Cannondale serves touring riders with its MTB hardtails. Trail models without the suffix "SE". However, we deliberately tested the SE version of the Cannondale Trail in BIKE 5/21. With modified equipment, the SE version of the Cannondale hardtail is aimed squarely at downhill-hungry bikers. Thick tyres from the enduro segment, a suspension fork with generous 35-millimetre stanchions and 124 millimetres of travel as well as the telescopic seatpost that can be lowered at the touch of a button give the rider a powerful sense of self-confidence when going downhill. No matter how rough the trail gets, the Cannondale can't be rattled. With its slack steering angle and long wheelbase, it rides like it's on rails, even at high speeds.
In tight, winding terrain, the Cannondale Trail SE needs a bit of pressure to change direction. Uphill, the downhill-focused equipment pays the price: with 13.97 kilos without pedals and the high rolling resistance of the tyres, longer tours become a real challenge.
The Cannondale Trail SE has been consistently trimmed for downhill riding and is therefore particularly fun on downhills or even small jumps. It is too heavy for long tours.
All results of the comparative test
Which manufacturer offers the best spec for the money in 2021? Which bike shines on downhill singletrack descents and which bike is the most efficient and sporty for longer tours? We tested the seven mountain bike hardtails in direct comparison on varied off-road test laps. In addition, each candidate underwent an elaborate laboratory procedure. In the BIKE lab, we disassemble each test bike into its individual parts and test the frame, wheels and forks in particular according to standardised procedures. The elaborate measurements enable a differentiated assessment. The Comparison test of seven MTB hardtails from 1300 euros with all the results, data and details in BIKE 5/21. Keen for more? Order now your BIKE issue, printed or digital, individually or as a low-cost subscription.
You can download the complete test with all riding impressions and laboratory values from BIKE 5/2021 as a PDF below the article.
The test costs 1.99 euros. Why not free of charge? Because quality journalism has a price. In return, we guarantee independence and objectivity. This applies in particular to the tests in BIKE. We don't pay for them, but the opposite is the case: we charge for them, hundreds of thousands of euros every year.
