Submitted by
champ
a Racer
from wildwood,new jersey Date Reviewed: November 24, 2009
Favorite Trail:
anywhere/everywhere
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
alge's in the crest
Strengths:
Rigid,rigid,rigid did i mention that it was rigid? Bought it originally just frame and fork setup, wanted a road frame but the fatty D headshock provided both road and off road choices. Love it.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
I've broken almost every frame i've had.
Bike Setup:
1999 f700 frame, fatty D frks, carbon-bars and seat post, shimano equipped, spin wheels, setup as a single speed conversion etc.
Bottom Line:
Does anyone know where i can get 180mm cranks? Also does anyone know what the bb width is on this frame? Ride hard!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Harmelink
a Cross Country Rider
from Saint Aubin (Paris-France) Date Reviewed: September 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Vallee La Chevreuse - in my Backyard
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Strengths:
Very Stiff frame
Weaknesses:
All the rest! Especially the xtremely heavy and squeaky cannondale crank and the Julie Magura diskbrakes that couldn't stay clear from the pads after a jump or bump (self adjusting and so not much to do about). Suspension has very short travel and needs regular maintenance (complicated to do it yourself and thus $$$$).
Bike Setup:
After a year I replaced everything
Bottom Line:
Cannondale is definately a class in itself when it comes to frame building, innovative designs and.... marketing! however this comes at a price as they seem to skimm out on almost anything else, especially the bits that one generally doesn't immediately put its eyes on when purchasing a bike. Cannondale does a relatively good job in the high end bikes and manages to build a good reputation in that $$$ end of the market. That reputation may put you a little bit of guard in the lower end where they cut back on anything but the frame. If you really want to get a Cannondale consider buying just the frame a building it up yourself, which with the F700 I ended up doing anyway ;-(
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Richards Bay Date Reviewed: June 9, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
second hand
Strengths:
Great frame, bulletproof fork, reasonable parts spec for price. Cannondale frames clearly have excellent attention to detail, and it pays in long fatique life. Check out www.efbe.de the Cannondales frames all pass with flying colours. The Promax v-brakes are actually excellent, and don't squeal like the XT brakes I had before. Excellent paintwork. Excellent backup through dealers in South Africa.
Weaknesses:
Miserable seat which bumps through to seatpost. Cheap Coda pedals. Frame is super stiff, which means good climbing, but a bit hard on the bum. Front fork has short travel, so it's not plush.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000 (great) Giant NRS1 (Good idea, a bit heavy, miserable warranty service)
Bike Setup:
Race face seat post, Selle Italia seat, XT cassette. The rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
A great bike. It handles really well and feels tight. Cannondale parts (headset, shock) still feel super smooth after 4 years use. Shifting is the best I've ever had on any of my bikes, I think it may be as a result of the cable routing under the the BB, it could also be because the replacable derrailuer hanger is a stiffer design than usual (it bolts over both sides of the dropout). Mine is not for sale, not now, not ever!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marko Haka
a Weekend Warrior
from Rovaniemi, Finland Date Reviewed: May 28, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Local C'dale dealer
Strengths:
Frame, Fork, craftmanship
Weaknesses:
Coda 700 series, gripshifts
Bike Setup:
European F700SL (CAAD3 frame)
Bottom Line:
Wow, its 2003 and I back with a follow up.
My F700SL is still running, even the Fatty D is still working plushly without a single maintenance. My cycling hobby did take a little "vacation" after my last posting and the bike has not done nearly as much miles as back then. I just got to have the fork rebuilt this summer, just for show.
Anyways now I'm back in the saddle even more eager than before, I've taken to fancy more freerid'ish driving style and am trying to upgrade the C'dale accordingly (need mo monney! :) ).
I got the Shimano Deore mechanical disc brakes and new wheels with Deore hubs and Mavic F219Disc rims. The frame and fork had the standard disc brake mounts ready but the brakes didnt fit straight off! The front brake fits horizontally but doesnt go low enough to make use of the full brakeshoe surface, I'm probably missing some 5% of the surface -> brake power. The rear brake didnt fit horizontally, meaning that the rotor would not fall between the brakeshoes and when forced would seriously drag. I had to move the brake caliber with really fat 5mm shims, with the rear brake I'm willing to accept this sketchy installment.
Otherwise the bike is still as great as back then. I'm still planning on a longer fork and a shorter stem to "morph" the bike into something less XC and more Free...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a
from Seattle, WA, USA Date Reviewed: December 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
tiger mountatin
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Great Geometry - Light weight - Solid build quality, workmanship
Weaknesses:
stock components
Similar Products Used:
specialized stumpjumper pro, K2 zed team
Bike Setup:
Coda hubs/mavic 517 rims, LP carbon handlebar - now upgraded to all xt drivetrain and brakes, and panaracer tires, as well as rock shox duke XC
Bottom Line:
The frame is fantastic, but the parts that were spec'd were crap. I have replaced every component on the bike. It was C-Dale's first attempt at 9 speed and the pieced together road cassette just didn't work. I blew out the headshok and replaced it with a longer travel standard fork using problem solver headtube reducer and Chris King headset. Works great, but throws off the geometry a bit
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beaver
a Cross Country Rider
from Schoten, Antwerp Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002
Favorite Trail:
straight through the ardennes
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
?? Germany
Strengths:
Everything, great geometry, incredible strength
Weaknesses:
availability off coda parts in Belgium stinks
Similar Products Used:
several stiff bikes and since 18 months a canondale jeckyll 1000
Bike Setup:
standard
Bottom Line:
The Canondale F700 was the first front suspension I ever owned or even tried. I have had the bike for something like 6 or 7 years, road it a lot in all different conditions and crashed heavily quite a few times. Apart from a good deal of scratches, the bike is still great shape. The only thing I ever needed changing are the chain, blades and tires. All other components (wheels, gears, ...) are still the originals. Even now that I own a Canondale Jeckyll 1000, I still cannot part from the F700. If the F700 would have had a rear suspension I would never have bought a new bike. Still a great buy for everyone looking for a reliable cross country bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jerico
a Cross Country Rider
from Daly City, CA USA Date Reviewed: October 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Dirt near campus
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Frame only from I don't know where.
Strengths:
Strong (crashed several times). Light, relyable. The fork lock out is a always a life saver when climbing or speeding up. The fork is always stiff and will track no matter what.
Weaknesses:
There are better forks out there (Ultra Fatties) and better frames (cadd 4/5). So you can imagine better performance off more higher end models. I desire more travel up front. And it's not as supple as steal.
This is a bike I'll never stop having memmories about if I have have a chance to replace it. This was one heck of a bike too. If this thing ever breaks and I can't replace it, I'll start crying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marko Haka
a Weekend Warrior
from Rovaniemi, Finland Date Reviewed: April 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Local Cannondale dealer
Strengths:
Bombproof frame & susp.fork very lasting components.
Weaknesses:
Hubs, rims & saddle.
Similar Products Used:
Japanese Kuwahara with Judy XC and LX/STX comp.
Bike Setup:
F700SL standard issue (found in european lineup), which differs from the US model by its CAAD3 frame (CAAD2 in non-SL models [In europe atleast]). It has CODA700 components X-cept the XT-rear derailer, STX-RC from derailer, GripShift Quarts shifter and ESP 7.0 composite brake levers. And I replaced the steering bar with a riserbar. http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/europe/99bikes/model-9FS7L.html
Bottom Line:
Im here again, now after two years with my F700SL.
Earlier (at 1 year mark) I hated all my initial trouble with my bike. These were the trouble with the crank loosing up and the odd bump on my front rim. The crank issue fas fixed right in the begining (with nut-lock glue) and Ive now replaced the from rim with Mavic 517.
I ques Ive rode some 5000 miles with it till this day. My riding style is "smooth" meaning that I try to absorb the bumps with my body instead of the bike (this I learned in the early "hard-tail-hard-fork" days). But of that 5000 plenty was forest singletracks, rockclimbing etc. I like fast singletracks and slow technical riding most (like rock climbing) and this bike has been THE bike for my ride.
The CAAD3 (now very outdated) frame is miraculous. Its been critized to be more low-speed hi-controlablity and restless on hi-speeds, but thats the way I just love it. And after getting used to it (not too long) the hi-speed becomes a bliz. The frame is still as new, no decreased stiffness and the paint is like new (minus some unfortunate scraches).
And the Fatty D fork is another miracle itself. Not a single maintenance operation ever. I did gain some 60 pounds in the last 6 months (Im now some 190 pounds) at the gym and I had to ajust the spring tension (which was a bliz). I did consider taking it to maintenance just to have the oils replaced, and the mechanic said that there has been no leaking and that its still in good condition. In cold (below 0 Celsius) it gets this "klok" sound right at the start of the travel, but the mechanic suspected that its the elastomer which stiffens in cold and doesnt return to its full lenght. This is just so amazing when compared to my last 98' Judy XC which I had to take apart every month for lubrication and the stifness of the Fatty is just as amazing. Yes, I havent ridden any of the new 2000/2001 forks but I feel that anything better than this is inrelevant. Now this is no DH fork and not even for the FreeRide spirit. But it is in my oppinion a fork that fits this hardtail perfecly.
Other components have been very good also. Someone hinted me that the CODA 700 hubs suck big time and My rear hub has now a bent axle. But it did last 1,5 years. The remaining CODA 700 rim at rear is in need of some serious trimming but Ive been considering replasing the whole rear disk (rim, hub, spokes) with casette and chain as Im having chain skipping. The saddle "leather" got loose from sides allready in the begining but its still hanging on and seems only as visual flaw. Also the pro-max PX-2 Expert brakes (which I complained cheapish last time) proved to be every bit as good as your shimano V-brake counterparts.
But now I must go, and leave my rating...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JJ Zwack
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA USA Date Reviewed: March 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Headshok is absolutely bombproof reliable. Once it was set up at the shop, I've had no problems with the ride considering my aggressive cross-country riding style and weight (180 lbs). Frame is well-constructed and the paint job has not faded or chipped other than in normal use. IRC Mythos XC tires are the best. I have tried all bike tires out there and have found no other that is as predictable in all conditions (except sand) as these. For the front tire, they can't be beat. They also wear well.
Weaknesses:
Crank. Cannondale's proprietary crank is a low- to mid- alternative to the Shimano crank that should come with a bike of this caliber.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche, Spec. Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
All LX except downgraded Cannondale crank; Headshok; Mavic wheels with IRC Mythos tires.
Bottom Line:
Reliable, handmade in the USA quality bike. THe Headshok is easy to maintain and the ride quality is superb. Bear in mind however that the Headshok is best at aggressive cross-country riding. It works well on stutter bumps, the occassional big hit, and unseen bumps along the trail. If you're looking for consistent big-hit travel downhill abuse, look elsewhere. This bike rates 5 stars for its longitivy, ease of maintainence, good looks and quality componentry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Svee
a Racer
from Eau Claire, WI Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Local Shop
Strengths:
Sweet ride from the Headshok, Awesome Team Yellow color. Components are fairly good for the price.
Weaknesses:
Rims are heavy, IRC tires suck, short top tube.
Similar Products Used:
I now ride a F2000sl. I have used a Schwinn Moab 2.
Bike Setup:
XTR front and rear derailleurs, S-Works Wheelset, longer stem.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike at the beginning of the 1999 race year. I did my first ever race and placed 2nd overall and first in my class on my stock F700. I then upgraded the bike with the S-Works wheelset which helped shave weight. Anyways, the Headshok I think is better than the Fatty Ultra. I think that the spring cartridge is smoother than air.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tomi Teinilä
a Weekend Warrior
from Helsinki, Finland Date Reviewed: January 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
HeadShok Frame
Weaknesses:
Seatpost
Similar Products Used:
Some other Cannondales
Bike Setup:
-F700 SL European version -Hutchinson Mosquito 2.1/1.85 -Shimano XTR front/rear derailleurs -CODA Competition saddle, Volvo/Cannondale Team Edition
Bottom Line:
The HeadShok is great! And the CAAD3 frame too. Of course XTR derailleurs, which i changed about 3 months ago, are also very nice. You can view pictures of my F700 SL Team Blue on my homepage: koti.mbnet.fi/tomi
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john
a Weekend Warrior
from piketon,ohio Date Reviewed: December 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
tar hollow
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
bought used from friend
Strengths:
great frame,headshock,wheels,geometry
Weaknesses:
seat,front der.,
Similar Products Used:
specialized sworks,mongoose
Bike Setup:
basically stock except for xt brakes and ritchey pedals
Bottom Line:
bike handles very well in the tight stuff,confidence inspiring,the more i ride it the more i like it. trash the stock seat,headshock could use a little more travel but tracks straight no matter what i throw at it.i have also noticed that the lx front der. is tuff to shift into the bigger chainrings and takes a firm push.overall an excellent bike and would recommend it to anybody looking for a quality bike under 1000.00!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from St. Augustine, FL Date Reviewed: November 27, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Tsali
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Bike America
Strengths:
The frame is this products greatest strength. Rigid, light, responsive; I've been a roady for years riding old Italian steel and I'm changing my old wrong-headed thinking on what I like in a frame. I bought this Cannondale specifically because the price was right ($700) and had no idea what a great deal I was getting. This bike could have had Wal-Mart components on it and I still would have come out ahead. As it stands, its XT rear D, LX Front with CODA crankset, easton bars, and profile bar ends. I've ridden about 1000 miles on it so far and found that it simply explodes around corners and up hills. No one touches me if I decide to leave in a hurry. What an outstanding ride. I haven't even glanced at another ride since I bought this one and thats saying a lot for an incureable bike shopper.
Weaknesses:
Weakest point has got to be the shocks. Although the Fatty shock is neat, it doesn't forgive very much and I'm not a big fan of having to "pump it up" before every ride. I don't really notice a big diff between the variable settings. Frankly, I was thinking about just switching out for nice Manitou, but then I realized that you can't switch forks on the new Cannondales. Bummer. Even with the shock situation, this bike kicks ass. If you see one for less than $900, steal it~!
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden squishy, clunky full suspension (to include the Cannondale line) and everything short of Titanium. Nothing touches this in its price-point.
You can't lose with Cannondale. Fast, Fast, Fast!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chip Larkby
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago, Illinois Date Reviewed: November 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Wallermill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Conte's, Norfolk, VA
Strengths:
Light, excellent sprinter, great climber, good front-end feedback, disk mounts, lockout, warranty, I lucked out and got a good dealer.
Weaknesses:
CODA birth control seat, CODA disk brakes (any model), CODA clipless pedals. The steel brakelines scratched my top tube too...
Similar Products Used:
None. Anything similar is Cannondale.
Bike Setup:
Currently using CrossMax wheelset, XTR brakes (excellent combo by the way), USE SX suspension post, Selle Italia Ti Flite Ti seat, IRC Mythos XC tires. The bike was on the showroom floor with the lower level wheels and brakes. I happened to talk with the shop owner who set me up with the CODA Expert (and eventually the Pro's also) disks, on Mavic 223 (I think) rims, CODA hubs for $300 extra. I figured I'd give it a try. As y'all already know, the CODA brakes are not too good. The shop was great with replacing pads and adjusting everything, but poor design made it just too much of a burden for us all in the end. Disk brakes rule though if you live in the right place to use them. Just don't get CODA brand. So the shop swapped out the wheels for a couple hundred beans, as well as putting on the XTR brakes. Other than a good disk setup, I cannot imagine a better brake/wheel combo for eyeball popping decelleration. Changed to Shimano 545 pedals too, which helped all around.
Bottom Line:
I am now well over 2000 miles on this setup. I am no spring chicken either, but I have ridden with some really fast fuys that simply couldn't keep up when the trails got twisty, and were left for dead when climbing. Has nothing to do with anything but a solid frame and good fork. The suspension, at 60mil is nothing glorious, but I have had this thing in every possible riding situation and it has never let me down. The local trails here have some very fast and long downhills. I am really learning to take advantage of the F700's nimble-ness at speed. I used to think it was twitchy. Now I have learned to appreciate the fact that I can change direction at will at any speed going up or down. The lockout feature is great. Unlike one or two other reviewers, I find that on big drops or harder landings, the rear flex does take the edge off of your landings and is a good thing. I am still running the LX crankset, XT derailer (LX front), original chain, CODA bar and stem, and ordinary old Profile bar ends from new. All has held up amazingly. I bought this bike because of the frame. It fits, it works, and I am not at all ashamed to put fancy parts on it when the current batch wear out. It's a great ride. I find it also works great for commuting in urban settings and extended road rides. Five flaming poops to Cannondale for being American, for providing good warranty service and for blessing me with this great bike and the good luck to find a great dealer to buy it from!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jose
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee, Florida Date Reviewed: September 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Fern Trail
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Light, rigid yet comfortable; frame is flawless, with beatiful welds — must be built by Rolls Royce workers on weekend leave; when I step on the cranks, it leaps like a rabbit; Headshok is rock-solid piece of work and deserves more attention from bike press and riders
Weaknesses:
Handlebar not quite right for my reach, so I may sub it out; orange paint is a bit too bright
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Specialized, Kona, KHS, a few others
Bike Setup:
Mavic rims, Avid brakes & levers, Shimano trigger shifties, Coda seat, crank, bars; Shimano clipless pedals (which don't give enough float); I added a Thudbuster seat post later (5 smokin' peppers to those guys, too).
Bottom Line:
This bike (mine is a '98 model) is a joy to ride. I've put on 990 miles and still love it like the day I brought it home. Headshok gives adequate cushion but is not a marshmallow, and the fact that the fork itself is solid really comes through compared to conventional shock forks I've tried. The front end cuts like a knife! I enjoy the bike as much for its quality of build as for its ride — welds are clean and smooth, paint is thick, durable and shiny (I just wish mine was a quieter color). My only complaint is with the Shimano pedals. They hold my feet too tightly — no float left or right — and so sometimes my knees hurt a bit after a ride. I may switch to Frog Speed-things. Someone earlier mentioned that shifting the front derailleur takes significant thumb power. I agree with that and wonder if other Shimano riders on other bikes have the same condition. All in all, this Cannondale is beautiful bike, a terrific ride and a bargain. Get one on sale, like I did, and you'll be wearing a perma-grin every time you throw a leg over the seat and head for the woods.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Edward Yates
a Cross Country Rider
from SF, CA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2000
Note: This a '97 but I thought it would be helpful for new buyers as it is the same CAAD-3 Frame. The frame is a thing of wonder: it is stiff, responsive and feels like air when you are jumping. Because of the stiffness, downhill control is excellent but you must pay attention when descending fast as it is super quick turning. It climbs like a banshee and seems to pull you up the hill. The front end is a little light on super steep climbs, and on crusty, rocky crud the back wheel does spin a bit. But in general, if you like to climb and pass people or are just getting old like me and need an advantage, this is the bike.
The Coda pedals and brakes were crap but once replaced the bike is quite sturdy and dependable overall, including the rims which have taken quite some pounding. I have ridden friends' similar priced Treks (7000,8000) and this bike seems to be in a different handcrafted class and is simply mucho more fun!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Alturas, CA, US Date Reviewed: July 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
local jeep trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
price,strength
Weaknesses:
wheels, saddle, a little bit heavy
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is awsome! I've been beating it up ever since i bought it, and it has held up, for the most part. The mavic wheels now need truing always after a ride and sometimes during a ride, but that's ok because I have some bontrager race wheels coming in the mail. I ride with a friend,who is a factory sponsored pedaling machine, on a lot of EXTREMELY ruff terrain. The stiffness of the headshok leaves something to be desired on the ruff stuff and downhills. I do a ride that is six miles straight up the side of a moutain for about 2500 vertical feet, and this bike is an excellent climber. My only complaints reside in the very uncomfortable saddle and extremely weak rims. A lot of bike for the price!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tomo
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: June 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Swithland woods
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Plush forks , over all light and stiff looks , team issue colours
Weaknesses:
Incompatable with most after market goodies for example forks stem only minor things! Oh and the seat, I ripped mine after 3 weeks of hammering, and the forks travel-it needs more.
Over all a great race bike out of the box it accelerates like a monkey!-faster than any other bike I have ever riden. I have a 16in (m)frame because of the freedom of movement. I love the head shok and its Lockout option the only problem with that is the fixed rate rebound but sod that this bike is made to be thrashed so go out and cane one around your local trail you'll be hooked!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Nanuet, NY Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
seasonal road, Rt 20 to bridgewater, NY
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
geometry and feel are excellent, make you feel like you can attack any mud bog you like weld, fit and finish, paint, are excellent quality of components seems good, everything performing well so far
Weaknesses:
long pull on front (left) gearshift lever, my left thumb is sore shifts from big to middle ring are tentative under even a slight load too much bottom bracket flex, i.e. chain rubs on front derailleur in high gear when pedaling hard. Adjustments can't eliminate.
Similar Products Used:
trek, cheaper canondales
Bike Setup:
IF you are tall (6'4"), don't listen to dealer trying to sell you an XL, order the jumbo if you plan on some more serious road riding to get to your trails. You can't raise the seatpost as high as you need to on the XL for proper leg extension.
Bottom Line:
The overall feel of this bike is excellent. Long road trips (with tires changed to Continental Town and Country) are surprisingly comfortable and easy. Off-road the bike seems to plow through anything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony
a Cross Country Rider
from colorado springs,co Date Reviewed: May 16, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
great frame- stiff where you want it and perfect geometry for me Head shock delivers awesome performance; smooth, precise and light
Weaknesses:
you have to be careful of water getting into the fork. flexy rear seat stays I do love this fork, but sometimes I wish it had more travel
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager privateer comp
Bike Setup:
specialized S-Works wheelset ( Hugi hubs laced up to mavic x517 rims via DT Revolution spokes, a claimed weight of 1515 grams total), body geometry comp saddle, USE XCR seat post, plasma shifters, easton monkeybar, XTR rear brake
Bottom Line:
When I bought this bike, I didnt know just how sweet of a bike I was getting into. The frame's geometry is well balanced for the long, steep climbs followed by long, steep decents (fast, rocky, gravely,root strewn etc) that i encounter on my local trails. The wheel s-works wheelset has brought the weight of the bike down to about 23 1/2 pounds. This bike never stops satisfying me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marko Haka
a Weekend Warrior
from Roi, Finland Date Reviewed: April 28, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Exellent frame, headshock, relatively good components, light weight.
Weaknesses:
Coda 900 saddle, cheapy ProMax brakes (note: I've got euro F700SL) and some drive-in trouble.
Similar Products Used:
Anyone know Kuwahara? :) Well, it got nice ALU frame and Judy XC forks. LX/STX compos.
Bike Setup:
European F700SL, changed the flatbar for riser (like to have it bit "trials" way...)
Bottom Line:
Loyal to my negative attitude, Ill start with the bad things:
At the begining my cranks just wouldnt stay tight. After ruining one (got it replaced thought) I stumbled on trying some NutLock glue which did the trick.
The saddle is allready broke. Didnt rip it anywhere, the leather (surely fake leather) cover just came loose. And on top of that, my seatpost makes unpleasant noises. Guess its the pressed-in junktion of the post and the saddle holder.
Front rim has this odd bump which makes the brake "hang" on certain part, making subtle braking impossible. Got it quite early so dont know if its manufacturing error or just bent (bent rim wouldnt "hang"? or would it?). Otherwise these Coda rims have remained true and havent been trued once.
The HeadShock is just great. No maintenance done, ever! Think it got some dampness in during the winter as it began freezing. But works just great around ('n above) zero celsius. Didnt need any adjusting either (but gues Im your average rider being at 70kg [140bounds?]). And performance is just right. Very sensitive but no bottoming. Not over dampened like certain Marzocchis.
The argued 9 speed shimano has also worked just great. Even thought I hate gripShifts, theyve worked good also. And those cheap'ish ProMax brakes equal to Shimano-LX (non-linear, alu?). They even had those bads with replaceble "shoes".
So presuming that you didnt get the "monday model" as I might had, its a dang good setup. I was looking at some Konas for "more for less", but now that I think about it, dont believe that Marzochhi Z4 would compare against HeadShock. Kona Steel frame could have been something, but so is CAAD3! Besides, I got the Dubond LumaColor paintjob :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin W
a Cross Country Rider
from San Ramon, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Mount Diablo Foothills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Nice light frame, very stiff too. Great for climbing the long hills out in our area. I really like the headshok's ability to aim the bike where you want it to go.
Weaknesses:
I had some problems with the front deraileur(STX) and the Coda cranks. I upgraded all drive components to Shimano XT and it's running great.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
F700, XT drive, Cane Creek Ti WAM's, Rock Shox post
Bottom Line:
After upgrading the drivetrain components I have not had any problems with this bike. Bought the blue one with yellow lettering and get lots of compliments on this great looking ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Weekend Warrior
from Coon Rapids, MN Date Reviewed: April 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
anywhere i can ride
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT
STIFF STIFF STIFF STIFF
amazing Yellow paint job
Headshock (oil cartridge is broken) but wed i'll get it fixed and i'll let you know how it rides
Weaknesses:
seat sucks sorta a wild mix of components
Similar Products Used:
F1000,F900,Stumpjumper,Konas
Bike Setup:
STOCK.. just got home from the store and decide to type this up... see how kinda i am.. i left my brand new bike for you guys!
Bottom Line:
its an amazing bike.. i think its a little more spendy for what you get. but overall you get what you pay for. the frame and craftmenship is amazing and the shock is pretty cool once i get it fixed. they didnt have the oil cartridge in the store that i bought it from so i gotta go elsewhere to get that fix.. the paint is amazing too.... the compenents included are kinda a wacky mix.. you get XT rear and STX-RC hubs and front derailur and avid brakes/shifters and coda crands n stems.. sorta a mix of everything.. i think i'll be replacing the front derailur soon.. and then the hubs next season, but i'm sure i'll be able to destroy them after this year..
if you're lookin for something in the 1k range.. dont hesitate and give this bike a ride.. you'll prolly get some great deals now. and once you test you'll never go back.. but be warned.. seat is alittle uncomfy and it is a STIFF bike..
again i think i overpaid a bit.. out the door with a full service package deal and bike for 1k... but no regrets here!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Prince
a
from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada Date Reviewed: April 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Snakes and Ladders
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Lighest frame maker on the planet. SWEET shock, Light durable feels great.
Weaknesses:
If I had o say probably the Brakes, But there still great
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F900, Kona Muni Mula
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
Great Bike for the money (Well I got mine for 950 Canadien from 1500) So Light, Actually know where the fork is going.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jake
a Cross Country Rider
from Saint Paul, Mn, USA Date Reviewed: April 10, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything with uphills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Love the light frame compared to my last (cheap) bike. 9 speed shimano is great.
Weaknesses:
I bought 1 for myself and 1 for my girlfriend. Both had HeadShok problems right away, and even after they claimed it had been fixed, it broke out in the middle of nowhere in Ireland. Everything else was great.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F-900, Specialized Stumpjumper, a bunch of Treks and Gary Fischers
Bike Setup:
I threw a set of Jandd Mountain Expedition Panniers on a really heavy Jandd rack, a few water bottle cages, O2 seat, and 6 months worth of clothes and gear.
Bottom Line:
My Girlfriend and I took a pair of these touring through Europe for about 6 months. Having mountain bikes offered flexibility to ride a long way one day and then go off road the next day. Oh yeah, the HeadShok was awesome for those tricky Italian cobblestone streets. I thought about selling the bike there since the prices are so much higher, but I liked it too much so I brought it home instead. I took the heavy stuff off and now I get the chance to cruise trails and jump around. This is a great choice for a all-around performer. Even though the HeadShok didn't work I give it 5 chilis because they repaired it without giving me any trouble at all.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Hageman
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington Date Reviewed: March 27, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Nice stiff fork. Good looks.
Weaknesses:
Dropouts. Wheel clearance
Similar Products Used:
Old Steel bikes
Bottom Line:
I like the bike but my little wheel clearance has shrunk as the rear dropouts have been enlarged front and back so that now my wheel slips no matter how hard I crank my QR sqewer I won't buy another maybe my next bike will be canadian
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Hueber
a Racer
from Portland, Indiana Date Reviewed: March 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Any trail that is fast and I can catch big air
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
This bike is a great value. It is very light and definetly race worthy. It has great handling, with much thanks to the highly acclaimed mythos xc it is speced with, and it also rips up hills. I also give great praise to the all mighty headshok.
Weaknesses:
It comes with stx-rc hubs and front derailer. The Mavic 221 rims are weak and must be trued way to often.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Zigguraut, Trek 7000
Bike Setup:
Stock, but soon upgrading my wheelset, front derailer, and cranks (my cranks still work fine and there is nothing wrong with them its just that they are a little too heavy for my taste)
Bottom Line:
The F700 is a great bike, and I have loved it since the day I bought it. With a little bit of upgrading this bike is second to none.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Greg Kuiper
a Cross Country Rider
from Irvine Date Reviewed: February 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Live Oak, ONeal Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Very stiff frame, very light. Total bike is 24 lbs.
Weaknesses:
Changed the seat, cranks from Coda to XT. Bought it with Synergy wheels that broke within a year. I twisted the rear hub free.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse, Shwinn, Trek.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Love the headshock system. Great climber.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jacques
a Cross Country Rider
from Berkeley, CA, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: January 15, 2000
Came with an STX-RC front derailleur. Swapped for LX before leaving the store.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper M2 Comp, Rocky Mountain Blizzard, Cannondale F1000 and F2000, various Trek and Gary Fisher bikes.
Bike Setup:
J-size (extra-extra-large) 1999 F700, as spec'd by Cannondale except for SRAM Plasma shifters and Avid 1.0 brakes. Added Specialized wireless cyclocomputer.
Bottom Line:
This is a review of the 1999 F700 (not the Y2K F700 with the disc brakes).
A nimble, agile XC hardtail with excellent handling characteristics. It gives me more control and more confidence. Climbs very well and feels even lighter than it is. Brakes are fairly inexpensive Avid 1.0 with Avid 1.9 levers but are effective. I like the on-the-fly lockout feature on the HeadShok Fatty D, and the SRAM Plasma shifters that Cannondale happened to substitute for the spec'd Rapidfire-type shifters (personal preference).
I paid $929 for a 1999 model on clearance sale at my local REI.
This bike is a sweet ride. I liked it (and other Cannondale bikes I test-rode) enough that I bought two other Cannondale bikes: an R1000 road bike (CAAD4 frame, Coda Slice carbon-fiber fork, Ultegra/105 components) and an XS800 cyclocross bike with the HeadShok Fatty X fork.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Weekend Warrior
from Ohio Date Reviewed: November 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Bear Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Control climbing ability top tube reach
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
G.F. Big Sur Dean Colonel Klein Rascal Trek 850
Bike Setup:
Fatty D
Bottom Line:
This bike climbed and went downhill with ease. I have not ridden any other bike like this before. I especially like the reach on this frame. It gives the bike more/better control. It is also very lightweight. I've got it at 23 lbs.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luis
a Weekend Warrior
from Holmdel, NJ Date Reviewed: November 23, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hubber Woods
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Weight, Suspension, Brakes
Weaknesses:
Pedals, Saddle
Similar Products Used:
Trek 7000, Specialized, F600
Bike Setup:
Standard config
Bottom Line:
IT is a pretty good bike for the buck. The front disk brake is great. The head-suspension fork is even better, and the lock on the fly is also great. It rides great, and the frame is probably one of the best around. The pedals could use more float and less mud. And the saddle is an excellent contraceptive. I've heard a lot about the 9 speed Shimano, but I've found it OK. It'd recommend this ride for everybody that wants great performance without spending the big bucks.Happy riding.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Dickson
a Racer
from Leeds, England Date Reviewed: November 8, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Coed-y-Brenin
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Frame, fork, saddle, stem, Shifting system, lots more
F700SL set up for slalom/XC (yes, they do mix, and very well i might add) with some new bits
Bottom Line:
When I first got the bike i thought that every bit on it was great; then i started breaking bits off, first to go was the rear wheel, then i bent the handlebars, and other little bits have fallen off since. My drivechain wore out recently but that is understandable as i do alot of miles. After some research i found out that my frame is warrented for life including XC, DH, and Trials comptition use.... which was nice! After a huge crash in the middle of nowhere my fork boot ripped (i didnt know at the time), unluckily for me it was muddy and loasds of muddy water got to the bearings in the headshok, this caused them to rust and cause my headshok action to be much less then expected (to quote shop mechanic as rough as a badger's arse), however, £50 (!) later the problem was solved. The current spec on my bike now is CAAD3 frame, Fatty D fork and DD60 internals, LX pods, LX Levers, LX cassette, XT Rderraileur, STX-RC Fderraileur, LX Cranks (oh yeah, i bent the standard Coda CF2 cranks as well), LX v-brake levers, Promax V's, Coda 700 frontwheel, Mavic D521 and LX hub rear wheel, Sachs power chain, Tioga 2.1 DH tyres, Shimano XT BB, DMR V8 pedals, and i think that is it.In its present form i will award this bike 10 thingys. In its origional form i will award the bike 4.5. So to even it out i will give it 5, happy? no, i dont care, it is my review and i say 5!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tony
a Cross-Country Rider
from colorado springs, co Date Reviewed: November 6, 1999
Favorite Trail:
every trail needs lovin'
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
smooth all around
Weaknesses:
hubs headshock quality
Similar Products Used:
I tested almost every bike in town before I found the f700... It had me at hello
Bike Setup:
basically stock
Bottom Line:
the guys at cannondale really know how to make a frame but the quality of the headshock is questionable. I bought two last christmas (one for me and one for my girlfriend) we both have had problems with the needle bearings. hers was messed up from the factory. Mine somehow got water in it and rusted the bearings. but the head shock is still my favorite fork. there is absolutely no play in this fork. the frame geometry is beautiful, very responsive, climbs and descends well. compared to my old schwinn aluminum frame, this one seems less harsh in the rough stuff.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jan Jelovsek
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ljubljana Date Reviewed: October 31, 1999
Favorite Trail:
sv. Jakob
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
This sure is one of the best bikes I've ever ridden. I've done 2500 miles with it and it just keeps going and going. The only problem I've had was a flat tire - seriously!!! You should go to the first store and buy it - you won't be sorry.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doez
a Cross-Country Rider
from wyoming MI Date Reviewed: October 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ft. Custer Rec area
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
stiff headshock light what a climber!!!
Weaknesses:
coda pedals stupid disc brake mts
Similar Products Used:
marin ti,gt ,barracuda
Bike Setup:
swapped coda pedals for shimano 535`s
Bottom Line:
A great bike!Ilove the headshock after a little fooling with to get it set up right for me.Try to swap the coda pedals for ANYHING else, they realy suck.Tires ROCK!!A great buy it,ride it, dont mess with it bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from Oklahoma Date Reviewed: October 25, 1999
Favorite Trail:
New Draper
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Climbs well, Frame, Light, price for what you get, Head shock
Weaknesses:
Derailer ( Gears skip all the time even after adjustments were made at bike shop)
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Mesa GSX
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I love it. Needs some upgrades, but has great potential.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mick
a Cross-Country Rider
from Nanaimo, BC (Canada) Date Reviewed: October 10, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Benson
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very light, agile excellent handling bike.
Weaknesses:
None for the price.
Similar Products Used:
Many others.
Bike Setup:
Standard F700
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike for my son while I was waiting for a new F2000sx Cannondale hardtail with 100mm left fork. I road the F700 about a dozen time and I came to love this bike so much I didn't really want to part with it. It is a really sweet bike at any price. I had no problem with the 9 speed system after a bit of tweeking. I would upgrade to 70mm headshock insert after one season. Hey this is a great bike!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris W
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary Alberta Date Reviewed: September 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything Dry and Warm
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Super Light Frame & overall package. Headshok is super stiff, tracks great.
Weaknesses:
Headshock might not be plush enough for your liking
Similar Products Used:
Kona MuniMula, Rocky Mtn Hammer, Fisher Paragon.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F700, upgraded to LX front derailleur, LX Shifters, Specalized Body Geometry saddle. Shimano 434 pedals.
Bottom Line:
After much demoing, I settled for the F700 and don't regret it. You don't realize how great the Headshok tracks until you barrel down that rooty steep sweeping decents. keep in mind this is a CROSS COUNTRY shock and not a freeride shock. Initially, I kinda had expectations similiar to a 100mm travel oil filled Marzocchi, hoping it would suck up all the hits but that's not what this DD60 is designed for. I changed to a soft spring and now find it has enough usable travel. Put the beats down on this bike and it responds. It likes hard riding.Bad things? I have a early model F700 and got stuck with an STXRC Front derailleur. Had to pay to upgrade to LX. Not terribly impressed with that. Early F700's came with CODA 700M saddles which should be reclassifed as birth control devices. A specialized body geometry cured that. Wanted a platform pedal so I put Shimano 434's on, much better than the CODA 500's that come with it.Possible upgrades? Nothing outright pisses me off right at the moment (or else I would have ripped it off by now). I might shave weight by going for new cranks or seatpost soon but that's a money issue and not pressing.For the money this is a great bike. The best thing I can think of is that it gives you a great frame to build on. I really doubt I'd get a new hardtail for quite some time.5 chillies. It is that good. Try and get one on sale now.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BIG AL
a Cross-Country Rider
from Newcastle UK Date Reviewed: September 19, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The frame is great, the welding on it looks superb, and the paint job is even better. Shimano 9speed works well, and the wheel set is just as good as the Mavic CrossMax that they are modeled on.
Weaknesses:
The Fatty D. Shock is good although, mine had no oil in the shock when it came, so no dampening.
Similar Products Used:
GT Zaskar
Bike Setup:
Changed Gripshift to LX Rapid fire. Changed tires to Wildgrepper Comp S.(Because i split the side wall after 6 days!!)
Bottom Line:
One hell of a x-c Race Bike. Why pay £1000s for titanium or carbon fiber frames, when you could have this whole bike for the same price of the frame.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from NC Date Reviewed: September 13, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
HeadShok,HeadShok,HeadShok,Frame,Color,Weight
Weaknesses:
Cranks
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fischer Mt. Tam I think had a SID XC
Bike Setup:
Scott pedals,STX-RC,XT,LX parts
Bottom Line:
Cannondale is the best will never own anything but a Cannondale or a Merlin with HeadShok,if your thinking about bikes and are going to spend alot of money forget the fancy stuff,it will get trashed anyway. But the Coda cranks are ugly and get scraped really easy, Race Face is the most durable XTR scrape too.Wear a helmet on bikes and seatbelt in cars!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gustavo
a Weekend Warrior
from venezuela Date Reviewed: August 15, 1999
Favorite Trail:
anyone to climb
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
the frame is great,the headshok,best deal for the money.
Weaknesses:
low end hubs
Similar Products Used:
gary fisher paragon
Bottom Line:
it's the best bike you can buy for 1100 bucks,born to climb,the only thing i had to change were the hubs,i changed to xtr hubs and that's it.good braking,smooth riding,the locking feature of the headshok is great.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric A
a Cross-Country Rider
from Sioux Falls SD Date Reviewed: August 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Old Blady Black hills SD
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Light frame . Headshok XT/lx
Weaknesses:
Coda pedals fatty D froze up in the cold
Similar Products Used:
trek 6500 trek 8000
Bike Setup:
This bike with a different saddle ( STB SST ) time Atac pedals
Bottom Line:
Best bike I've ridden , The fatty D froze up in the winter so I got the Air cart upgrade . What a difference . and scraped the coda saddle for a WTB SSt . along with the Time atac pedals ( only because I have bad knees ) . With a few minor changes the control of the bike is amazing and it's a super climber .
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
D.Black
a Cross-Country Rider
from Calgary Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: August 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Anything not muddy
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Light. Cool frame, fork. Super climber. Stiff, stiff, stiff.
Weaknesses:
Nine speed sucks. Wheels are week.
Similar Products Used:
'95 F 700. '94 Killer V 900.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for DD 70 fork upgrade.
Bottom Line:
Cannondals are the best climbing cross contry bikes in the world. The headshock is the best and stiffest fork in the world. This bike is super fast and responsive. I pass my soft tail buddies down hill and smoke them on the climbs. Great tecnical downhill bike. Wouldn't ride anything else. Upgreadable to the new Lefty fork. Only weekness are the wheels and the totaly stupid nine speed. Shamano has realy made a mistake with this one. I get chain suck in the parking lot and the chain skips on the chainrings. But thats not Cannondales fault.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
oskar de Graaff
a Cross-Country Rider
from Rhenen Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Kwintelooijen
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light Caad 3 frame Headshock
Weaknesses:
Coda Crank STX-RC front der.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000 B1 Torix
Bike Setup:
XTR front and Rear der. Onza Barends Michelin tires
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this bike (or at least the frame) is worth every penny. Some thing could be better, like there are no barends on this bike. But it is the best I've ever been riding, so no further complaints!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Cross-Country Rider
from ny Date Reviewed: July 27, 1999
Favorite Trail:
ringwood
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
headshock, superlight frame, irc mythos, sachs shifters, coda bar ends,
Weaknesses:
cable somtimes gets caught in the head shock boot
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000, Giant Warp,
Bike Setup:
headshock fatty d, possible going to upgrade to 70mm kit caad3 frame
Bottom Line:
This bike is a total steal for the money, it's super fast,light and a great climber. Headshock doesn't bob and soaks up the bumps,if u race get the bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke
a Cross-Country Rider
from Vancouver, B.C. Date Reviewed: July 14, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ladies only on grouse
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
-CAAD 3 Frame -Headshok and lock-out feature -Coda Cranks -Coda pedals -cockpit(handle bar,bar ends, grips, shifters) -excellent value if on sale Shimano XT Derailer is excellent
Weaknesses:
-Nothing really unless you are a heavy rider
Similar Products Used:
Other c'dales Rocky Mountain Thin Air, Hammer Race, Oxygen Race,blizzard
Bike Setup:
Changed the LX shifters to plasma at the shop for free. LX shifters are good but I prefer grip shift
Bottom Line:
Really lite racing bike. Goes fast and stops fast. Very rigid but not harsh, Excellent climing ability, very good acceleration and agile. What a bike shoud be. Headshok tracks very well and is very stiff. 60mm of travel is enough. Love it. Many people bash the seat. It's true that it is hard but when ajusted properly it makes a whole lt of difference. Besides, these seat are designed for racers who have chamois shorts( the ones with the pading). If you don't like it, switch it to the coda comfort at the bike shop. Love c'dale, I will probably never buy a bike from another company(excpt litespeed or merlin). If you wana get this bike get it and enjoy!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zach Kruyf
a Cross-Country Rider
from Grand Rapids MI Date Reviewed: July 14, 1999
this is a very nice bike. The frame is light and stiff. I love the headshock design, its light, smooth and responsive but could use a little more travel. The XT rear shifts very well. The brakes on this bike could stand to be a bit better; they loose power fast. The Mavic 221's are OK. the rear one is bent up though. I like the smooth Coda cockpit . All in all this is a nice bike for the money. buy it
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dirk arnold
a Weekend Warrior
from wasserburg Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
uphill grip steering handling downhill riding position stiffness
Weaknesses:
suspension hardly adjustable chainrings
Similar Products Used:
Trek 8000/8500 Specialized Stmpj. M2
Bike Setup:
Fatty D XTR radial wheels
Bottom Line:
After quite a bit of riding still as satisfying as in february! the rather light front end does hardly limit the bike´s overall climbing abilities thanks to the great geometry. also wonderful on long trips, no aches... fatty works perfect, I would never change back to a normal fork again! all in all a wonderful buy!!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ad
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: June 30, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame build quality Light Headshock
Weaknesses:
Paint finish on disc mounts
Similar Products Used:
Trek7000,8000 GF Big Sur Kona Minimula Moab1 Klien att etc.etc.
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I just got this on sale for US$950!!!. After testing so many others this is the only bike that felt superior to my old heavy Diamond back. Headshock is sweet even for me at 6'4 & 190lbs, and locks out!! all the kit is stock and does just fine, inc. brakes! For what i paid and even at full price this has to be one of the most stable and solid rides out there. Only one complaint is the finish around the disc brake mounts with rough paint. Otherwise, by a massive margin the best bike i found at this price. Must have five flamers.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete Stoppani
a Cross-Country Rider
from Redmond, WA Date Reviewed: June 24, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Cannondale quality Headshock Aluminum frame Good quality components
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6500
Bike Setup:
Standard F700 Coda riser bar
Bottom Line:
Excellent ride. Love the 9 speed. Love the headshock.Very good value.Not fond of the brakes. I see an XT or XTR brake upgrade in the future. Or, given that I ride in some water/mud several times a week, year round, I may try the Code disc brakes after the rims wear out (should be in about 4-5 months).I mainly picked this bike because I already have a Klein Mantra Comp full-suspension bike so I wanted a hardtail for the less bumpy rides. I picked Cannondale because they make high-quality bikes and I like the Headshock.I still prefer the Mantra for anything except forest service roads and railroad grade trails. On bumpy surfaces and at higher speeds (over 15mph), the full suspension is much much more stable and easily controllable.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick S.
a Weekend Warrior
from Port Townsend, WA Date Reviewed: June 3, 1999
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Head Shock Light Weight C'dale Quality
Weaknesses:
PX-2 Brakes (squishy) Rapid Fire Shifters
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mt. Hammer Race Specialized Rockhopper FS
Bike Setup:
Changed stem (more rise) Stiffer Spring in Head Shock ESP Plasma Shifters Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
Generally excellent quality (except brakes!) smooth, solid, quiet ride (no fuss, muss or bother). Switched to ESP shifters (personal preference). Firm but not overly harsh (although I'll be looking for a suspension seat post soon). I'll be upgrading the brakes soon. I ride on-road, gravel trails and some semi-technical single track. This bike serves me well - I highly recommend it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ReeL
a Weekend Warrior
from Finland Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999
-Brakes -Sensitive gearshifter adjusting (not that bad)
Similar Products Used:
-My last bike had a Judy XC and STX/LX
Bike Setup:
-F700 SL European version -Replaced that CODA expert flat bar with titec riser for more of make a trick driving feel.
Bottom Line:
Ive been riding it for few days now. Lets break it down:Fatty D: Very sensitive indeed. No bottoming out what so ever. Didnt need any adjustments. It felt great rightaway (Im 72kg). On those very fast DH sections it was still quite a rumble but whats the sence to put a super plush fork on HardTail? I was most pleased of the way it worked on tough, slow speed uphills picking those roots 'n ruts.9 Speed casette: As I read from some mag, the new 9 speed system is mighty more sensitive for adjusting errors and dirt. When thumbling with that quick adjuster nob on that XT rear mech, remember that only a 1/4 of turn makes a difference.Tyres: 1.95 inch IRC mythos tyres have lots of grip on most surfaces. Should I say grip beyond purpose. Narrow profile makes them bit jumpy on soft like snow and sand. Also some of that snappy control feel comes from here. Cornering is also nice.Brakes: ProMax? Oh no whats that. I was horified to find similar ProMax brakes on our local SuperMarket. Very sluggish. Bit dirt on rims and they start making horrible scraching noises (not those squiling ones) and loose power. I might have bad braking surface on my front rim as those brakes grip harder on certain parts of the rim. If Id had to change something, itd be brakes. This is the only minus.Driving: On flat single tracks, slow, medium and high speeds its just... super! It goes uphill almost automatically (since Ive been riding 13kg of alu before). On DH WARP-speeds it feels bit less super. But it clearly wasnt built for that. Because it moves so lightly, it is most amazing on those singletracks curving around in the forests. uphills have become my buddy and flat my speedway.bottom line: Had to pay allmost 2000$ for it (count in that finnish 29% taxing), and got to say its worth every penny. And that cameleont paintjob rules! Id give it 5 if it came with better brakes. Id give it 4.5 if I could. But it has to be 4 volcanicly hot super chillies.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RIG
a Weekend Warrior
from Atlanta,Ga Date Reviewed: April 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Cross Creek
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Head Shock; Derailers; Light weight
Weaknesses:
None yet
Bike Setup:
Fatty D Head Shock
Bottom Line:
Well worth the $
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jan Jelovsek
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ljubljana, Slovenia Date Reviewed: April 21, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Shock, frame
Weaknesses:
hubs, pedals
Similar Products Used:
KHS Alite4000
Bike Setup:
Z2 Super-fly, xt
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike, very light, the shock is awesome, it's very smooth and it works even on the smallest bumps, the shifting is ok too. I broke the rear hub the second day I bought the bike and that was the only problem I had, medium quality hubs are very inexpencive, I bought XT. This is really the best bike for the money, you should at least try it. I would give it 6 stars.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fuzzy
a Weekend Warrior
from Deltona, fl Date Reviewed: April 20, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Santos, Bellview Florida
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Frame, Fork/Shock
Weaknesses:
Brakes, Tires
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC SE2 Specialized Rock Hopper Comp
Bike Setup:
F700 with Fatty D
Bottom Line:
This Bike is AWESOME. Light, quick, smooth over the roots. I went from the back of the pack, to the a front runner with my weekend warrior buddies. Buy this bike. You'll be a better rider from the first time you use it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rider from Quebec
a Cross-Country Rider
from montreal Date Reviewed: April 11, 1999
Favorite Trail:
some in moab
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Frame and fork
Weaknesses:
pedals tires seat post
Similar Products Used:
trek specialized
Bike Setup:
cannondale f-1000 fatty 70
Bottom Line:
I have race this bike last season and overall I am satisfied. The only thing are the tire that you must change when you purchase any of Cannondale bike, those IRC are really bad for the quality of the bike. also the CODA pedals, replace them before leaving the store, specially if you use them in mud !! The seat post is pretty bad to. This cold forged without splined on the adjustement underneath the saddle slip all the time... Replace it before you leave the store. I have check the 1999 models and all the problems that I have found on my F-1000 1998 model will still be there again this year...??On the positive side, GO BUY THIS BIKE again this year it is the best buy for the money and you won't have to work on it (fork, headset...) during the season. The best bike for a racer!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bam Bam
a Weekend Warrior
from Oklahoma City, OK Date Reviewed: April 7, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Hefner
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Bottom Line:
Have had this bike for almost a month now and am very happy with its performance. I am just starting to really work the bike to see it's limits and so far I have been the one that has limited the bike! Havent bought a mb in quite some time and am very happy with the frame/fork. I suggest upgrading the shifters to xt and so far the brakes have worked well except when wet. I give this bike 4.5 chilis====rounded up to 5
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chuck
a Weekend Warrior
from Ohio Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999
Favorite Trail:
vultures knob
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
rigid,tight, and very fast. Climbs so easy. very light.
Weaknesses:
head tube much higher than seat tube. Had to get a stem with a huge negative rise.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Big Sur Dean Colonel Klein Rascal
Bike Setup:
Manitou Sx ti Rock Shox Mag 21
Bottom Line:
I love the Headshok on these bikes. The bike actually wants to go faster than me. Very harsh rear end, but thats a hardtail for you, plus the climbs make up for it. This bike is a beast, and I think it performs just as well as the Caad 4's.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R. MUMEA
a Cross-Country Rider
from LIMA, OHIO Date Reviewed: April 1, 1999
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
LIGHT WEIGHT, REALIBLE COMPONENTS, VERY RESPONSIVE.HEAD SHOCK IS THE BEST FOR THE MONEY. IT IS JUST ENOUGH TO GET THE JOB DONE. FIT AND FINISH IS FANTASTIC
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
TREK BIKES
Bike Setup:
I ADDED A SUSPENTION SEAT POST
Bottom Line:
YOU CAN BUY A LOT LESS BIKE FOR MORE MONEY IF YOU DO NOT TRY THIS BIKE
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jens
a cross-country rider
from friesland Date Reviewed: March 5, 1999
Bottom Line:
I don`t like this bike, the headshock less travel than normal forks and upgrading to a normal suspention fork means using those horrid shims cannondale make. Also the headshock system gives a limited range of aheadsets you can use if the old one wears out.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mike
a cross-country rider
from south tejas Date Reviewed: February 20, 1999
Bottom Line:
I spent 3 months looking and riding every hardtail made. I finally came across Cnnondale. This is the lightest, fastest most durable bike I've ridden. I love it. The components are great. The only complaint is the crappy pedals. I can't seem to get them dialed in. If your looking for an awesome race ready, cross country or weekend warrior bike, this one is it. Definately no buyers remorse here. I give it 5 flamming hot, muy caliente, please pass the ice pack my ass is afire chili peppers. Go get one. NOW!!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirk
a cross-country rider
from Germany Date Reviewed: February 20, 1999
Bottom Line:
Wow! It took me 5 minutes to decide on this bike - my friend only needed three... Seriously, though the front end seems a little light uphill - short chainstays? - that neverending grip gives you wings - short chainstays! Even pretty stable downhill and a dream in single trails! Tests and Riding prove it stiff, still it´s rather light - big thanks to Cannondale for delaying the need for a new bike says my bank account... By the way, I payed $2000 for my ´98 1/2 CAD3 Euro version F700SL w/ XTR derailleurs; only those ESP 9.0 levers and Coda cranks/ rings are crap - help is on its way!! WORTH EVERY PENNY, this thing!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trfg
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: January 28, 1999
Bottom Line:
I love this boke. I love the head shock and the pedals are great. Overall it's awesome! I love it I love it I love it I love it and that's about all I have to say! I think it deserves six peppers, so I give it five peppers!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
trfg
a cross-country rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: December 29, 1998
Bottom Line:
I donn't like this boke at all. I hate the head shock but the pedals aren't bad. But overall it's terrible. I hate it I hate it I hate it I hate it and that's about all I have to say. I think it doesn't even deserve one pepper so I give it one ice cold pepper.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Siegel
a cross-country rider
from South Windsor, CT Date Reviewed: December 26, 1998
Bottom Line:
I purchased the '99 F-700 in September. It's one great bike for the money. I'm 6'-0 and 240 lbs and have taken a few good falls. This bike has held up well. I haven't had problems with rough terrain, maybe it's my weight. Even on downhills, although I'm not doing this all the time, the bike handles well. At this time, I see no need for a full suspension bike.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
evan martin
a cross-country rider
from viginia beach,va Date Reviewed: December 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
i bought the F700 about 2 weeks ago. i have to say this bike kicks ass. the XT/LX components rule. i have put this bike through hell and it kept up with me. i really like the on the fly lockout on the fatty D. i can't wait to race it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Glendyn Ivin
a
from Melbourne, Australia Date Reviewed: December 7, 1998
Bottom Line:
I have sold my V2000 Full Suspension and bought the F700. What a beautiful machine it is. I fell in love with it's MATT MIDNIGHT BLUE finish. It's a dream to ride, the Fatty Shock is superb and now I'm used to the HARDTAIL I dont miss the rear suspension. I upgraded the STX/LX to XT/LX 9 speed. Sweet!
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
I Luv Cannondale
a cross-country rider
from U.S. Date Reviewed: November 25, 1998
Bottom Line:
I recently purchased a '98 F700. I really like the orange paint job. Overall the bike seems to be really good. The frame is REALLY STIFF which is excellent for climbing and sprinting, but horrible for your butt (especially with the shitty CODA seat that comes with it). For cross-country riding, the bike is excellent, but it quickly becomes painful when you try to tackle some rough terrain with a little bit of speed. I am looking into a full suspension bike, but I'm getting different opinions about them. Bio-pacing and bobbing really turns me off. If anyone would like to give me their opinion on Super V bikes, please do.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a cross-country rider
from New York Date Reviewed: November 24, 1998
Bottom Line:
I bought the '99 f700 in september and it really kicks ass. I ride technical singletrack and this bike is worth what I paid for it. I really like the on-the-fly lockout of the fatty D. All my friends thought I was wasting my money, but believe me it was well worth it.The bike is really durable, I am 6'-4 and 200 pounds, I haven't noticed any deflection either on the frame or the components.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lance miller
a cross-country rider
from oklahoma Date Reviewed: November 14, 1998
Bottom Line:
this review is over the 98 model but it's alot alike,the 99 could only be better with the caad3 frame.anywy.i really like this bike,the headshok tracks well and i love the lckout on the dd60 cartridge.i got mine on closeout for $750.the stx/lx package shifts fairly quick and precisely,i do plan on upgrading most of the drivetrain to xt/xtr.the light frame makes upgrading ideal.the frame is quick and stiff,great on climbs but kinda hard on your butt,i'm gonna put a rockshox suspension seatpost on to smooth it out.the coda clipless pedals didn't clear mud well but worked fine in better conditions.this bike is a looker too,my bright orange paintjob grabs attention.the irc tires worked great,climbs well but lower rolling resistance than full knobbys.almst ready to race out of the box,good bike.i like it alot and can't wait to race it.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Keith Bickford
a weekend warrior
from Langley AFB Virginia Date Reviewed: November 6, 1998
Bottom Line:
I traded my Cannondale Super V 400 for this bike. Comparing full suspension to a hardtail is apples to oranges. But my F700 is a very fast orange. I love both bikes, but for the same price you get a Fatty Fork verse a P Bone. The performance difference is outstanding. It's quiet and even absornbs the little ripple bumps that the PBone ignores. That is typical of any Elastomar/spring fork. The fork lockout is very useful for stand up sprinting. You will immediately notice a faster get up and go. I bought a medium and put a large/long stem on it. This gives me 3-4 inches of clearance. I'm convinced that the light hardatail lands softer off 1 foot tall obstacles than the heavy suspension. Imagine jumping off a curb with 5 pound weights attached to your feet. Or ask a runner if light shoes reduces fatigue. Sure, roosting off a big log or down a hill, the Super V wins, no doubt. I love my new bike. Note that Cannondale shipped soem early 1999 bikes with 9 speed road cassettes and Grip Shift Plasmas due to an initial shortage of 9 speed MTB cassettes and 9 speed XT shifters. Look for a recent shipped model, or ask the salesmen to give you the equivelant.
Overall Rating:
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