Cannondale Scalpel SE
73/100
BikeRide Score
?
Where to buy
View all prices
Show fewer prices
BikeRide finds and shows you the best prices of the bikes you want to buy. Prices constantly change and it’s impossible to compare them all yourself.
We search for prices on over 120 bike retailers to guarantee that we find the lowest prices – to save you time and money.
It’s a promise we stand behind: If you find a lower price on a bike elsewhere, we will sell it to you for 10% less. For example, if you find a bike for $480 that we have listed at $500, we will offer you to buy it for $432 through BikeRide. The bike must be the same color and size, sold in the US and not include the use of a coupon.
If you find a lower price, email us at [email protected] with documentation of the price. We’re committed to making sure that the cost of a bike does not keep you from cycling!
Facts
Type
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Number of Gears
Gearing Type
Weight
25.5, 27.2 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
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
76/100 based on 3 rated expert reviewsCannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty Review
Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty: A Little Bomb [French]
Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty, the Most Amusing Scalpel Ever [Spanish]
Cannondale Scalpel SE 2 Carbon XC Bike Review – XC Race Pedigree With Trail Bike Chops
Hitting the Trails on Cannondale’s Scalpel SE LTD Lefty
Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty 120mm Test: Race or Trail? [Spanish]
1000KM With the New Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty [Spanish]
Loading…
Video Test – Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty: The 120MM Ocho Debuts [Italian]
Scalpel SE LTD Lefty [Test]: The Downcountry According to Cannondale [Italian]
Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE LTD Lefty [Spanish]
Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD Lefty Test: The Happy Medium [Italian]
New Cannondale Scalpel & Scalpel SE in First Test [German]
Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE LTD Lefty [German]
Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE LTD Lefty [Spanish]
Test | Cannondale Scalpel SE LTD 2022 Full Suspension [Dutch]
Test: Cannondale Scalpel Carbon SE LTD Lefty [German]
Rankings
Compared to other bikes
Best Trail Bikes
Trail bikes with the highest BikeRide Scores
?
Bike Comparison
Cannondale Scalpel SE in comparison to averages
Forum Discussions
Discuss which bike to choose in the forum
-
54 mins ago
-
56 mins ago