Cannondale 1999 H500

Price Paid:  $574.00 at Pedler cycle

Favorite Ride:
Along the lakeshore

Bike Setup:
Stock from the store with the addition of Nimbus FX (slicks) for better street performance, and, Rapid Fire shifting as I didn't like the original

Summary:
I needed a bike that was responsive and reliable, and just felt like quality as that's the kind of consumer I am. This is my first real "Bike" so I really can't compare it long term to anything else, but so far, this bike has been amazing. It's quick for a hybrid (like to race couriers from time to time) shifts like a dream, has needed no maintenance other than the regular spring and fall tuning. It's light to I can take it pretty much anywhere, and it looks great. I tested many before buying Trek, Specialized, Giant etc. but this one had the feel and options all in one. If you are sure of buying a Hybrid, I would definately consider this line. The only drawback so far has been that I find the brakes to be a little softer than I would like, and they seem to make a lot of noise on the rim...but that could just be that I need tuning or upgrading...overall...I have had a great time so far.

Strengths:
Solid feel on road

Weaknesses:
Brakes

Similar Products Used:
None

Favorite Ride:
San Gabriel River to the Seal beach

Bike Setup:
New XT wheel set, handlebars, seat post and seat.

Summary:
This bike had to be a little set up as I started to ride more and more. It has several 1,000 miles and with the new wheel set it is incredible. Mine is a 1998 H-700 version and it is very nice. I have upgraded to a race bike but my hybrid is a special bike for me.

Strengths:
Good light frame, good components, great bike.

Weaknesses:
Not a great long distance riding bike (100 miles, in a single day).

Similar Products Used:
Cannondale H-300, CannondaleH-200 & Cannondale F-700 converted with street tires.

Price Paid:  $300.00 at local bike shop

Bike Setup:
Shimano LXT. Aluminum Frame.

Summary:
Purchased the bike used. It was originally ridden very hard, and I continued that practice. It has held up amazingly well. The alum. frame is very stiff and precise on the road, however this is a downfall on trails.(Very harsh ride on hard terrain)I would rate it 80%road/20% trails. Its a great go anywhere do anything bike. It has also served my pretty well as a slow touring bike. If your positive you want a Hybrid bike- this would be my suggestion.

Strengths:
weight,durability,brakes,handling.

Weaknesses:
Haven't discovered any yet.

Similar Products Used:
Several Hybrid bikes

Bike Setup:

Aluminum frame, Shimano LX group, low tread tires.

Summary:
This bike is an absolute pleasure. Is responsive in maneuvering, shifting and braking. I use the bike for touring on a mix of 80% road and 20% trail riding on packed dirt / gravel trails. The padded seat is especially comfortable on rides of 30 - 50 miles.I did feel that the standard seat position was too far forward and shifted it back as far as possible. The only problem with this position is that the seat will sometimes tilt up slightly after landing from a severe bump. (If not for this annoyance, I would award 5 stars)

Strengths:

Weight, Handling, Shifting, Braking

Weaknesses:

Seat does not stay fixed in position.

Similar Products Used:

Schwinn Crisscross

Summary:


I've own a H-500 for four years, this is my main source of transpo on the island
to and from work. 17 miles each way,surface streets, bike paths, uneven surfaces. This has been superior in reliablity and performance. Replacing the bottom bracket one time to a heavier duty bearing case. I am presently shopping around for a super V 400 SRB Cannondale for better suspension and change in bike interests.

Strengths:
None

Weaknesses:
None

Similar Products Used:
None