Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod review

Buy the Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod from Evans Cycles here

The Cannondale SuperSix has always been a lightweight frame and the latest Evo Hi-Mod definitely continues the trend.

Lifting the bike up is a definite wow moment as the 6.5kg full bike feels so incredibly light. It makes you wonder if it can possibly be strong and stiff enough to be responsive, but from the first pedal strokes we realised there was no need to worry on that score.

The wireless SRAM Red eTap groupset means no gear cables and Cannondale’s gone as far as making a bespoke frame that will only work with the new Red eTap groupset, with no drilling for wires.

That shouldn’t be too much of a concern, though, as the groupset performs fantastically. Although the shifting is different to what most are used to, it’s surprising how quickly you adjust to its intuitive system – click the right lever to shift up, click the left lever to shift down.

Gear shifts are quick and smooth, and while the battery capacity isn’t as high as the Di2 system, the claimed 2,000km range should equate to several weeks or even months for most riders.

We also found the gear shifting very positive, with a clear ‘click’ providing solid feedback with every button press, while also remaining very light compared to mechanical systems – a difficult balancing act to perform.

Shifting aside, the SuperSix’s component list is impressive, with Cannondale’s own lightweight Hollowgram Si Carbon 35mm deep-section wheels being stars of the show, although we did find they flexed a little under higher power.

Braking is good, especially in dry weather, although in the wet performance suffers due to the carbon braking surface.

Geometry is on the racier side, as you’d expect, with a relatively low riding position possible, but the traditional straight top tube means that standover height is limited.

For such a race-inspired bike it is a confidence-inspiring and well-balanced ride, and is impeccable when going downhill.

It might not offer magic-carpet levels of comfort, but the narrow 25.4mm seatpost and slim fork help to make it a nice place to be for a long day in the saddle.

Ratings

Frame 9/10; Components 9/10; Wheels 9/10; The ride 9/10

Verdict: Impressed us from the ‘lift test’ onwards. It handles superbly and the SRAM eTap groupset is fantastic. The traditional geometry with less standover height means that some riders need to be careful when picking a size, and it’s not cheap, but there’s very little to fault in this fantastic bike.

Spec