Riding funCannondale F-SI Hi-Mod 1 on test

David Voll

 · 23.08.2016

Riding fun: Cannondale F-SI Hi-Mod 1 on testPhoto: Daniel Simon
Riding fun: Cannondale F-SI Hi-Mod 1 on test
Race hardtails are not exactly the epitome of flow, that mental state of complete surrender. If you can talk about flow on a bike in this group, then it's the Cannondale.

Inspired by the poisonous green paintwork, the Cannondale catapults us straight into flow mode. Adrenaline rush included! If you strap the F-Si under your bum, you sit compactly and low on the bike. This makes it super manoeuvrable and extremely lively - despite its extra weight compared to the competition. Especially when pedalling with the Lefty locked, the bike doesn't make a sound. Cannondale has mastered system integration like no other: the fork-stem unit is extremely stiff and translates every twitch of your arms into steering movements. However, there are also softer sides to the bike when you're riding through the woods: The Lefty absorbs everything that gets in its way, while the banana-shaped seat post at least filters the load peaks from the ground.


ConclusionFlow and riding fun have a name: Cannondale F-Si. Relatively under-equipped for the price.


PLUS Stiff, direct, fast: top handling
MINUS Equipment level


The alternative: You can't blame Cannondale fans for preferring to flirt with the team bike right away. The F-Si Ho-Mod Team entices with Enve carbon wheels and exquisite equipment for 7999 euros.


Professional conclusion: "Sit on it and feel good! With the Cannondale you're immediately in race mode. The handling winner for cross-country racers. It's just a shame that the cables on the down tube are directly exposed to dirt."

  For 5999 euros, you can expect a little more than a Shimano XT groupset. On top of that, Cannondale fits FSA chainrings.Photo: Daniel Simon For 5999 euros, you can expect a little more than a Shimano XT groupset. On top of that, Cannondale fits FSA chainrings.  Cannondale F-SI Hi-Mod 1Photo: BIKE Magazin Cannondale F-SI Hi-Mod 1
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