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Average Rating
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5/5
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# of Reviews
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2
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MSRP
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$
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Weight
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Description:
- Fork: Lefty Speed Carbon SL, 80 mm
- Rims: WTB LaserDisc Trail FR, 32 hole
- Spokes: DT Swiss Champion
- Pedals: Crank Bros Smarty
- Handlebars: Control Tech Alloy, 25 mm rise
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Submitted by
bus36jb
a Weekend Warrior
from Pittsburgh, PA
Date Reviewed: June 9, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Vultures Knob | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Carbon Lefty | | Weaknesses: | Rear Hub | | Similar Products Used: | F29 from previous model year. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Thompson set-back post, new saddle, SRAM PG990 cassette | | Bottom Line: | Fantastic bike in terms of fit and performance. To qualify, I'm 6' and approx. 190lbs and I got the 'large' frame. I had last years model (I did post a review on it), when they only had one spec available and eventually made my way to this model via some unusual circumstances, but have been very happy with the bike so far. It actually rides a lot different than last years model thanks to skinnier tires, a few pounds shed and, although I'm not certain, I have to think that they tweaked the geometry/measurements. End result, a quick/nimble feel through the tight lines, especially for a 29'er. On my first ride, I actually had to look down and make sure that I wasn't riding a 26" Caffeine.
Component spec is nice - highlighted by the Carbon Lefty. I won't get too far into everything, because everyone has their own opinion on avid brakes, SRAM drivetrain, etc. I will say that the sum total can be described as 'responsive' and I'm totally happy with the overall experience.
The only glaring weakness is the rear hub which is a mid-level (if that) Shimano unit. I typically don't get too bent over part specs, but couldn't c-dale charge a few more bucks and give the people a better hub/wheelset? Especially now that they have 3 models of the F29.
I wanted the brushed metal frame but the only one available at the time was the black with the green 'flames'. I've actually been surprised at the number of riders who've commented positively on this finish. In a few short weeks, I've had at least a half dozen riders who went out of their way to ask about it/say something to me (which never happens). Who knew?
All said, I love this bike. I actually love the 29'er ride and this bike, to me, represents the best of that experience. Climbing, descending, clearing obstacles and navigating single-track - this bike does it all. If you're considering a 29'er, definitely give this one a look. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from United States
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | FATS | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2175.00 | | Purchased At: | Chain Reaction, Augusta Ga. | | Strengths: | This bike is a monster! For those of you reading this review I am all sure you know how great it is to ride a 29'er. Now Cannondale has totally perfected it.
The large tires really grip well and give you the confidence to really take those turns much faster. The tread really diggs into the pine straw on the trails here in Georgia and really makes you feel on with the trail.
The carbon fiber lefty SL 29'er version has 80mm of travel which is very sufficent for a 29 inch bike. The adjustability is fantastic from the preload to the lockout everything works flawlessly.
The components starting with the brakes are juicy seven which feel very good in the hand and really allow for precise control of your speed, they have an adjustable knob that allows you to customize how far you want to pull in before you get braking resistance. I personally have mine all the way out, but for someone with smaller hands I would imagine this is an awesome feature. Not to mention they look really hot on the handlebars.
As for the shifters how can you go wrong with SRAM X9? I have yet to have any issue theyhave a very distict tactile feel when changing gears. It reminds me of when you shift a high performance car into gear with a good click and wham you are off as it pops into gear. One of the best things I like is the ability to downshift multiple gears at once (I thinkt he count is 3 gears at a time if you want too). All you do is push the shifter all the way in and you can just about go from bottom to top with your rear derailer.
Speaking of the rear derailer what can I say, its simply the best. SRAM X9 has continuously outdone similarly priced shimano gear in pretty much every revierw I have read so far and though I have never used Shimano XT rear derailer, I can tell you this one is awesome. Even after I shift late and am putting alot of stress on the derailer it does't even whimper and make alot of noice like others I have tried. It just pops you right into that lower gear and pulls you right up that hill.
Overall the bike is well thought out and looks great on the trail. The paint job is smoking and being on a well made Cannondale is just a joy in itself. The bike is incredibly light esp for a 29'er and with a few upgrades (see below) I have gotten min down to just under 27lbs and its an XL size.
| | Weaknesses: | Seat is slightly uncomfertable, I would prefer the cables did not run underneath the crossbar (personal preference for my bike racks sake) | | Similar Products Used: | Haro Flightline Comp | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded handlebar to Monkeylite Composite, Shimano XTR Pedals, Lefty Tool Kit all else is stock | | Bottom Line: | If you are looking for an awesome 29'er frame with an outstanding components package this is the bike for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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