In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
Even with the increase in suspension travel, the SE version of the Scalpel cannot deny its origins. Weighing less than 13 kilos, the bike is more of a purist racer than a comfortable trail bike. The centrepiece of the bike is the carbon frame, weighing just 2103 grams, which does without additional bearings in the rear triangle and also offers space for two water bottles. The rear triangle design with 118 millimetres of suspension travel not only saves weight, but also positions the Cannondale in second place in the STW classification. As the SE frame is based on the 100 millimetre version, which is traditionally ridden with a longer stem, the reach is comparatively short at 440 millimetres. The wheelbase of the Scalpel is also on the compact side.
Conclusion on the Cannondale Scalpel SE2:
Peter Nilges, BIKE Test Manager: The SE version of the Scalpel also carries a lot of race genes and scores the most points on the climbs. Downhill, the tide turns. There are more confident trail bikes. For more agile handling, a shorter stem would help.
Technical data Cannondale Scalpel SE2
General information
- Price: 4699 Euro >> available here
- Frame material: Carbon
- Frame size: S / M / L / XL (tested L/48 cm)
- Info: www.cannondale.com
Measured values
- Weight without pedals: 12.58 kg
- Suspension travel: 120/118 mm
Equipment
- Fork: Rockshox SID RL 2Pos. adj. Debon Air
- Shock: Rockshox SID Luxe Select+
- Crank: Cannondale One
- Gear system: Shimano XT 1 x 12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 32; 10-51 / 510 %
- Brake system / disc (front / rear): Shimano Deore BR-M 6100 / 180 mm / 160 mm
- Telescopic post / stroke / Ø: Cannondale Down Low / 125 mm / 31.6 mm
- Wheels: NoTubes Stans Crest D / NoTubes Stans Crest D rims; Shimano HB-MT 400-B / Shimano HB-MT hubs
- Tyres: Maxxis Ardent / Rekon Race Exo Protection TR 29 x 2.40 / 2.25
The results of the Cannondale Scalpel SE2 in the complete comparison test of the 7 trail bikes from BIKE 5/2022 can be conveniently downloaded as a PDF below the article. The test report 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, namely tens of thousands of euros every year.
