Flashy looks and fat tyres make the Cannondale an absolute eye-catcher in this test. Behind the tuning concept is the symbiosis of the two Habit models Carbon 1 and SE as well as other fine details. For example, the chunky Schwalbe Magic Mary tyres, which feel more at home on an enduro bike, have been combined with lightweight carbon rims and a tubeless setup. Despite the solid tyres, the Cannondale wheels weigh the least and, thanks to 27.5 inches, are also the easiest to accelerate. In addition to obvious tuning such as screw-on silicone grips and a carbon saddle, the optimisation is also hidden. Cannondale has given the remarkably precise steering Lefty a new friction-optimised air piston, which improves its responsiveness. In the rocky passages on the Stone Garden trail, the fork also feels high in its travel without diving away. Because the rear suspension offers little progression and the travel can be utilised well, the Habit can be ridden with little sag. Nevertheless, the rear end offers sufficient sensitivity and remains very composed when pedalling, which means that the bike accelerates very well. A clacking noise when pedalling was a source of annoyance. Due to the protective caps initially fitted to the carbon cranks, the distance to the chainstays was too small. Together with the flex of the rear triangle, the cranks rubbed against the chainstay (detailed picture). Without the protective caps, the problem was solved. Due to the rather steep head angle in comparison, the Habit is by no means sluggish on the trails. The total weight of less than twelve kilos is also impressive.
Tubeless tuning, carbon wheels, new air piston in Lefty: With the Habit SE Custom, our main aim was not to deviate too far from the standard bike, as the Habit SE is already a top trail bike even in its standard configuration. For this reason, the majority of the components used are also fitted to other Habit models. The wheels, drivetrain and seatpost come from the Habit Carbon 1. (Philipp Martin, Cannondale)
