First ride of the new Cannondale SuperSix Evo

Cannondale presents the new SuperSix Evo, with a complete redesign of the frame geometry and more assertive aerodynamic lines, without compromising the main characteristics that have made the model famous, with a recognized stiffness/lightness/comfort ratio. Electronic or mechanical drivetrain, Speed Release thru-axles for the disc version and the freedom to choose a rim-brake model… Introducing a new flagship for the peloton!

By Sébastien Jacquet – Photos: Cannondale – All rights reserved

Redesigning a classic, a sure bet, is never easy. Cannondale has been working on it for the past few years and has rethought its Cannondale SuperSix Evo. A total redesign for the brand’s historic “aero” model, whose new lines immediately reveal a lot of work and a radical change in the frame’s aerodynamics. The most avid equipment observers had already seen it in recent weeks on social media or in the hands of riders from the EF Education First team, of which Cannondale is a technical partner. And it wasn’t the desire to tell you about it that prevented us… but an embargo to respect until June 28, 2019 (3 p.m.) for the international press. A bike that Cannondale claims is “smoother, more capable, and much, much faster.” So let’s lift the veil on this new “more, more, more” opus!

A completely redesigned geometry

For its new version of the SuperSix Evo, Cannondale has thoroughly reworked the frame geometry to limit air resistance. The frame is still in the “Race” geometry category, but the section and shape of the tubes have been redesigned. These now feature a very truncated aerodynamic profile that gives the bike a smoother and cleaner look. In terms of figures, the brand claims a gain of 30 watts (at 48.3 km/h) compared to the previous version and 30% less drag.

Cable integration

Cable integration also follows this spirit. The head tube features internal routing for brake hoses. The aim is to reduce disturbances, limit interference, and streamline the machine’s style. A series of rings is associated to dress the assembly and offers easy access for maintenance.

Increased comfort

A strong and appreciated characteristic in the previous version of the SuperSix Evo, the work on comfort is not left out on this new model. The rear triangle has been reworked, reduced, and lowered. The frame features new Save chainstays and new seatstays designed and attached lower to the seat tube. The new KNOT 27 seatpost better withstands stresses and also helps to improve this parameter, which Cannondale claims is 18% better.

A discreet seatpost clamp

The seatpost clamp disappears on this new version. The clamp is now located in the hollow under the top tube and seat tube. It’s discreet, easy to access, and aesthetically very neat.

Tires up to 30 mm

In its disc version, the frame has been designed with clearance for 30 mm tires, offering versatility to the bike and increasing comfort with access to larger tire widths, for when you might be riding on rougher roads. Cannondale designs its bikes as “a system” in which each element must work harmoniously with the others. From this reflection, the bikes are equipped with the new HollowGram 45mm KNOT wheels, to offer a versatile rim depth.

Speed Release thru-axles

While Cannondale is keen to retain the option of rim brakes by offering two models with this technology, the new SuperSix Evo range still heavily features disc brakes. Compatible with most thru-axle wheel standards, the disc version of the frame is designed to accept Speed Release thru-axles, to facilitate maintenance and quick repairs.

A handlebar/stem combo

Also available with a classic handlebar and stem, the SuperSix Evo offers its most advanced configuration when it is equipped with the Cannondale HollowGram Save SystemBar combo. A cockpit with a refined and smooth profile, consisting of two interchangeable parts and an 8° adjustment range. Note that the integrated bike computer mount appears a bit high to us, somewhat contrary to this “aero” spirit. We would like the option of an under-mount to favor its extension from the handlebars…

A new connected sensor

In this era of all things connected, the new SuperSix Evo follows the trend with the appearance of a new sensor on the front wheel hub that provides a wealth of information (speed, route, distance, maintenance reminders) via the free Cannondale App. This app allows for precise monitoring of your bike, from wear and tear to direct appointment booking at a brand dealer.

A power meter option

Some models offer a HollowGram crankset equipped with a Power2Max power meter included in their build. Thus, the Dura-Ace Di2, Ultegra Di2, and Dura-Ace versions include the power meter option.

Junction box and finishes

As is often the case, the Di2 junction box is housed in the down tube of the SuperSix Evo. It’s elegant and refined. Generally speaking, the attention to detail and finishes are remarkable.

Test ride and first impressions

It was at its European headquarters in Freiburg im Breisgau that Cannondale invited the international press for a day and a test ride, on a hilly 70-kilometer loop in the surrounding hills. This was an opportunity for us to discover more about this new SuperSix Evo and its features. As is customary, our test version was, of course, the most advanced in the new Cannondale SuperSix Evo range. It was equipped with Shimano Dura Ace Di2, HollowGram 45 KNOT wheels (Vittoria Corsa 25mm tires), and the HollowGram Save SystemBar cockpit.

Agile, nimble, and easy to handle, the bike offers a very enjoyable responsiveness.

Positioned between the “Elite Race” category of the very exclusive SystemSix and the “Endurance” of the Synapse, the SystemSix Evo appears to be an ultra-versatile machine, suitable for multiple terrains. It is always difficult to appreciate the aerodynamic work by feel, but we can see that the execution is not only visually successful in that this SuperSix Evo exudes a fluidity when rolling on the flats, without interference at the front and at the tubes. Crossing the center of Freiburg at low speed, the manholes and bike path junctions immediately reassure us on another appreciated point of the previous version: the comfort, which seems excellent here! When accelerating and sprinting, the bike displays impeccable stiffness and performance, without being too demanding for a less robust body. Agile, nimble, and easy to handle, the bike offers a very enjoyable responsiveness. In its comparative table, in size 56, Cannondale claims 1,417 g for the frame/fork/seatpost assembly of the disc version. In use, it indeed feels light. The HollowGram 45 KNOT wheels prove to be very versatile. We appreciate the stiffness and aerodynamics on the flats, and a 45 mm rim depth that allows them to perform well on rougher terrain. The first test is very conclusive (despite very wet weather which also allowed us to once again measure the excellent performance of Vittoria Corsa tires in the rain). Stiff, responsive, light, comfortable… A sum of arguments that makes it for us one of those bikes with almost perfect versatile behavior, regardless of the region of practice and the user’s profile (provided, of course, you have the budget!).

Examples of SuperSix Evo range builds

The different women’s range builds

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