Roel Paulissen swears by his all-carbon "Scalpel" when seconds count in the World Cup circuit. In contrast to the "Team" version, the "Scalpel 3" we tested comes with an aluminium main frame and therefore weighs 300 grams more. No need to worry. The extra weight benefits the absolute stiffness and puts the Cannondale in a solid second place in the STW ranking. On the trail, this characteristic - also thanks to the stiff "Lefty" fork - comes through in the precise steering behaviour. With a top tube length of 595 millimetres in combination with a short stem, the rider sits forward but not too stretched. Riders with long legs may have problems with too little saddle extension due to the short 430 mm seat tube. While the moderately steep head angle ensures confidence on the descents, the steep seat angle puts a lot of pressure on the front wheel when climbing.
As a trademark, the "Scalpel" rear triangle has no pivot on the chainstays, but works with the flex of the entire strut. The flatter characteristic curve of the somewhat sluggishly sprung "Lefty" does not quite match the short and tight rear end stroke. Without a pedal platform, the rear triangle contracts noticeably when pedalling.
CONCLUSIONS: The "Scalpel 3" is recommended for pure racing use. The not quite balanced chassis in combination with the rear suspension, which tends to bob, costs points.
TUNING TIP: Retrofit a quick-release saddle and wider handlebars.
Homepage: www.cannondale.com
