Cannondale Habit Carbon SE on test

Stefan Loibl

 · 16.01.2017

Cannondale Habit Carbon SE on testPhoto: Daniel Simon
Cannondale Habit Carbon SE on test
Coolness on two wheels: If there had been a "like" button - all test riders would have pressed it for the Cannondale Habit SE.

The silhouette, the crank with the milled chainring, the colour and the add-on parts signal that this is a special bike. At the same time, the Habit doesn't even seem overpriced compared to its competitors. High stiffness is paired with good suspension weight, plus wheels with the best acceleration of the comparison and sensible equipment (chain guide as standard). The first seat test ends with the verdict: "feel-good geometry", and you can feel the direct propulsion and razor-sharp steering within the first few metres of the test lap. The Americans can build a stiff overall system! The immediate response of the Lefty fork challenges the expert on the handlebars. The Habit is neither a forgiving cruiser nor a sedan chair. The suspension impresses with its sensitive response and plenty of traction, but the less wet-compatible tyre compound requires increased vigilance on the damp test lap. If you swap the tyres, you get maximum riding pleasure.


ConclusionSingletrail machine for demanding riders. Right at the top in terms of function and riding fun - test winner!


The alternative: In BIKE 1/2016 the Habit 4 only scored 158.75 points, but the suspension and handling of the 13.65-kilo American bike were impressive on the trail. The only drawback: poor equipment for a 3000 euro bike.

  - Cannondale: Great bike, wrong tyre choice. The performance compound of the Schwalbe tyres shows weaknesses on wet terrain. Slippery as on black ice.Photo: Robert Niedring - Cannondale: Great bike, wrong tyre choice. The performance compound of the Schwalbe tyres shows weaknesses on wet terrain. Slippery as on black ice.  Cannondale Habit Carbon SEPhoto: BIKE Magazin Cannondale Habit Carbon SE  Cannondale Habit Carbon SEPhoto: BIKE Magazin Cannondale Habit Carbon SE  Cannondale Habit Carbon SE: The rear end responds sensitively, but needs a lot of pressure. The fork does not release the full travel. Only 114 mm utilised.Photo: BIKE Magazin Cannondale Habit Carbon SE: The rear end responds sensitively, but needs a lot of pressure. The fork does not release the full travel. Only 114 mm utilised.
How do you like this article?

Most read in category Bikes