Submitted by
Grant
a Weekend Warrior
from Bothell, WA Date Reviewed: December 17, 2004
Favorite Trail:
NW Timber @ Tiger Mt.
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Single pivot in the right place. Strong, durable and reasonably light. Headshok tracks like a rigid - point it and that's where you're going! Crafstmanship is second to none and the v-frame has excllent standover. I was also a sucker for the flat black and grey paint job on this model.
Weaknesses:
Stock component spec left a lot to be desired. Cheap chinese BB, bottom-shelf plastic lever rapidfire, no-name v-brakes, etc... but I purchased this bike for the "foundation" of the frame, fork & paint job. Parts are always temporary and don't make the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale KillerV 900 hardtail. Short test rides as shop mechanic on many, many other designs.
Bike Setup:
Currently: XT drivetrain and XT rapidfire. XT hydraulic disks. Mavic f219disk wheels and WTB tires. Nice WTB saddle. Uh, a handlebar with grips and barends, too.
Bottom Line:
This bike just fits me. I've been through a couple sets of components, but the "heart" of the bike (super-v frame, fox vanila rear shock, DD80 headshok, pivot bearings, etc..) have all held up since 1999 with absolutely no complaints or issues. I expect that this bike could last as long as I want to keep maintaining it. So... it's probably a bit overbuilt for weight freaks. But as a 190# rider, this bikes' steady quiet reliablity are truly appreciated. It's a blast to ride and offers confidence-inspiring performance climbing and in the bumps. I wish they still made it. I also sometimes wish for a longer-travel fork up front. Maybe a Lefty for Christmas?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a
from Iowa Date Reviewed: February 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Sugar Bottom Bike Trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Frame
Weaknesses:
A lot of crap, needed some upgrades
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn S-20, Trek 3000
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike, I got it from a friend that had no clue about the original value of the bike. $75 was a steal and allowed me to upgrade and have the best bike in the area for price spent on it. Great trail bike but i use it to commute to school and work as well. Good for a beginner or expert (but will need upgrades). Couldn't go wrong for 75 bucks ;)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamen Ortiz
a Cross Country Rider
from K-Town, Germany Date Reviewed: April 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
It's Germany There's too many to list
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Holeshot Bicycle Columbus, MS
Strengths:
Everything This bike rocks.
Weaknesses:
A little heavy if you need to carry it. But who carries their bike?! Front derailer is a pain to adjust. Still can't get it right.
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback Topanga (Hard Tail)
Bike Setup:
Stock. Added clipless peddles and a new seat.
Bottom Line:
This bick is great. I get alot of looks from it over here. Suspension is good for everything here. Bike is a little heavy for all the hills here but otherwise. I don't think i'll get rid of it 100 thumbs up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken Haggett
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Elmore, Vermont USA. Date Reviewed: July 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
haven't finished building it yet
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
From a friend
Strengths:
Seems to be a strong frame, not much heavier than my previous bikes.
Weaknesses:
The tire clearance on the head shock fork is tight if using a large front tire. Concerned about lodging a stick or rock in it and going over.
Similar Products Used:
First fs, other bikes: K2 Zedx front susp., cadex carbon fiber, 85 Specialized stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock other than trying out riser bars for the down hills.
Bottom Line:
I've been very happy with this bike so far. It is the first full susp. I've owned and was concerned about the climbing ability but have been very pleased. I'm sure there is some energy lost on climbs due to the rear susp. but it feels like it makes up for it in traction gained. It is almost imposible to make this thing spin out on a climb, I can stand up on it even on a wet rocky trail and it just keeps plowing ahead. I'm still getting used to decending with it but it's getting to be a lot of fun, very different from a rigid or front shock frame. I've read many reviews complaining about the components but riding the rocks and roots of northeast vermont a $100 part snaps just as easily as a $30 part. Everything seems to work just fine although I must admit I'm not possitive if the components are original equip.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryan
a
from cougarland, utah Date Reviewed: June 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
strong durable frame, customer sevice
Weaknesses:
everything but the frame
Bike Setup:
who cares
Bottom Line:
this frame has outlasted every single component that the bike came with. The pivot is still quiet and tight, the bottom bracket was the last of the original components to go, but it lasted through a hard year and a half of hard riding. If you are a new owner, toss your headshock or sell it on ebay, i tried two headshocks before realizing they will only work for light xc use, anything big and they just dont cut it. Dont worry about the junk components that come on the bike, you will break them all anyway, and then you can put whatever you want on. This frame is way more durable than my roomates fsrs and idrives, never a problem, but seriously, get rid of the headshock asap. Only 4 flamers cause of the junk components, other than that you will break before the frame, and if not they replace it anyway.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a
from Senoia, GA Date Reviewed: June 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$899.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Great handling, comfortable, tough, elegant...really, what's not to like?
Weaknesses:
me
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS3
Bike Setup:
Easton carbon fiber seat post and CT2 flat bar, Mavic 517's with Chris King hubs and DT Swiss spokes, all else is stock.
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE! If I had to do it all over again, I'd get the same bike. It's not the flashiest bike out there, but it's a solid rig. Properly set up, it's near perfect. Very easy to manipulate on tight trails. Really the only faults I can find don't come from the bike, but from the rider. I've had the bike for nearly 3 years and still love it. I wish I could ride it more than I do, but then having a family seriously cuts into one's riding time, doesn't it? This is my 4th review since March 2000. I like the bike more and more each review. Never thought I'd like Cannondale this much,, but the Super V 500 is a well built bike. If you have this bike and don't like it, try replacing the parts (begin with the wheels...stock wheels are CHEAP. Cut weight where you can (seat post, wheels, handlebars, saddle...maybe get better deraileurs{I went with XT front and rear}, if you're still riding the Continental Atlanta tires, ditch them and get Maxxis, Kenda, Hutchinson, Michelin...I'd imagine most anything is better than the stock tires...they're dreadful. As I've said, properly set up, this bike is going to be hard to beat. As a stock bike, it's not horrible, but average is about as good as it gets. Cannondale lets the consumer worry about the upgrades. If I were to buy my bike as is as a new ride, it would have cost me in exess of $3K. I don't have nearly that much invested.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Klaas
a Weekend Warrior
from leuven / belgium Date Reviewed: April 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
belgium/europe
Strengths:
great frame for the money. fast and stiff, not to heavy. lot's of room to throw the bike around. looks and rides agressive.
Weaknesses:
the headshock setup is much to soft, smashed the rubber after 3 months. wheels are total crap. I broke the original '99 swingarm about 6months ago on downhill in mallorca (=end of vacation), but it was replaced within two weeks with the new much stiffer one.
Similar Products Used:
kawa 250cc
Bike Setup:
new swingarm, mavic wheels with 36 sapim spokes (never boken since then), downhill bar, 8 speed cassette (doesn't wear out that fast), fizik saddle
Bottom Line:
best you can get for your money. fast and fun bike to ride. handles well in almost any condition, cross-country / freeride/ downhill / or just jumping stairs in the city. just ride and love it. did anyone try to fit 2.35 or even 2.5 (maxxis) tyres on it?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Sandpoint, ID USA Date Reviewed: February 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Any and all
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
From private party
Strengths:
Unstoppable construction, decent weight, handles well, stiffness of Headshock, standover clearance is best in class.
Weaknesses:
bobs a little while pedaling but not unbearable. Tight riders compartment, easily fixed with new stem.
Similar Products Used:
test ridden most everything at some point
Bike Setup:
SuperV 500 w/ headshock Fatty dd60 fork, XTR and XT throughout, continental traction pro tires
Bottom Line:
Have mountain biked since mid Eighties, this is my first full suspension, have had three hardtails, and countless fully rigid bikes (remember those?). The last Cannondale I owned was back in 87, no suspension, was a great bike, have always liked Cannondale. I need a strong frame as I am a 200 pound rider, and I havn't killed this bike yet, although I promptly swapped all my XTR and XT stuff onto it, which brought the weight down to an honest 26 pounds. Does quite well at XC and mild DH, fair on climbs. Anyone who does poorly at XC on this bike should work out a bit more, I grew up on 30+ pound non-suspended bikes, those were the good ol' days. Had to toss in the stiffest spring available for my Headshock fork due to my weight, it is easy as long as you have the right tools. This is a great bike for the intermediate rider who has good mechanical comprehension and can maintain the bike themselves, and can handle a quick-turning fs bike. The pros may want a lighter rig, the novices may want something a bit less spendy and intimidating in the handling department. I give this bike five big fat burnin' yaks.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean
a Weekend Warrior
from Charleston,SC Date Reviewed: September 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Real Bikes
Strengths:
Very strong and stiff aluminum construction. Visually unique.
Weaknesses:
After 5000 miles and 4years, none yet.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing comes close
Bike Setup:
Easton CT2 Monkey lite carbon bar, Cane Creek AD10, Headshock Moto FR, all XT drive train, Thomson Elite Seat Post, Selle Italia Flite Titanium, Time Atac Alium Pedals,.........
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike in 1997. Its best quality is the maintenance free design. The rear swing arm pivots on a sealed cartridge bearing, not some lousey plastic bushing. To prove my point, I have just under 5ooo miles logged and only recently for the first time ever I had to remove the swingarm due to some creeking. All I did was clean the bearing well and add a little grease and the bike is silent again. Cannondale provides a lifetime warranty on the frame and this bike looks awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Stamford, CT USA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The fire road to Great Camp Santanoni in Newcomb, NY (so far)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
used-original owner
Strengths:
Finally found a FS bike in the right size! (this was more the default search criteria over brand/price/etc. as I'm 6'4"/225lbs). So far I have absolutely no complaints - my last MTB was a GF Hoo Koo E Koo about 5 years ago ,and I knew I wanted FS this time and the SV has not disappointed. Sure it could have better components, but they will be upgraded as I wreck them or save up enuff $$$. Frame is rock-solid and will make an excellent base for a future trail-thrasher.
Weaknesses:
Headshok front susp. gets mentioned here for it's lack of adjustability. This bike has the Super Fatty M which is their 2nd model up from the lowest one they offer. Had LBS put stiffest spring that C-dale offers, but still wish it had more travel & tweakability... When it comes time for a fork upgrade I'll most likely go with an aftermarket traditional setup (can you say "Marzocchi Bomber"? ;). Sorry HeadShok!
Similar Products Used:
Does the Hoo Koo E Koo from 5 years ago count!? And the Giant Sedona a year or two before that??? Guess not...
Bike Setup:
All stock save for brand-new Fire XC Pro's & Topeak Panoram computer. The tires are a HUGE improvement over the stock ones that were still on the bike & the computer is actually pretty cool - I bought it because it was different & only $50. JUST bought a cheap pair of VP clipless pedals & Diadora Jalapeno shoes that will go into use in the next week; as well as a set of "leftover" Mavic SUP 217's that I'll be building up over the next month or so...
Bottom Line:
I love this bike! Rides good, looks good, feels good. So far I've been pretty tough on it over some jumps & drops and haven't bent or broken anything (holding my breath about the stock wheels tho from what I've heard - but that's why I bought the 217's...) Anyone looking for a good entry-to-mid level FS bike should DEFINITELY check this bike out! Yes, they're pricey but find a deal on a used one like I did & you can't go wrong! (For $600 I got this 1-owner 99 SV500, Bell Forza helmet, tailbag w/spare tube, multi-tool, mini-pump, patch kit) AND a Rhode Gear 2-bike trunk rack!!! (No wisea$$, no Ginsu knives were included in this deal too, sorry.)
4 flamin' chili's for value 'cause of steep retail(new) price, 4 flamin' chili's for overall rating due to HeadShok shortcomings.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eamonn digaetano
a Cross Country Rider
from bridgewater connecticut Date Reviewed: August 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the longest one
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
the bicycle center/brookfield
Strengths:
lateral stiffness, durability, quality, good components
Weaknesses:
front fork setup on mine was a little soft tough to upgrade. none other than that
i cannot believe what i got for this price. At the time when i decided that i needed a new bike, this one was out of the question but later on, it had good marks on my checklist. Ive got the new swingarm on the back and the suspension has given me no problems on the climbs yet, not even the long ones. if you are a new in full suspension, you should definitely consider this bike it has barely any mantenance other than having to put it away in the garage when you are done. it is a fun bike and i love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brian
a Weekend Warrior
from wyckoff,new jersey Date Reviewed: June 15, 2001
Favorite Trail:
urban
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
bike pad
Strengths:
it is a sturdy frame
Weaknesses:
needs more rear travel
Similar Products Used:
bullit,stinky
Bike Setup:
marzocchi z.1 mcr fork azonic a-frame pedals
Bottom Line:
its a good bike for cross country for freeriding pick sumthin else
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Weekend Warrior
from Senoia, GA Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$899.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Solid, solid, solid. Turns on a dime and gives you nine cents change. Suspension isn't too mushy even after 2 years and several hundred miles.
Weaknesses:
Stock set up. Cheap wheels, derailleurs, cassett and chainrings.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS 3
Bike Setup:
Easton CT2 flat bar and seat post. Bar ends, XT derailleurs,Mavic 517s w/ Chris King hubs (still have stock cassett, chain and rings), Michelin Wildgripper tires, CODA cranks, stock V-brakes CODA 1000 saddle.
Bottom Line:
This is my 3rd review of this bike since March of 2000. As I live with the machine I'll update from time to time. This is a great bike. No problems that I haven't been the primary cause of (derailluer smashing). The bike turns quickly, handles very well...just a good rig. It's not featherlite, but it's not super heavy either. I've cut some weight by adding carbon fiber and new wheels, but full suspension is going to weigh more than a hardtail; a small price to pay if it saves your bad back and knees. I still love this bike after 2 years. I may have to replace the pedals in the not-too-distant future. Soaks up hits and shrugs off abuse like water off a duck's back. I highly recommend this bike. Properly set up, it's as good as the exotic, high-priced f/s bikes out there. Take time to get to know the bike and choose with care your upgrade components. Upgrade rule of thumb: spend a lot now or even more later. Take care of this bike and it will "love" you right back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a
from Wisonson Rapids, Wisconsin, USA Date Reviewed: April 18, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$950.00
Purchased At:
Fellow mtb'r
Strengths:
Great bike. Handles better than anything I have been on before. The bike has pretty much been stipped and rebuilt to lighten it. It is down to 25lbs which is great for a full suspension.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Coda cranks, pedels bars and bar ends. XTR hubs, bontarage valiant rims. XTR front SRAM 9.0 rear. Avid brakes. Ultra fatty DL with lockout fork and cane creek rear shock. Thompson post with a flite italia ti gel seat.
Bottom Line:
The super V 500 is a great bike as is. Lighten it up and you have a great bike that can do anything you need it to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh, PA, USA Date Reviewed: April 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
North Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$900.00
Strengths:
The headshock is the tightest, smoothest, strongest fork in the world. And it's inexpensive and easy to upgrade. The frame is big and strong too. Swing arm is permanently tight. The Fox Vanilla works fine, when adjusted right. Make sure to get pro help on suspension set up or it won't climb well. After that it climbs great. And it's disc ready.
Weaknesses:
The rims suck! Better be careful what brake pads you use! The rear shock mounting bolts get loose way too easily. They require frequent re-torquing. Bar ends would have been nice! Shifting both the front and rear derailleur takes too much finger pressure, even when the cables and derailleurs are well lubed. What's up with that!
Similar Products Used:
Trek, full and front only suspenders. GT hard tail.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for bar ends, different tires and brakes.
Bottom Line:
If you want a good bike to train on, keep up with the guys, and never have to worry about busting it, then this is the bike. The bike is immune to crashing. If you want damping up front just buy the hydraulic cartridge and slip it in. When you wear out the rims or derailleurs just buy better stuff and you will have an awesome bike. And it will stay tight forever. Try saying that about your 4 bar linkage rear suspension bikes! Garbage after 1 year! You can buy this bike and not want to replace it for a long time. If you race, go spend a lot more money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scot
a Weekend Warrior
from Boca Raton, FL USA Date Reviewed: March 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Quiet Waters
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$625.00
Strengths:
Great ride, can really take the bumps on the trail. Built like a tank!
Weaknesses:
really none so far.
Similar Products Used:
none...except for my old PK Ripper in the BMX days.
Bike Setup:
Stock except seat - added bar ends and Eunduro 2 computer
Bottom Line:
This is my first MB. Wanted to get back into riding as my BMX days are far gone. First off I've read many reviews from this site. It seems that there are pretty mixed feelings about Cannondale in general. In my opinion this bike does everything it's intended to do - it's NOT designed for riding off the roof of my house. But, out on the trails it's fast and soaks up the the terrain without sacrificing my body parts. It has great steering with the Headshock...point and go! Well for the price of $625.00 used in perfect condition I got a great deal, and with a few upgrades - probably Mavic CrossRide or 517's w/ xt hubs and some clips I'll have one heck of a machine. For those who knock others rides (you know you are) I say Happy Landing! Just stay off my roof please. For those that want a great ride to hit the trails with the SV's are a blast to ride! Congratulations Cannondale!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Ft. Lauderdale, FL Date Reviewed: January 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Whealer Dealer
Strengths:
Great all around bike, fox vanilla keeps the rear down, great looks
Weaknesses:
head shock is a little weak, also at 31 pounds a little heavy. Stems are hard to come by so riser bars are main option
Bike Setup:
this is the 2001 model, I'va already changed to FSA crankset, XTR linear brakes and levers, Nisene seat, 2" Profile design riser bar, Specialized clip in pedals,Moab Leader tires.
Bottom Line:
The bike now is great. I have the extra large model and it fits me perfect. It corners superbly as well as long as you're not on an uphill switchback. just kidding. I would highly recommend this bike to anyone who wants a great, sturdy, reliable ride that also looks great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Langford
a Weekend Warrior
from Newnan, GA Date Reviewed: November 26, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Windridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$899.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Pretty much everything. Handles great. Easy to maneuver. Easily upgradable. That's what happens when you begin with a solid, well built platform.
Weaknesses:
Wheel set is CRAP. The best attribute about the wheels is that they are circular and get you from place to place. They are heavy, however, I've had no major problems with them. Also, the derailleurs are sub-par. In less than a year, I wrecked both front and rear. Handle bars and seat post are heavy. I've replaced them with much lighter ones. Stock tires (Continental Atlanta series were terrible at best...replaced with Michelin Wildgrippers and improved the ride in HUGE ways.
Similar Products Used:
GT-LTS3
Bike Setup:
stock wheels (still), but that will change in the next few months (I hope). Bars and seatpost have been ditched for much lighter ones. CODA 1000 seat which is lighter than the more plush job it originally had. Michelin Wildgripper tires. Other than that, it's pretty much stock, but in the process of major upgrades as parts wear out.
Bottom Line:
Smooth rider. I ride so much more now that I have a comfortable bike as well as a bike that is capable of taking decent sized hits and not making the rider pay for it. One of the keys to a good bike is how easy it is to upgrade...this one is. You're starting with a great frame and fork, but as time and money allow, it's real easy to upgrade this bike. I liked this bike alright when I got it in August of '99, but in November of '00, I love it. I can't say that about a lot of products I've purchased in the past.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter
a Cross Country Rider
from toronto Date Reviewed: November 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
too many to name
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$750.00
Strengths:
Stiff frame, absorbs all types of bumps with ease, handles well, frame durability and quality
Weaknesses:
heavy, not a good climber, fatty fork
Similar Products Used:
gf sugar, K2, trek VRX
Bike Setup:
XT, sun rims, Fire XC tires,
Bottom Line:
Follow up to a review one year ago. Basically this bike is a reliable high quality bike. It's not a racing bike, it's an all around good trail bike. The fatty fork is not the best but it is stiction free, has excellent small bump response and ok big hit response.
The frame is incredibly stiff, with lots of travel in the rear swingarm.
All around I have had good luck with this bike. It looks great too, it'll be a shame when the stop making it in 2002 (there is only one model available in 2001).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brady Owens
a Cross Country Rider
from Alabama Date Reviewed: September 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Oak Mountain state park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path Tuscaloosa AL
Strengths:
A Tank! Bulletproof design, well Thought out. What else would you expect from Cannondale
Weaknesses:
Junk rims. And a not so good trail riding front tire
Similar Products Used:
Schwin Hurricane upgraded to the hilt
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Araya Front rim and Coda hub
Bottom Line:
This bike is well built. A blast to ride. And handles a trail like no other. Plus a hell of a price for such a well built and designed bike.
I'm a mechanical engineer so this bike lived up to my standards of a well engineered and thought out bike.
However the rims that come with it (Weimann) are pure junk. They had to replace my front one cause the sidewals of the rim bent at the seem when you applied the brake. I now have an Araya front rim and Coda hub, I'll be replacing the rear as soon as I possibly can.
My bike came with the Continental Atlanta on the front. It's straight line performance is awesome but can take a corner the size of a football field, has no side bite.
Have had a few problems with the STX front derailure, probably will upgrade it later. But the rest of the bike is perfect. And for the price it's awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The one less travelled
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Strengths:
Great Frame! Pogo? Not if you adjust the shock.
Weaknesses:
Rear shock mounting bolts are threaded - the threads are eating into the shocks bushings. Hard to believe anybody built it that way on purpose.
Similar Products Used:
None - I just got into XC after years of hybrid riding on railtrails in Seattle.
Bike Setup:
Still 100% stock (using Cannondales parts du jour I suppose) Rapid Fire came with mine.
Bottom Line:
I nearly destroyed my poor Novara hybrid trying to ride with the local desert rats one day and decided to finally buy a real, suspended off road bike. I'm an engineer by day, and something about the Fatty design made sense to me (kudos to Cannondale). Not knowing much about mountain bikes, I just snagged this one because the price was good. Now that I've ridden it and many other bikes, I believe I made a lucky guess. All the guys with the 4 link bikes made fun of this bike until they rode it. Why upgrade components? Everything works fine. After looking at what the other guys spent, I think I got away cheap.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Weekend Warrior
from austin Date Reviewed: July 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
It's a tank, in a good way...takes alot of abuse. I really love the headshock fork, even the best judy forks can't compare, especially if you upgrade to the oil cartridge on the p-bone. Mine is actually a 98, but it's pretty close to the 99 in spec.
Weaknesses:
a bit heavy, crappy wheels.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Montare
Bike Setup:
535 pedals, bar ends.
Bottom Line:
great entry level full suspension, infinitely upgradable. Sturdy frame and a good ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T.Henry Taylor
a Weekend Warrior
from New Britain, PA, USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
High Rocks, Bucks County
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Very stout frame for a tub of guts like me (220lbs), components spec'd work well together. Fox Vanilla keeps the rear tire bitin' but would be nice to have front and rear lockout
Weaknesses:
A bit on the heavy side, would love to swap out the bars and seatpost for Easton carbon, the wheels scream for an upgrade, discs maybe? Front shifter is an unresponsive P.O.S.
Similar Products Used:
Trek hardtail
Bike Setup:
Swapped out Rapidfires for twisters
Bottom Line:
This bike is a monster! It is fun to ride and the headshock fork does track better than a slider, especially in the bumpy stuff. I'm saving my lunch money up to buy some more goodies. I love the fact that the frame was made right here in Pennsyltucky, USA
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve
a Weekend Warrior
from noosa, australia Date Reviewed: March 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
witches
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
strong, light, responsive,
Weaknesses:
headshock sux hope to upgrade to bombers,
Similar Products Used:
trek, gary fisher joshua,
Bike Setup:
stock, besides shimano 636's, axiom riser bar, and bontrager saddle
Bottom Line:
I have ridden this bike in canada and australia, and love it, it climbs and bombs down again again and again. don't like the head shock as have bottomed out many many times, hope to upgrade to bombers with more travel, I would recomend this bike to the x-c rider starting out that would like to upgrade as skill increases I got this bike in canada at 1500, i love canada, they have sick bikes at sick prices and sick trails, and insane riders
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ezra Blair
a Cross Country Rider
from Sanbornton, NH Date Reviewed: March 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
For me the price is what did it. It paid $600 for a bike that was a demo. It had been ridden maybe 40 light miles. It is a wonderfully designed frame. Strong, maneuverable, and fast. It climes well, and really excels on the descents. A well put together bike.
Weaknesses:
Components are low end. Wheels are terrible...screaming for an upgrade. Shifters suck.
Similar Products Used:
Klein, K2, Proflex, Trek, Specialized...
Bottom Line:
A very nice bike for a good price. A wonderful ride for both the ups and downs. A good start for someone planning to upgrade anyway. Typical Cannondale quality.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chank
a Weekend Warrior
from Newnan, GA Date Reviewed: March 4, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
most everything. There is very little about this bike that I don't like.
Weaknesses:
I've got to say the wheel set is going to be the first major upgrade to this bike.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS-3
Bike Setup:
Standard setup. I did put bar ends on it and that helped with the long climbs. Great riding bike, though...even with the cheap wheels.
Bottom Line:
Outstanding bike! Love it. I don't know how I rode anything else for as long as I did.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne Victoria Australia Date Reviewed: January 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
up the back of robbo's
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The Cannondale Super V 500 is a fantastic frame base to start with. The 500 model has exactly the same frame as the 5000 dollar model. It is extremely responsive due to its headshox and the rear suspension is plush without bob.
Weaknesses:
The Rims and components arn't up to standard but are extremely rideable. STX-RC maybe but that sort of stuff is OK and you can upgrade later on. I must admit though the rims are very crap lightweight alloy shitters that bend if you look at them hard enough.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS, TREK Y Bike. Mountain Cycle, Sintesi Bazooka.
Bike Setup:
Factory set up with Velocity Deep V rims, Shimano DX pedals. Oury Grips.
Bottom Line:
For the price I got this for you cannot beat it. The frame is a artfull piece of kit and the workmanship is impecable. Only grievences are a crap wheelset which I have since replaced because they basically fell to bits. And hey Cannondale what about specing downhill bars on your bikes ha?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
buzz lightyear
a Weekend Warrior
from Huntsville, Al Date Reviewed: December 30, 1999
Favorite Trail:
all
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
bike has held up through some punishing rides
Weaknesses:
Low end componets
Similar Products Used:
Klien, Trek
Bottom Line:
Great bike will need to upgrade some componets when the ones on it wear out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chad capece
a Downhiller
from easley s,c Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
issaqueena lake trail
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
light weight for a full shock bike.
Weaknesses:
the tubing is to large, and only 60mm travle fatty head fork.
Similar Products Used:
cannonndale super V900
Bike Setup:
lx shimono deorere derailur. fatty head shock
Bottom Line:
this bike rides smooth and climbs like like a hard tail.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Ervine
a Cross-Country Rider
from Anchorage, Ak Date Reviewed: November 27, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
durable, handles great on down hills and
Weaknesses:
a little heavy but hardly noticeable
Similar Products Used:
specialized FSR XC,GT 4000,K2 Proflex and others
Bottom Line:
A very nice ride. Could be a little lighter. Head shock works very nicely. With a few upgrades it could be very, very sweet.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Take
a Weekend Warrior
from JAPAN Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Originality, Good paint system and Good design.
Weaknesses:
Some parts.
Similar Products Used:
Marin B-17
Bottom Line:
I examine purchase full-sus bike use for city ride(main use), cross country and down hill. Prease advice me, Cannondale Super V500 or Marin B-17 which better one?
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dag vag
a Cross-Country Rider
from Malmo, Sweden Date Reviewed: September 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
fdsafdsa
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Nice frame. Good rear suspension. Durable parts, the CODA products seem to be really nice quality.
Weaknesses:
Slightly heavy, but that´s not a problem, really. The tires, hutchinson mosquitos, suck!
Similar Products Used:
Lots of different hardtails. This is my first full-susp., though...
Bike Setup:
It´s pretty much a stock year 2000 model (team-blue), except: green michelin comp s (great all-round tire), lx shifters with xt mech (the stock half-pipe shifters were really terrible...)
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Looks good. Rides like a dream. A liitle bit heavy, but you´ll only notice it on really long climbs. By the way, I´ve got the 2000 model, with the new, improved swingarm.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario Date Reviewed: September 25, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good customer suppport, Fox Vanilla shock, that exotic SuperV frame
Weaknesses:
None really
Similar Products Used:
Diamondback X-2 Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
upgraded to LX brakes and levers, Sun Rhyno-Lite rims, WTB saddle
Bottom Line:
the bike handles extremely well. The vox vanilla coil-over shock is very good. Got the bike with a bigger C-dale 125mm stem, improved handing immensely. the fatty fork lacks any real adjustibility, but with 80mm really soaks up the bumps well. Overall this bike is one hell of a ride for $1300 CDN.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jubbi
a Cross-Country Rider
from usa Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
tech trails
Duration Product Used:
tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
rear design, maybe the components
Weaknesses:
price, customer service, head shock
Similar Products Used:
Many full susp (k2, trek, specialized, schwinn, klein, cannondale, santa cruz--they're all mostly crap, except K2/Proflex)
Bottom Line:
The cannondale Super V line is not so bad, like the Trek, Klein, Schwinn S-works lines (all amount to expensive seat post suspensions only). But the head shock is not as good as a K2 crosslink with smart shock. the crosslink is a single shock, electronic brain suspension. The steering of the head shock is poor compared to telescope forks, and much much worse than the best fork--the crosslink (IMHO). The cannondale also makes their carbon frames with an aluminum spine. K2 does it much better with all carbon. For the money, I would still go with something besides cannondale.Two chilies for not being a seat post susp. But expensive still for what you get.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pat Carey
a Racer
from Oakham, MA Date Reviewed: July 15, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
0 pogo effect. Easily upgraded fork and components. Kick Ass rear suspension with that FOX Vanilla.
Weaknesses:
Came shipped without the elastomer in the fork and waited two weeks for a new one. They shipped me the wrong one the first time.
It is a great all around bike for the money i upgraded to spin v19 wheels and hayes disk brakes with an xt drivetrain, but kept the bars, cranks, and stem because i love em so much.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan McKenzie
a Weekend Warrior
from Corpus Christi Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Any Trail I can Find
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Tough Frame. Easy to upgrade. Excellant mfg, support.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy.
Bike Setup:
I up-graded to the next better head shock. Put on lighter wheel sets (Sun rims, hubs) and upgraded to XT Componets.
Bottom Line:
A great first full supension bike. Same frame used in upper level bikes (exception of the Raven).
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DALTON
a Weekend Warrior
from CHARLESTON, SC Date Reviewed: May 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
RACE TESTED DESIGN ENGINEERING EXPERIENCE
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS
Bike Setup:
HEADSHOCK P-BONE M, XT DRIVE TRAIN
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike for two years and over 2000 miles of every extreme of riding and racing. I have had some pretty hard crashes and this bike doesn't even show it. the only failures would include the stock stx rear der. and bottom bracket that I wore out after around a thousand miles (both were replaced hassle free under warranty and I payed the difference for upgrade to XT). This bike is an excellent investment that will last and can be depended on for a very long time. I went from Rock Shox to Headshock and am very pleased.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terran 1
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rainier, WA Date Reviewed: May 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Fort Lewis trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inteligent design, tested design, and light enough to climb with
Weaknesses:
a bit heavy for a bike over 1000 bucks,shouldve come with bar ends too...
Similar Products Used:
diamondbacks, schwinn s-10, and Trek FSR
Bike Setup:
Cannondale super V 500 with super fatty M fork and lower end components
Bottom Line:
An awesome bike for the money, totally upgradeable due to the fact that C-dale put lower end Coda components on tnis model, but hey, I wanted a bike that I could trick out and have fun customizing. Took a four hour, fourteen mile epic trail ride a few days ago and the bike performed like a seamless dream!! Note: ifyou think about it the Head Shock design makes alot of sense if you care about precise steering!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Terran 1
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rainier, WA Date Reviewed: May 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Fort Lewis trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Inteligent design, tested design, and light enough to climb with
Weaknesses:
a bit heavy for a bike over 1000 bucks,shouldve come with bar ends too...
Similar Products Used:
diamondbacks, schwinn s-10, and Trek FSR
Bike Setup:
Cannondale super V 500 with super fatty M fork and lower end components
Bottom Line:
An awesome bike for the money, totally upgradeable due to the fact that C-dale put lower end Coda components on tnis model, but hey, I wanted a bike that I could trick out and have fun customizing. Took a four hour, fourteen mile epic trail ride a few days ago and the bike performed like a seamless dream!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J.T.
a Weekend Warrior
from W.Htfd, Ct. Date Reviewed: April 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Cannondale design is a monster. Light enough for climbing and you can get down/over anything. Great frame design
Weaknesses:
You will need to upgrade the components to XT for serious riding. But its not bad for the 1st full suspension rdie I've owned.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Pro-Flex.
Bottom Line:
Upgrade the components to XT and this bike is it. Rides great, nice and tight and climbs easily. Frame is comfortable and set up allows you to get over anything.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TAZMAN
a Weekend Warrior
from CHARLESTON, SC Date Reviewed: March 17, 1999
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
SOLID, DEPENDABLE PERFORMANCE
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
NONE
Bike Setup:
HEADSHOCK
Bottom Line:
I've had this bike(V500) for almost two years and 2000 miles of racing, highly technical, downhilling and cross country riding and I can tell you it is an awesome machine. It is fulley upgradeable, extremely durable and I haven't had a single problem with it. Cannondale is very responsive to thier customers and the Headshock is great.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
julien Malschaert
a weekend warrior
from asheville , nc Date Reviewed: January 21, 1999
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike for 792$ (the price the bike shop paid for it) and i LOVE IT!!! this c-dale made my trek 6000zx look like a pos (which it was) the full suspention is great the fox vanilla is awesome ,,,pogo affect ???there is basically none. Why do people give bad reviews to the headshock its a great shock all it needs is 10+mm travel...
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a weekend warrior
from Tolland, CT Date Reviewed: December 30, 1998
Bottom Line:
I love this bike!!! This is my first full suspension bike, which I bought after riding a carbon fiber Diamondback for 2 years. The C-Dale is a heavier than the Diamondback, but I do not really notice it much while riding. I bought this bike because I can get the same frame as the more expensive super v's, for a lot less money. All of the components work great, but when they break, I will upgrade. Why spend the money up front when you can get this bike, ride it like hell, and only fix what breaks. I have read some pretty bad reviews of the headshox set up, but I love it. No complaints. Great bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a weekend warrior
from Durango, Colorado Date Reviewed: December 23, 1998
Bottom Line:
BUY THIS BIKE! It is the first logical step from typical hardtail to full-suspension. A great bike and a great value! With this bike, you have everything that you need to start doing some serious screaming down that mountain!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jeff orlowski
a cross-country rider
from dubuque ia Date Reviewed: November 10, 1998
Bottom Line:
I like this bike a lot. As soon as I bought it I replaced everything but the fork. I put on hayes hydraulic brakes, race face cranks and bb, hugi-sun ds1xc wheelset, ritchey rizerbar, 747 pedals and the bike weighs 28.5 pounds! Stock it weighs about 29 lbs. For the money it is a great buy.
Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$ 1409.00
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
