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Today’s Deals2022 Cannondale
Synapse 2
An aluminum frame endurance bike with mid-range components and promax mechanical disc brakes.
Manufacturer Price
£1,100($1,475)| Frame | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Fork | Carbon |
| Wheels | 700c Aluminum |
| Drivetrain | 2 × 9 |
| Groupset | Sora |
| Brakes | Promax Mechanical Disc |
5'2" – 5'6"
5'5" – 5'10"
5'7" – 5'11"
5'9" – 6'1"
6'0" – 6'4"
6'3" – 6'8"
Summary
The Cannondale Synapse is celebrated for its smooth ride quality, versatile tyre clearance, and stable yet nimble handling, making it a standout in the endurance category. However, its SmartSense system and some component choices have drawn mixed reactions. The bike excels in comfort and efficiency, offering a sporty yet comfortable ride position, but some models are criticized for their value and weight.
Smooth ride quality
Versatile tyre clearance
Stable yet nimble handling
Comfortable ride position
High-quality frame
Controversial SmartSense system
Weight issues in some models
Value for money concerns in certain builds
Component choices not always matching frame quality
When I think of this bike, I just think of butter. Everything about it felt super smooth.
Cycling TipsThe latest Synapse is the best iteration of the model to date.
CyclistThe new Synapse is a real joy to ride – but in this guise it lacks value against its competitors
BikeRadarThe Synapse shines brightest in providing all-day ride comfort and handling characteristics that inspire confidence.Road Bike Action
If you want a comfortable race bike, this is it.
road.ccFeedback?
View all reviews
Dec 2022 · RBA Staff
Radar comes standard
Simple design with 27.2 seatpost and threaded BB
SmartSense radar and light system integration
All-day ride comfort and stable handling
12-speed Ultegra Di2 with wide gear range
Up to 35mm tire clearance
Understated graphics
SmartSense generates frequent false alerts
Battery charging finicky and needs resetting
Battery capacity limited, requires charging after each ride
Heavy wheels (1740g) slow acceleration and climbing
Lack of carbon seatpost at this price point
Aug 2022 · Dave Rome
An overhauled endurance road platform meets modern all-road capability. It’s wonderful but there's a but.
Smooth ride quality, versatile tyre clearance, stable yet-not-sluggish handling, Shimano Ultegra Di2, easy to service component fitments, classy subdued styling.
SmartSense and the fact it’s a forced feature you’re paying extra for, wheels could be fancier for the money, mis-matched thru-axles.
May 2022 · Sam Challis
At its core, the new Synapse is a truly excellent road bike
Comfort
Handling
Design simplicity
Quality finishing kit
Controversial SmartSense system
Weight
Feb 2022 · Stu Kerton
Beautiful to ride with a great blend of speed and comfort, but the electronic aids aren't that special – and aren't for me
Excellent geometry layout
Comfortable
Reflective seatstays are a clever touch
Trainer adaptors as standard
Cable routing not as clean as some
Low end wheelset comparative to the frame
Jan 2022 · Warren Rossiter
The new Synapse is a refined endurance bike that’s easy to live with and brings safety-enhancing tech as standard
Supple smoothness wrapped around swift, exciting handling
Clever tech brings day and night safety
Not everyone will want all of the equipment
Alloy components and middleweight wheels feel like a downgrade
Jan 2022 · By
Cannondale have overhauled the Synapse, adding an integrated radar and lights. Can it offer improved safety on the road? Read on to find out.
Added safety for cyclists
The lights switch from daytime to night mode automatically
Mounting points for mudguards etc.
Predictable handling
Lack of cable integration up front
Somewhat lacking in long-distance comfort
Nov 2020 · Vern Pitt
The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 105 is a popular endurance bike that still has a spring in its step
Sprightly handling
Great at reducing road buzz
Solid spec
Good value
Heavy wheels
Frame probably due an update
| Frame | SmartForm C2 Alloy, SAVE, BB30, internal cable routing, flat mount, 130x9mm QR BB Standard: BB30, Press Fit Colors: Black Pearl; Cool Mint |
|---|---|
| Fork | Full Carbon, integrated crown race, SAVE, 12x100mm thru-axle, internal routing |
| Bottom Bracket | Cartridge, square taper |
| Headset | FSA Sealed Bearing, Integrated, 1-1/4"-1-1/8" |
| Stem | Cannondale 4, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7° |
| Handlebar | Cannondale 4, 6061 alloy, Compact |
| Saddle | Cannondale Stage Ergo |
| Seatpost | Cannondale 4, 6061 Alloy, 25.4 x 300mm (48-51), 350mm (54-56), 400mm (58-61) Type: Rigid |
| Pedals | Not included |
| Grips | Cannondale Bar Tape, 3.5mm |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Sora GS |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Sora, braze-on |
| Crank | FSA Vero Alloy, 50/34 |
| Shifters | Shimano Sora, 9-speed |
| Cassette | Shimano HG400, 11-34, 9-speed |
| Chain | KMC Z9, 9-speed |
| Brakes | Promax Decoder R cable-actuated disc, 160/160mm rotors Type: Promax Mechanical Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Sora |
| Rims | RD 3.1, 28h |
|---|---|
| Spokes | Stainless Steel, 14g |
| Front Hub | Formula CRX-512 12x100mm thru-axle |
| Rear Hub | Alloy, sealed loose ball bearing, QR |
| Tires | Vittoria Zaffiro V, 700 x 30c |
First added March 14
Last updated April 22
Not listed for 1,139 days