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Today’s DealsSynapse Disc Tiagra
An aluminum frame endurance bike with mid-range components and promax mechanical disc brakes.
| Frame | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Fork | Carbon |
| Wheels | 700c Aluminum |
| Drivetrain | 2 × 10 |
| Groupset | Tiagra |
| 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.
The latest Synapse is the best iteration of the model to date.
The new Synapse is a real joy to ride – but in this guise it lacks value against its competitors
The 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.
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Dec 2022 · RBA Staff
Radar comes standard
Comfortable all-day ride
Stable and confidence-inspiring handling
SmartSense radar and light integration
Simplicity of design (standard seatpost clamp, threaded BB)
Understated graphics
Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed with compact gearing
Fender mounts
Tubeless-ready wheels
SmartSense radar triggers false warnings from cars in other lanes or parallel roads
SmartSense battery charging finicky, needs removal and reset
Battery capacity requires charging after every ride
Heavy wheels (1740g) affect acceleration and climbing
No carbon seatpost for added compliance at this price
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 · 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

Jan 2020 · Robin Wilmott
One of the first bikes to offer features that now define a modern endurance machine, the Synapse expands the versatility and potential of a road bike with little difference in speed.. .
SmartForm frame, all-carbon fork, Tiagra, tyre volume
Front wheel deflection, mechanical disc brakes
May 2019 · James Bracey
Cannondale’s endurance machine packs in more than just a comfortable ride
Handling
Specification
Limited height adjustability of stem
| Frame | SmartForm C2 Alloy, SAVE, BB30, internal cable routing, flat mount BB Standard: BB30, Press Fit Colors: Midnight Blue; Emerald |
|---|---|
| Fork | Full Carbon, SAVE, internal routing, 1-1/8" - 1 1/4" tapered steerer, flat mount, 55mm rake, 12x100 thru axle |
| Bottom Bracket | FSA Cartridge |
| Headset | FSA Sealed Bearing, Integrated, 1-1/4"-1-1/8" |
| Stem | Cannondale 4, 6061 alloy, 31.8, 7° |
| Handlebar | 6061 alloy, Compact |
| Saddle | Cannondale Stage Ergo |
| Seatpost | 6061 alloy, 25.4 x 350mm Type: Rigid |
| Pedals | Not Included |
| Grips | Cannondale Grip Bar Tape w/Gel, 3.5mm |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Tiagra GS |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tiagra, braze-on |
| Crank | FSA Omega alloy, 50/34 |
| Shifters | Shimano Tiagra, 2x10 |
| Cassette | Shimano HG500, 11-34, 10-speed |
| Chain | KMC X10EL, 10-speed |
| Brakes | Promax Decoder R cable actuated disc, 160/160mm rotors Type: Promax Mechanical Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Tiagra |
| Rims | RD 3.0, 28h |
|---|---|
| Spokes | Stainless steel, 14g |
| Front Hub | Formula CRX-512, 12x100 |
| Rear Hub | Formula DC-1422, QR |
| Tires | Vittoria Zaffiro, 700 x 28c |
First added November 4
Last updated January 16
Not listed for 1,243 days