Cannondale Jekyll 3Photo: Georg Grieshaber
Cannondale Jekyll 3
The Cannondale Jekyll 3 is a versatile trail machine with precise handling. But comparatively heavy and expensive.

Last year, the Jekyll was one of the most sought-after bikes, with the expensive models in particular earning test laurels. The variability of the chassis (two suspension travels), the high rigidity and the convincing handling made many new friends. The Jekyll 3 has the aluminium chassis (600 grams heavier than the carbon fibre version, which costs at least 900 euros), but this is not a disadvantage for everyday use. The shortenable (firm!) or lockable rear from the handlebars is gratefully accepted. Nevertheless, at 14 kilos (without the dropper post), the rider has little ambition to win the mountain prize. As in previous tests, the rear shock is borderline tenacious even with the rebound fully open. The strength of the Jekyll 3 clearly lies in the downhill. The compact, well-organised riding position helps and you'll be pleased with the confidence-inspiring, stable handling: Aim for the line, hit the line. Fast, precise, versatile. But not very playful. The Jekyll rear works very well and sticks to the ground. You don't feel the 155 millimetre suspension travel, but it's always there when you need it. Cheap tyre compound.


PLUS Variable chassis, safe handling
MINUS Moderate equipment, heavy, bolt-on rear axle


ConclusionVersatile trail machine with precise handling. But comparatively heavy and expensive.

  The Jekyll has a two-way adjustable chassis: rigid construction, low centre of gravity.Photo: Georg Grieshaber The Jekyll has a two-way adjustable chassis: rigid construction, low centre of gravity.  The test team's opinion has been confirmed: 44 mm chainrings are unnecessary, a dying breed.Photo: Georg Grieshaber The test team's opinion has been confirmed: 44 mm chainrings are unnecessary, a dying breed.  In the short travel, the rear is very firm, in the long travel very comfortable. The rebound damping was too slow even in the open position.Photo: BIKE Magazin In the short travel, the rear is very firm, in the long travel very comfortable. The rebound damping was too slow even in the open position.

.

Most read in category Bikes