Name: Cannondale Scalpel SE
Brand: Cannondale
Price: 3500.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 76 (7 reviews)

76/100

BikeRide Score

Users (4 ratings)

Experts (3 reviews)

Where to buy

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Facts

Gender

Men, Women

Type

Non-Electric, Mountain, Cross Country, Trail

Release Year

Brand

Wheel Size

Number of Gears

Gearing Type

Weight

25.5, 27.2 lb

Suspension

Full

Brake Type

Disc: Hydraulic

Frame Material

Carbon Fiber

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Cannondale Scalpel SE. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

13 reasons to buy

Buyers can choose between two carbon-framed builds in different price ranges, the SE 2 and SE Ultimate.

The SE Ultimate uses Cannondale's lightweight Lefty Ocho fork and HollowGram carbon rims.

Cannondale's FlexPivot suspension design is streamlined and lighter, swapping the traditional Horst link pivots for carbon fiber 'flex zones.'

The XC design fits two water bottle cages in every frame size.

The Scalpel SE's suspension kinematics are optimized for each frame size (Proportional Response design).

Reviewers like the gearing range provided by the SRAM drivetrain on the SE Ultimate (34t chainring, 10-52t cassette).

Flip Chip technology allows owners to adjust the bike's geometry for different terrains and riding styles.

Both Scalpel SE builds have a sensor on the front wheel. This allows riders to track their ride through Cannondale's app.

The Scalpel SE Ultimate has a frame-integrated storage compartment with a tool kit included.

Reviewers appreciate the sleek lines and internally routed cables.

Cannondale offers a five-year frame warranty, which includes the fork.

The Scalpel SE has a high 303lb max weight limit.

A new rear wheel release design lets it come off without sliding the axle out.

6 reasons not to buy

Some experts believe the Scalpel SE's geometry is too conservative, so it isn't as capable as other trail bikes.

The Lefty Ocho fork used on the SE Ultimate limits wheel hub options for future upgrades.

Reviewers are disappointed by the dropper seatpost's meager 125mm of travel.

Multiple testers say the Maxxis Ardent Race front tire lacks grip.

Experts note that Cannondale doesn't cover the carbon rims under warranty.

Several reviewers believe the 160mm brake rotors are too small for this type of bike. They are prone to overheating on long, steep descents.

Bottom line

Cannondale's Scalpel SE is a trail MTB with 120mm of suspension front and rear. Testers describe it as a lightweight and capable machine. It's available in an 'entry-level' and high-end build. Experts are disappointed by the bike's front tire, small 160mm rotors, and conservative geometry. Nonetheless, reviewers consider the entry-level Scalpel SE 2 a great all-rounder that can still compete with more expensive bikes. In contrast, racers will appreciate the lower weight, carbon wheels, and electronic SRAM AXS drivetrain on the top-end SE Ultimate.

Expert Reviews

74/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews

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