting. The bicycles feature comfortable ergonomics, sweptback handlebars, and urban-ready accessories.
Topstone Neo Carbon – MSRP From 6,000 – A series of premium electric gravel bikes from Cannondale. They feature the best possible components, carbon frames, and the brand-new Kingpin suspension.
Synapse Neo – MSRP From 4,500 – Purebred electric road bikes with fast-rolling 700c wheels and lightweight electronics. These bicycles feature efficient mid-drive Bosch motors and seamlessly integrated batteries. – Full Review
SuperSix EVO Neo – MSRP From 4,500 – Premium electric road bicycles built around aluminum and carbon frames. Ideal for riders who need assistance but don’t want to give up on the original road bike riding feel.
Quick Neo – MSRP From 2,550 – Affordable electric fitness bicycles perfect for everyday commutes, grocery hauls, or workouts. Includes step-over and step-through frames with rear hub motors and integrated batteries.
Moterra Neo – MSRP From 4,200 – Full-suspension electric mountain bikes built for shredding the trails. They feature carbon or aluminum frames, massive tires, powerful electronics, and high-end suspension.
Habit Neo – MSRP From 5,500 – This is a series of do-it-all trail machines with powerful Bosch pedal assistance and huge batteries. These e-bikes offer 29″ wheels 130/140mm suspension and aggressive geometry.
Tesoro Neo – MSRP From 3,350 – A selection of electric touring bicycles for riders with long-distance rides on their mind. These bikes come with front suspension, rear racks, lights, and reliable Bosch mid-drive electronics.
Canvas Neo – MSRP From 2,999 – A line of electric urban bicycles for city riding and commutes. Fully-equipped with the necessary accessories, these e-hybrids also feature integrated Bosch batteries and performance mid-drive motors.

Classes and Electric Components

The majority of Cannondale’s electric bicycles come with Bosch Active/Performance Line motors and battery packs. However, some high-end e-road bikes, such as the SuperSix Evo Neo 1, boast Mahle electronics.

Cannondale’s e-bikes feature high-capacity batteries that often offer upwards of 500 Wh. That means that riders can get as much as 100-150 miles of range per charge (according to Cannondale’s estimate), which is higher than what a lot of competitors offer.

Cannondale makes Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes with pedal-assistance, so there are no Class 2 e-bikes with a throttle available from this American brand.

The batteries are integrated into the down tube on all models, which makes many of Cannondale’s e-bikes look like traditional bicycles. The motor placement varies, but most models come with mid-drive motors, whereas some feature rear hub units.

Another important feature of Cannondale’s e-bikes is big LCD screens that show battery status, pedal-assist level, speed, distance, time, and other important metrics. Bosch systems usually come with Bosch Purion displays. Newer e-road models come with an Integrated Top Tube Controller in the form of a single button that lets you see the battery charge, turn the system on or off, and choose the level of assist.

Lefty Forks

Cannondale’s Lefty Oliver Fork is one of the most popular and unusual inventions patented by this company. We’re talking about a suspension fork that provides 30mm of travel and has only one leg. The coil and the damper are both fitted inside the left leg.

Cannondale includes these forks on its premium cross-country and gravel bicycles. Even some e-bikes come with lefty forks, such as a few Topstone Neo Carbon models.

The Lefty design eliminates a lot of unnecessary weight and improves the overall stiffness of the fork. It also makes it more practical to replace a flat tire, as riders can do it without removing the wheel from the bike.

Kingpin Suspension

Kingpin Suspension is the latest technology that came out of Cannondale’s laboratory. The company first introduced it on high-end Topstone Carbon bicycles, but it then made its way into the electric bicycle category as well.

This suspension system features a thru-axle pivot that links the seat stays to the seat tube, allowing them to travel 30mm. The simplicity of the system makes it incredibly lightweight and durable, as there are no complicated parts or connections that require excessive maintenance.

The Kingpin suspension is not ideal for trail bikes and serious mountain bikes. However, on gravel and cross-country bicycles, it greatly improves comfort, speed, and performance. All of that comes with next to zero weight penalty.

Bottom Line—Who Are Cannondale E-Bikes For?

There’s no doubt that Cannondale makes some of the best bicycles in the world, but are they for everyone?

Cannondale electric bicycles are not the cheapest out there, so they’re definitely not perfect for riders on a tight budget. If you’re willing to invest a bit more and get a bicycle from a reputable brand with great quality, warranty, and customer support, then Cannondale is the way to go.

Cannondale makes e-bikes in all categories, so anyone can find a model that fits their needs. You can choose from a rich selection of road, mountain, fitness, urban, gravel, and other types of bikes.

Cannondale’s e-bikes also have great resale value, so you’ll be able to get back a good portion of the original price if you decide to sell your Cannondale bicycle after some time.

The bottom point is, you won’t make a mistake if you give Cannondale a chance, just like millions of riders out there who have already done it.

Sources:

https://www.bsxinsight.com/about-cannondale-bikes-made/
https://www.singletracks.com/bike-reviews/cannondale-f7/
https://www.theproscloset.com/blogs/news/should-you-ride-a-lefty-fork
https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/blog/mens-mountain-bikes
https://www.ebicycles.com/cannondale-electric-bikes-review/