Submitted by
Jdub
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: March 7, 2010
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Local shop
Strengths:
Good for all around riding XC/Free ride
Weaknesses:
Swing Arm, Swing Arm, Swing Arm! Lefty.
Similar Products Used:
To many to list
Bike Setup:
Raceface XC crank, El camino Brakes Raised stem the rest stock.
Bottom Line:
I guess I was cursed from the moment I sat on this bike. I ordered the bike and the day I went to pick it up I sat on it in my local shop to take it home and the seat post snapped in the shop. I should have known right there and then. I would say 3 months later I started having a really bad annoying creak on the down stroke every time I pedaled. After taking my crank off 100 times and lubing the pivots of the rear suspension I was informed the Prophet frames had a flaw. I was told it was a crack in a weld and it was echo throughout the Alum frame. So I got the frame warrantied. Got a new frame. A moth later same thing. While I was riding on my local trail I passed another guy on a prophet his had THE SAME CREAK! I will never ride another Cannondale Mt again. GARBAGE!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fat tire love affair
a Weekend Warrior
from phoenix,arizona Date Reviewed: December 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
charles m. christainson memorial
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
craigslist
Strengths:
sturdy frame, ok stock components,lefty (yes i could be a lefty salesman,variable rear suspension geometry climbs like a schizophrenic mountain goat running from its thoughts,looks cool and feels very predictable on just about any terrain I've ridden it on. I would marry this bike if it would be recognized as a legal union.Oh and the single pivot is more than sufficiently engineered and has minimal pedal bob compared to other single pivots i have ridden.
Weaknesses:
I'ts not bright orange. some may consider it heavy but my motto is if it weighs too much you need to get stronger and stock shimano lx e type derailuer was problematic. upgraded to slx e type and have stopped beating my dog.
Similar Products Used:
cannondale super v 500, marin alpine trail fsr, trek hardtail, ironhorse maverick
Bike Setup:
stock except for slx e type derailuer, rear shock (upgraded to fox float), serfas saddle, ergon grips and cannondale rear hub
Bottom Line:
this bike is a great beginner to intermediate bike and a good one to continue to grow on, it has served me well and will continue to do so. It gets a regular beating and never lets me down. if your looking to spend a few dollars (around what i payed, it depends on your definition of a few dollars) on a quality bike that requires minimal maintenance and is just about bombproof then you may consider this one.for a nice ride on a lower to midrange budget this bike fits the description. iIgive the bike 5 chillis because when i think about it it is always a good memory.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
vincent
a Weekend Warrior
from madrid, spain Date Reviewed: November 11, 2009
price much expensive in Spain compared to US prices.
Similar Products Used:
Trek fuel 80, 2006
Bottom Line:
Very good bike, makes you feel safe and confortable. Life garanty for frame. Never had problems, only to change brake pads and chain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mecano
a Weekend Warrior
from Edgewood Date Reviewed: April 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Cedro Peak
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Bikes +
Strengths:
Suspension
Weaknesses:
Left Shifter
Similar Products Used:
ProFlex 896
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I looked around for almost a month to replace my trusty old ProFlex. I wanted something with the longest suspension travel without going to a full downhill bike. I also wanted reasonable weight and sturdy frame for XC and rocky downhills and without confusing locking suspension systems. The bike climbs like a mountain goat, I can now climb hills in taller gears, shifts great under power, the suspension on both ends works great it soaks up nasty stuff like nothing. The Lefty fork is the best! The bike loves to be abused, the faster you ride the better it responds. The wide handlebars felt weird at first but I love them now. "Ride it like you stole it"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
joshk253
a Weekend Warrior
from Tacoma, WA, Pierce Date Reviewed: January 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
whatever one I'm riding
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Old Town
Strengths:
It handles great, absorbs my mistakes on landings(nothing to big)It climbs like a bat outta hell, and descends like a sinner on their way to hell. Anyone that is looking for a good well rounded bike this is the one. Not for hard corp downhills and massive drops but a great trail bike.
Weaknesses:
I didn't like the stock grips but big f*%#ing deal
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock except i cut the width of the bars down as far as I could and put on some locking grips and a new seat.
Bottom Line:
I love my bike, and even though the cost creatted some issues for my wife it was totally worth it!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raymond
a Weekend Warrior
from Vernon CT Date Reviewed: October 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Case
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
great rear shock,light for 5.5 travel, handles well in most every thing except major downhill but is not intended for it anyway
Weaknesses:
none at this point
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mt element, Cannondale Jekyll, Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
xt, xtr wheels, and some stuff to lighten it a bit.
Bottom Line:
This was a free replacement for a cracked jekyll frame. I don't write in these things but this frame is that much better that if it helps someone to decide about one so be it. One guy had problems with chain stretch and apparantly ghosting, I actually have had none. The jekyll did often this frame does not even when I try to see if it will. It climbs better than the jekyll, not sure if it's the geometry or the rear shock but it is noticeble, better also than the rocky element. Quick handling and response for this much travel. Thanks to Cdale for keeping their warrantee and not giving the cheapest frame but rather the higher end shock RP23.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
travis
a Cross Country Rider
from SLC Date Reviewed: June 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
village cycle
Strengths:
very light, looks nice.
Weaknesses:
THIS BIKE HAS A CATASTROPHIC FLAW IN THE DESIGN OF THE REAR SWING ARM. I will not fix this bike again, it is currently for sale.
the length of the chain stay grows as the suspension is compressed. thats as simple as i can put it. Ask your local bike mechanic, and if he knows left from right he can clearly explain what i'm talking about. All it takes is a tape measure and a bike with a single pivot point in front of the crank. IT"S ALL BAD. After two brand new deraileur's, a clamp, a hand full of spokes, two chains, a crank, some sprockets, and a SWEET scar on my leg, ive decided to give up on this prophet, and sell the frame to some unsuspecting sole with money to burn. Good Luck! Oh and by the way if you own a cannondale, try to contact the company right now. when something goes wrong, It takes 137 days to get a responce. NO JOKE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Timmy
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix Arizona Date Reviewed: March 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Red Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Purchased At:
Used on Craigs List
Strengths:
Great handling, no pedal bob, great componentry even though it's still stock, massive amounts of travel while still giving the cross country feel, adjustment on the rear suspension allows a change in the geometry from a XC feel, to a downhill.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
None, first bike with full suspension.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. It's given me more confidence to go over the big bumps, instead of skirting around them when I had my hardtail. Love the fact that the designs and lettering is actually inscribed on the bike, not stickers. Pretty cool artwork on the top tube too. I think it's the equivalent of the Santa Cruz Nomad. Only thing I would change is the rear shock, maybe get a better one since stock has no adjustment on it. I've had no problems with the Lefty front shock, all I can do is praise how well it's worked for me so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Birmingham, AL U.S.A. Date Reviewed: February 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Bob's Bikes
Strengths:
Goes anywhere I point it (I'm usually still on it when it gets there). The Lefty is unique, and for a full suspension bike it is pretty light weight.
Weaknesses:
Not sure if there are any. Wouldn't mind trying a higher grade dual control shifter, but have no real complaints about what is on the bike
Similar Products Used:
An ancient Giant MTB
Bike Setup:
In a hundred miles on dirt, the only thing that really wore out was the middle chain ring and I replaced all three with a RaceFace set. The rear cog set got mangled by a rock or something that got in it; and both it and the chain were replaced. Tires are Maxxis Ignitors, pedals are Eggbeaters. Replaced front deraileur with an XT.
Bottom Line:
I was looking for a lesser bike in the fall of 2006 when I came across a really pretty metallic blue Prophet 800 that was on sale. I have ridden a bike of some sort or another for three decades, and having an understanding of the need for better components, and an overwhelming sense of lust for that particular bike, I bought it.
My inital regret over the amount of cash I just spent on a bike lasted for about a week, until I had the chance to spend some quality time in the saddle and regret was replaced a smile and lots of sweat.
I am sure you can spend more, but I honestly don't see that it is necessary (although I'd take it if someone gave it to me!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
robert
a Weekend Warrior
from clearwater Date Reviewed: January 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
alafia
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
smooth ride on the trails. The lefty really eats up the bumps.
Bottom Line:
I wrote in about one and a half weeks ago. Had a complaint about the bearings going bad in the rear wheel. I thought it was a bent hub. The bearing was replaced by the shop and still makes noise when you spin the wheel by hand. However when you ride it, you do not hear it. So as long as that continues I will be fine with it. The rear Fox shock blew out the second day I had the bike due to some stairs. They rebuilt the shock and sense then its been fine. So the bottom line is, I am back to being very pleased with the bike. It is not that I did not like the bike, it was the aggravation of buying a bike and having two major problems in such a short period of time. I would stil recommend the bike shop and the bike to anyone who wanted to buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew Paterson
a Cross Country Rider
from Kowanyama Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
A proper mountainbike and beautifully built frame. Plush suspension. I absolutely hated the dual control levers and finally got the $$$ to go to XT shifters and LX levers - problem solved. I did not like the standard crank - so again, got the $$$ and XT crank is MAGNIFICENT. I did not like the saddle - so after all the reading went with a Brooks and find it much more comfortable. The handlebars were too low and put too much load on my hands, so EA50 riser bars have solved that problem. The TrailBears were just too heavy. The Kenda Nevegals 1.95 were very good in the mud. But I am really enjoying the Maxxis Crossmarks, 2.10. We have a lot of bulldust and they roll beautifully. I am happy with the stock rear shock - manitou radium - for my trail riding I am not sure what a more expensive shock would deliver in the way of plush ride.
I probably should have spent the extra money upfront and gone for the Prophet 1000. But it was a learning experience. It is always part of the challenge to set up any bicycle exactly the way you want it.
This is the first time I spent anything like $3300 Australian dollars on a bike, but I am very happy with the product. I cannot see myself buying another bicycle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Weekend Warrior
from Cohasset, MA Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
all single track in Wompatuck
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Travel is awsome. Climbs like a mountain goat, descends like a skier. Dual control w/o thumbs is flawless. Lefty rules. Radium R is simple, never leaks. Brakes are awesome.
Weaknesses:
Forces me to sneak into the shed to look at it almost every night. My wife is jealous.
Similar Products Used:
Hardtail Gary Fisher for 10+ years.
Bike Setup:
Stock except have eggbeaters. Cut 1" off handle bars (too wide for some tree squeezes)
Bottom Line:
This all mountain is a champ. The suspension has never leaked and the bushings are holding up well. My buddies and I have a group of 3 to 10 that ride every weekend. We all have FS, but the Lefty is special. Looks radical. The dual control LX shifters are totally intuitive once you remove the thumbs and get used to them. Bike can handle big drops and soak em up like a landcruiser. Light enough to thrash around. Climbs over and goes through stuff that used to be hard with the hardtail. Real easy to pre-jump. If you find one buy it. Awesome bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew kay
a Weekend Warrior
from Glendale, CA Date Reviewed: August 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
kirre khar single track
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Good Handling
Weaknesses:
Lefty leaked before first ride and by the second ride rebound did not work, cannondale customer service awfully bad, no more cannondale for me. Cannondale refused to give me a new shock even when the bike was 2 days old. It took them 1 month to rebult my Lefty. Also the rear derailer does not adjust.
Similar Products Used:
bionicon
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This is great handling bike when it doesnt leak.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mt
a Cross Country Rider
from castaic, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Porc Rim. Moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Reasonably light, very well balanced perfomance. Lefty TPC fork a standout performer.
Weaknesses:
Could be more rigid in the rear swingarm
Similar Products Used:
Quite a few bikes over the years, but most recently a 5 yr old Intense Tracer.
Bike Setup:
Stock 800 model, TPC Max 140 fork, radium shock, stock wheels and tires. Swapped out the shifters, rear der.,brake levers, and cranks.
Bottom Line:
This is the best handling and most balanced bike I have ridden/owned in a long time...maybe ever. I was coming from a 4" travel Tracer that I had ridden for years and I wanted to get a bit more...more and better travel in the suspension, more up to date brakes (discs), etc. I was concerned about the extra weight of a longer travel bike making the long climbs and fairly CC'ish rides I do a bit slow and plodding. I do not freeride, etc, but I like to get it going pretty good on technical, fast stuff. The Tracer always felt like it was not in sync with me...not sure why.
I wanted to try a single pivot bike for the simplicity and the way the design aids in climbing without bobbing around. I was not looking for a rolling ultra-plush Barcalounger, but I wanted way more out of the fork than I had on the Marzocchi on the Tracer.
I wanted a solid, nimble, 5" travel trailbike that I could really dance with.
I found it. I picked up a never sold 05 Prophet with the TPC Lefty. Hated the integrated shifter/levers. Could never figure out which way to shift, the thumb part hit my figers under braking, and I could not rotate the brake levers far enough down and inward due to the master cylinder hitting the bulge in the oversize bars. Swapped to Gripshift, separate Deore LX levers, my old XT Hollowtech 180mm cranks, and the old XTR rear der. off the Tracer. Heaven.
I have ridden the bike about 10 hrs now on a lot of very familiar trails including long fireroad climbs, steep singletrack up and down with switchbacks, fast, rough doubletrack, etc. I picked up 3 lbs over the Tracer, but I really only felt it on the first few rides and now it is what it is. No biggie. It climbs very efficiently and actually feels better than the Tracer in nearly every way. It is a very well balanced bike and the 69* headangle works well, even in the tight stuff. I am very amazed how well the geometry works everywhere I have tried it. It steered up a very tight, steep, trail climb and never wandered and I rode every switchback my legs would let me. The TPC Lefty is very supple and yet seems very rigid. I would not choose to race pure CC on it, too heavy, but if I was to mess around with a more adventure based race/ride, I would not hesitate.
Really a blast to ride. It could be stiffer in the rear triangle/swingarm, but I only notice it when I get twisted up pedaling through a rut, etc. I am 6'2" and around 190 and ride the large sz. It weighs out at 30.5 lbs.
One less chili for the bit-o-flex in the frame, but other than that, really a stellar trail bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Connor Thompson
a Racer
from Cape Girardeau MO USA Date Reviewed: May 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cape Bicylce & Fitness
Strengths:
The LEFTY is a for sure.....Handles like a dream....by far my baby out of all five bikes....
Weaknesses:
Weak Rims.....i upgraded to Crossmaxx SL
Similar Products Used:
RUSH-CARBON....PROPHET-400
Bike Setup:
SICKKKKKKKKK
Bottom Line:
Its a hell of a bike for the money that you can get it for....CANNONDALE IS BY FAR THE BEST BIKE COMPANY IN USA>>>>>>>>>>HELL YA TO THE C-DALE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Connor Thompson
a Racer
from Cape Girardeau MO USA Date Reviewed: May 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cape Bicylce & Fitness
Strengths:
The LEFTY is a for sure.....Handles like a dream....by far my baby out of all five bikes....
Weaknesses:
Weak Rims.....i upgraded to Crossmaxx SL
Similar Products Used:
RUSH-CARBON....PROPHET-400
Bike Setup:
SICKKKKKKKKK
Bottom Line:
Its a hell of a bike for the money that you can get it for....CANNONDALE IS BY FAR THE BEST BIKE COMPANY IN USA>>>>>>>>>>HELL YA TO THE C-DALE
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willi Coyote
a Weekend Warrior
from Bad-Homburg, Germany. Date Reviewed: April 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
R + R FAHRZEUGE GMBH
Strengths:
Well build frame. Great geometry. Light. Lefty. Price / performance.
Weaknesses:
Cranck set. Seat. E-Type Front derailer.
Similar Products Used:
GT 2001-2
Bike Setup:
Full Sram X-O. Truvativ Stylo. Shimano 535 disk system.
Bottom Line:
The best bike for the money. High quality frame. (Same frame for all models). Very good service. Very comfortable ride. Lefty forks works fine. Excellent bike to upgrade. I love this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gabriel Kovach
a Cross Country Rider
from Kiriat Bialik, Israel Date Reviewed: January 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ofer Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Rosen & Meents
Strengths:
The Lefty MAX, Geometry, It climbs better than an xc bike with 140/140mm, light weight, single pivot system eats up every bump, the IRC TRAILBEAR tires are awsome, rear xt derailour is extreamly accurate. The Controll is unbeliveble.
Weaknesses:
Some knacking niose from the rear but u dont really pay attension to that while riding. Nothing appart from that.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS3, Santacruze Superlight
Bike Setup:
Everything is stock, i feel no need 2 upgrade.
Bottom Line:
This is the most amazing bike i have ever ridden!!!!!!!!!!! it has 140mm lefty and the rear suspension is 140mm too. For that amount of travell the bike is extreamly light and it climbs up simply unbelivebly. On the downhills the travell helps a lot. You bearly feel any bumps. The control is best i ever felt. I can almost say that the bike guesses what i want to do and it does it without even asking. With this bike i feel like my motto. "When the adrenaline arrives, Im allready there." This is the best bike money can buy. I LOVE IT. And anyone who wants to buy one, GO FOR IT DUDE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant Whittle
a Weekend Warrior
from Jacksonville, Alabama, USA Date Reviewed: December 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kentuck
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
eBay (Closeout)
Strengths:
Love the Lefty and the rear suspension! Handles any trail I take it to: climbs, extreme descents, drops, and log infested wooded single tracks. Very responsive and quick! American made with excellent weld quality. [I grew up welding in my father's machine shop and the welds are impressive.]
Weaknesses:
The stock saddle is the most uncomfortable I have ever sat on. Five minutes of riding and I could feel pressure sores develping on my cheeks. I don't care for the Shimano shifters. Can't hold my handle bars comfortably without the @%$# thumb shifters rubbing my thumbs raw. The dual tube size handlebar makes adding accessories and mods more difficult. The Lefty limits my choices in transporting the bike and makes taking the front wheel off a bit of a challenge, but its performance and "look" is worth the hassle. Minor upgrades will solve most of my few complaints.
Similar Products Used:
Test rode Trek and GT full suspension comparables.
Bike Setup:
Stock for now, except for grip horns (I know... horrible for snagging trees, but my arthritic back and hands love the grip options when riding long distance). Will upgrade saddle immediately and shifters as finances permit.
Bottom Line:
VERY comfortable ride. I can hardly feel any impact in my arthritic spine! I'm used to feeling some pain on even minor bumps. This is almost pain free! I tried it on some jumps, and I wasn't hurting the next day.
As a weekend warrior I can't justify the expense to have seperate XC and FR bikes. I travel extensively and I can take this "one bike" with me to ride anything, anywhere I go. [I've been to all but one state and to 20 countries in just the last 3 years.]
This bike is an excellent compromise for me. I can climb without getting too winded, and still bang down ski slopes without breaking my neck.
Way back in my younger college years, I rode down the first ski trail in Utah to officially allow mountain bikers in the summer. At that time I was on a ChroMoly frame before even front shocks had been invented. The ride down was suicidal fun! You just had to keep regaining control as you "bounced" down the mountain. In those old days very few college kids wore helmets for routine riding (wasn't fashionable), but the helmets came out for the ski slope riding because you almost always "bit it" at least once.
As A BYU student, I'd also climb Y mountain in Provo at least once a week. Climbing with such a heavy bike was horrible. To make it worse I had to add 20 lbs to the front fork to keep traction on my front and rear tires on the climb up the steep mountain.
With this Prophet, I feel like I've gone from driving an old Pontiac Pinto to a Porsche Cayman. This is a fine all around "performance" mountain bike that is extremely plush and comfortable. Light enough for long rides and steep climbs, but still excellent for the down hill descents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Karlovich
a Weekend Warrior
from Redwood City, CA, USA Date Reviewed: November 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mr Toad's Wild Ride, Tahoe, CA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Mike's Bikes Berkeley
Strengths:
Climbs very well for a bike weighing 32lbs with a comfortable upright riding position. The Lefty fork is the best fork I've ever had on a bike (I've used various Rock Shox products SID, Judy, etc). Inspiring design and engineering. High Pedal clearance. Hydraulic breaks.
Weaknesses:
The stock seat is very uncomfortable. It's somewhat of a pain to remove the front wheel, so I just don't. I bought a Cobra rack so I don't have to do so. After purchasing the new rack attachment, it's no longer an issue. The stock shimano peddles had to go. I far prefer my Time Attac peddles which perform much better. Some would say the integrated shifting/brake system is a weakness, but I adapted to it and think it works very well -it hasn't limited me. The stock seat post clamp sucks -I can't get it tight enough using the quick release, but it can be adjusted using an allen wrench instead which works well enough.
Similar Products Used:
K2 4000 Proflex, Specialized Rock Hopper, Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
All stock right now -except for the peddles. I break components fairly frequently so I don't bother changing something until it breaks.
Bottom Line:
I ride faster, in more control, and most importantly it's incredibly fun to ride, so I ride more than ever before. I haven't yet come close to maxing the capability of the bike yet, it can take more than I can give it, inspiring effort to improve myself as a rider. The Prophet eats most small and medium sized obstacles as an afterthought. Even after 3 months, I still feel like the kid in the candy store. It's the best mountain bike I've ever ridden, and it turns heads too. I believe the lefty fork is a superior design. The Shimano hydraulic brakes inspire confidence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Cross Country Rider
from Pipersville, PA, USA Date Reviewed: November 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
high rocks
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
CYCLE SPORTS
Strengths:
Excellent all purpose bike. Componenets have worn well for me @ 200 lbs. I always enjoy riding this bike!
Weaknesses:
Front derailer hard to tune due to location. Noisy when descending. The free hub has been a bother with friction.
The front disc brake has needed numerous fine tunings due to rubing between caliper and disc. The problem was the stock bolts for the caliper were too soft and they cupped out the mounts of the lefty- remedy went to local shop and got same bolts as those used to mount rear caliper. They held without reshaping and caliper has stayed put- the risk they could rip your mount off your lefty if forces got too strong- 6 months used hardest riding yet and no problems.
Similar Products Used:
tested many similar "all mountain" bikes, trek, specialized, Gary fisher
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
A great bike to discover the joys of full suspension. I came from riding a cro-moly 35lb hard tail for 10 years that was fun but hard on me, the things that challenged me on that bike are the obstacles that I mindlessly blow through.
I am starting to do some competing and now I am looking for a little more serious race bike but I plan on keeping this bike as long as it continues to run.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Rix
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
bow 80
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
www.rvcns.com
Strengths:
Nimble and responsive handeling. Lefty fork is amazing. Bike is a blast to ride.
Weaknesses:
Single pivots are good but not great.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg, Specialized stumpjumper fsr, Norco Fluid
Bike Setup:
X0 triggers and rear der. Shimano xt brakes, xt cranks, xtr front der. syncros carbon bar, thomson post, hope rear hub and mavic 819 rims. Manitou 4 way air.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike, I have done a bit of everything on it, bike parks, all day marathon rides, short hammer rides, snow rides, pretty much every kind of riding. I have upgraded almost all of the parts on it, but the frame and fork are the same. Lefty is unreal i had it rebuild 1 time this year and the thing feels brand new. Lefty forks do not flex they rock. I have ridden alot of other bikes some pedal better some have fancy lockouts, but as far as a bike i can just jump on and have a blast riding the prophet is the best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kealoha
a Weekend Warrior
from Lihue, HI, USA Date Reviewed: September 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Kalepa
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Mccully Bicycle
Strengths:
Lefty fork is smooth as silk and tracks like you wouldn't believe, shimano dual control brakes and shifters make life simple, light weight, adjustable geometry, fox float r shock, trailbear tires grip well in mud and loose dirt, climbing ability, suspension adjustability.
Weaknesses:
Bottle cage mount on underside of downtube. Weird looks from people who never saw a lefty before!
Similar Products Used:
2005 Gary Fisher Cake 3 DLX
Bike Setup:
2006 small frame (I'm 5'7"/150 lbs.)All standard Prophet 800 components
Bottom Line:
True all-mountain capability that climbs as well as it goes down hill. Confidence inspiring ride that makes you a better rider. If you can only get one bike...this is it! Glad I got it, makes me want to ride more often.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan Parker
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA Date Reviewed: June 26, 2006
Seat (Easily replaced), Setup for a system to transport the bike is costly. A trap that will accomodate the Lefty is $80+.
Similar Products Used:
GT i-Drive 3.0
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I ride 20-30 miles on the weekends at Palmer Park and this bike works great there. The adjutable geometry is a good feature. I have ridden the bike both ways on the trails and it is amazing what a difference 2.5 degrees makes in the ride of the bike. The suspension is supple once you find the right air pressure in the rear shock and has a wide range of rebound adjustment on both the front and rear shocks. The brake-lever shifting was something that took a little getting used to, but now that I am used to it, I don't think I would want any other kind.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chad
a Weekend Warrior
from Janesville, California Date Reviewed: June 17, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Pathfinders of Morgantown, WV
Strengths:
Strong wheelset, beautiful paint job, great deal for the price. Fit me perfectly (long torso, short legs) with only a slightly taller rise handlebar. Adjustable angles, perfect for almost all types of riding.
Weaknesses:
Bearings! Replaced the swingarm and lefty hub bearings with Enduros, no problems whatsoever now. Handlebar too wide for my tastes. TPC damping in the front bobbed too much for my taste. Dual control levers, not suited for the type of riding this bike is designed for, IMO.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler (way too heavy, chain suck like unreal), Santa Cruz Blur (too small for me).
Bike Setup:
XT Hollowtech II cranks, XT hyrdro-brakes with seperate levers, XT shifters, Salsa Loco 1" rise handlebar, Lizard Skins lock-on grips, WTB Lazer V saddle, Jagwire Expressway derailleur cables and housing, Time Control Z pedals, Intense CC compound 2.25 tires. Lefty upgraded to SPV valving.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike, fits perfect, rides like a dream. Best bike I've ever owned. For about a minute, I thought about selling it after being away from biking for a few months, but one quick ride in the yard brought back the love! A few things that needed replaced, like the bearings and handlebar, but the rest is solid equipment. I just had the XT stuff and decided it was more than worth wearing it. The bike can take far more than my abilities can dish out. I've never had a problem riding that wasn't my own fault. Even then, the bike is more than capable of soaking up my faults as a rider, and give me far more confidence than I should have ;-) Awesome bike for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Louisville, KY Date Reviewed: June 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Clarksville Schwinn Cyclery
Strengths:
Lefty, dual control brakes/shifters, frame
Weaknesses:
Tires retain a lot of mud, but otherwise okay. Rear derailler a little tempermental, would be interested in trying a SRAM eventually.
Similar Products Used:
Previous bike was Specialized Rockhopper. Test rode Gary Fisher Cakes (1, 2 and 3 DLX)
Bike Setup:
Stock, blue paint (nice by the way)
Bottom Line:
Bought this bike from Bob (owner) at above mentioned bike shop in Clarksville, IN. Honest businessman with a great shop. Highly recommend buying from him. Now on to the bike...just awesome! This bike is so forgiving and will make you a better rider. If you're looking for a great all around bike, are a cross country rider who wants to dabble in some FR and DH eventually, and will be exposed to a wide variety of conditions then get this bike. I was torn between the 600, the 800, and the 1000. I have no regrets about getting the 800. The 600 seemed a little short on components. The 1000 was tempting but a little pricey and the 800 has some relly nice stock gear too. I was also thinking about the Rush and a buddy of mine bought the Rush 800 around the same time I bought this. His bike is probably a better cross country bike (it's intended purpose), but the Prophet will save your butt on unexpected drop offs and if you're a taller rider (6' and up) then the Prophet may fit a lttle better. As for some of the common criticisms of this bike, I've heard people complain about the wide handlebars and the dually shifter/brake setup. My first instinct was to have the bike shop cut my handlebars down but I held off. DON"T DO THIS! I kept mine stock length and now I wonder how I ever got by with short handlebars on previous bikes. You have so much more control with wide bars and you quickly adapt to even the tightest of trails. As for the dual control levers, it took me maybe about 20 minutes for them to become second nature. WIth regard to sizing, I am 6' and weigh around 185 lbs, and the Large fits real nice. Buy this bike without regret.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Munich Germany Date Reviewed: May 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Pro Rad Munich
Strengths:
-the bike defines “All Mountain”. -with the saddle high the climbing is really really good -I ordered the SPV damping rear shock and it is incredible – It simply knows what to do uphill and then …… it knows what to do down hill - the end. -(Brakes - I come from mag julies) - I ordered a 203mm on the front but they couldn’t find the adaptor so for moment I still have the standard 160mm. Given how astonishing they are as standard the thought of the 203 rotor is mind-boggling. (got the “hans ray-now way” transalp planned for July.
Weaknesses:
-The dual control levers -I got use to the action and find it OK but the IDIOTIC shape of the LX hydraulic part gets in the way of EVERTHING even the handlebar itself!!! (I like the bar and would probably like it even more if I could put it and the bl**** levers where I wanted them) - going about 25-30km/h -no hands- the front we got into a little wobble just like a front imbalanced wheel on a car. Not scary but just odd – I repeated it a couple of times to check. (lefty nevertheless superb) -I feel small (fire road) bump response form the lefty is perhaps not that sensitive but it gobbles up anything rougher than this utterly effortlessly. -the equipment level is a little week but no different to other premium brands – the prophet package was my choice so no real complaint.(but a pitty doesn’t come with the 1000s x-9 gears and mag fr brakes)
Bike Setup:
2005 (discount) Stock + bargain dealer upgrades: -SPV 3Way rear shock -203mm front rotor -for some reason an XTR “normal” rear derailleur.
Bottom Line:
Just had a goodkend and clocked up about 150Km and getting on for 2000 H-meters on my new prophet 800.
The bike is guaranteed to give you a good time any time you take it out.
It will also pretty much take care of you what ever you do on it!
With a light dusting of trail crud it looks utterly nutty - it does pull a LOT of looks ;-)
Was going to go for the 1000 but I have no regrets with the 800 (aside the stupid lx dualies). I read that some people don’t use the SPV up front even though they have it. It don’t feel the need to trouble myself with tubeless and I am happy with the brakes. For 2006 prospectors I would still suggest getting the SPV for the rear (set and forget)
I have a thing about the “Gravity Dropper” (check the reviews on this site – it’s a seat post height “pop-able” from the handlebar).
The Prophet riding position is classic all mountain - high over the front wheel and quite upright. Like this it climbs fantastic with minimal knee stress. However descending “Real Steeps” with the seat still set “up here” is to me absolute suicide.
I have a “Gravity dropper” on my other fully “an ebay special with mag julies” which I use for all weather bashing on our local trail (using the prophet for big tours in the Alps)
However, in my short time on the prophet I have spent TOO LONG adjusting the saddle height. The Prophet is an all mountain and needs a “popable” saddle stem. (I guess XC bikes are different).
With this fit out I expect the prophet to be utterly insane.
(If you riding could use it - some research on this topic may be of interest!!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Byron
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami,Fl Date Reviewed: February 7, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
bells bicycles
Strengths:
frame is well build ,lefty ,brakes
Weaknesses:
rear shock could be better
Similar Products Used:
stump jumper,liquid 55(my other bike),intense
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this has to be one of the best bikes on the market,the lefty fork does a better job then most other forks ,the lefty handels better then forks like nixxon comp,black comp,shylo sl, it is the best.the LX brakes have dual pistons so there is no problem there.the dual shiffters are super cool and you can get rid of the tumb shiffter,i have done five footers and no problems at all. over all i have not yet been disapoited by this bike at all.it goes up nicely and it flys down as well,this is the real thing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Reid
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu, HI Date Reviewed: January 10, 2006
Noisy rear shock, some of the welds are not very attractive, very noisy chain slap on swingarm when taking big jumps
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR 120, Enduro, Giant XTC
Bike Setup:
Stock with ODI lock-ons
Bottom Line:
I just got this bike for Christmas. My wife rocks! I moved to HI about 6 months ago and had been riding my Stumpjumper FSR, 99 model. It's about on its last leg and after 1000 or so in upgrades I felt I was wasting my money when the bike just wasn't suited to the riding out here. WET, UP AND DOWN, LOOSE over dormant volcanoes. There are some pretty wicked downhill sections and my old FSR XC wasn't made for that kind of riding. On to the Prophet. I am a religious man, and faith is part of my life. I now BELIEVE in Cannondale and the LEFTY front suspension. I would not take it off a 10 foot drop on a regular basis, but for nailing single-track steeps and railing corners it has proven to be very enjoyable and stable. I have a manitou black elite 120 on the FSR and the Lefty is clearly a better ride. The bike flows in the free-ride setting and I was able to climb as well as the guys I was riding with, which I was glad for since I was the new guy and didn't want to look like a poser. I will say I would like to have a stiffer front wheel as big rocks seem to induce some torque when going down steeps at slow speed and needing to make quick adjustments. I would also like to get either Stan's or full on tubeless system and be able to lower the pressure in the tires. The IRC's are ok, but don't hold corners in loose cinder well enough to keep up the speed that the bike seems to inspire. I picked up the O5 model with the Manitou Radium rear shock. It was an upgrade for me, the FSR has no rebound adjustment. That being said I love it, but it will definitely get upgraded when it shows signs of failure. It is very noisy. It does pedal well and I haven't noticed any real problems yet. I do run lower pressure than recommended to really smooth out the ride. I am 200lbs and go fast and put the pressure at 130. Works well for me. Regarding the over all drivetrain: shifts have been OK so far, but the duallies are noisy when you aren't holding on to them as the rattle in their pivot. The LX brakes are great, especially coming from Avid V-brakes. I had ridden other hydro's before such as Hayes,Hope,Magura and these are right up there. With proper tires these breaks would be awesome. The first upgrade I made was a set of ODI lock-ons. Awesome feel now, where the stock grips felt small and hard. Overall am I happy about the bike. Price was great, overall feel is good and suitable to my riding style. Point and Shoot. I would recommend to someone looking for a solid bike with limited resources who like to play on the mountain as much as they like to pay. Don't be scared off by the lefty. I'm glad I wasn't.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ronald birkenfeld
a Weekend Warrior
from Glenwood Springs CO. Date Reviewed: January 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
prince creek, red mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Houston TX.
Strengths:
lEFTY MAX ,6INCHS OF TRAVEL OUT OR A 28# BIKE
Weaknesses:
I DID'NT RIDE THEM BUT THE RIMES LOOKED TO BE THE WEAK POINT TO ME SO I REPLACED WITH A PAIR OF MAVIC CROSSLANDS
Similar Products Used:
GT I-DRIVE,SCWINN ROCKET 88,SCWINN MOAB
Bike Setup:
LEFTY ON FRONT, FSA, TRUVAI, MAVIC CROOSLANDS,FIZIC,
Bottom Line:
SICK ASS BIKE FOR THE PRICE,RODE SOME SINGLE TRACK IN HOUSTON, THE BIKE DID WELL,I NEED TO TAKE IT TO SOME COLORADO SINGLE TRACK BUT THERE IS JUST A LITTLE TO MUCH SNOW NOW. I NEED TO LET YOU KNOW HOW IT WORKS OUT IN ABOUT 2 MOUNTHS.FOR THE PRICE I HAVE TO SAY THAT THIS IS THE BEST DEAL. I HAVE NOT TRYED TO CLIMB WITH THE BIKE, BUT I THINK IT WILL DO WELL.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ernie Morin
a Weekend Warrior
from Plaistow, NH USA Date Reviewed: December 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Exeter Woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Papa Wheelies
Strengths:
Great geometry for climbing and decending, bottomless feel to suspension, good balance of platform and response for rear suspension, rugged, stable, LX hydraulic brakes are great.
SRAM X-9 shifters and derailleurs. NEW LX cranks The rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
After 500 hard miles, this bike is simply outstanding. However, spend the extra money and get the 1000. The drive train, brakes, rims, shocks, etc. are all upgraded. If you cannot afford the $600 jump to the Prophet 1000, then try the the dual control shifters and xt rapid rise derailleur. I hated them and threw them away. SRAM X-9 is the current power train and I love it. Much better response than any Shimano system I've tried. The LX hydraulic brakes are excellent. The Truvativ bottom bracket started making nasty noise at about 200 miles (not my first bad experience with their BB giving up early). New LX cranks with external bearings seem to be a huge improvement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aron Hausler
a Cross Country Rider
from Adelaide, SA, Australia Date Reviewed: October 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Fox Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Express
Strengths:
Light, strong and fast up and downhill. Brakes are a huge upgrade from my old LX V-style). Great Colour (I got the blue one). Shocks are good, especially the Lefty...kookie but does a wicked job.
Weaknesses:
Honestly...none that are serious. Cant get the seat back far enough to be comfortable for daily commuting duties...might see if I can find another setup / seat that will (didnt really like the seat anyway). Also found the bars height too low so will be looking for a 2-3 inch riser bar shortly
Similar Products Used:
Only owned a Merida Matts Comp Hardtail ..so not a fair comparison ;) Merida was faster XC but the Prophet eats it alive downhill
Bike Setup:
Standard (for now)
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike for the money. Not the best of breed climber or downhiller but an excellent do-it-all-mountainbike...
Excellent upgrade for those looking to move into a dualie that can climb and do tight singletrails without spending (IMHO) vast amounts of cash..
Very happy :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
byron
a Weekend Warrior
from miami Date Reviewed: October 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
its good looks
Weaknesses:
not realy a weeaknes but the rear shock is hard to get it right
Bottom Line:
very nice ride, lefty works very good ,i will up date in a couple of months
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gene
a Cross Country Rider
from High Point, NC, USA Date Reviewed: September 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Owl's Roost
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Paceline
Strengths:
What dosn't it have... Top of the line parts...
Weaknesses:
None, so far...
Similar Products Used:
DB Topanga w/ Mag 21 forks
Bike Setup:
Factory-- with different 1 side clip pedals and 1 side flat, Hellbent XC seat post, GPS mount.
Bottom Line:
WOW. This bike is soooooo,.... much better off road than I am righ now... what a world of diffenance I was missing. Hyd. Disc braks are great. I didn't know what to think about the Shimano Shifting mech but after using them for a month I can't imagine going back. With the lefty fork you can hit fallen trees fast without thinking about it... Lefty shock is awesome, lots of stares but thats ok. Rear Radium might get upgraded... I can not tell right now if it's holding air... I think I may want the option of lock out too. Undescribable how good it feels off road... it's like its at home.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mec
a Weekend Warrior
from SC Date Reviewed: September 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Cola SC
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Excellent all around bike. Decent climbing, smooth over roots and rocks.
Weaknesses:
Creaking noise. Not really a weakness but does not work well on my older yakamah hitch rack. not a big deal since I can use the back of the truck.
Similar Products Used:
looked at and tried "a bunch of em"
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
First FS bike and really was unsure if I wanted to drop that much $$$ on a hobby. Wondered if I would really see that much difference moving up from my basic ht. Several weeks later NO REGRETS. I am not out there trying to see how fast I can get back or seeing how big of drop I can hit. I wanted something that would give me an enjoyable challenging work out on the local trail. This bike fits that. Great all around bike, no problems getting use to lefty fork. Dual control shifters takes a little getting use to but they are almost second nature now. Does a decent job at climbing (our hills are not long and steep) and soaks up the roots and rocks that are all over the place. I usually leave the trail looking forward to my next ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wil Brodribb
a Weekend Warrior
from Tasmania Date Reviewed: September 9, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kamikaze, Hobart
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
great geometry fantastic mix of agility and stability
Weaknesses:
Dual Control levers: all right for cross country use but just cant get a positive feel from them, needed to go to separate shifter/levers to get acceptable performance from the otherwise fantastic breaks. rear shock: its just crap, noisy and impossible to tune!
Similar Products Used:
specialized enduro, stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
stock, bar: replacing levers with separate deore XT components. SDG bel air saddle DMR V12 pedals 60mm stem odi lok on grips oh yeah, and Shimano XTR cabling, a must for all bicycles!
Bottom Line:
a well designed bike let down by its components. next time ill spring for the next model up, although there's nothing quite like custom tuning your ride. I would recommend this ride to anyone looking for that elusive bike that will fit all occasions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LORD DEST
a Weekend Warrior
from NEW YORK CITY Date Reviewed: August 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
DEVILS FREERIDE PARK
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
BELLILITTE BIKE SHOP
Strengths:
LEFTY SHOCK IS GREAT HASN'T BOTTMED OUT YET..SHIFTERS ARE GREAT GOTTA LOVE DA HYDROLIC BRAKES...1400MM OF TRAVEL
Weaknesses:
SEAT FITS LIKE A THONG WHEELS ARE FLIMSY...BUT EASLIY REPLACABLE.. OTHER THAN THAT GREAT...
Similar Products Used:
C'DALE PROPHET 600 SPEACLIZED ENDURO
Bike Setup:
STOCK EXCEPT SADDLE
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE CAN REALLY TAKE A BEATING AND STILL LOOK AND FEEL GOOD...ONCE YOU CHANGE THE SADDLE AND AT LEAST THE FRONT WHEEL YOUR GOOD TO GO.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Andersen
a Weekend Warrior
from Alvin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: July 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Jack Brooks Park & Rocky Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Webster Bicycle
Strengths:
- The Lefty Shock is awesome! I have yet to bottom it out. - I was a bit leery of the integrated brake lever/shifter, but they are actually very easy to use…very natural. - I love the black paint with the raised Cannondale-Prophet lettering on the frame. Several people have accused me of painting the bike after purchase.
Weaknesses:
- Chain rubs against the rear frame when in cross chain gears. - The middle chain ring is unusable. Anytime I load the crank or hit a bump on an uphill the chain slips off the ring. - For a $2K bike, I expected something lighter. - Having a hard time finding the right setting for the frame shock. It seems to be either too soft or too firm. - Shimano XT brake lever/shifter housing cracked easily.
Similar Products Used:
Previous bike was a Trek Y-1.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love riding this bike. It rides very nicely. It has taken a beating in short three months and held up very well; however, I would have expected it to have fewer annoyances. I know cross chaining is a no-no, but when using this gear combo the chain rubs on the undercarriage of the rear frame. I would expect there to be enough clearance for this not to happen. The middle chain ring has been un-usable since day one (never really bothered to try the small ring and this has forced me to constantly use the large chain ring, which works wonderfully). Anytime I load the crank or hit a bump on an uphill the chain slips off the middle ring. It is almost as if the teeth on the ring are not large enough to grab the chain. I have tried several dealer recommended adjustments and nothing has worked. The bike is currently at the shop and the Cannondale rep is going to take a look at it (more later). The Lefty Shock is truly awesome but the frame shock is difficult to set. It is either too soft or too firm. The manufacturer's recommended shock settings for my weight are WAY TOO firm. Finally, very soon after purchase during an insignificant connection with a small tree, the Shimano XT shifter/brake lever housing cracked. I was concerned about the durability these before I bought the bike. My concerns were valid. Back to the Lefty Shock…I had to build some trust in this component. I had a mental aversion to the Lefty for about a week. I eventually realized it was extremely rugged and very well balanced. Overall, I seem to have a lot of complaints about this bike, but it rides so much nicer than my crappy Y-1 I have to give it a decent review.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike K
a Cross Country Rider
from New London, PA, USA Date Reviewed: July 15, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Wooden Wheels
Strengths:
Handling, suspension, geometry, "good enough" components. Frame made and assembled in US by Americans.
Weaknesses:
Very Wide Handlebars - not able to cut down due to unable to move Integral Shimano Shifters on taper handlebar much. Took a long time to seat spokes
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper, GT LTS-1
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Fantastic Bike at a fair price. The components are not the high zoot stuff, but they are totally adequate for 99.9% of the riders.
I've owned 3 "serious" Mountain Bikes in the last 10 years, and ridden plenty of others, and this is by far the best and most capable bike I've experienced. This $2000 bike even beats my old $2700 Full Suspension bike. I'm so glad that I didn't spend the extra money on the Prophet 1000- this bike is that good.
Even though the suspension is long travel, it is very well controlled and there are many damping adjustments. The Lefty fork feels soft at first (not an air shock), but works very well, and again has some limited damping adjustments.
So far no issues except the spokes took a lot of tightening before "seating" and the handlebars are too wide for XC use. You can't cut down the bars much either, because the Shimano integrated shifter/brake master cylinder won't go past the fat taper on the bar. That's the only dumb spec that Cannondale made on the bike.
Highly recommended, and American made to boot. How often is the USA made stuff also the best out there? But it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gavin Jobson
a Racer
from England Date Reviewed: July 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The Death Run
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Helens cycles Santa Monica
Strengths:
This bike is a missile,point and shoot and the bike will do the rest then leave you with a big smile on your face. This is my first full susser, I have tested it against my hard tail and on the same twenty mile loop the Prophet is faster, all I can say is I don't get as tired as quickly as i do on the hard tail.This bike makes you want to get up earlier to ride it longer.It goes up Quick and down even quicker no matter what the terrain.
Weaknesses:
Unfortunately for me I bought the bike whilst visiting a friend in the states,The bike has now developed a nasty creak in the rear swing arm and because I live in England the warranty is Null and Void so to put the bike right I have been told by cannondale to buy a new rear swing arm at a cost of £200.00 ($400.00)
Similar Products Used:
Trek,Giant and kona all tested
Bike Setup:
standard
Bottom Line:
This is a fantastic bike let down only by the warranty dont the people at cannondale realise they have a global market place?. Any way I'm giving the bike top marks not the manufacturer.If you want a bike that will do it all this is the one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Federico Bernasconi
a Weekend Warrior
from Zurich Date Reviewed: June 20, 2005
- Front Wheel Removing - Rims (for freeriding are a little bit to weak but for allround use no problem)
Similar Products Used:
- Kona Stinky 2002
Bike Setup:
Factory, Nokian 2.3, Shimano LX 203 mm disc in the front
Bottom Line:
I like this bike. It's light and robust. You can climb everywhere. In technical freeriding and DH I'm much faster than on my older Kona. Next year I'll upgrade the rims. If you are not a CC racer or a hardcore freerider, this is the perfect bike. More I ride this bike, more I want to ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kupaa1
a Weekend Warrior
from Honolulu, Hawaii Date Reviewed: June 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Pupukea
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1675.00
Purchased At:
McCully Bike
Strengths:
Lefty front shock is primo. Nice and stiff - climbs like a dream.
Weaknesses:
Hard to remove front wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler, Trek Liquid 25, Cannondale Gemini 900
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is tight. I was initially concerned about how the Lefty would perform. But after my first ride, I was sold. It tracks well and can get you through those tight technical trails with ease. The ride is really smooth - even over roots and rocks. I can push it DH faster than I used to on my old bike with confidence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Powder Face
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bow Cycle
Strengths:
Lefty is awesome. I get a lot of second looks and strange faces. Bike begs to go faster down the trail. Frame is super stiff. I really like the Shimano LX Dual Control.
Weaknesses:
Seat keeps sliding down. Have to crank it on super tight. Manitou Radium R Air lost all psi after a week. It is being replaced with another so will see how it holds up.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Incredible bike that dares you to push the limits. I love it... I'm 210lbs and the sales person assured me that the standard spring in the large frame would be sufficient. When pushing it hard DH I seem to go pretty far into the travel so we will see. Haven't bottomed it out yet though. I would recommend this bike to anyone, although I enjoy having something different than everyone else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shayne
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Canada Date Reviewed: April 14, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Bromont
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
Littleton Bike Shop, NH
Strengths:
Lefty is GREAT! Draws alot of attention and works great.. except for trying to remove the front wheel. 2 position geomemtry is awesome.. gives you a completly different feel when the switch is made. No chain slap! Chain is postioned below the rear swingarm.
Weaknesses:
Hard to remove front wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Liquid, Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price. Rides extremly well and allows the x-country rider to mix it up and do some downhilling. Dual brake/shifters take alot of getting used to, but once you are used to them, it's a great system. It's truly an all mountain bike.
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Submitted by
Ernie
a Cross Country Rider
from Plaistow Date Reviewed: April 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Exeter NH woods, Plaistow forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Papa Wheelies, Portsmouth NH
Strengths:
Long wheelbase, well balanced, low head tube angle. Regressive rear shock geometry gives a linear bottomless feel. Lefty front is smooth and stiff (and looks great).
Stock, this bike is simply perfect. The fit, feel and finish are second to none. The feel is quite different from all bikes listed above, and by far my favorite. The lefty front fork draws attention and disbelief, but it performs! Two positions for the rear shock give it a cross country or downhill feel. The dual control LX shifter/brakes take some getting used to, but function flawlessly. The Shimano hydraulic brakes work great. It comes as no surprize that it has been chosen for bike of the year 05.
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Submitted by
Jeremy Bidwell
a Cross Country Rider
from Clarksville Date Reviewed: March 23, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bennetts Bike / Mason City
Strengths:
Great balanced bike - Light enough for XC race's and still can take some air. TPC Lefty is very cool. Very stiff. Swinger Air works well
Weaknesses:
Could use SRAM - also Really dislike the Dual control levers from Shimano.
Bike Setup:
Fact/ Size Medium-
Bottom Line:
This is a great ALL MOUNTAIN bike. It is very responsive downhill at high speeds.
$ 2000.00
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