Cannondale Synapse 105 Review
Quick Jump Links: Full List of Specs | What’s good | What’s not so good | Our Verdict
Where to buy 💵
$2,025.00 REI.com
Brakes: 8.2 | Handling: 8.6 | Drivetrain: 8.5
YesCycling Score – 8.4/10
Full List of Specs 🔧
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Best Use | Road Cycling |
| Frame | SmartForm C2 Alloy |
| Fork | BallisTec Full Carbon, integrated crown race, SAVE, 12 x 100 mm thru-axle, internal routing |
| Bike Suspension | No Suspension |
| Crankset | FSA Gossamer Alloy, BB30, 50/34t |
| Bottom Bracket | Cannondale BB30 |
| Shifters | Shimano 105, 11-speed |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano 105, braze-on |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano 105 GS |
| Rear Cogs | Shimano 105, 11-34t, 11-speed |
| Number of Gears | 22 gear(s) |
| Brake Type | Mechanical Disc Brake |
| Brakes | TRP Spyre-C cable-actuated disc, 160/160mm rotors |
| Brake Levers | TRP Spyre-C |
| Rims | Cannondale RD 2.0 Disc, double wall with eyelets, 28h |
| Front Hub | Formula CRX-512, 12 x 100 thru axle |
| Rear Hub | Formula CX-22, quick-release axle |
| Wheel Size | 700c |
| Tires | Vittoria Zaffiro, 700c x 30 mm |
| Tire Width | 30 millimeters |
| Handlebar Shape | Drop Bar |
| Handlebar | Cannondale 3, 6061 alloy, compact |
| Stem | Cannondale 3, 6061 alloy, 31.8, 7 deg. |
| Seat Post | Cannondale 3, 6061 alloy, 25.4 x 300 mm (48-51), 350 mm (54-56), 400 mm (58-61) |
| Saddle | Cannondale Stage Ergo |
| Pedals | Not included |
| Headset | 1-1/4 to 1-1/8 in. tapered |
| Chain | KMC X11, 11-speed |
| Weight | 21 lbs. 13.2 oz. |
| Bike Weight | Bike weight is based on median size, as sold, or the average of two median sizes. |
| Gender | Unisex |
What’s good 👍
- Lightweight and stiff construction with SmartForm C2 Alloy frame and a full carbon fork for a high-performance feel.
- Reliable shifting and power transfer with Shimano 105 group and FSA Gossamer crank.
- TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in various conditions.
- Comfortable saddle for long rides without pain or strain.
- Suitable for endurance rides and performs well on pavement and asphalt.
- Offers good handling and balance, inspiring confidence in cornering.
- Subtle and classy design with attractive red paint color.
- Versatile for both short commutes and long endurance rides.
What’s not so good 👎
- Some users have experienced issues with the crankset, including clicking noise and limited adjustment options.
- The Handlebar center post plugs fell out, and the missing locking nut was causing a clicking noise.
- Lower-priced entry-level road bikes may not meet the expectations of more experienced riders.
- Performance on gravel roads, especially loose gravel, may not be optimal.
- The stock rear wheel has been reported to be bent in some cases.
- Lack of touch-up paint for minor dings and scratches.
- Pedals are not included, requiring an additional purchase.
Our Verdict 🎗
Should you buy it, avoid it or shortlist it?
We think that you should definitely shortlist it.
Overall, the Cannondale Synapse 105 bike offers a lightweight and comfortable option for road cycling, with reliable components and good performance on pavement. However, it may have limitations on gravel roads and some potential issues with certain components.
Read more: 10 Best Entry-Level Road Bikes for Beginners in 2023
