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Cannondale
Super V Active Bike
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Submitted by
Markus
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN, USA
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | RadLaden Mannheim | | Strengths: | Light weight, super robust, reliable, very agile | | Weaknesses: | Fox Alps 5R Spring-damper element stinks | | Similar Products Used: | GT I-Drive, Specialized FSR Rock Hopper | | Bike Setup: | X-Large Frame, 1997XTR / 2002 XT Mix, Shannon Seatpost | | Bottom Line: | Eversince I started riding thsi bike, I have been deeply convinced, that I won't need another mountain bike. Well, six years and many chains later, I still believe so. The Super V provides enough travel to go a little wilder (no insanities) and can be set up firm enough to go fast on CC courses. C'dale did build a very robust bike wit this one - worth the money, since it's still running strong after almost 7 seasons. There are two things that are negative: The FOX Alps5R in te rear is a piece of s#$t and compared tp newre bike it may be a bit heavy at 25lbs in XL. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john crossen
a Weekend Warrior
from avis, pa usa
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | water authority | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1000.00 | | Purchased At: | country ski shop | | Strengths: | Bike has been bullet proof. Stock rims to light for my wieght(200). Good quality frame. All components are quality, except fox alps 4 shock. It is a throw away. Headshock could have more travel, but is good enough for my needs. Seat is actually comfortable.
| | Weaknesses: | Fox alps blew out, with no repair parts. Shame onyou fox!You used to be a stand up company!
I need to locate a replacement rear sock. Any body have an idea? | | Similar Products Used: | Giant, Trek, Jamis, specialized. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for twisty spoked rims. | | Bottom Line: | Good bike, bad fox component. I would buy this bike again, minus the fox shock! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy Victory
a Cross Country Rider
from Cottonwood, AZ USA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Thumper | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Company totally stands behind product. Very light bicycle. | | Weaknesses: | Probably the Headshok could be a little more plush, on the other hand it tracks like an I.R.S. tax investigator. Could've come with a lighter seatpost. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my fourth Cannondale. I'm pretty biased. Why lie about it. But I've also worked in bike shops and thrown a leg over quite a few bikes. So there. | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Jekyll 900sl; Upgrades: DuraAce BB, Ritchey OCR Disc rims, Ritchey flat handlebar, Race Face XY seatpost, XTR cassette & front derailleur, Grip Shift Attack shifters. | | Bottom Line: | Nice bike. I won a buncha Sport class races on my old C'dales, and plan to race the Leadville 100 (my 2nd time) on this one. Set up to race at Leadville (Hutchinson Mosquitos, no Slime) the bike comes in at 24.5 pounds. Actual riding weight here in thorny AZ is more like 26.5 pounds. Either way, respectable for a full-bounce bike w/discs. The Coda discs don't really have any more stopping power than V brakes, but they modulate well, stop great in the wet, don't drag or howl, and look really COOL! I've got the bike set up pretty stiff, and the rear shock is exactly where I want it (took me a few weeks to dial in the exact position). Takes big hits really well. I screwed up and slammed a big rock early on, and the rear shock sucked it up, even set up 75 psi higher than recommended. The single pivot is simple and durable. The Rigida rims that the bike came with didn't seem to work as well as the Ritchey OCR rims - the Ritcheys stay true better, and just look a lot stronger. They really inspire confidence. Anyone who rides disc wheels oughta try 'em.
Price is a bit high for the Cannondale - hey, you're paying for a name, American workers, and constant research (yes, I know that includes motorcycles). If you like to go fast, climb, and generally ride like a cross-country-racer-type, this is the bike for you. If you're more of a freerider, try the Lefty, or put a Marzocchi on the front. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeremy Price
a racer
from midwest USA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned 4 super V's, I also trade up every year and have been more pleased
with each bike. That is until I bought one of the first '99 to hit the market.
I was hooked by the increase in travel, that is the typical upgrade in
Cannondale's new bikes. The problems started with the new super fatty headshok,
the 80mm travel was quickly cut to 20mm just sitting on the bike. I weigh 195
but this has never been a problem with my other bikes. A spring upgrade solved
the problem and my LBS didn't charge me a dime. The increase in travel also
has a negitive effect on the handeling of the bike(little squirrely). Next was
problem with the way the rear deraileur cable was run next to the rear shock
pinching it between the the spring and the frame stanchion(small tubes)causing
it to wear into the metal. I e-mailed the problem to Cannondale and the where
quick to blame the bike shop's setup of the bike. Upon checking several different
stores that carry super v's I found this to be accurate. Next was paint bubbling
around the rear pair of bottle holders. The LBS mechanic said it was rust. When
I asked him how aluminum rusts he called cannondale to find out. They were
puzzled sent me a new frame. This all happened in the first 3 months. Overall I'm
happy with Cannondale, I race and win with a F900. I think my next bike will be
a Raven freeride. I'm giving 5 chillies because all my problems where taken
care of quickly and I never missed a ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ragin in AZ
a racer
from Phoenix,AZ USA
Date Reviewed: October 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned 3 super v's the all trade ups to my current SVA2000. I've read all the posts, and they are correct, and in general all FS bikes must be setup for the individual rider. I had a Bomber Z1 on it, but now I have it custom painted with a matching Headshok Fatty fork. The ride is incredible, it makes you want to go faster because it is so plush. Cannondale...Best bike...eh? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a racer
from Alaska
Date Reviewed: September 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My buddy has one of these bikes and I feel sorry for him. Sure the thing was cool back in '95 but nowadays it is a total P.O.S. I've ridden it and fail to understand the excitment and hype loyal owners give the design. It is light I'll give it that much but the bio-pacing rear suspension is terrible. I can hear it now, This guy doesn't know what he is talking about, my bike doesn't bio-pace when it is set up correctly. My buddy has used both coil and air shocks, and unless they are stiffened up to the equivlent of a rigid rear end the bike bobs.
I suppose back in '95 there wasn't too much to choose from, diehard single pivot guys would have shyed away from the better working FSR's and LTS's. Oh well at least he got it on sale! | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Swarty
a cross-country rider
from Rochester NY
Date Reviewed: September 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have ridden Cannondale products for the past 4 years, everything that broke I caused or it plain wore out!I have a old style super-v with a fatty 50.It handles awsome! I ride 50mi wk average and don't have any problems. 44 and in my middole ring.Craig,learn how to spell.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bart
a weekend warrior
from Belgium
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own the SVA 800sl '98 model : I don't ride that much but if you're looking for a comfy CC/Touring bike this is a good choice. My rear shock is a Fox alps 5 air/oil. Once dialed in this works perfect. On the front I have a Fatty D.
If you're not happy with Headshok buy a lowlevel Super v and mount A Marzocchi Z1 or whatever you like. It is not the ultimate CC-machine and not the super-downhill shredder but when your back is screwed (like mine) this is a good choice to ride and enjoy the comfort of rear susp. without the wobbling of other designs. I like the Secialized FSR system too but you can't even lower your seatpost on those or you'll damage the rear shock. So besides of the little pricy Headshok system I give it 5 chili's | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nate Gage
a cross-country rider
from Florida
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Forget buying one of these bikes. I just ordered a 98 Mongoose Pro 9.5 for $1700!!! It's got 5 inches of rear travel and is a hundred times better than a comparably priced Cannondale. Plus, it is cheaper and easier to upgrade the Judy XL than the headshock. By the way, Cannondale did warranty the bike I sat on in the bike shop. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AdjuBadju
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Super V's are the best mountain bikes available for those of us who like to ride fast with comfort and total control. The lateral stiffness in both the frame and fork allows us to point the bike and it goes exactly where we expect it to go. The is no fork flex so the front wheel turn when the handle bars turn, the rear wheel stays straight and true. The shocks soak up bumps going uphill, on the flats and of course on the downhills. I've ridden many other full suspension bikes and none of them are as plush and exacting in their handling. The Headshok is so good it gets rated the best by the bike mags and now Merlin in putting them on their full suspension bikes. Comfort, handling and all out performance is what Cannondales are all about. Do'nt expect anything else. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris ATB
a weekend warrior
from BMTH, England
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What a fantastic bike, I could not believe how plush it is.... Im not sure whether it`s actually the bike, or there`s somthing wrong with my arse, it aint like ridin a bike anymore. Andway more to the point. The phuqing idiot who wrote the article below this one and took the overall rating down needs a slap, ther`s nothin wrong with this bike, you must be a crud rider. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron Barr
a racer
from usa
Date Reviewed: September 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a 700 FR in May of this year and have little good to say about it. The rear suspension bobs unless I crank the preload or damping massivily which reduces the ride quality to the point that I might as well have bought a hard tail. My buddys linkage bike doesn't have these problems. The fork is a nightmare to adjust or work on (special tools needed). Rockshox I'll never stray again! Overall I feel these bikes are overpriced and hyped. No chili's. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JOHN, READ THIS
a weekend warrior
from TUCSON
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS IS TO THE GUY BELOW THIS POST (JOHN), WHY DID YOU TRADE IN YOUR OLD FRAME AND SPEND AN ADDITIONAL $1000 FOR A FRAMESET W/FORK WHEN YOU CAN BUY AN ENTIRE '98 SUPER V BIKE FOR ABOUT 800 BONES? FATTY UPGRADE IS NOT MUCH, I JUST BOUGHT ONE FOR AROUND EIGHTY BUCKS - THE ONE WITH 5 POSITION DAMPENING. THIS IS NOT CRITICISM, JUST CURIOUS - IS THERE SOMETHING SO SPECTACULAR ABOUT THE FRAME YOU BOUGHT?I Bought a '99 Super V myself, with the fatty upgrade, and the bike is great. Steers like it's on rails, frame/suspension is supple, and it looks better than most bikes out there I feel. Suspension is awesome, just wish the rear Fox coil had some rebound adjustment to it. Might try a Fox air shock later if that's the best way to get good rebound control. Totally love what I've got though. God's been good to me, I love this bike.P.S. Upgrade the wheels if you buy a lower end Super V, Weinman rims are junk. Also upgrade the rear derailleur, then things are great. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a cross-country rider
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is more a review of a service offered by Cannondale then the particular bike. My wife owns one of the first CDale SV2000, remember the one with the carbon fiber swingarm? Anyway, we have just completed a trade in with Cannondale for a new '98 SV2000 frameset, which includes the fatty sl fork for just over $1000. She loved her old SV2000 but the headshock blew and after some deliberation we decided to trade it in. The '98s have a completely different suspension design and I am anxious to see if she like it as much as the old one. Will post when the verdict is in.Overall, 5 cajun road sausages. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dr. Jay
a cross-country rider
from B.K., Germany
Date Reviewed: September 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got Super V 800 over here about a month ago at the Aafes sports store and have since racked up about 150 or so miles. It was a big jump from a Diamondback Outlook. The weight really wasn't what I expected from a full suspension bike (28 pounds). The Outlook was 30 lbs. Done a good bit of riding the same course that I did the XC race on and have overall been pleased. The Headshok is extremely plush when just doing the regular XC stuff but seems a bit too soft for the combination of my 180 lb body and the nasty root section. The STX V-brakes stop me plenty quick. Sometimes maybe a bit too quick (I almost endoed by simply jabbing the brakes). Rear Fox Vanilla R shock does a good job but the rebound adjustment seems to go from not quite enough to almost too much very quickly. Love how they managed to fit two spots for water bottles in there. Overall I'm really happy with the bike. I understand that I'm not in that weight range of a majority of riders and that I'll have to swap out springs to get it right for me. Good job Cannondale. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim
a weekend warrior
from ny
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i always love the totally infantile reviews from people who have never ridden the product in question. take the preceding review by the bomb from alaska who waxes so eloquently, yet so uninformed. any super v active rider will tell you that if the shocks are properly set up as canondale tells you to set them up, there is no biopacing of any type. sure, it takes some intelligence to dial them both in but it is worth the reward. his [or her] next comment about the headshock lockout feature is equally insightful. unfortunately for the bomb, the lockout is only on the dd60's and not the multi adjustable on the fly fatty, but more importantly it is useful on long uphills or those road rides to the trail. of course, there is no extra charge for this convenience [but we are all dimwitted consumers for using it, right bomb?]. finally, the bomb concludes that the water bottle placement limits the top tube height which might cause him to rack himself on a daily basis. super v's have no top tube genius[hence the name] and the height of the water bottle cages is still going to be far lower than any standard frame w/ a top tube w/ the bottl cages under the top tube. i guess that hitting the top tube w/ one's crotch hurts less in some way than hitting a water bottle that is lower. why you are whacking your crotch on anything [on your bike] on a daily basis is a mystery as well.
in short, as some of you might have guessed, none of the various comments from the bomb are even remotely accurate. go test ride a super v. there is no better deal in full suspension for the $$. thus five flaming dead horses | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Bomb
a racer
from Anchorage, Alaska
Date Reviewed: August 31, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
What a bunch of chumps. I truly feel for Cannondale owners. First they get screwed by paying too much, then they have to live with a bio-pacing, old
school type of rear suspension. Headshock another brillant idea, I especally
like the optional lock out device. If you buy a bike with suspension, why
would you want to turn it off? Has anyone ever looked at the water bottle
holder location? Another great idea, I too prefer to limit my top tube
height so I could rack myself on a daily basis. These bikes simply don't
live up to the image Cannondale is advertising. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fast Freddy
a cross-country rider
from Ohio
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought this bike in April 98 - it was a left over 1997. I love it. I doubt I could go back to a hardtail again. I have the DD60 fork - no probs - would like the Super Fatty (its new with 80mm of travel). This bike rocks.... Have yet to have ANY problems - over 600 miles and 6 off-road races - takes a licking and keeps KICKING BUT!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jordan
a cross-country rider
from phoenix AZ USA EARTH
Date Reviewed: August 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ive got a 98 SV2000. The fastest bike ive ever ridden. I owned a m500 before that and this thing kicks ass! The only problem ive had with it was when some #@$*&@$ in a cadilac ran it over a month ago and bent the front wheel and left crank. ohh well. I needed a parts upgrade anyway. 5 hot ones. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a cross-country rider
from vermont
Date Reviewed: August 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had a 97-1/2 V900-COMP for about a year now. The 'comp' has the same 100SL
frame as the V2000 and the '98s but some cheaper components. I got a sweet deal: the bike was a store demo for a couple months, used maybe a dozen times - I get it for $1000 with a comprehensive tuneup. For the $1850 MSRP some of the parts, though durable, are cheap, and it's a couple pounds heavier than similarly priced dualies. But the tradeoff is an absolutely bombproof frameset, which alone is $1300 MSRP. As a roadie/racer, I bought this bike as an all-purpose recreational tool, not a narrow-focus lightweight racebike, yet I've finished top-3 racing on it. The bike worked great even stock - the sachs shifters are a cut above gripshift and the sun cr18 rims wouldn't bend. The DD60 headshok is the best fork I've used, tied with the Girvin/Noleen. Far better steering, compliance and durability than any of the elastomer-tele forks out there. The rear is laterally stiff, vertically plush, finds that last bit of traction on loose damp technical uphills and I haven't been bothered by any discernible biopacing in any of the rings. The cockpit has plenty of room to move within (Large) and the overall balance, geometry, and traction feedback are great: well-balanced over tight technical half-track and planted at any sane speed. It steers slower than some bikes but is dead neutral and responsive to body english. The rear triangle clogs up with mud too easily and the exposed cables collect grit. I prefer the response of the coil springs F&R (vs air) at the expense of some (more) weight. I've upgraded over the year to Ritchey pedals, ControlTech seatpost, '98 Coda 900M saddle, Mavic 217 ceramic rims, XT hubs, shifters, 11-28 cassette, brakeset and rear derailleur. The STX-RC F der, UN52 BB and Coda crankset all work fine. It's easy to build a hardtail frame and throw swank parts all over it, much harder to engineer and integrated FS design that works and choose parts to meet a (relatively high) price point. The 98s overall spec is no better and the 99s have disc brakes and more (unnecessary) travel. 4 stars for the frameset design and component functionality; the weight and component quality for $1850 keeping it from five stars.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Guy Paterson
a cross-country rider
from Edinburgh Scotland (UK)
Date Reviewed: August 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned a SVActive for two years, it came with a DD50 fork I changed this as soon as pos' for a Fatty cartridge, made a lot of difference, simply because it is tuneable, though it did run out of travel on some really large d/h near me. I have recently upgraded the fork to a Fatty 70 and the rear shock to a Vanilla what a difference its a new bike. The chain slap someone mentioned I have wrapped the right chainstay with an old innertube cut at 45 degrees and secured it with a little insulating tape, It protects it really well. The bike rides really well, it is stiffer than a hardtail and handles really well. I have had problems with the HeadShok internals simply because I mucked about with the internals and water got inside it, my fault, but the same would happen to any fork that got water and mud inside. It is simple to repair, the internal bearings and steel strips are not expensive and fairly easy to replace, take your time to position the strips carefully so that the bearings sit correctly on the strips, and the fork is not over/underextended when it is put back together. Overall it is a great bike and one I will buy again, without hesitation. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rommel Pavlovic
a downhiller
from Scarboro'
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My Lobo was injured so i lent a mates 'dale i was very comfortable with the bike, the rear shock performed well and the frame was very acceptable caching air and pulling stunts was easier than i thought it woud be on this bike.
Cornering was good but the head shock and lowish rear travel slowed things down abit on the downhill | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve in N.C.
a racer
from Winston-Salem, NC
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Good Bike. I have the '97 version with the Fox Alps 5R shock. For some reason, C'dale has downgraded the shock on the 98 version. I am mostly a roadie (Cat.3) and race X-country sport class every once in awhile. When I do, I consistently place with no probs. with this bike, as some (weak) people complain about the weight. Get a hardtail, if weight is an issue for you.
Anyway, this bike allows one to ride beyond ones abilities. Especially downhills. Just point and rock! Later. (PS> Next bike will be a F2000 hardtail, as C'dale makes good bikes for the buck.) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a weekend warrior
from Jacksonville, FL
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Have a '98 V400. I was torn between a Klein front-susp and the C'dale dual. Was seduced by the C-dale price, but in hindsight, I should have bought the Klein. I have had this bike back to LBS 3 times for front derailleur shifting problems. Who was the cheap-ass design moron @ Cannondale that thought up putting Sachs Gripshifters on this bike?? The front derailler either throws the chain off or won't climb to the large chainring after months of tinkering. I am finally replacing with STX rapidfire shifter. Oh yeah, by the way, thanks for the 7 speed STX rear. That extra 10 BUCKS you saved would have at least got me an 8 speed, so I could have upgraded the shifters to LX or better. Now I only have to replace the rear derailler, cogset, hub and rebuild the wheel if I wanted to do that. Thanks alot!! What really stinks is that the V500, V700, etc are only marginally better equipped (the forks, not the drivetrain) but have ridulous price differences not worth the money. Here's a suggestion: 3 Super V models: LX, XT XTR don't even bother with anything lower. The bike handles beautifully on rough terrain, and inspite of it's hernia-causing weight, it climbs suprisingly like a much lighter bike. What really detracts from this bike are the poor mixture of Sachs/Shimano, and the upgrade dead end you create with STX rear. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pedro L. Mogollon
a weekend warrior
from Cartagena, Colombia, South America
Date Reviewed: July 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
On Feb. 11th of 1997, I posted a 5 chili review for my Can SVA 2000. I still think highly of it. After upgrading to XTR front and rear derailers, shift and brake levers,as well as XTR front an rear hubs (11-31 cassette), I got rid of the Coda chainrings, and added Real Chainrings (44/32/20). The bike is just over 25.5 lbs. and is a pleasure to ride. Since Cartagena is a Caribbean city, the weather is always nice; I ride everyday before work (20-30 kilometers) on local rodas, and then ride trails during the weekend. There are some pretty fine rides available here. I'm planning to get a Raven as soon as I can. After over 18 months riding my 2000, I would give it 6 chilis if I could. Go for one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a cross-country rider
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had my SuperV 1000 SL for a year and a half. It is awesome. I have ridden all over the Colorado Front Range, Fruita, and Moab and it's handling is superb in any terrain. The tracking and stiffness are amazing. My only complaint was the Coda peddles - junk'em for a decent pair or you will never release in a crash. Good climber and the suspension is likle butter on the downhills and big drops. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan
a weekend warrior
from PA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
98 Super V 1000. After 50 miles of thrashing, I love the bike. I wouldn't
trade it for anything....other than a Raven. The only upgrades I am
thinking of are the Fatty SL up front and longer travel (120mm) for the
back. Yeah...the bike is a little heavy, but that is the nature of the
full suspension beasts. I'd recommend this bike to anyone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Bunchuk
a cross-country rider
from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Date Reviewed: June 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After considering a number of bikes and researching and test riding them I bought a '98 SV-700. I don't regret purchasing this bike in any way. Handles great, tracking is excellent and craftmenship is excellent. I am 52 and 195 lbs. and the full suspension is very plush when it needs to be. For the money the bike has very good components. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Nordby
a cross-country rider
from Monument Colorado
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
You guys are cracking me up. Yeah, the bike is heavy. Didn't ya weigh it before you bought it? You already knew that mfg's lie when it comes to weight. And it pogos? Didn't you ride it before you bought it? And if you have the Fox 5R and Fatty 70, adjust the damping so it doesn't pogo.Buy this bike because:
The fatty 70 ease of damping and no-flex steering
The low center of gravity makes it corner awesome.
Great standover clearance for easy bailouts and no bars near your privates.
Great when suspension is dialed in. Climbs, descends, carves.
Laterally stiffer at the bottom bracket than most hardtails.Don't bike this bike because:
V-brakes on that stiff fork squeel badly.
The weight. My XTR Super V SL is 26.8 lbs with a medium frame.
The cost. Mine was a gift from the wife, so it didn't matter to me.
Hard to stop the chain slap on the swingarm and other parts.
If you want a downhill only bike, don't buy it, I suspect a heavier dude
would shred the frame pretty quick. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug Patterson
a weekend warrior
from Mariposa Ca.
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my Super V... except the head shock... loose it...go to a shock that has
more travel in it... it has a great rear suspension, just lacking in the front.
I plan on changing mine out. I understand that there is a bushing kit thats made
to replace the head shock, so that a front shock assy. will fit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred
a cross-country rider
from Ohio
Date Reviewed: May 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i bought this bike for the comfort and recently i have raced it a few times. I love this bike! Its definitely heavier than my old hardtail but now after 20 off-raod miles i can walk with my back straight. This bike has got me excited about riding again. By the way i never mentioned - its a 1997 Super v 1000. It doesn't pogo- or biopace like some. Some people complain about that - set the rear shock correctly and I have no problems. My only complaint is the weight... but then again i knew i wasn't buying a sub 25lb hardtail - at the local bike shop it weighed 27lbs and 2 oz.ready to ride. (its also a large) - Definitely before you buy one ride one - I mean its not for everyone... kinda like not everyone drives a Chevy pickup. This bike rules - Better than my friends Trek - Y... why you ask - check out the 99 Treks - no more unified triangle! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
justin
a racer
from earth
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
cannondale. any cannondale. enough said. the last one i saw, the guy had the back part of the bike in his left hand and the fork, handlebar, and front wheel in his right hand. on the good side it did last up the first climb, most likely because he was pushing it? maybe bio-pace chainrings would cancel out the pogo? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John Turnbull
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The most fun on two wheels! I've done 500k of dirt on my Super V 700; dropped it at least 10 times (they say this is the only way to learn!@#%$!!?) with nothing more than a scratch on the bike, and a new set of V-brake pads - of course. I've even dropped my super fit (aka Hawaii Ironman) riding buddy on his hardtail - yeah, ok, it WAS downhill gravel...
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Submitted by
Andy
a weekend warrior
from NewYork
Date Reviewed: May 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have recently purchased a SuperV500, it is a wonderful bike. It's a great bike for someone with a budget, and who wants to upgrade later on. Its solid and tight. The ride is plush and handles excellent. My headshock works well with no lateral flex!!! I give it A thumbs UP!! 4 Chilies from me... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Troy
a weekend warrior
from Springfield, IL USA
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Cannondale Super V 2000 1997 What can you say it is a good alround bike. It is set up well for a bigger guy and handles all the dishing out you want!!!!! If you are thinking about one BUY IT!!!!!!!!! Iam heavy rider and it handles 250 pounds of bashing and trashing the trails from MO, to MI, to IL ....... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Armitage Shanks
a downhiller
from Dudleyville
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Cannondale bikes. Where to begin? The team deal with Volvo is appropriate. Coda components? I seem to remember something from those private school music lessons... A few measures added beyond the natural termination of a composition. Let us also remember the 3rd commandment of aluminium frame construction: Once you weld it, don't freakin' touch it...Saving grace? The delightfully talented Missy. Ahh, Missy. If only I were younger, better looking and gave a toss... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scot
a weekend warrior
from CT
Date Reviewed: May 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a 96.5 SVA 700 and would recommend it to anyone. After riding a Haro Extreme with an RST '1 travel for 2 years its obvious that the Cdale would be a massive improvement and it delivers. As a an X Motocrosser I can really appreciate the active suspension and the swingarm shock setup looks like a scaled down version of my YZ 250's Monocross susp. My only minor complaint is that they spec'd this model with lame components, I blew out the BB in like 1 month, and the cranks where pathetic I upgraded to Sugino 700 & Clipless pedals.
I cant comment on the Headshock though mine came with Rock Shock Q21r which started flexing like crazy I'm upgradeing to a Bomber Z2. Ive heard alot of mixed reveiws on the headshock and I hate the idea of being subservient to Cdale shop every time I need even a minor adjustment. In any case the Frame and Rear Susp. work awesome! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a weekend warrior
from Central Florida
Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Cannondale Super V1000FR is a great riding bike with a few minor exceptions. The ride is great and smooth. I used to own a Royce Union 900. It was a good bike to begin on but I quickly grew frustrated with it and sold it 2 months after it's purchase for half of what I paid. I was going to buy the SV2000FR but did not want to pay the extra $$$ for the disc brakes so settled for the SV1000FR. The dealer I bought it from was very cooperative. I wanted to upgrade some components for which they gave me credit for the components towards the ones I wanted to purchase. I put on Shimano XTR brakes, shifters, levers, rear derailer and Shimano PDM636 pedals. I have been extremely happy with the overall performance of the bike and have put 150 miles on it in the past month. The only complaints are:
1) The paint job is just mediocre. It had some underspray in areas and is not very thick. It is also chipping off on the front forks by the quick release. I would recommend using a powder coating to achieve a much more durable paint coating.
2) The cables have rubbed off the paint and are rubbing into the frame by the rear shock. I have rerouted them once but to no avail. I have put on cable rub stickers to try to alleviate the problem but should not have to do this. This is an engineering problem which should have been caught and corrected during the testing phase of the bike.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bill sorrentino
a weekend warrior
from new jersey
Date Reviewed: April 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
my super V1000 the best $2000 i ever spent. the bike handles great and has proven to be quite durable. i had a problem with the head-shoc but it was a defect and the whole front shock was replaced. the only thing i would change is i wish it was a few pounds lighter it weighs in at about 29 pounds. the XT rear has worked flawlessly as long as it is kept relatively clean and has worked well even when is it not. i have not had to make any changes on the bike to improve performance other than a rock ring for portection. You are much better off buying this bike over a lower level V bike because they really cut out the important stuff in the lower bikes and you will probably end up replacing the components anyway. i would recommend this bike without hesitation. If you live in NJ and are looking for a Cannondale go to Cycle Craft they are the best LBS around. and I am not saying that because i have any affiliation with them i am just a customer . | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Hansen
a weekend warrior
from Dallas, TX
Date Reviewed: April 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a Cannondale SV 900 at the end of October '97 and have had no problems with the frame, Headshok, the dealer, or Cannondale. I originally put an F1000 hardtail on hold only to return to find that it had been sold. The shop called Cannondale who then ran a search for a replacement but none were to be found. Cannondale was very helpful in seeing that I was taken care of as was the shop. I eventually decided to go with the FS and was given a hearty discount for the foul up. This bike is the best I've ever owned. The Headshok is fantastic, so stiff with no lateral flex. I am still getting used to the sag of the rear suspension but I'll take it over a sore ass any day. I would heartily recommend a Cannondale to any of my friends as I feel the bike for the price can't be beat. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Super Dave
a cross-country rider
from God's country, USA
Date Reviewed: April 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My first Cannondale was a M-500,I spent $800 upgrading the crappy components and putting a Rock Shox Judy on it(junk). My only regret was not getting a F-500 with a Headshok. Last month I purchased a SV 2000, opting for the better components off the bat. I Had tested the Trek Y-33 and loved the adjust on-the-fly rear shock. This has been my only upgrade so far. I absolutly love the bike, the headshok makes this good bike great. People that blast this shock must have never owned a Rock Shox. Only a Triple clamp is comparable to a Headshok. Overall I could not be happier with Cannondale. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dante
a weekend warrior
from USA
Date Reviewed: April 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just bought a Super V 500 and I have instantly fallen in love withn it. This bike deserves more starts but I cannot give it anymore. The Headshock is very plush as well as the Fox in the back. Cannondale came up with an excellent bike at a good price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Lenhard
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: April 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is an excellent bike for those wanting to ride fast, but with control. Uphill and downhill (sure it can't beat thos 200 mm forks etc.) But I assure you - you can't be faster up AND then down.
But you need to UPGRADE it. See my Mountainbike for how to do it. Or go directly to my homepage | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Carvotta
a cross-country rider
from Sauquoit, NY
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Cannandale F-1000. I am only 14 years old but I can tell when I get a good bike and this is definetly one. I love it. My friends have bikes that are equal or better that mine but I think that the Cannandale F-1000 is awesome!! With the light weight, and the great parts, it is a good bike for all kinds of riders, if you have the money to spend! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr. Ex-Hardtail
a cross-country rider
from Ohio
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my first Dual Suspension bike - and I love it!! I rode the Trek Y's, Specialized, Diamond Back, and the Giant. The Super V's handling is outstanding! Biggest complaint about the Cannondale is the local dealer - he tried to raise the price on me in the store as I was paying for it. But instead of Dayton, I purchased it from Columbus - Bike Source. Very nice to me. The smile the bike gives me has been stuck there for quite a while. Seems to be very technical in tight areas - and very smooth on the decending, haven't had to much problems with climbing yet.. I love it 5 chilis'... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a downhiller
from Vancouver b.c.
Date Reviewed: March 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Plain and simple this bike SUCKS, it is awfully heavy has a shity no good peice of junk headshock, weak frame, I wouldn't even consider it dirt worthy, too expensive for what you get, overall this bike is only fir for beginner level kids, it's the worst full suspension I've ever ridden!!! I wouldnt even give it one tamale but that's the lowest it goes!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
El Dias
a
from Portugal
Date Reviewed: March 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 98 freeride. i bought the frame and fork(moto FR) and built the perfect bike for me - xtr brakes and hubs, mavic x517, gripshift attack, coda tarantula crank...Riding it is 100%FUN!! I not even feel those 13kg on my legs because the bike rides so good. I considered the Raven frame, but it is stupid to pay that kind of money for a frame that is 200 grams lighter than the aluminum super v, don´t you think? Besides, I got 100mm of travel up front and 120mm in the rear, both excellent balanced. If you are a skinny legs kind of guy, go ahead and buy a 10kg hardtail. If you love mountainbiking and just want to have fun up and down the hill, you got to have a bike like this!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Miguel F Gouveia
a weekend warrior
from Rio, RJ, BRAZIL
Date Reviewed: March 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 1998 Super V500...The best by far...Great piece of flying identified object...Great performance, balance, looks...I just get on it and forget the world exists...I usualy bike along the coast line of the beaches of Rio, climb uo a few cliffs, and gaze aimlessly at blue sky sunny ocean horizon lines...Cannondale reings! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Bays
a cross-country rider
from Charleston, SC
Date Reviewed: February 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I upgraded my F500 hardtail to a SuperV frame at Christmas. I've been waiting to post a review to get some time on the bike even though I loved it from the start. I wanted to wait a little longer, but I must post now, in part, to counter the previous post. I wanted to upgrade my MC60 Headshok to a DD60 but none of my local bike shops were able to remove the cartridge in the shock to replace it with the hydraulic unit (it was frozen in place). When Cannondale was notified, they sent an entire new factory DD60 fork to my closest LBS in one week - no questions asked. BRAVO CANNONDALE! Ride on Dudes!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jackson Penrod
a cross-country rider
from Va. Beach, Va
Date Reviewed: February 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a Super V 1000 FR. Its a great bike, but thats all you'll get from Cannondale. When I purchased my bike it came with the wrong manual for the front fork. I wrote Cannondale's tech department and asked that one be sent out. I got a e-mail back that one would be sent. I waited, nothing came. I wrote again, and got no response. I then wrote a very polite letter to the Consumer affairs dept at Cannondale about the problem. I got an e-mail back that a manual was on its way...been two months since. Cannodale makes a great bike, but the service you would expect from a good bike manufacturer isn't there. Cannondale fails to come through with customer satisfaction. If Cannondale every goes under, it won't be because of the quality of the product, but the quality of service that it lacks. I will never purchase a Cannodale product again, nor will I recommend its products to anyone wishing to get into the sport. I met many people on the trails, and they often comment on my bike, I'm very quick to let them know how faulty Cannondale can be. And I recommend another bike company. GT and Mongoose have been my recommendations. Sorry C'Dale, you had your chance. The bike gets five stars, C'Dale service one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jan
a weekend warrior
from canada bc
Date Reviewed: February 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
oke its the best bike I ever owend it was an clear choice becouse the bike looks good and it hanles great its lite feel in the front makes it a great bike for weelies and if I ride it for moor than 5 hours I am garantied to have an orgasem | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Braden Souder
a weekend warrior
from Deltona, FL
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 1996 Cannondale Super V 900. I am 5ft. 10. I ride almost every
weekend with my dad and some other people and one guy who races. I had a hardtail KHS before I bought my Cannondale. All I can say is it is the best handling bike, the best climber, the best XC performer, and almost the best downhiller I have ridden. We just went on a ride a few days ago and my dad
and another guy named Mike just got new bikes the same day. We were all just messing around on some hills and there was one hill that we all love. My dad
let me ride his new Mongoose N.X. 9.7 pro. I rode his bike up the hill and couldn't do it. Then I rode mine up it twice and made it all the way. Then
Mike let me ride his bike, he just got a new Trek Y22, I rode or tried to
ried his bike up the hill 3 times and still didn't make it all the way. My advice is if your looking for a new bike get a Cannondale. They climb and
just do everything great. The only thing more that I want from my bike is
more travel for better downhill performance. But besides that it is the best bike I've ridden. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a racer
from Stillwater, OK
Date Reviewed: February 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've waited for awhile to post this review. My first impression of this bike was outstanding. It was different than my hard tail, much faster on the downhills and seemed to help the traction on the climbs. After riding the bike for a few months, I began to realize how much power the rear suspension eats up on sprints and long fast climbs. Bottom Line IMHO: The bike is fun, but is not suited for a XC race bike. If you want a fun bike for general use this is the bike for you... Wanna buy mine?I have since bought a CAAD3 frame and after one ride I have fallen in love with it. I Love the power and explosiveness of the hardtail. The headshock is great (the reason why I bought another Cannondale).-A hardtail to FS back to HT convert. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roger Weber
a weekend warrior
from Az
Date Reviewed: February 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
TJ,
I am also 6'3 and over 200 lbs. I had an XL 97 Super V 1000, it was stolen, it seemed way to long in the top tube. I now have a L 98 Super V 2000 it fits very well. This bike is awsome. Follow the set up guidelines in the owners manual regarding air pressure in the shocks and you will definately enjoy this bike. I ride XC and downhill with it and am very happy with the bike. Good luck.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
T.J.
a cross-country rider
from FL
Date Reviewed: February 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I would appreciate feedback from any Super V owners on optimal bike fit. I'm 6'3, 215 having a hard time deciding between the L & XL Super V. The guys at the shops around me dont seem to be to good at fitting the bike. The ride seems great & I think the headshok is the way to go. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carla
a cross-country rider
from Waco, TX
Date Reviewed: February 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
WoW!! have had my screaming yellow Super-V active 900 Comp C-dale for over a year now, & have had nothing but fun on it. The rear suspension really helps your climbing because when you start to slip, the shock makes it set back down on the trail quicker and make contact, and you're on your way. I love the shape of it, very comfortable to ride, upgraded to v-brakes & clipless pedals and its a monster machine!! Get one!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Juergen
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: February 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my SVA2000 last April. Before I started riding full-suspension I rode my Cannondale F700. Overall I really love my bike. I can go much faster now without the fear of being thrown of my saddle. The bike is very dependable, no(!) trouble after almost a year of heavy riding. Although I can't compare the bike to other full-suspension bikes, I can compare it to my hard-tail bike. My gut feeling tells me that the hard tail is more efficient, however, I am getting much more fun out of the full-suspension. I also read the other day a very detailed test where it was proven (lots of measurements) that full-suspension bikes are more efficient. Well - makes me feel better. Otherwise, I have no complaints. I know that there are many discussions about the headshock front-suspension. It gives you a very precise steering but apparently it is not as plush as many other suspension forks. This may be true, I have no comparisons. However, I think it serves it purpose. I don't want to switch. Highly recommended. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Love2MTB
a weekend warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: February 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This was my first Full Suspension bike and am I dissapointed. I used to ride a Trek 820 and quiet honestly, I can go just as fast on that with greater effiency. The whole bike blows. Well, I do like the headshok, but otherwise it only frustrates me. It's a brick, it climbs like a slug except a slug get's better traction, and when it bottoms out, it bucks wildly. Now come-on, I'm 140 pounds and used to ride a hardtail. Should I be having problems with the rear suspension? And on top of it all, the head tube ovalized after 3 months! And the grand finale, Cannondale won't respond to my emails. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hardguy
a racer
from Midwest Usa
Date Reviewed: January 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
An excellent ride that takes some getting used to. This is the first Cannondale that I have bought and I will never buy anything else from now on. Sure it was a little overpriced, but I sleep better at night knowing that it was made in Ammerica and not some cookie cutter rice burner like Trek, GT, and specialized. I used to live and die with Rockshox. Dude, Headshok completely blows them out of the water. Now they are fully serviceable, so barring catastrophy you should never have a problem. The idiots have problems because they don't change the oil and take care of their bike. Do yourself a favor buy cannondale, buy american. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy
a cross-country rider
from Connectiuct
Date Reviewed: January 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
purchased my super v to stay in shape while not riding motocross on my YZ 125...So far, I've really enjoyed it and can't find anything I don't like about it except perhaps not enough front end travel....I'm increasing the spring stiffness first and see if that helps...Workmanship on the bike is great, welds look super, handles like my YZ without a motor...For me, their great, If they hold up, I'll stick with them....FS is sure easy on the back... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john jaggie
a cross-country rider
from burgettstown,pa
Date Reviewed: January 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i have a cannondale super v 700 100 sl it s a 98 and i think it is a very
good bike,i just don't like headshocks,i upgraded my fork up to a fatty 70sl,and for the price i took it off and got a marzocchi bomber z2 bam,i works alot
better,cannandale forgot to grease my headshock. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete.
a weekend warrior
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: January 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Own a 97' Super V900, the bike has been great and I'm extremely rough on it.
The rear shock is a little to cushy, won't adjust to the stiffness I would like.
I'm still riding on factory components, which could have been better. The handling is great on single-track and fire-roads. Any tips
on upgrades would be great!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
HB
a weekend warrior
from Santa Clarita, CA
Date Reviewed: December 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My wife bought me the Super V some time in October '97. It's been great! However, the components are a lot to be desired. Since then I've upgraded to XTRs, except the front derailleur (it doesn't fit). I've also upgraded the wheelset along with a Ti seat set-up. The bike is phenomenal now. I was a roadie before my wife converted me to a MTB'r. I must say, this FS really takes the wear and tear off one's body. I could definitely ride much longer on the Super V. It's great on fire roads as well as on single tracks, not bad on roads either. I would highly recommend Connondale bikes! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crusha
a weekend warrior
from Texas
Date Reviewed: December 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been on a SV500 for 6 months now- my first FS bike. I must say I rode/looked at alot of bikes before I bought this one. It came down to a comparatively priced GT and the c'dale. The c'dale easily won because it looks cool and the guys at the GT shop were wanker-faced hoseheads. I am even happier I chose the SV500 (over...say a sv2000) with its mediocre components because it's the frame that matters and half the fun is rebuilding the bike with what you like anyway. Nothing beats it cornering, the suspension is as sweet as you can afford and the bike stays tight and indestructable on long, hairy rides-so tight I quit packing my Alien. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Temple
a cross-country rider
from Oxfordshire,UK
Date Reviewed: December 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Ding-dong. Black/gold 1997 Super V 2000. This bike is a seriously classy bike. Huge, bombproof pivots, flex-free frame and forks, plush tunable ride, with just the right amount of travel (maybe a bit more at the front), light (for a sus) at 26lbs dead (25.8 claimed), mmmmmmmmm-nice. It tears up singletrack - the response is better than my rigid steel bike, the back end is so much stiffer. The Fatty 70 forks are way stiffer under cornering, braking etc. than any of the telescopic forks I have come accross (but Pace get close). The pivot loactipon means that there is very little bob when you sit - it does increase a lot when you stand though, but then so do all fully active suspension bikes. This bike is (hand)built to last, which is lucky since it is not un-cheap.
Overall a seriously fast, comfortable bike that is phenomenal on rough singletrack. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shred
a racer
from MN
Date Reviewed: December 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Super V junk is more like it. First, the thing is ungodly heavy, even for a suspension bike, and I HAD a small frame. Second, the suspension does not even compare to say a GT LTS or a Specialized FSR, I tried them all. Third, if you like to biopace when you ride, stand, sit, getting a drink of water, get a Super V. Fourth, Headshoks are pieces of junk!!! They have limited travel, jackup the front-end of the bike, and quality travel, ya right... Cannondale just wanted to do something different for their forks and they did(marketing gimmick), too bad the forks aren't worth the money. Lastly, carbon over an aluminum skeleton(RAVEN)=GIMMICK, it's lighter to use all carbon and I wouldn't want to scratch that thermoset carbon fiber, you might find that your frame will be in pieces soon if you do, unlike a thermoplastic(STS). I TALKED TO A DEALER OF GT, SPECIALIZED AND CANNONDALE AND THEY(EMPLOYEES AND OWNERS)GUESS WHAT, THEY DON'T RIDE SUPER V's, THEY SAID THAT THEY KNOW BETTER, THEY EITHER RIDE GT OR SPECIALIZED AND THEY CAN RIDE ANY BIKE THEY HAVE WHEN THEY WANT! Cannodale SUPER V's are O.K., but there are a lot better out there, so go out and find out for yourself. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimbo
a cross-country rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: December 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bjought a 97 Super V 2000 in May and love it to death. I spent 7 years on a hard-tail that I was equally enamored with. I won't lie, it took me a little while to get used to full suspension, and the first few hard core rides on my C-dale left me less than exstatic. But now that I am used to f/s and my new ride, I cjould never go back. The S-V is the greatest x-c bike going. To tell you the truth, my wife's Klein Mantra climbs a little better out of the saddle (by design) but when it comes to everything else, the S-V gets the nod--and the head shock is bar-none the best front end going. My only complaint is that the 97 S-V 2000 could have been spec'd just a little better for the price, but no doubt about the bike over all, 5 chillis | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brent Jordan
a racer
from Arcadia CA USA
Date Reviewed: December 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Super V SL is by far the best full the suspension bike I've ever owned. I use to own a Boulder and a GT LTS. The boulder was nice for it's time, but now it's out of date, the LTS was the flexest bike I've ever ridden. I blew the ROCK SHOX in two days, and broke the swingarm a week after that. Let me tell you people {espically you big people} do a favor to yourself and buy a Cannondale it will be the best investment you ever made. Don't let those bike shops who don't sell Cannondale's rip on, or try and talk out of the HEADSHOK this by far the best front suspension made. From one big dude to of all of you, do yourself a favor don't ever by a ROCKSHOX. Rockshox says there forks have 63 mm of travel, that's without any elastomer in them. The HEADSHOK DD60 and Fatty 70 are true to their travel. They say 60mm they are 60mm, same with the Fatty 70. I have sold and serviced several bike lines, this by far the best bike out on the market.
If your in the market of purchasing a carbon full suspension, don't even look at the STS.
Any person who knows composites knows carbon can't be used as a weight bearing material, that's why Cannondale uses a Aluminum skeleton wrapped in carbon, because they did their homework unlike GT. BUY A RAVEN. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard J. Barnes
a cross-country rider
from Pasadena Ca.
Date Reviewed: December 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a SV2000 in march 97. I love it!!! It turns tight and doesn't have the flex of the other types of front suspensions. It can scream down single tracks with razor sharp moves, as well as scream down fireroads. The frame is stiff and fairly light. This is my third cannondale. (I still have all three so my brother and friends can come along)and am looking forward to getting the new Raven. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Leo St Peter
a weekend warrior
from winslow maine
Date Reviewed: December 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding mtb's for two years and have riden a few different models. I have now owned my C-dale super v-700 which I purchased used, in mint shape, foe 950.00. A bit much, but the bike looks so cool, as most will agree!! I raced once for the first time last fall and won my class B 7 miles 45 min. flat! That is the entire story on this bikes speed, it moves>>>>>> As for suspension the fox vanilla was spent 6 months after i got it and will not return to that company! As for overall suspension, I love it. Ican go down the single track faster than all most all my friends and it handles like a dream! I still need to do some upgrades and would lke to hear from folks who have the early 96 model like mine. I think Cannondale makes a great bike and except for the cables rubbing on the soft Alum. frame I have no complaints. I Plan on racing next spring and am debating the clipless pedals? As for weight I only weigh 160 so I am already lighter than my competion. FOUR STARS NO DOUBT | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zap
a weekend warrior
from Miami, FL
Date Reviewed: December 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I Bought a moss green SVA 700 Comp about a year and a half ago for $1100. Overpriced! One of the best looking bikes on any trail. Excellent frame and build quality, but the stock components just were not good enough. It's great fun to ride, but only after I spent another $1000 upgrading EVERYTHING! But thats what you get when you buy American. It's kinda like buying a Mercedes Benz; you'll get a hell of a ride, but you will pay through the nose for it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
nick
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: December 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
i ride a SV1000. this is my second C-dale and its great. very rigid bike and handles great. this bike is probably a better deal than many over $2500 bikes out there. i have upgraded quite a bit for downhills and about to add WB DC110 fork on it because the DD60 headshock does not have enough travel. also looks cool! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chua Ming HOng
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: December 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a 98 Sv700 because my Gt ricochet was stolen , in fact i am now happy that mine old bike was stolen because going through bumps on the ricochet was a torture but now ,no matter how big the bumps are the bike just goes over it without any feelings . I will give it thumbs up | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lia
a cross-country rider
from Las Vegas
Date Reviewed: December 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought the 1998 Super V 700 and I LOVE it!! I've only been riding mountain bikes for about 5 months and this is my first full suspension bike. I can climb well with great traction in loose dirt and descending is quite painless. I did replace the handlebars with a HellBent and turned the stem over for better control and an easier reach. I also replaced my saddle with a different CODA style.
My husband and I ride off-road as well as on and I love the way the Cannondale performs on both surfaces.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
craig
a weekend warrior
from titusville, fl
Date Reviewed: December 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
have a '97 sv1000. after a couple of personal preference parts swaps i can say
i've not ridden anything i like better. and i just traded in my m800 'beast of
the east' that i rode and modified for nearly two years. just learned some
more headshok tuning tricks i'll share via e-mail if you'd like.
in brief; plush, flex-free, fairly light, bulletproof. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
preston
a weekend warrior
from utah
Date Reviewed: November 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a cdale super v and it cracked within 2 weeks and took 2 months to warranty.. and it cracked again so as far as I can say THEY SUCK
and I am never buying another one and neither are any of my freinds..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pat McNamr
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: November 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just bought a Super V Raven 2000 and the bike is just great. Would like a lockout rear shock, will probably change to one. Bike is stiff, responsive and climbs like a banshee. I'm 190 pounds and have trashed two carbon fiber frames so far ( a Kestrel 4000 road frame and a Raleigh MCC8 m-bike) so am anxious to see how this one holds up. Five year warranty.....can't go wrong! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Oliver
a cross-country rider
from Santa Monica
Date Reviewed: November 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Super V 2000--Full Suspension. Killer. Nuf' said. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a cross-country rider
from IdahoI
Date Reviewed: November 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the '96 900 SuperVee Comp. It came with a Vanilla rear shock that was crap as soon as I got to know the bike well enough to hammer it. Bounced the rear end off the ground no matter what setting I chose. Replaced it with a Stratos with bar mounted lockout. The DD50 had too much stiction, so replaced it with the Headshock upgrade spring. Both were extremely significant upgrades that immediately solved problems only occuring at hammer speeds. New speeds meant overpowering the brakes, so replaced stock Alivios (!) with LX V brakes and Avid levers. Now the bike is a serious contender, and I can lock out both front and rear on the fly for tricky uphills. Love the short steep geometry for handling, and the stiff Headshock setup helps overcome the resulting downhill twitchiness be allowing extreme precision, unlike flexy fork shock designs. I' really love the bike, but a high rating would be unfair due to the number of upgrades I did to tune it. Only a 3 as it came to me, a 5 now. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mack
a weekend warrior
from Evanston
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Disregard MT's review. He rides like his bike does....it's a FISHer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MT
a cross-country rider
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride with Mack. The reason the frame is bulletproof is because it spends most of its time leaned up against a tree while Mack fixes it. Brings new meaning to the term trailside maintenance. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mack
a weekend warrior
from Evanston, IL
Date Reviewed: November 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Bullet proof frame. I'm 220lbs and the bike can take a beating. For the heavy riders, try a DD60 fork with the Fatty 70 cartridge! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a cross-country rider
from Princeton, NJ
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the '96 SV900 comp. It is an absolutely great bike. The stock bike is a little heavy but after upgrading most of the parts the weight is a shade under 25 lbs., which is quite good for full sus. The only problems I have had with the bike are the bosses for the cables...they seem to be in all the wrong places. Also the rear frame needs a brake booster when direct pull cantis (i.e. Shimano V-brakes) are installed. Steering is great...very responsive, the ride is plush (fully active) and thanks to the DD50's in front, I can dial out most of the bobbing when out of the saddle. Since single track is all about picking the correct line, this bike allows that because of its stiff and precise handling. Further, instead of going around obstacles, I find I can go through them now. How much do I love this bike?...I recently took it out with a bunch of road bikers for a 60 mile ride on the roads (preferred it to my road bike)! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a cross-country rider
from Maywood, NJ
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Managed to attain my SV3k (sl80) frame with coda 900 cranks a couple 2 monthe ago. Migrated the better parts off my Killer V to the SV, and put the killerV back that way I got it. The SV with fatty works very well for me, a 200+lb rider. I keep the air up to the highside both front and rear to attain an
almost hardtail stiffness well suited for keeping the bike moving fast.
Sporting XT derailers, cassette, and SL Rapidfires, 747s and a sweet atombomb/217 wheelset, and a titec PG bar. I switch from MythosXC to Wild Grippers and back depending on conditions, I find the bike predictable, accurate, and very fast. Yes I do love this ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
don p.
a downhiller
from shoreline wa.
Date Reviewed: October 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
'96 SV A700 comp put on marzocchi Z1 bomber fork, fox alps5 air shock
Sun Rhino rims stock stx derailers stock xt hubs stock bb xt crank
11 races 7 wins Nike Wild Rockies Series Vet Sport Class Downhill Champion!
NORBA Nats WA. 1st place What else needs to be said.
(yes i buy all my own equipment)
turn & burn!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wm. Davidson
a racer
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: October 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
bought the frame . built it with xt. great bike. climbs great. down hill is a blast. great bike for anyone wanting to smoke there friends. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe Dawson
a cross-country rider
from Sterling Hts. Mi
Date Reviewed: October 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Super V 1000 Freeride one week ago and I love the bike. I had a Proflex 856 before this bike and the Cannondale is so much better. It is very easy to tune the suspension to your weight and peresonal taste. I changed the crank to a Race Face and the seat to a Titec Beserker Downhill which are both excellent upgrades. The suspension does bob in the middle and large chainrings. but I haven't noticed much loss of energy when it does bob. When climbing steep hills in the small ring there is no bob but the suspension is very active. The Bike weights about 31 pounds which may be to much for some people but I haven't noticed the extra weight. The ride is very plush and stable in all conditions. If you are thinking of buying a freeride tyoe of bike you should be very happy with the Cannondale. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed
a cross-country rider
from New York
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased my SL-100 frame in July 1997, switching over most of the parts from my 22-lb M2 Stumpjumper (XTR derailers, a tasty wheelset from Dave, and other nice stuff). Bottom line: I don't mind one bit that the C-Dale is 4-lbs heavier than my M2. I can go faster, with less effort and longer, on the C-Dale. Whatever pedaling energy is lost to the rear suspension (and I believe that it's minimal) is more than offset by the advantages of having your spine intact after a long day of roots, rocks and ledges.The C-Dale headshock (DD-60 on mine) must be the ultimate carving fork for tight, technical singletrack. It works well with the rear suspension and produces a well-balanced ride. Unlike some other bikes, the swingarm pivot on the C-Dale looks and feels bombproof. The frame is extremely stiff, and it has stayed that way through a summer of thrashing. Two big thumbs up. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
smack
a cross-country rider
from Charlottesville VA
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Have owned the Raven 3000 for a month now, and wow what a bike. sub 25 pounds, 70 mm front, 100mm rear, no stiction, low maintence, climbs great, descends well, dream bike parts spec (XTR ect..) looks like nothing else. My little slice of carbon fiber paradise. I highly recommend this bike if you are in the market for a upper end bike.smack | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jofi Goco
a cross-country rider
from Quezon City, Philippines
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding mountain bikes for three years now and have had two bikes before buying a SVA 1000.Aside from looking totally cool, this bike will
accept anything the trail has to offer.Big or small bumps don't mean a thing
to this bike.The price may be expensive but who says quality and satisfaction come cheap. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark Cochran
a weekend warrior
from Lakeland,Fl. USA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding mtb's for 8 years and have seen many designs which
all work ok but theyall have their problems, But the Cannondale SV 2000 which
I have seems to be the best overall of all the designs. Absolutely bombproof
swingarm pivot,does'nt creek like all the others. I did replace the fork with a
rock shock judy DH because I wanted more travel up front. This machine soaks
up everything the trail has to offer such as small bumps to boulders. If you
are looking for full suspension then look no further this is (the) machine. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Narvas
a weekend warrior
from New York
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a mint(used) Super V 900 comp frame. It's the best bike available. Cannondale is now my only bike company. this is my second cannondale.(first was a 97 caad3 hardtail frame only too) Just read the other reviews. nobody gave it a bad review out of 81 riders!!!!!!!!!! Just the best!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a weekend warrior
from Boston
Date Reviewed: August 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Just rode a sv1000fr. While they didn't let me out of the parking lot, I can tell you slamming into curbs has never been so enjoyable. Has any one rode this thing in real life? Tell me about it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tod Chapman
a weekend warrior
from Butte, MT
Date Reviewed: August 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 1995 Super V 2000. I have ridden it hard for the last year. I love the ride and the responsiveness of the bike. I have put Mountain Speed Speed Springs in the Headshok, added Spinergy wheels, and an Shimano XT crankset. So far this is the best bike I have owned. For those of you complaining about components, buy the higher end bike!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jackson Siqueira
a downhiller
from Brasil
Date Reviewed: August 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
SUPER V ACTIVE 3000 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eggy
a weekend warrior
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: August 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I really like how the rear suspension works. It's plush. The headshock is great and has a quick response time. It's firm. The Gripshift works great
too! However, the bike isn't cheap and it cost a bundle...but it's an
awsome design. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a cross-country rider
from Germany
Date Reviewed: August 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Super V700 - excellent bike if you know how to upgrade it a little (see it on http://www.th-darmstadt.de/~eriklenh/bike.htm ) I tried for one year !
Just change some bits and the bike will be much better than you.
SO - 5 chilies (the upgrading is not a negative argument because if you've got the money- buy a RAVEN and no upgrading whatsoever) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce
a cross-country rider
from Mountain View, CA
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I rented a Cannondale SVA for a day of ski-area downhilling in Steamboat Springs. It was equiped with Rock Shox Indy in front and a Fox Coil-Over rear shock. This bike was great downhill, way more plush, stiff, and stable than my Y-33. It inspired confidence. Some of this may have been the tires, which were IRC Missles. On the downside, this bike bobbed like crazy when peddling. Climbing was ok in the correct gear (traction was good and you didn’t have to worry about finding a line, just point and pedal), but woe to the rider trying to hammer over a rise in too tall of a gear. This bike seemed to come to a complete stop. All the legwork was going into compressing the shock.This is a good ski area bike. I can’t imagine using this bike for cross country racing. I give it three flaming chilies.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
José Mota
a downhiller
from PORTO.PORTUGAL
Date Reviewed: August 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
É sem duvida um quadro fabuloso, foi comprado para fazer Dowhill por isso está equipado com um grupo XTR, suspensão White Brothers DC110.
Comporta-se de um modo muito homogeneo entre a frente e a traseira, sendo sempre previsivel. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rigo Brambila
a cross-country rider
from Poway,California
Date Reviewed: August 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the SV100sl frame about four months ago and I am running mostly XT components including V brakes and 747 pedals. I rode on the TREK 8000 prior to buying my C-dale, so I was allready used to a bike with quick responce and that was fast on the single tracks but I never expected anything with such superb handling and soooh plush on the decents as my Super V has spoiled me with. Some of the guys that I ride with are on such bikes as the TREK Y22,GT LTS and Gary Fisher Jashua and I've rode all their bikes at one point or another,but to be on a true full suspension with outstanding speed and control the Super V's smokes them all! LATER Dudes.. | | Overall Rating: |
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