Cannondale Synapse- An Excellent Choice
Somewhat breaking the norm is the all-carbon Cannondale Synapse. Aliminum is absent from the entire bike and yes, including the frame. It’s also not USA made. All these things have combined to cause a lot of surprise among bike enthusiasts regarding the Cannondale Synapse. But the main reason is the all-carbon fiber construction of the bike. Read on to know more.
The Cannondale Synapse Frame
It has an all-carbon fiber frame and it’s the main talking point of this bike. Cannondale has used what they refer to as ‘unibody lay-up method’ to construct the frame. While that claim is not exactly clear, Cannondale assures of the difference and superiority of this frame over monocoque or lugged frame designs. More importantly, the carbon fiber results in a lighter and yet stronger frame than other types. And the bike is indeed light. The 56cm Cannondale Synapse weighs a mere 8000 grams (20 lbs)!!
The Synapse has a longer wheelbase than Cannondale’s SuperSix model which helps in providing that extra stability when riding on the track or the road. The bike also sports the groundbreaking ‘S.A.V.E.’ system, which helps the bike achieve a higher degree of ride quality. The technology is used on the backside through the chainstays which when combined with the ultra thin Triaxial Seatstays provide the bike with a nearly plush ride. ‘S.A.V.E’ + forks do duty at the front. This system is supposed to isolate the rider from vibrations created by bad road surfaces.
Even though the Cannondale Synapse is not supposed to be a true-blue race bike, there are some traits of Cannondale’s performance bikes seen here. Cannondale has put in extra efforts to ensure the frame’s lateral stiffness is on par with any other model they have rolled out. This has resulted in a very comfortable and yet sturdy bike.
Excellent Ride Quality of the Cannondale Synapse
The Cannondale Synapse manages a fine line between performance and comfort. It’s torsionally solid and sprinting on the bike is a joy. The bike’s great feedback, compact double crankset, overall light weight and stiff frame make it an agile climber. Descending at reasonably fast speeds is equally fun. Stability is fantastic thanks to the slacker angles and extended wheelbase.
The Cannondale Synapse is very comfortable. It’s capability to absorb road undulations and vibration is truly noteworthy. Another remarkable aspect is the combination of Fi’zi:k Aliante saddle and FSA K-Wing handlebar. Contact points are vital for comfort on a bike and this fact cannot ever be over-emphasized. Cannondale’s choice of carbon fiber manipulation seems to have made a difference as even after many miles on the road, the bike continues to feel comfortable. Most of the components on the Cannondale Synapse work flawlessly and have a major role in the fantastic performance of the bike.
So Should You Go For the Synapse?
Cannondale has produced a marvellous road performer that also rides comfortably. It has managed to strike that sweet spot between comfort and performance and this is the main calling card of the Cannondale Synapse.
