The Cannondale Synapse 3 is the endurance bike offered by the major bike brand Cannondale. They’re renowned for their high-quality bicycles, and the Synapse line represents its foray into endurance road bikes that promise both performance and comfort. The Cannondale Synapse 3, a mid-range model in this line, offers a blend of features that appeal to both competitive cyclists and those seeking a reliable, enjoyable ride. This review explores the capabilities and features of the Cannondale Synapse 3 to determine whether it lives up to the reputation of its predecessors and stands out in the competitive road bike market.
Design and Build Quality of the Cannondale Synapse 3
The Cannondale Synapse 3 is built around a lightweight, yet sturdy aluminium frame, with a carbon fork that helps reduce the overall weight and dampen road vibrations. This combination not only enhances the bike’s responsiveness but also contributes to a smoother ride over varied terrains. The frame geometry is designed with an eye towards endurance, featuring a slightly more upright riding position that helps reduce rider fatigue over long distances.
Aesthetically, the Synapse 3 boasts a sleek, modern design with clean lines and an uncluttered look. It is available in several colour options, allowing riders to choose according to their personal style preferences. The paint quality and finish are excellent, providing a durable coating that withstands the rigours of frequent use.
Performance
The Cannondale Synapse 3 excels in delivering a balanced ride that combines speed, agility, and stability. It handles corners with precision and offers reassuring stability on descents, making it an excellent choice for riders who enjoy mixed-terrain rides. The bike’s frame and fork geometry are optimised to deliver a responsive ride without compromising on comfort, suitable for both racing enthusiasts and leisure cyclists.
It performs admirably across various surfaces, from smooth tarmac to light gravel paths, thanks to its versatile design and capable wheelset. The gearing range is broad enough to handle steep climbs and speedy flats efficiently, making it a robust all-rounder that can cater to most cycling demands.
How comfortable is the fit of the Cannondale Synapse 3?
One of the standout features of the Synapse 3 is its focus on ergonomics and comfort. The bike is equipped with Cannondale’s proprietary SAVE technology in the seat post and rear triangle, which significantly enhances comfort by absorbing shocks and vibrations from rough surfaces. This technology allows for longer rides with less fatigue, which is crucial for endurance cyclists.
The adjustable seat and handlebars enable riders to find their optimal riding position easily, further enhancing the ergonomic benefits of the bike. The padded saddle and grip tape on the handlebars provide additional comfort touchpoints, ensuring that the rider can maintain a comfortable stance throughout their journey.
Components and Specifications
The Synapse 3 is outfitted with a Shimano 105 groupset, which is well-regarded for its reliability and performance. This includes a 22-speed drivetrain that offers smooth shifting and a wide range of gears to tackle various grades. The bike also features hydraulic disc brakes, which provide superior stopping power in all weather conditions, an essential feature for safety and performance.
The wheelset is robust, with rims that are compatible with both clincher and tubeless tyres, offering flexibility in tyre choice and the potential for lower tyre pressures for increased comfort and traction, especially if riding with latex or TPU tubes. The stock tyres are capable of handling multiple terrains, which complements the bike’s versatile nature.
Is the Cannondale Synapse 3 good value for money?
Priced at approximately £1,200, the Cannondale Synapse 3 offers excellent value for money. It delivers a high level of performance, comfort, and versatility that is comparable to more expensive models. For cyclists looking for a durable, adaptable, and enjoyable ride, the Synapse 3 is a compelling choice. Its combination of high-quality components, thoughtful design, and performance features make it an attractive option for a wide range of cyclists. Whether you’re entering competitive races or simply enjoying weekend rides, the Synapse 3 stands out as a smart investment in your cycling future.
In conclusion, the Cannondale Synapse 3 road bike is a well-rounded machine that delivers on multiple fronts, making it a worthy contender in its category.
