Name: Cannondale Synapse
Brand: Cannondale
Availability: InStock
Rating: 95 (102 reviews)

95/100

BikeRide Score

Users (86 ratings)

Experts (16 reviews)

Summary of Reviews

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

18 reasons to buy

Compliance is high, as the seatpost and seat stays are designed to flex for comfort on rough roads.

On Hi-Mod models, comfort was deemed ‘highest in class’ by a number of experts.

The Synapse came across faster than many other high-end endurance bikes.

The large range across gears even included the 1x Apex model.

A strong climbing ability was experienced on board this rig.

Frames across the range were delightfully light, as were complete bikes in higher-end models.

Beautiful, metallic-sky-blue paintwork impressed on the Apex SE.

Shifting was smooth and easy, markedly so on the wireless eTap.

Rims arrive tubeless-ready on the Apex.

Comfortable 28mm tires come standard across models.

Responsive hydraulic brakes were enjoyed on the Synapse Dura Ace.

An expert considered the Dura Ace model to be great value at the recommended price.

Pedaling efficiency was considered high, due to the bike’s stiff rear triangle.

Hidden fender-mounts and an integrated seat-clamp added to the Synapse's finish.

Clean, internal cable routing allows for upgrading to a Di2 electronic drivetrain.

Headset sizes vary in relation to frame sizes: 1⅛ for 44-48cm, 1¼ for 51-54cm, 1⅜ for 56-61cm.

Handling was said to be highly responsive and suited to both endurance and sprints.

The Synapse has clearance for 32mm tires, catering to a range of uses.

13 reasons not to buy

Both Fulcrum Racing 500 Disc wheels and Mavic Aksium Discs, were disappointingly heavy on lower-end models.

Some reviewers felt that alloy frames transmitted more bumps and vibration to the rider.

One expert felt that the long top-tube placed him in a posture that was ‘too stretched out’.

For some, carbon frames were too flexy at higher speeds.

With tire clearance being for a maximum 32mm on the Apex SE, this seemed to limit it to on-road use.

It was felt that WTB Exposure tires were not tough enough for commuting or handling any level of debris.

A shocking and bumpy ride was experienced by one expert, on carbon models at faster speeds.

On the Sora model, one expert felt that Promax DSK 718R mechanical brakes lacked power. The same was true for TRP Spire C mechanical discs on the 105 SE model.

Numerous reviewers found that the integrated seatpost clamp was tedious to adjust and led to the seatpost being susceptible to slippage.

Hi-mod editions commanded astronomical prices.

The two-tone paint job on a Hi-mod model did not impress one expert, while matte-white finish acted as a grime-magnet.

Opinions were divided over the Synapse’s handlebar. One expert felt that it wasn’t ergonomic.

The conical spacer on the steerer tube prohibited owners from fully lowering the stem.

Bottom line

Cannondale’s Synapse is spread across a myriad of models and specifications in alloy, carbon and hi-modulus carbon. Although it is clearly an endurance machine, experts felt that it was definitely aggressive enough to be entered in races. Innovative ‘S.A.V.E.’ frame technology ensured an exceedingly comfortable ride on a bike that is available exclusively with disc brakes. The only gripe that stood out for testers and buyers, was the weight of wheels on lower-end models. Oh, and the fact that most folks will never be able to consider the five zeros behind the dollar sign on a 2020 Synapse Hi-MOD Disc with RED eTap AXS.

Where to buy

$999.99 eBay See it $1,299.99 Mike's Bikes See it $1,300.00 Sun & Ski See it $1,300.00 REI.com See it $2,889.97 Gravity Coalition See it $4,399.99 Contender Bicycles See it

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