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Submitted by
Attila Kiss
a Cross Country Rider
from Budapest, Hungary
Date Reviewed: February 11, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Stiffness, amazing power transfer of pedaling energy to the real wheel | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | `96 M400 | | Bike Setup: | `07 XT derailleurs, Sram Attack shifters, CaneCreek DirectCurve 3 brakes and arms, Kore stem, BikePositive handlebar and seatpost, Mach1 rims, `08 XT cassette, XTR chain and cables | | Bottom Line: | climbs like crazy, still cannot believe it's over 10 years old...
Steve, I may have been the one who snatched away that frame on eBay... although your post is over a year old, so I dunno.. Anyways, this is a lovely frame and despite that I'm a heavyweight (over 220lbs) rider, it is responsive, extremely reliable and maintenance-free. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
paul haworth
a Cross Country Rider
from england
Date Reviewed: February 4, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | llandegla, black run | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$700.00 | | Purchased At: | e-bay | | Strengths: | bullit proof frame and head shock! indistructable!!!! | | Weaknesses: | none, only the top headset bearing! keep a lizard skin around it then should have no probs! | | Similar Products Used: | scott scale 20 for ridgability | | Bike Setup: | cross country, xc racing weapon. full xt -magura hydrolic disks, mavic wheelset,on hope hubs! | | Bottom Line: | v ridged, climbs like an animal, decends just as fast!!!! depending on the rider of course!!!! good paintwork,still looks new-for a 8 year old bike, headshock just keeps on going, had to replace the top bearings tho! as the bottom bearing never seems to wear! overall my opinion is that the caad 3 volvo cannondale frame is the best frame on the planet! ive had trek 9.8- scott scale 20- kona king kikapu-full sus, yeti arc and many more bikes and ive always gone back to the trusted dale. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Dayton
a Cross Country Rider
from Nine Mile Falls,WA
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Trail #7 on Lockout pass, ID | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Works | | Strengths: | Light, strong, good paint and looks. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Kona AA, Bridgestone MB2 | | Bike Setup: | All XT except cranks are LX, Marrzochi Superfly fork, Sun Ryno light rims, Rox shox sup. post. | | Bottom Line: | Could this be the last review on this frame? I pick it up for half price in Jan 2000, I built it up built and ready to ride in March. I just replaced the entire drive train and wheels in 06 with 9,000 miles on the bike which I should estimate 70% was ridden off road. So the frame and fork have over 9k and still going strong. I rate my self as an aggressive rider and weight 190lbs. Best cycling purchase I have ever made. Last year there was the same frame size and all on e-bay never built up. My only regret is not bidding on that frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonny
a Weekend Warrior
from chattanooga, TN USA
Date Reviewed: October 3, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | flea market | | Strengths: | LIGHT! Never weighed this (my) complete setup but its crazy light. Used for XC and commuting. This bike is the most favorite i've owned and for the money you can't go wrong | | Weaknesses: | head shok failure (dd50 - best headshok IMO) but after years of neglect (in my parents garage, the shock is blown) -- no problem, i ride it on lockout. rear brake cable scratches top tube | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Shimano XTR F&R derailurs, Cassette, Chain, Sproket. XT Hubs and skewers, brakes and levers and crank/front sproket. Kore lite 2 seatpost, Easton EA70 al. straight bar 5 deg. bend sachs grip shifters Mavic 217 rims bent to hell and hammered back | | Bottom Line: | I abuse my poor bike, partly from ignorance, mostly from poverty. I straight traded for this bike (an old Trek y-3) years ago at a flea market. I feel like i got a spectacular deal -- seeing as how i spent $300 on the y-3 and it was ~3 years old at the time. I love cannondale adn this CAAD 3 frame. I get funny stares when i run up the stairs in my apartment complex this bike in hand (held by the seatpost) :-p | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian Thomas
a Cross Country Rider
from Vernon BC Canada
Date Reviewed: December 20, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Kal Park | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Rebec and Kroes Cycle Ottawa, Ontario | | Strengths: | STIFF!!! aWesome frame and it's just a little heavier than 3 lbs. Climbs like crazy!! cannondale does awesome job on the welds too bike looks great. NO HEADSHOCK....that's a real +++ | | Weaknesses: | Bars can swing back and hit the top tube denting them. I have 1 small ding from that but other than that not much. The paint is a little chippy too. | | Similar Products Used: | Norco bikes..not much this calibre | | Bike Setup: | CAAD3 Frameset, XTR hubs, Sun 0degXC rims 28 holes. Race face air carbon bars, lx grouppo Race face thermo sp headset....that's it | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. If you are a pure XC rider go for it. Frames can be a little weak if you want to do anything other than XC. You feel EVERYTHING on this bike I mean EVERYTHING. the good and the bad. Don't jump or hop or any of that crazy stuff. It's a pure XC racing machine. That's how you get the "Cracknfail" name. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Hatch
a Cross Country Rider
from Guilford, CT USA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Westwoods | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Friend | | Strengths: | REALLY Friggen light and stiff! This bike kicks ass on the climbs and excelerates like a bat out of hell. I also paid $600 for a bike with all xtr except for the front derauller and crankset-weighs under 25 lbs-worth abou $2500 brand new. | | Weaknesses: | Dropouts-the hub wore a groove into the drivetrain side dropout-now the wheel doesn't stay too straight when under full steam. But that doesn't bother me too much. It is only about 1-2 mm off. I will probably get it replaced within a year(the dropout.) | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Jekyll-i ride an f700 | | Bike Setup: | xtr hubs, rear derraler, brakes, brake levers; sram quartz grip shift;sram chain;xt cassette, crankset, front derrauler;brontrager easton ea70 handlebar;cannondale seatpost, stem; headshok sl fork; selle san marco saddle; hutchinson alligator tires;mavic x517 rims;dt swiss spokes | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike! I have won races on it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from Algonquin, IL, USA
Date Reviewed: May 1, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | back roads | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | praire trail bike shop | | Strengths: | The '98 R1000 frame is a excellent, rock solid frame. It climb, decends, and flys through the flats with out any hint of flex. The frame does not absorbe any energy and the power goes staight to the wheels. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Nishikki road bike and tried a few GT's | | Bike Setup: | Straight ultegra, Mavic cxp30 and Slice carbon fork | | Bottom Line: | Cannondale bikes are a lot of money but they are worth every penny. They are a very rigid frame so the ride can be a little bumpy if you dont have a carbon fork. I have a 56 cm. frame and i am 5'11". It seemed to be a little short so i had to get a longer stem but it seems to get pretty good now. No power is lost due to a flexy frame. This is my second cannondale, the other is a F900 mountain bike, but i like the frames so much i had to get a cannondale road bike to. The frame is well worth saving a few extra $ over something a little cheeper. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim the old salt
a Cross Country Rider
from N. evans ny
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | any great WNY trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | local shop | | Strengths: | light stiff and climbs better than I do | | Weaknesses: | paint does chip easy but | | Similar Products Used: | gt backwoods mongoose rockadile | | Bike Setup: | cad3 frame 98judyxc xt everything else | | Bottom Line: | I bought this frame in 2000 . I'm not a little guy buy no means 5'9 195lbs. The 16" frame built up to 21lbs. this is one nice bike that climbs like crazy. it is stiff but and beats you pretty good. it handles very well on tight technical stuff and makes this old guy look like he knows what hes doing . owning this after my gt is like going from a MG to a 911. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil
a Racer
from London, England
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | St John Street, EC1! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Strengths: | super-stiff rear triangle means it leaves a ducati 996 standing at the lights...
the fatty-r fork is in a league of its own, and the paint job is just beautiful. | | Weaknesses: | replaceable (thank god!) rear dropout. i'm about to buy my third. that gorgeous paint chips easily, and violent inner-city children covet it for its beauty. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Zaskar, GT Karakoram. | | Bike Setup: | Limited Edition Martyn Ashton CAAD3 Frameset, Mavic 618s with Hutchinson TopSlick Gold 1.0s, XT BB, LX drivetrain, hubs & brakes, disappointing DMR V8 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | spend extra on decent components and i swear you'll never buy any other brand of frame again. if you must buy the Bad Boy (essentially the same tubing, but with horrid geometry) then at least upgrade the fork to Fatty-R or Pace. this frame is the absolute bollocks - super-light, super-fast and strong as an ox. i'd buy another tomorrow. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from South Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | any with dirt | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | JAX - Fullerton | | Strengths: | Light weight, awesome welds, quick | | Weaknesses: | Stiff | | Similar Products Used: | Access, Giant, etc. | | Bike Setup: | XT, Manitou SXR, CODA, USE Suspension Post | | Bottom Line: | I reviewed this frame back on 10/7/98. I since have bought a Proflex 5000 and am currently riding a Santa Cruz Superlight. But I did rebuild this bike. The shock from the Santa Cruz was sent back to Fox, so I pulled the Cannondale back out. Even though I fully believe that full suspension is required for all riding, this bike still rocks. This frame is worth any penny! Get one if you are looking for a hardtail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Cincy, OH
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | From friend | | Strengths: | Incredibly light and stiff. Climbs effortlessly. | | Weaknesses: | None so far, but bigger riders may find the ride a bit stiff... I weigh around 135 and love it. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8700 carbon fiber/aluminum HT | | Bike Setup: | Caad 3 frame, Manitou SX-R fork, caramba cranks, raceface rings, xt/xtr drivetrain, avid sd 7 brakes, sram levers and shifters, WTB speed xc wheels, panaracer fire xc pro tires, ritchey, bontrager parts etc. etc. (all for under $800!!- shop around before you buy) | | Bottom Line: | This bike rides itself! With my current setup, the complete bike weighs somewhere in the neighborhood of 23 lbs. It climbs incredibly and tracks exactly as it should. It's inspired me to get back into XC racing this summer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Dixon
a Cross Country Rider
from New Gisborne, Victoria, Australia
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cairns | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Cannondale f700 Cad 4 | | Strengths: | Light, Strong, Stiff and gets the power down to the ground | | Weaknesses: | Maybe the price, but the ride really changes that decision | | Similar Products Used: | Mates Volvo Cannondale Team Bike felt very simular to the F700 | | Bike Setup: | 2001 f700 , Magura Julie Disks Are Excellent, XT & CODA, I would change the rims, Hutchinsons tires, Coda peddles, bar ends Basicallt set for racing and kept light in weight, about 11 to 11.5 kgs | | Bottom Line: | Great bike for the person who wants a quality bike and can afford a little bit more at the start but will pay off later. As we say in OZ its a beauty mate!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BigBare
a Cross Country Rider
from OC, California, USA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Jedi | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$189.00 | | Strengths: | Reasonably light and inexpensive
Has a good feel for an aluminum frame | | Weaknesses: | Dents and "pings" easily | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper
GT Karakoram (back in tha day) | | Bike Setup: | CAD3 frame with RST fork, LX/XT parts. | | Bottom Line: | I've been pretty happy with this frame, except for the fact that I bought it too small for me (but that's my own fault). It's super stiff under acceleration, but doesn't jingle your kidneys through the rough stuff like other aluminum hardtails I've ridden. The one bad thing I've noticed is that it's been getting dented by the handlebars and by kicked-up rocks really easily -- makes me think that they thinned out the walls a little too much to save weight. But I've ridden it really hard and it's still straight and seems to still be strong. Overall a good frame. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian
a Cross Country Rider
from Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Tyrolean mountainbike trails | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | Sport Neuner | | Strengths: | lightweight, stiff frame
durable
good workmanship
excellent handling
fantastic Fatty-D fork | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Kettler, Trek | | Bike Setup: | '98 F-1000, Shimano Deore XT, Avid brakes, Mavic Crosslink wheelset, Time ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | I've been riding this bike for 3 years and never had any problem. The bike climbs great, the fork works very well and the handling on single tracks and downhills is fantastic. The fork's strengths are its stiffness, the good response to bumps and the lock-out mechanism.
The only bad thing about Cannondale bikes is the high price you have to pay in Austria (or hole Europe). So, American Cannondale owners, spend your next holiday in Tyrol/Austria, the heart of the alps (and probably the country with the best selection of trails), bring your Cannondale bike with you and sell it here at the end of your visit! ;-)) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
reverendswampy
a Cross Country Rider
from baltimore
Date Reviewed: March 15, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$299.00 | | Strengths: | very light, stiff BB, great climber. | | Weaknesses: | short top tube for a pure XC bike. | | Bike Setup: | 1 1/8" head tube for my 2.5lbs. Rockshox=lightest bike on the trails. | | Bottom Line: | I love it. However, the top tube is a little short. I have to run a 150mm stem to compensate (I am weird with this set-up though, everyone feels awkward on my bike and I feel awkward on anything else XC). I will ride it 'til I break it... then probubly buy another. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
spener
a Weekend Warrior
from york pa
Date Reviewed: December 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | lake redman's trail 5 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$350.00 | | Strengths: | stiff, great climber,love the point and shoot turning | | Weaknesses: | the frame has no problems at all...my only beef is cannondale comes out w/ new frames all the time. that isnt bad as long as u can afford to keep up w/ it | | Similar Products Used: | trek 6000, trek y frame | | Bike Setup: | sram 9.0 shifters and dr., avid arch 50 brakes and avid 2.0 levers... | | Bottom Line: | stiff frame thats great for the type of trailes i ride. If u need comfort, or have some mad down hill runs i wouldnt buy the frame. besides that the frame is one of the best out there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Miho Hatori
a Racer
from Pergatory
Date Reviewed: October 25, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Manhattan | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | d/q | | Strengths: | light, stiff, geometry(perfect fit for me) | | Weaknesses: | size range, paints a bit weak | | Similar Products Used: | fisher, trek, marin | | Bike Setup: | caad3, mar.z2, xt, xt/517, kore riser xc, kore lite stem & post, kore g.a.s.s. pedals, | | Bottom Line: | you see the reviews here they say it all this frame is sick i bought it because a guy i ride w/ has one and for all these people breaking them i dont know what your doing but this kids 200lbs. and has been bombing his caad3 on rocky rooty east coast trails for 3yrs w/ no problem. caad3s' are xc frames some of the best xc frames | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dave la soul
a Cross Country Rider
from planet rock
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | lbs | | Strengths: | beautiful weldslight, light ,light and very forgiving for a aluminum frame | | Weaknesses: | more color selection on framesets | | Similar Products Used: | trek,gt,fisher,and haro | | Bike Setup: | caad3, sx/r, lx, titec etc... | | Bottom Line: | solid not flexy, climbs like mad, superlight and jusrt plain looks cool. at the price you really can't go wrong with this frame you really cant go wrong period w/ this frame | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cadel Evans :-p
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | lots! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | - Light
- Stiff
What more do you want??? I mean it climbs brilliantly, & i can't descend, so . . .
- Oh yeah, & great handling . . . point & shoot where you want it to go & it goes there without fuss esp at high speeds
- The way it works with the HeadShok . . . | | Weaknesses: | - A little too stiff perhaps???
- Price perhaps but I'm not complaining
- I can only use HeadShok but I'm not complaining here either | | Similar Products Used: | My first aluminium (no it's not a spelling mistake!) frame so my heavy steel rigids don't quite compare | | Bike Setup: | Y2K Cannondale F700 with Headshok Fatty DL, Deore/XT drivetrain, Magura Clara discs with crappy Coda Expert hubs & crappy Weinmann Zac 19 rims | | Bottom Line: | Excellent light & stiff frame . . . as I mostly use this on-road it's a welcome feature - with HeadShok on lock-out & equipped with slick tyres this is one rocket that's way better than a roadie on Sydney's disgusting potholed roads . . . at least you can now jump off kerbs & run over potholes instead of slowing & riding around them.
Excellent climber . . . just what I need . . .
Great handler too - coupled with a short stem the steering is so precise at high speeds, the thing is so nimble you could just point & shoot it at a given point on the road/trail & it will go there without fussing.
But at lower speeds the agility & the quick steering nature takes a while to get used to & I've always arrived at the apex way way too early!
A bit pricey but hey it's an excellent frameset so you get what you pay for . . . a shame that my budget only lets me put heavy components on the bike . . .
Now, if only I could get some more cash to get a CAAD5 . . . | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JIM
a Weekend Warrior
from BURLINGTON,VERMONT
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | JIM'S WOOD'S!!!! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | EAST-COAST ROOTS,MADE FOR THE EVIL WOODS OF THE EAST!! | | Weaknesses: | slightly thin downtubing, no problems so far!....and it HAS been pushed! | | Similar Products Used: | old-school cannondales,Konas | | Bike Setup: | full X.T.,RACE-FACE,mammoth rims with Kujo D.H. treads,R.F.north shore xs cranks with a Girvin rock ring,Cannondale Moto120 fork with disc brake,azonic risers,oury grips,old school XT thumbshifters....RULING DEEP WOODS URBAN ASSAULT MACHINE! | | Bottom Line: | Not for everyone!....but the trails I regulate arent for everyone either!THAT IS OKAY!...but if you like it tight,steep and nasty...then this set-up may be for you! HUGE DROPS...TIGHT WOODS...LOTS OF ROOTS AND ROCKS>>>>this bike is made for it!!do it up....then rip it up!A grown-up little kids BMX bike!!!whooooo-hooooo.LOOK OUT BELOW! anybody want a tour of vermont insanity?..drop a line!Much respect to all real bikers out there....stay sick! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Warrensburg, NY USA
Date Reviewed: May 1, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | mine | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | stiff, like an arrow, it goes where you point it | | Weaknesses: | really is too stiff | | Similar Products Used: | nothing | | Bike Setup: | Manitou shock, avid brakes, LX/XT 8 speed, semi-slicks | | Bottom Line: | Alright, this bike has alot of soul and alot of character. Like some other guy said, it really is like a porsche of the bike world, that is to say spirited yet a thrill to drive. I'm a short guy, I have a tiny frame(my larger friends yell, "John, let me ride your BMX around(referring to my C'dale). Anyway, it is so small that it corners on a dime. My one complaint: I originally had it with a titec seatpost and a low-end bontrager saddle. Ouchy on my bottom. I got a specialized MTB body geometry saddle, problem solved. a good bike. I got the frame for 299 during one of those c'dale sales. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darwin
a Cross Country Rider
from Cupertino
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | everywhere | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Stiff, Light, Look, Tight and Fast | | Weaknesses: | Can't do service on the Shock myself. (Anyone knows how to do them? Please let me know, thanx) | | Similar Products Used: | Old Trek steel bike | | Bike Setup: | Fatty SL, Coda Competition Disk Brakes, Mavic 223 on Coda Disk, Rock Shox Seatpost, Full LX 9 speed | | Bottom Line: | Great Frame, very fast and grips well on lose trails. Bought the frame with shock on Ebay for 400 bucks, best deal one could ever find. i switched everything from my old bike to this (9 speed LX). will upgrade to higher end products (XTR) as money comes to match the frame's performance. The frame is very light, and the over size tube gives it a solid look. The best bike I've tried on yet. I did all the maintance on the bike myself except the shock, still need to find out how i can do that at home. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Troy, MT
Date Reviewed: April 6, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Bottom Line: | I bought my CAAD 3 as a frame with the head shock and it's hands-down the best bike I've ever ridden. It's quick and it's light. The shock is light years ahead of Rock Shox. I have put a couple of small dents in the down tube from rocks, but that's aluminum for you. After I got used to the stiffer ride of this bike, I became a Cannondale fan for life. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jeff
a Weekend Warrior
from tumwater, wa., u.s.a.
Date Reviewed: March 22, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | capital forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | very light, incredible handling, good price | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | '99 f-900, mongoose alta(yuck!) | | Bike Setup: | marzocchi Z-2 Atom Bomb, almost all XT, XTR 12-32 cassette | | Bottom Line: | I bought this as a bare frame(20 inch). It has a 1 1/8 headtube.
The LBS I purchased it from weighed it at about 3.3 pounds.
It has a beautiful black paint job, and cost $419. THIS
BIKE RIPS! My previous bike was a Mongoose Alta. It had
real slack geometry. Not my c'dale! It has a longer top
tube, so when I installed the 135 mm stem from my old bike,
I was too stretched out. A 110 mm stem fixed it, and now
it handles like it should. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Carl Bylund
a Cross Country Rider
from Klippan, skane, sweden
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | ? | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Strenght, weight, ability, stiffness, price | | Weaknesses: | weak painting job | | Similar Products Used: | ? | | Bike Setup: | Caad3 XT,Coda hubs, ritchey wheels | | Bottom Line: | A great frame, STIFF, and just great, the best frame I´ve ever tried. Very good in singeltracks, where there is roots and stones everywhere. | | Value Rating: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: |
Everything: paint is tough, tyre clearence good, geometry perfect for me, my small weighs in at 2.8lbs, great for jumping, feels strong, love it! | | Weaknesses: |
I does not say my name on it | | Similar Products Used: |
nothing in comparison to this | | Bike Setup: |
a good one | | Bottom Line: | Very light, very fast, very strong, very sexy, just perfect for me and my type of riding ( i do XC, DH, DS and a lot of 50mile+ rides and days jumping (more like crashing), not broken yet, and it doesnt feel like it is going to either! That bloke further down the list has something against Cannondales, if he does not like this frame, he does not ride! Simple as! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonny Nash
a Racer
from Kent England
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Penshurst (PORC) | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
lightweight, Geometry, looks, damping abillity
and general thrashability!!! | | Weaknesses: |
Fragile paint job | | Similar Products Used: |
Killer V Specialized Stumpy | | Bike Setup: |
XT XTR Maguras Crossmax | | Bottom Line: | Top Quality Frame superb Handling looks this is a frameset you can really thrash and get away with it. The Damping ability of this frame is absolutly top notch for an off the peg frame, so much so that I'm considering putting ridgid pace forks up front to make an already light bike even lighter this is a top class climbing bike well done dale keep 'em coming!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cdale
a Weekend Warrior
from Stockton, CA
Date Reviewed: June 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Darrington Trail | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Great handling, lightweight, purty Cdale blue- absorbs shock pretty well for an aluminum h-tail. | | Weaknesses: |
Easily dinged paint job- touchup paint doesn't match. Thin aluminum tubing. | | Similar Products Used: |
Klein (hated it!) | | Bottom Line: | God, I love this bike- it has given me many hours of pleasure and sweet handling. It has been thrashed and comes back for more (with a little paint missing each time). The Headshok has been great- doesn't require a lot of maintenance like a regular shock. Not the most travel, I know, but it's a hardtail, dammit! I've recently put a Rockshok suspension seatpost on it, and this helps, if you're old and frail like me. Heh heh... I like to think of this bike as the Porsche of the mountain bike world- a little temperamental, but will go with you to the limit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
carson
a Weekend Warrior
from golden, co
Date Reviewed: June 4, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
none | | Weaknesses: |
poor geometry
headshock good concept but poor execution
brittle
bb flex
waivering commitment to lifetime warranty | | Bottom Line: | This is my third cannondale frame replaced under warranty. Bike #1 the down tube snapped at the head tube and my cranks started dragging on the ground. Bike #2 my hub was holding the rear triangle together. Thankfully I didn't die from having my ride combust in mid-ride. I do ride hard but I'm not really heavy, I think that if you buy and cannondale and plan to ride it on a regular basis you can also plan on the frame cracking. For those of you who have had one for a while, it is a good idea to wipe down the frame with a cloth every month or so to look for cracks. Cannondale has accepted the fact that light weight AL frames snap, and their waivering commitment to a lifetime warranty proves this point. I think that the geometry of this bike sucks and that the headshock, while a good concept, could be a lot better than it is. The frame is pretty stiff on the trail but the bb flexes at the same time. Right now I'm waiting to break this frame so that I can buy one from another manfacturer. Save yourself the trouble and don't buy this bike. yes, they will probably replace the frame under warranty but it seems like the seat tube or cables never transfer to a new model. If you don't ride hard or frequently this is not a bad bike. It is light and cheap. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Manchester, CT
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Leominster State Park and Surrounding Woods | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Stiffness, Strength, Geometry, Agility | | Weaknesses: |
Comfort, Can be a little bouncy if you hit something unexpectedly | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 8000, Specialized Stumpjumper, GT Avalanche | | Bike Setup: |
Cannondale CAAD 3, Fatty 70 SL | | Bottom Line: | I'm about 200 lbs and this bike has been great. It performs well, stays stiff and puts me where I want to go. The components have all been upgraded providing performance that matches the frame and fork performance. But most importantly, two days ago I cracked my frame. Yesterday I picked up a brand new CAAD3 with a brand new Fatty SL. All I paid was a small fee (100$) for the upgrade and the bike shops fee to swap the components over. All this is pretty significant because the 24 hrs of Cannan is on Saturday and that would have been tough without a bike. So 5 stars to Cannondale for the performance, 5 stars to the Cannondale rep for replacing my frame and fork without even seeing it in person on a couple hours notice, and 5 stars to Vernon Cycle Center in Vernon CT for getting it all together before the race this weekend. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonny Nash
a Cross-Country Rider
from Kent, S.E. England
Date Reviewed: May 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Penshurst+Snowdon+North Downs | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Stiffness, Geometry,and the general rideability of the Frame | | Weaknesses: |
fragile paintjob
'98 version has tire clearance problems but '99-sorted!! | | Similar Products Used: |
CAAD2 (KiilerV), Scott Specialized | | Bike Setup: |
XTR/XT, CROSSMAX, FATTY FORKS, PROFILE CARBON BARS, FLITE, TITEC, ETC,ETC. | | Bottom Line: | The CAAD2 (Killer V) was, & still is a great ride, nice and rigid! then I bought a CAAD3 and was totally astounded by the climbability/sprinting and general feel of the bike the Headshocks compliment the frame extremly well adding to the responsiveness and as a plus the lockout option is great for sprints and sharp climbs. This is the best XC frame and fork combo that I've raced/ridden the only complaint that I have is that the paintwork is fragile. But that doesn,t affect the ride. Anyway top stuff 'Dale just put more laquer on to protect the paintwork. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ilan
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston
Date Reviewed: May 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
singletrack | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
strong, tight, and light | | Weaknesses: |
anti-gravitational tendencies | | Similar Products Used: |
buddie's Super V 700 | | Bike Setup: |
bought the bike used, with all the guy's parts. DD60 cartridge. | | Bottom Line: | THis guy bought the frame from Sun and Ski sports and then mail ordered everything else. XT/XTR all around with Syncros, Control Tech, and Kore. The complete bike is extremely light and only does what i want (sometimes a drawback as im not perfect).
Overall, great for singletrack and cross crounty w/ a susp seatpost. Got him down from $900 to $700, a great deal- he had law school bills to pay off. Highly reccommended.
5 fiery things. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pete
a Cross-Country Rider
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Lynn Woods | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Handling, weight, Headshock, stiffness | | Weaknesses: |
Stiffness | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized A1, GT Zaskar, | | Bike Setup: |
Caad3w/dd60 headshock, XT drivetrain, USE xcr shock post | | Bottom Line: | For an east-coast singletrack bike, this is the best for the money. It is damn light, VERY responsive, and well made in the USA. Sure it probably isn't the best bike for a free riding, downhill, riser bar type. But if you dig the tight, techincal singletrack thing and you don't have a grand to spend on a frame, try one of these. And the Headshock is great. Not a ton of travel but the steering accuracy is phenominal. One drawback is that the frame is still aluminum and that alone has its drawbacks, one of which being that it can really beat you up. I have found that by using a suspension post (USE) things get smoother. But, if you want plush, this isn't for you (go full suspension or something). Otherwise, a great frame and a great bike. And the compnay supports NEMBA and trail advocacy. A nice plus!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Migs
a Cross-Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: April 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
black moose | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Rides great and great warranty. | | Weaknesses: |
I've broke a couple frames(two killer v's), but they've always had me up and runing on a new steed within two weeks. | | Similar Products Used: |
gt, trek, bridgestone,other cannondales | | Bike Setup: |
caad3 frrame now w/bombers and xt componets. | | Bottom Line: | My cannondales have always ridden real nice, and the customer service from Cannondale is excellent. If it wern't for the cust. service/warranty I probally wouldn't be such a happy camper. Stay gold ponyboy. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kim
a Cross-Country Rider
from Willoughby, OH
Date Reviewed: March 25, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Extremely light and rigid; great value; warranty; Iris blue paint and graphics look slick. | | Weaknesses: |
So light you may be afraid to hammer it, and even though it's rigid, it can ding easy. | | Similar Products Used: |
Giant, ProFlex. | | Bottom Line: | I was determined to build a bike that was lighter than my two-ton ProFlex Animal, would climb like a mountain goat, and be able to accelerate. The CAAD3 was the only choice. I tricked it out with a SPOX wheelset, FSA ti bb, Tamer carbon fiber seatpost and handlebar, Manitou SX-R fork, XT front and XTR 9-spd rear derailleurs, and XT brakes w/GripShift 9.0 levers. The bike is a trip! It weighs under 22lbs. and accelerates like a rocket. I don't think it rides any stiffer than my old cro-mo Giant, and I'm willing to take a few bumps in the ass for a good ride. The value of this frame is incomparable and well worth the money I spent. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Simi Valley
Date Reviewed: March 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Hummingbird | | Duration Product Used: |
tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: |
inexpensive, massproduced | | Weaknesses: |
Headshock, Singlebutted tubes (saves them $$) | | Similar Products Used: |
Huffy, Roadmaster | | Bottom Line: | All I have to say to anyone who rides and is searching for the ultimate ride is, try a frame made from the new Scandium tubes that Easton makes. The thing rides like a dream for a hardtail. The BB is a little lose but you can't feel it on the climbs because you are on a frame that only weighs 2.2lbs (that's about a pund lighter then the Crackendal). Life is to short to ride junk. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
b bag
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
well, I just did something that may shock all of you. I just mounted a xvert-r on to the cad3 frame. blowing caution to the wind, I've decided to take the chance with my head to in an attempt to make a sweet ride. originally I've been using a q21r fork (piece o crap) and enjoyed every minute of my ride. the acceleration is indescribable (where do you want to go right now?) and the handling is flawless, except 40+ mph DH (I love dual slalom style riding). so I've decided to change the head angle with this in mind. I'm still in the transformation stage so I can't say much about the effects of the dual crown, but if it destroys my frame I'll keep you posted. 5 chillis for my original ride | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Abe Taylor
a weekend warrior
from Auburn,Cali.
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I used to own a Cad2, but some bastard stole it! i then got my hands on a Cad3 at first I thought that the BB was swinging back and forth in turns but I think it was because I used to own a Cad2, they're stiffer down there. As for strength, I think that it's very strong for the amount of material that they use in the downtube, hell, it's strong for the amount of materiel that anyone used. I've taken big drops, spills, and I've even Downhill raced it(Buff). I've dented it too many times though. I give the frame a big five flaming chillies.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a cross-country rider
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: February 19, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I got the frame trade-in deal last summer, with the Fatty D. Before I was riding the Delta V 700 that I bought in 1993. I thought switching to spring/elastomer would suck, but it feels great, very responsive (of course I weigh 170lbs. so it was designed for me). I also love being able to lock out again--after my original air-oil with lockout finally bit the dust on my Delta V I had gotten the '97 air-oil with no lockout.
I used to complain that the rear end was too stiff (although I was quite willing to sacrifice for the lack of BB flex). I recently bought a Ti seatpost, though, and it has made a world of difference. It's interesting though, b/c I bought that seatpost only b/c I was tired of bending even aluminum seatposts; but someone asked me if the seatpost helped my back, and it turned out that I realized I haven't had a sore back in quite a while. Anyway, there's a relatively inexpensive way to combat some of the harshness of these frames. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ungasha
a racer
from College Station, Texas
Date Reviewed: January 9, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Here's an update:
My frame has a dent in the right seat-stay, and it isn't affecting the frame's performance one iota. The other dent is my fault: I overtightened the front derailleur clamp, because I'm stupid, so now I have this moronic-looking, crushed seat-tube down near the bottom-bracket area. BUT!! It's not affecting either the shifting or the frames integrity, as far as I can tell. Ha!
So, I want to rate this thing as a 3 for it's easy-denting tubes, but I also want to give it a 5 for those imperfections not screwing up anything performancewise. So, here's a 4 for balance's sake. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
spaceboy
a weekend warrior
from georgia
Date Reviewed: January 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Had this frame since November of '96 the last year with the 11/8 steer tube.I've had ablast on this bike, but unfortunately I'mgoing to have to retire it.Due to a minor back injury the rigidity of the frame is killing me,so I'm switching to either F/S or Ti.Honestly though you really can't find a better made USA made hand-built frame for the $$.It's really light and efficient ,the only other problem Ive had with it is the easily chipped paint (but hey ,that's gonna happen after 2 good years of hard riding .This would be a 5 star frame if my back wasn't shot. So in conclusion if you want a kick-ass aluminum hardtail frameand you like a really really stiff frame ,look no further,unless maybe you want toshell out a couple extra bucks for a CAD 4. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Timur Maltaric
a cross-country rider
from Bosnia
Date Reviewed: December 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I ride my frames very hard and I have broken a couple of CCM aluminums (cheap). The CAAD3 had lasted for an entire season before it cracked at the chainstay. WOW! I don't know if the company will replace it. Anyway, it's a stiff and light frame with tiny little bit of tire clearance in the rear. I had problems running 2.1 velociraptors in mud - no clearance. Also the bottom tube cable routing is not my favorite as cables tend to freeze up in winter. I wonder how the company can stay in business with their 5-year warranty. Maybe they won't give me a new one. | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
nick
a cross-country rider
from vashon island, washington
Date Reviewed: November 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sure, it's light, it's affordable, it's a very cool purple color, but I don't understand what all the hype is. I weigh 140lbs and I can get the BB to flex A lot. It does not have a resilient and smooth ride, as a matter of fact the ride quality sucks. I don't feel that the drivetrain is particularly stiff. The only things it has going for it are weight and color, not things that should be a massive influence on your ride of choice. It is what a $350 frame should be, if it's any constellation to you. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Johnny
a cross-country rider
from SD, CA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
i have had this frame for a while now and its REALLY lite and realy stiff. the welds are absolutely the most beautiful things i have seen on an aluminum bike. the only problem i have is that the head angle is too steep (or too much), its too vertical. i find that i endo'ed a lot but that is just my riding style. the tapered downtube offers awesome lateral stiffness and it rocks overall. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a weekend warrior
from Orange County, California
Date Reviewed: October 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a CAAD3 frame about six months ago and have absolutely no complaints. This frame can be hammered. It is currently built up with XTR and
a Manitou SXR and weighs less than 24 lbs. One suggestion though, a suspension
post will greatly help on downhills (I have the USE XCR which works great). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jovan Puyo
a cross-country rider
from Philippines
Date Reviewed: October 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the frameset around six months ago and I have no problems with it at all. It's super stiff so you can stand on it and hammer without any flex. It's also very light so it's OK for those hike-a-bike situations. If you're using V-brakes, you should put a brake booster at the wishbone because it tend to flex a bit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a cross-country rider
from VA
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The only complaint I have about my well abused CAAD 3 frame is that you are extremely limited to fit when it comes to stem selection(7 total), especially if you are over 6' 1 such as myself. In order to get my bars at a comfortable height 21/2 inches below my seat I had to use a stupid pair of riser bars which just jacked up the weight of my full XTR bike by almost a 1/2 pound. I am still not totally comfortable because I had to use a short 130 X 20 stem to achieve the proper height but now I'm all cramped up. There are custom stems out there if you are willing to spend the cash. Now the good news 1) this frame is stiff I weigh 210 lbs and do not notice any flex in the frame what so ever. 2) The headshock works better than any other shock I have tried and contrary to other reviews the lockout does come in handy on long climbs where you will notice the fact that all your energy is transmitted to the pedals and not being sucked up by your fork. 3) even though cannondale says it only offers a 5 year warranty there are dealers out there (usually the bigger ones) who do offer lifetime warranties (I have one on both of my cannondales)so check around before you buy. I can only rate this frame a 4 because of the fit problems, If you are tall the Headshock will be too low and if you are short it will be too high, so if you fit into one of these categories check into a Caad 3 frame with a 1 1/8 head tube and you will be able to get all the advantages(stiff lightweight durable frame) and most importantly a proper fit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
harry
a weekend warrior
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I owned a F1000 , i changed the coda parts to full shimano XT and it feels great. It is light yet stable when zooming downhill, but i agree with the rest that the paint job sucked. It really makes you think twice before you thrash it. I had reservations about using the headshocks before i got this bike, but the shocks works fine with 60mm travel. Locking of the shocks seem too fanciful though cause i don't think it comes in useful. Overall, this is a real good shit of a bike, but if you don't like FAT headshocks don't get this bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mario
a cross-country rider
from Italy
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Most of the reviews here a biased. There all about either the bike being excellent or just plain crap.
When telling you about this frame i stay open minded. I own a viper-red f1000 and i know the feeling.
when climbing up a hill it's magnificent. Down the hills it supreme. And boy is it light. It can leave a racing bike miles behind. However, for the money you pay for it you don't really want to trash it. I think the paint job could do with some fixing up. So don't listen to what every luigi, luciano and tony has to say read the facts and make the right choice. This bike is a supreme machine and with a better paint job it would be perfect.THE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jack d
a cross-country rider
from north west ENGLAND
Date Reviewed: September 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this frame for over 1 year and i love it. The geometry is superb and the weight is none existant. I use rigid forks and I can jump miles on it as well as keep up with full suspension on the down. THIS FRAME KICKS ASS!!! The frame, however, looses paint on contact with the ground however. To all you boffins, invent scratch proof paint | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Max
a racer
from New York
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Before reading this review, I'd like to ask you what you are doing here?
Ask yourself...why are you here? Is it to gather information on your future bike, or simply to dream? Whatever it may be, you want the truth about these products, and non of the completely biassed opinions forcefully laid upon you by disrespectful hoons who call thmselves reviewers.
You want to know about the Cannondale Advanced Aluminum Designed (CAAD) 3 frame?
Well, this is what I know.
I happen to have a '98 model F1000 with a CAAD3 frame. It is the Team Issue Edition, which means that it has a Team Blue paintjob and a couple of better decals on it, but basically exactly the same as your standard F1000. Firstly, I don't think it can be said that there is a better frame out there for the price. This is a handmade in USA artwork dare I say it, that weighs a super-light 3.3 pounds. Klein, Trek, Gary Fischer, Specialized...no one in this league can match these specifications. The frame is extremely stiff and very durable, and although designed for mountain biking, does an excellent job on the road with a hybrid wheelset. The overall responsiveness of the frame is quite extraordinary. Up hills it is invincible. Down hills it stirs up a passion so great it embraces the whole body (this means very fast). The oversized head tube is the only one available anywhere (except for Merlin bikes as of next year)and therefore the only capable of utilising the wonderful Headshok fork. Now, I could start swearing and aimlessly going on about how great I think this bike is...but, I think I have served you to the extent that this review allows me to. I am a part-time racer, and if my opinion of this bike does not satisfy you...either email me with any questions you may have whatsoever, or, better still, go to your local bike shop and take a test drive.
The lightest aluminum in its class (6061-T6 treated) very sturdy welding and an excellent paintjob lead me to believe that for the money this bike will set you back...there is no other comparable decision. The service provided by Cannondale is also quite reasonable, which naturally leads one to question what is really wrong about this bike. There is nothing, really. If you don't like something about it...don't buy it. But spare yourself the task of reading every biassed and inarticulate article from the Toms, Dicks and Harrys below, and go take a ride. However, I must say, that unless you have any more to spend on a hardtail frame, this is the absolute best you will find. And that, my friends, is an opinion coming from an analyst, not a superficial, egotistical imbecile. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve
a cross-country rider
from western new york
Date Reviewed: September 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
one year on the caad3 with an original manitou mach 5 with speed springs, alloy steer. had the chris king headset put on with the new frame. i'm 175 5'9 and riding a 16 frame. fairly aggressive, but i don't crash too much and am easy on the big hits, but i love to jump. i don't race.
*one thing i noticed is the DOWNHILL HANGLING is a little squirrlier than my old gt avalanche especially on certain doubletrack hardpack downhills, prob due to the shorter wheelbase. i think what makes this bike CLIMB LIKE A BURNT ASSED MONKEY is also what makes it skip around on the downhills. i have found that by grabbing this sucker by the balls you can really carve downhills and take control of that squirrelly feeling.
*another thing i've had to overcome is the PROPENSITY TOWARD FACEPLANTS. this is my first cannondale and probly again i'm getting used to NOT HAVING A LONG BACKEND UNLIKE THE GT's. so i have found that i need to get back in the seat farther when doing the in and out of the ditch thing.
*SINGLETRACK HANDLING is unbelievable. this thing just rockets through tight singletrack and it really goes where you tell it to in spite of the shock. my friend has a hedshok model and loves the rigid fork. using decent mavic wheels with a pringle' in the front and a dx 8spd in the back.
*this bike also OUTCLIMBS ANYTHING, i thought i had climbing down two summers ago on the old gt, but this thing just takes off. it loves to go uphill. just be sure to keep your weight over the front cause it is a torque monster. the front end likes to pop up really easy.
*a good purchase for someone looking for a big factory type ride, excellent reputation and service i'm sure. and they last forever, i just rebuilt a five or six year old m800 up for my girlfriend. the weight is nice and the ground clearance too. a jumping fiend, really good on climbs. have fun. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a cross-country rider
from pittsburgh
Date Reviewed: August 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ive owned two caad3 frames. i weigh in at 175 and do sweet xc. it is a good frame but yes it does get alot of chain slap which did screw the whole thing up the frame did crack in the chainstay area however after buying a new frame i spent 15$ or so on a lizard skins chain stay protector which made the world of difference | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony D
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver, WA
Date Reviewed: August 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I take reviews seriously, and I think this is the first 5-star I've ever given. This frame is flawless. I've been riding XC since '89 and this is the best frame I've ever ridden. Unlike most other XC frames, the CAD3 inspires something other than climbing prowess--downhill speed. I have over 200 singletrack miles on my '97 frame built up w/XT level components and SX w/speed springs. It weighs in at 23.8lbs and has shown itself to be very neutral (this is good) even at speed. Everytime I push this bike to where I think it's limit is, it handles it. I wouldn't recommend full-on downhill w/it of course, but for $299 I'm convinced you can not buy a better XC frame capable of moderate downhill duties. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Terence
a cross-country rider
from CT
Date Reviewed: August 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
A great frameset. Over 200 lbs, ride aggresively and the frame is still intact.My guess is that this frameset has a great strength/wt ratio compared to others. Have owned others which did crack, but anything will crack if you hit it hard enough. The trick is to buy from a manufacturer who will back up their product. The HeadShock is the best setup, functionally and mechanically. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a cross-country rider
from CT
Date Reviewed: August 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is my fifth C'dale. Broke only one years back after thoroughly abusing it for three race seasons. This frameset replaced my Delta V. I felt like I needed something a bit quicker for the type of tight singletrack I do now. It certainly fits the bill nicely. It is very light and rigid; really transfers the power to the ground with an incredible feeling of immediacy. The wheelbase feels tighter than the Delta V. With the precise Headshok fork tracking like a phono cartridge (remember those?), I find myself braking harder and deeper into the turns. If you lay on the front brake hard enough, the rear gets feather-light, and you can snap the bike around with a flick of your hips. Superb for bunny-hopping fallen logs, etc. It does ride stiffly, although I've discovered that a suspension post makes a difference in the comfort level (U.S.E.), and here's the funny thing, speed really is your friend. The faster I go, the better it goes. This bike works best in full attack mode. I have very little difficulty following the lines of my full suspension buddies at warp speed. You just have to have a little faith...it tracks like an arrow. At 6'1 and 185 lbs. it suits me well. I'm curious about the CAD4 frame though, it's intended to ride a bit softer. Hmmmm... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a cross-country rider
from Tyrol, Austria
Date Reviewed: August 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased my '98 F 1000 about 5 months ago. It climbs very well, accelerates like a rocket, is lightweight and extremely stiff. Cannondale did also a very good workmanship.
The handling of the bike in difficult terrain and on descends is excellent, which may be also due to the amazing Headshok fatty-D fork. Up to now I've had no problems with the durability of the frame and cracks in the headtube or the bottom bracket shell, although I've got a hard riding stile. First I was a little bit afraid and rode carefully when I read the bad reviews on the CAAD3 frame. But I can only give those crazy people one advice: switch on your brain when you're riding a bike. This is a cross country racer and not a downhill machine. Are you sure you really own a Cannondale and don't simply want to drop down the statistics?!
I highly recommend this bike to every cross country rider and racer. You'll not be disappointed and get no better bike for your money (2000$ (!!!)in Austria - that's the only bad thing). Maybe you visit our beautiful country in your next holidays. You'll find the toughest ascents, best trails and an amazing scenery in the 'heart of the alps' - a big challenge for every rider and his material.
Cannondale rules - 5 chilis (or 'Bratwuerschtln')! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a
from Bloomington, IN
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've purchased this frame about 2 months ago and have been riding it every weekend. The frame is much stiffer than my old chromlogy Gary Fisher. For the price (300 $U.S.) it is dificult to find a better frame. Overall a great value.
The frame seems to climb better than the Fisher, and now I don't need to worry about rust and corosion as much. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: August 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This Frame sucks. Don't ever get it... I've ridden 2 of the Caad 3 1 & 1/8
head tube. Both of them flexes as much as a cro-moly and the bottom-bracket part
vibrates alot... in fact the whole frame flexes. The geometry of the frame is SHIT!!!! the top-tube length is so short.... for who to ride??? dwarfs maybe... | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a CAAD3 and I love this frame it's light weight and stiff it seems like it accellerates 10x faster them my old Schwinn and it is superlight and with how much it cost I could easily replace it even if I was of these psycho morons that gave this frame a bad review because of claims that it cracked, well every hi-end bike part or anything(ie Porsche cars, Oakley shades) lives upto the durability claims and the only counterpoint claims are by idiots that do moronic things on them, the same goes for for Answer FS-Ti shocks and Spin wheels, there are people that say that they suck and are weak, but they are idiots that either lie or crash into trees or get hit by cars(purposely) well anyways this is a killer frame and I definitly recommend it to any hardcore to professional racer(not psychos! don't bike if you don't know how to keep your bike intact!) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tony
a racer
from Boise
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have ridden, trained, and raced on the first CAAD3 frame ('95 F-1000) for four seasons now. It is a very tough frame, looks good, handles pretty well, climbs extremely well, and descends... just Ok (a rider with more finesse than me would probably be happy with its descending). I cannot overstate how well this frame climbs. However, I dropped from 195 lbs to 178 lbs over the past 4 years, thus the ony complaint: It really beats me up any more in rough terrain. Running Mythos XC 1.95 front and back at 60 psi is like playing football on asphalt -- brutal! Bottom line: excellent racer, but kinda hard on the body. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter Adam
a cross-country rider
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have just upgraded to a CAAD3 frame with Headshock fatty SL forks. I have spec'd it with full XTR, Mavic Crossmax wheels, Shimano 747s and a few other lightweight goodies. All I can say is WOW!!! This is the best machine I've ever ridden. I'm 220lbs and the bike hasn't complained yet. Five big chillies for Cannondale. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tj
a racer
from us
Date Reviewed: July 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a caad 3 frame on my f-3000. It has a coolpaint job(yellow fade to black). The caad 3 is very stiff and great for climbing. It is very fast and is very responsive.Surprising, the aluminum frame isn't too shaky on the dohnhills. I recomend it for any racer looking for a bike that can climb. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy
a cross-country rider
from Georgia
Date Reviewed: July 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I dont know what can be said other than this is the best Hardtail bike made when you consider the value. Have any of the critics stopped and asked themselves why it is that the #1 Mens XC rider is riding a Cannondale, The #1 Women's XC rider is riding a Cannondale, and the #1 Women's Downhiller is riding a Cannondale. Is there anything else to say? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Due
a weekend warrior
from Houston and Austin
Date Reviewed: July 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a follow up to the review I did a year ago when I first bought my frame and built it up. I still weigh 240 and my frame is fine after a year of hard riding and mean downhills. As for chainsuck and slap, if you adjust your drivetrain properly you'll minimize both. Get an anti-chainsuck thing and a guard for your chainstay. I don't know how some people are cracking these frames. Believe me I don't take it easy on this thing. I wonder what the CAAD4 is like? Please email me if you get one and let me know what you think. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gagz
a cross-country rider
from CT
Date Reviewed: June 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Man do I love this frame!!! It's a sweeeet ride! It's stiff and responsive and even with a rigid fork it's great. Also it was a great deal, I bought it from a friend complete but you can get this frame for around 300. It's as good as titanum without the price tag because it's so stiff and light. This bike kicks all my friends cromoly and metal-matrix frames asses. IT RULES!!! 5 red-hot flaming chilis | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Pepin
a racer
from S. Easton, MA
Date Reviewed: June 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been racing on a CAD3 for three years now. The frame is ultra light, ultra stiff, and very responsive. However, since it is aluminum it does give a very stiff ride. I have softened this up by building the bike up with a Fatty 70 Headshok, Spinergy wheels, and a USE suspension post. The combination gives the best of both worlds. The bike has the ultra tight and sound handling of a responsive aluminum frame, but none the less after a couple of hours on the CAD3 it will start to rattle the fillings out of your teeth. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a cross-country rider
from Ballston Spa, NY
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought a brand new CAD3 with an 1 1/8 head set and built it up rigid with components from my old bike. No XTR or high end shit and built a fast bike that bombs single track that is stiff as hell and weighs in at a puny 23#.
Lots better than my Quad butted cromo miyata. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from N.C.
Date Reviewed: May 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm with chris from below. I bought my caad 3 with the 1 1/8 headtube last week for $300. It was cannondale's frame trade-in program but I didn't even have to bring in a frame. Beautiful mango colored (powdercoated). I've been riding a caad 3 w/ headshok headtube (and headtube reducers & judy sl) since last summer and the difference is night and day. My old frame now feels like a chopper, this new one is perfect! Extremely light and stiff, and dosen't beat you up like, say, a GT. Lifetime warranty. If you are a headshok fan you can get the frame with a fatty D for $599. Awsome deal. I don't care if you do see alot of c-dales on the trail-there is a reason. cannondale rules! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Deck
a
from racer
Date Reviewed: May 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This frame rocks! I have not found a better deal, a 3.2lb frame for $300. I am not a big headshock fan so I got a frame with a 1 1/8 stearer. The frame is a little stiff. If you can't handle the stiffness then go ahead and spend $1000-$2000 for it's titanium counterpart. No complaints here. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jerry
a cross-country rider
from bellingham, WA
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Caad 3 frame in November of '97 and have several gripes. First, the sizing is way off. I am 6'3 and a 20 was HUGE. I have long legs and had no standover room. Next, the butted design is light, but Cannondale skimped too much. I broke the chainstay after four months (I only weigh 185). Finally, the bike just felt cheesy. I would let loose on a downhill and I kept expecting it to fall apart, which it eventually did. I've bought a GT Zaskar since and am a changed man. I can do things on my Zaskar that I could have never done on my Caad 3. Buy something else. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
The Big Dog
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Let me first say that Ian who posted on October 14, 1997 needs to get over himself. Its not often that I see such a shameless degree of pontificaton. This guy spouts like nobody's business. Anyway, back to the subject, Cannondale kicks ass. Plain and simple. I can buy five of them for the price of one Merlin. With the money I saved on the frame, I bought great components. The Moxey seatpost I bought takes care of any harshness inherent in aluminum frames. Also the Headshock is supreme to all other forks. I would say that after riding a Klein Mantra, my Cannondale, with the addition of the awesome Moxey seatpost, outperforms the Mantra in ascents and technical singletrack. Late | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chuck norbert
a cross-country rider
from minnesota
Date Reviewed: May 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my caad 3 but of course, it cracked! I received a new one, great service from cannondale, I too hope that this one will crack by the end of the year so I can get a new one next year. It is a wonderful bike to visit, but I woujusr dont buy one............... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Mizek
a weekend warrior
from Chicago Area
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is well built, nicely finished lightweight frame, and a nice upgrade from crom-moly at an affordable price. The larger sizes are not too stiff or harsh for bigger riders. A Manitou SX is a nice matchup and I have no doubt that a Headshok would also be a nice compliment. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gary
a racer
from uranus
Date Reviewed: May 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
ive been riding and racing my cad3 for 6 monthes and havent had any problems yet. I like it because its really fast , pretty light and rigid. the head shox fatty on it kicks ass because so damn stiff in the turns un like other cheese forks out there. my bike makes to many noises when i ride it though, it sounds like rice krispies | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joey D
a cross-country rider
from Chicago, IL
Date Reviewed: April 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned my CAAD 3 for about 1.5 years now, and I have to say it is the best thing since sliced bread. I weight 180-185 and have thrown everything at this frame but it continues to perform like a champion. It is a pure climber not to mention one fast bike on a straight-away. I would purchase another one in a hartbeat....Pure quality..........thumbs up..... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott G
a
from Rockland, NY
Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have gone through two Cannondale frames in the last two years. They are a great bike if all you care about is weight( even though they are not that light) and if you are going to let it sit in your shed. No offense to cannondale but I feel they should build a better, stronger, and more durable frame. I don't mind having the frame because I beat the heck out of the thing and get a brand new frame every year for free. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chedder
a weekend warrior
from canada
Date Reviewed: April 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my frame for a year and a have now,with no problems at all. This frame really knows how to corner well in the single track. Bombing down hill on this baby is really a joy. The headshox could use a little more travel going down hill. All in all the frame fork combo really works well together. Hats of to the cannondales company for making one hell of a frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Justin
a racer
from Mass
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my CAAD3 for about 2 years now. I've ridin other bikes but this frame is better than anything else. Its lighter(3.3lbs), stiffer, has better geometry, and its yellow. As for the head tube cracking mine hasn't. I weigh 190lbs and have a girvin Elite on it thats a lot of stress on the head tube. If you wana have a good racing frame, trade in your old and get a CAAD3. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mud Puppie
a racer
from College Station, Tx
Date Reviewed: April 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
CAD3's are the bomb!!! I race mountain bikes for A&M, and I used to have a Raleigh M-80. When I switched to the CAD3, I noticed a few pounds drop, a *much* stiffer ride, and more efficient shock responsiveness!!! For those of you whose butts get sore, get another butt!!! This frame was made for racing, not for cruising in the slow lane. My ascents have improved, and I feel that the bike is much more controllable around tight singletrack. When going over rough terrain, I get jarred pretty well, but this is a racing vehicle that is designed to kick butt. Buy it!!!! $299 bucks is a steal!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lancer
a weekend warrior
from Northridge, CA 91324
Date Reviewed: April 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I had an iris (blue) CAD3 frame buit-up for my wife using XTR and XT parts. Hubs are XTRs with Mavic 517 rims. An excellent light ride. Stiff, but the frame is better than my Schwinn 96.1 (Homegrown geometry). I purchased a CAD3 frame for me in Mango and will give the Schwinn to my son. I agree with one of the individuals who indicated the bad posts were by none Cannondale owners. Oh, well!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cody Bush
a cross-country rider
from Lubbock, TX USA
Date Reviewed: April 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had this frame for about a year now and I love it. My wife is jealous. I have only one complaint and I will get that out of the way so that you can read about the good stuff: the screws that hold the replaceable hanger on have stripped the frame out. Nothing that duct tape cannot fix though. This baby accelerates and climbs like a dream!! It really is light as titanium at 3.3 lbs but without the flex (which might actually be nice on downhills since this frame is VERY stiff). If your butt is tender, you might want to invest in a suspension seatpost. Oh, sorry. Two complaints. But what do you expect from aluminum? The frame itself is gorgeous and meticulously built. I highly recommend it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SURF RAT
a racer
from NEWPORT
Date Reviewed: April 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
THIS IS A STIFF AS SHIT FRAMESET. IT WILL RACE WELL, CLIMB LIKE A CHAMP, BUT FULLY BEAT YOU UP. THE HEADSHOK IS DOPE BUT THE 1/2 TRAVEL THING IS WEAK, ESPECIALLY ON SUCH A RIGID BIKE.
CRACK AND FAIL?? MINE DID , GOT A NEW ONE. SUSPENSION SEATPOST A MUST. NOT A SWEET RIDE BUT A FAST ONE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
erik the technical adrenalin enthusiast
a
from S.L.O.
Date Reviewed: April 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have an `96 f700 which is about like the 900 or thousand now as the numbering goes, (it changed in 97) First of all I weigh 140, so i'm light, so a rider of 210 might do damage to this frame, but i don't know about that. Only bad statement is my friend had his dd60 blow right after purchase but nothing since then. My other friend no problems either.I don't care what people say, if they are trashing their frames then the welder was drunk, so hold out for the next one. If your slamming hard and breaking shit then rider style is to blame in my opinion. No cracks
No chainsuck that tears my chainstay and down tube up
No bent forks
Super control
Super climbingThe headshock is bad ass, and more sensitive and responsive than anything.
Who cares it the travel ain't so great, when the performance over the distant of that travelf is way better than the others. It's about quality not quantity. I like it technical, so this bike is bad ass, no sluggishness, non at all. It may seem a little squirly on the downhill, but if you relax and stay loose on the bike (actually), it's lazer guided. It may not take up the huge hits that some 4 incher's may, but it's sensitivity really keeps the tire down.Well worth the money. If you don't like it straight off you'll grow to love it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Roth
a racer
from Los Angeles, CA
Date Reviewed: April 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Very, very tight and light frame set - really works best when mated with SL70 Headshock Fork. Head angle is a bit steep but once you get used to the ultra quick front you will LOVE IT. The real plus about the CAD3 however is that you have to use the Headshock Fork which makes the front of these bikes handle even more precisely. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Surly Mofo
a racer
from
Date Reviewed: March 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned a CAD3 frame since 1996. It is excellent. It climbs like a dream. It is super light. The geometry is fairly neutral, not too quick, not too slow. I use the same frame to race cross country and downhill and do very well in both events. I ride very hard, and the frame has held up. Th headshok fork is great. In my opinion, no one has taken aluminum frame construction as far as cannondale. Most companies use run of the mill easton tubing that anyone can get. Cannondale does all of the tube manipulations in its factory. Beautiful construction, great ride. A message to those who crash at 50+ mph. Very few frames would survive that kind of impact. I give it five tingling chilis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chuck norbert
a cross-country rider
from minnesota
Date Reviewed: March 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a caad 3 frame last year, it was a great ride, a little tail crazy on descents, but overall a very fast, lightweight frame. Things were all fine and dandy, until it CRACKED. Fortunately the Cannondale rep. was more than happy to replace the frame. I am now waiting for a new caad 3. Hopefully this frame will last longer than the first. Remember kids, TEAM YOU DECIDE is gearing up for a new season of rippin it up. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Curtis
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: March 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Quite simply this is a very nice frame. It's weight is minimal, the tubes are extremely stiff, and so far it has been very durable. I haven't had any problems with it yet. Climbing is excellent, and no fears on steep descents. A pleasure to ride. Five chillies all the way. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nazar
a racer
from Gdansk, Poland
Date Reviewed: November 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm a happy owner of M2000 Cannondale frameset and I must say it's very lightweight and very sensitive in climbing. Nevertheless it's extremly controlable at any downhills. It's just very rigid, very light and the best for cross country. Of course for trialers , it is one of the better choices they could have made. Try it and you'll soon buy a Cannondale for sure! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BIGEV
a racer
from NY
Date Reviewed: November 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
STIFF AND LIGHT FRAME. INSTANT ACCELERATION! QUICK STEERING, EXCELLENT CLIMBING FRAME. IVE HAD AN M900 FOR 3 YEARS I LOVEIT AND IT TAKES A BEATING TOO! I THINK ITS GREAT ID BUY ANOTHER.I GIVE IT 5 STARS FOR PERFORMANCE AND PRICE. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MudBug
a weekend warrior
from Lafayette, LA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding a M900 frame for about 2 years. This thing kicks ass! It climbs... It descends... It does technical stuff you wouldn't do on your old bike. And its RED! Yes it is stiff, but at 230lbs, Ti and most steal seems too wimpy. But there is a down side... Chain suck and slap have not only nearly distroyed the chainstay, but because the down tumb is so massive, the chain falling off on the inside has nearly chewed through it too. Asside from that, the ride is great, it fits like a glove and its not too painful on the eyes. My friends only complaint is that I didn't spend over a $1000 for the frame like they did on their dream bike. Next I think I will try an M2... always looking for a new ride. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian
a cross-country rider
from Springfield, Illinois
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I rarely post to these types of areas as the dialogue exchanged is all too often based less on actual experience and product trial than superficial opinions of one particular name brand. I am, however, a fallible creature and accept the possibility that my immediate impression could be incorrect. At any rate, I digress, so without sounding too self-righteous I offer the following:In addition countless other bicycles, I have owned three Cannondales over the years and have had great experiences with each and every one. Cannondale, as a large and immensely popular manufacturer, suffers from much undeserved criticism that is the product of its afore mentioned properties. It seems that these days it is increasingly popular for those individuals who consider themselves veterans of the sport to condemn the larger manufacturers for one contrived reason or another. Perhaps this tendency is much like the one that we see prevalent in today's music industry where fans of a small talented band will abandon the very same band labeling them as sell-outs once they inevitably become popular with the mainstream public. This, all under the guise of purism. Again, this only my opinion and I could be way off base, just offering some food for thought.So I am departing from habit to share my humble opinion of the Cannondale I currently own, a Cannondale F1000. I could not be more happy with my purchase. After owning and riding both aluminum and cro-moly frames I have become a huge fan of aluminum and feel no one has mastered the art of crafting this material better than Cannondale. This is not to imply that there are no other manufacturers out there who fashion aluminum frames as well as Cannondale, there certainly are. But none who’s ability exceeds that of the craftsmen at Cannondale and then offers their product at a comparable price. The innovative CAAD3 design is marvelous, incredibly stiff and lightweight, a perfect climbing machine. Its very neutral/predictable handling qualities make it a great technical ride also. Sometimes a bit rough on those rocky descents, but those of us who cherish the inflexible qualities of aluminum overlook these things. I have destroyed a few frames in my time (all of them BMX) under less strenuous riding conditions, but have been completely unable to do significant damage to a Cannondale frame. Maybe this is dumb luck, but I would definitely argue otherwise. In addition to this Cannondale offers unparalleled customer service and beautiful craftsmanship to boot!What can I say, I’m a devoted loyalist. They served me well when they were a startup company and in return I offer an unbending allegiance in the shadow of their success. I urge all who would condemn Cannondale in light of their prowess as a major bicycle manufacturer, to give them the chance they have earned as a driving force behind our beloved sport.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ima Rider
a cross-country rider
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: October 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had a F1000 with the caad 3 for a while now and all I have to say is IT ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Real quick on hills, I can keep up with guys on big climbs that I used to never be able to keep up with. The technical power I have now is amazing and because of that I have a lot more confidence. If your thinkings of buying and aluminum frame buy a Cannondale CAAD3 bike and you will definiately be syked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!CANNONDALE RULES | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Johnson
a racer
from New Hampshire
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a Cannondale CAAD 3 frame as part of the Spring frame sale offered by Cannondale. With this bike I got a deal with my LBS for a fatty 70 Head Shock. On this bike I placed all of the best components. Full XTR group. Syncros post, stem, and handlebar. OCLV bar ends, Crossmax wheelset, Sachs Extreme shifters, and WTB Velociraptor tires.The result........This bike weighs 20.8 lbs....no shit!!! It is extremely stiff and is the best climbing mountain bike in the history of the world. A little too stiff on the descents but I am getting used to it.It feels damn strong, and I have great control over the bike, especially on narrow single track, the bike feels like it is floating on the air sometimes.The frame has taken a little bit of a beating, but for the price, I know I can get a new frame about every two years and still save money over a Litespeed or other high end Ti frame. And this frame is just as light and maybe betterOverall incredible bike and a great experience. Great for racing as well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy
a cross-country rider
from L.A., California
Date Reviewed: August 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The CAAD3 is one of the best aluminum frames available. Bought a large size 19 in. frame set and a FATTY 70 fork, I built it up with CODA 900M crankset, XTR front and rear (long cage) derailleurs, XTR Ti-Steel 12-32T cassette, 747 pedals, Sachs Extreme shifters, Pauls V-brake levers, XTR V-brakes, Titec Ti 118 bar, LP Carbon-Kevlar short bar ends, Syncros Ti seatpost, Flite Ti-Kevlar saddle, Gore Tex shift and brake cables, Mavic Crossmax wheelset and KORE Ti skewers. This custom XC bike is light at under 22 lb. and rides great specially in climbing and acceleration. The durability of this frame which I learned from other owners is good and just as you would expect from and aluminum frame which will crack because of fatigue, it won't last forever like titanium, just be prepared to replace it when its worn out like other owners do. Authorize service is not consistent so pick a good shop with a good reputation. I noticed that the only persons that gave this frame a bad rating are the people that don't own it or someone that abused it. In addition I also installed a Ringle anti-chain-suck under the chain stays which should be done by everyone with a 3 chain ring crankset (except guys with the new 2 X 9 gears don't need it). It's a very good frame, you would not be disappointed if you buy one! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tommy Mac
a racer
from UNIV OF COLORADO-BOULDER
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This frame is a great climber. I love passing those guys on steel sleds with
no problems. Also a good descender. Quick handling. I have a steel framed
Marin which is a great descender but crawls on any type of climb. Therefore
the CAAD 3 is the better frame. Maybe you guys who keep braking your frames
should work on your technique(avoid crashing)! Your frames might last
a little longer that way. Nothing wrong w/ frame. Great for XC racing! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Another Dave
a cross-country rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my CAAD3 for about six months now and love it!
My only complaint is that the top tube is a little too short for my taste,
but other than that no complaints.
This frame is incredibly stiff + climbs and sprints better than any other that I have riden! Truly a world class frameset for around $300.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a cross-country rider
from Mass
Date Reviewed: July 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I am feeling the need to defend my frame. The CAAD 3 has been a great frame for every type of riding. It's light and strong and takes my 205 lbs up climbs pretty damn easy. It also takes my 205 lb face plants pretty well too. As far as Cannondale service, don't think I'll ever need it cause the frame is so good. And for Tosh, spend the 10$ on a lizard skin and I think you'll give a five. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Peter Phan aka Maddogg
a cross-country rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: July 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
DAMN! this thing (and all other Crackindales) sucks! I borrowed my friends bike and rode it hard. Come this steep hill, i say, what the hell, have some fun. i fly down the hill at mach 2 and bam, i fall and end up with a #@$ed up frame and a badly pizza'd body. I buy my own Marin, and i do the same thing, but this time i don't fall, and the frame is still in one piece. Rider? i think not. Cannondale frames are weak and a big rip off. Don't get a dale.. get something better. (Marin is one) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Due
a weekend warrior
from Texas
Date Reviewed: July 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
After riding a friend's 1994 M700 I decided it was time to switch from my Balance. I purchased an 18 CAD3 frame through the trade in program for $300. Built it up with xt v-brakes, avid brake levers, old xt top-mount shifters (searched the whole state for those), syncros revolution cranks (stiff as a morning wood!), syncros bb, manitou 5, and old xt hubs with grease ports, and mavic 281 rims(huge), try aztec brake cables and you'll be joyful. The frame's a great climber and stiff. I weigh 240 lbs and haven't had a problem with it. | | Overall Rating: |
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