Cannondale SystemSix Road Bike Review
By Betsy Galenti

2/26/07 - I came home to find my 2007 race bike waiting- Cannondale’s SystemSix.  The most noticeable feature of the SystemSix is the oversized carbon head and down tube.  This, in combination with the ovalized carbon top tube, increases the torsional stiffness.  The sculptured aluminum rear stays add extra comfort- designed to absorb pavement imperfections with out sacrificing responsiveness.  This SystemSix is outfitted with the new two-piece carbon cranks and oversized bottom bracket. more >

The America's Dairyland Women's Team rides a custom painted
Cannondale’s SystemSix, complete with a cow paint job.

Wed. January 31
To test the bike, I am off for a ride through Santiago and Silverado Canyons.   On the trail, I take an opportunity to become acquainted with the bike.  This bike is everything Cannondale built a reputation as- stiff and responsive, but with all the comfort you'd expect from a high-end carbon ride.  It wasn’t until I reached the climbs when I was really able to appreciate the stiff and lightweight frame.  Standing to crest a climb, the bike accelerated effortlessly.  And the decent- the SystemSix is such a stable machine it takes the guesswork out of descending.    Smooth and responsive, the bike sweeps through turns with minimal thought or effort.  I thought last year’s Six/13 was a superb bike.  The SystemSix reaches a whole new level.

Thursday, February 1
The SystemSix made yesterday’s 3-hour ride feel almost effortless.  I am out for another 3 hours today- will the first impression last?  All of my initial thoughts were confirmed.  The SystemSix is truly a performance-orientated machine.  The hidden surprise was the comfort.  Thanks to the vibration dampening properties of aluminum rear stays, minimal jarring or road buzz is transferred through the bike to my hands or backside.  A comfortable bike for longer rides, the SystemSix will be an excellent road bike and an exceptional race bike.  The answer is yes- this bike is still amazing. 

Sunday, February 3
After two rides, the SystemSix is ready for the final test- Mothballs crit.  I am a bit nervous about racing a new bike in my first race of the year.  Complete with race wheels, the bike weighs in at a scant 15.1 lbs and looks darn fast.  The race was quickly underway.  Smooth accelerations and intuitive handling eased any nervous thoughts about the bike.  The bike maintained speed well while floating easily over the rough patches on the course.  I was continually amazed at how well the SystemSix cornered.  With confidence I pitched the bike into the last corner.  As I start sprinting, the bike gave me confidence to exert maximal effort. The bike was flawless.

The SystemSix must be the most efficient bike I've ever ridden, superb handling, and a bike you can ride for hours without remorse. I am definitely looking forward to spending the entire season on the SystemSix.