Cannondale Track

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
This is a great product. Being very new to the world of track cycling, I'd still have to say that I'm totally pleased with this bike. It's much stiffer than other entry and mid level track bikes, and the components appear to be of very good quality. I can recommend this bike without hesitation to anyone.

Strengths:
Solid, stiff frame, components

Weaknesses:
None

Similar Products Used:
KHS track bike

Price Paid:  $1395.00 at Hearn's Bicycles, As

Favorite Ride:
Blue Ridge Parkway

Bike Setup:
"As is" from factory: Dura Ace components, Continental tires, Fisik saddle, Ritchey bars on Cannondale stem. I added Performance's magnesisum Look-compatible pedals. It came with a 46 X 16 gear; I changed it to 49 X 15.

Summary:
I got this bike after 6 months of research for the following two reasons: (1) I found a research university's study of track bikes, and it rated the Cannondale CAAD 5 track bike the absolute stiffest in the world; (2) the geometry is a *bit* steeper than most road frames, but not so steep that you're hitting the front of your shoes with the front wheel.

The bike is a delight to ride - ultra responsive in both steering and sprinting. Some have called this bike "twitchy," but I call it "solid". I've never had to compensate or "settle" for any eccentricity in the frame, the design, or the components.

Bottom line: Fine, innovative, road-feel design bike that'll get the most energy into the back wheel, without beating you up.

Strengths:
Ultra stiff in the bottom bracket, ultra light (15.4 pounds with pedals and factory equipment)

Weaknesses:
Too many decals. I think Cannondale has placed its name on the bike 13 times.
No color options.

Similar Products Used:
Ridden many comparable non-aluminum track frames. I rate this among with the best.