Submitted by
tryathlete
a Weekend Warrior
from Clarksville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: November 20, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$795.00
Purchased At:
Bike shop
Strengths:
Seems to be a good value. Good first mountain bike.
Weaknesses:
The chain and real derailleur broke on the very first ride around the neighborhood. The X5 rear derailleur looks like it's made of pot metal. Worthless.
Similar Products Used:
None, up until now have been a roadie.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike was highly recommended based on value for the money. Have yet to see how it holds up on the trail. I bought the bike, started out on a ride around the 'hood just to get a feel for it and the chain broke, which in turn broke off the X5 rear derailleur, which looks to be made of cast pot metal. Nicked the frame in the process. Cannondale did the right thing and replaced the bike. I upgraded to an X9 rear derailleur, which I would recommend doing before getting on the bike. Also, upgrade the chain. Hate to think what would have happened if I had been out on a trail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MTBen
a Downhiller
from England Date Reviewed: October 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Danbury
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Chelmer cycles
Strengths:
The Frame.. its ridiculously stiff, light and responsive. I still can't figure out how i blown the stanchions apart? believe me.. its not for the lack of trying! i want to put my rebas on! but i said id destroy the dart 3s first.
Weaknesses:
Pedals.. made out of spit and tin foil.
Crank.. managed to snap it in two weeks.
Grips.. just buy some lock ons!
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche 1.0.. she died.. she never held a candle to the F5 though.
Bike Setup:
Standard, except - replaced the crank set and rear cassette to have a full SLX drivechain (why bother with XT?) M770 spds and Odi Rogues Lock ons
Bottom Line:
Out of the this, the Trek 6000, GT Avanlance and the Marin Madrone Trail, I chose the F5 because the frame is simply astounding.. it is primarily a XC bike, but i smash the granny out of this 3 times a week. we average 20-30 mile XC, and we always end up at the local dirt jump and 4X trails. I don't want to push it to far as i'm not sure how much of a hard landing i should be expecting the F5 to handle, but so far, it's taken 4-5ft flat landings on both wheels and just laughed at them. its an epic bike, and not just for the money. My friends ride Cove stiffee, sanderson and cotic frames, and even they admit that the F5 is a serious contender.
my advice.. dont worry about the components that come on the bike.. smash your way through them and upgrade, components arent supposed to last anyway! The way i ride, i should have split this thing in two.. but it loves it.. all of it! i can't stress enough how EPIC this bike is
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Mac
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC Date Reviewed: October 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Pacific Spirit Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Sports Pacif
Strengths:
It's light and fast, climbs hills like snot and very maneuverable. Bike weighs 31 lbs, I bought the 2010 model.
Weaknesses:
Bottom bracket cracks now and again and it skips in 17th and 18th gear.
Similar Products Used:
I had a couple of Infinities which are a joke anyhow, a Giant Sedona hybrid which I tricked out to trail ride with, but nothing compares to this puppy!
Bike Setup:
Stock. Has those new duel RST forks which I can switch to a hard fork or suspension at the flick of a switch.
Bottom Line:
It's a sexy looking bike and turns alot of heads (watch out for thieves!)
I use it to commute, Olympic city or not, Vancouver's streets can be rough and those forks are freaking awesome!!!
Buy one, I highly recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff Rains
a Cross Country Rider
from Bryn Mawr, PA Date Reviewed: September 3, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Valley Forge, PA
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$420.00
Purchased At:
Human Zoom, Ardmore,
Strengths:
Great frame, sharp looking ride, handles well but the more serious the riding the more the bike's parts need upgrading.
Weaknesses:
Derailleurs are a little shoddy, seat is uncomfortable.
Similar Products Used:
None. First real mountain bike. Rode a Fuji Monterey Hybrid for about a year but got into mountain biking back in May 2009. Haven't looked back.
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock. Upgraded fork to a 2008 fox f-100 which lightened up the bike by about 2 lbs and gives 20 extra mm of plusher, adjustable travel. Changed out the seat for a bianchi model, swapped the tires for wtb vulpine racers. Put on a set of ergon grips, Looking to possibly upgrade the front and rear derailleurs and possibly the shifters at some point.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money. Have always had a fancy for cannondales and this was the last year (2007) that the F5 was built in the USA. Rides and brakes smoothly and is definitely a sharp looking ride. Purchased the red model and like the contrast between the red frame and all black parts. If you ride rocky, rooty trails, the stock dart2 or 3 is in definite need of an upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paulmac
a Cross Country Rider
from Dorset, UK Date Reviewed: May 14, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Local hills and bridlepaths...oh, and Cwmcarn
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Wheelies Direct
Strengths:
The frame is to die for
Weaknesses:
Fork's a bit numb and stiff, but maybe it'll loosen up. That's if I don't replace it first.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Killer V, GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
2009 stock spec with Avid SD v brakes
Bottom Line:
I got this bike as a replacement for my trusty 05 GT Avalanche that someone thoughtfully stole from outside my house. I did my research on this one, but I've always had a soft spot for Cdales since I owned a Killer V - beautiful, but too small for my gangly 6'3" frame.
You often read about bikes 'climbing like a mountain goat' in reviews. I totally understand it now. First ride out, I hit my favourite local trails to give a true comparison to the GT.
As you probably know, Cdale frames are STIFF. The result is lighting fast acceleration, and flying uphill. Really, it's astonishing how much easier and faster ascents (and cross country hacks) are on the F5 compared to the old GT.
It also handles smallish jumps and steps better than I thought it would - it looks more like a whippet than a bulldog, but so far it takes the knocks in its stride.
I can't find fault with the F5. Buy one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blahblahblah
a Cross Country Rider
from Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$700.00
Purchased At:
Wheel Away Cycle Cen
Strengths:
The components to this bike are great. and the shocks are amazing. the frame is strong and light weight. most of all is the disc brake....they work wonderful!
Weaknesses:
little bit heavy
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper Disc
Bottom Line:
I was at my local bike shop and i was wondering which one i should choose...specialized rockhopper disc or cannondale f5. they are both great bikes. the rockhpopper costs 720.00 and the cannondale f5 cost 700.00. and the cannondale has better everything for a cheaper price the the rockhopper. so i went with the cannondale. i will never regret my choice.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rat Face
a Weekend Warrior
from Manassas, VA Date Reviewed: May 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The next one...
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$725.00
Purchased At:
Conte's Arlington, V
Strengths:
Great bike overall in the upscale, entry-level segment. Nice component group for the money.
Weaknesses:
It's my understanding they're no longer made in the USA.
Similar Products Used:
First mountainbike. Tried a Specialized and a Giant.
Feels real nice. It's more than I wanted to spend on a bicycle, but I sure am glad I picked the F5. Hassle-free shifting, fantastic disc brakes (right out of the future), substantial fork and a solid feel (while not too heavy) - all with a racey look.
Simply a fine assembly of quality parts put together on a frame that fits and rides like a dream. I've been out on it a dozen or so times, 40-60% pavement/trails and it does well everywhere. I'm having too much fun on this bike. If I wasn't married, I bet it would help me pick up chicks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lamont
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs, CO, US Date Reviewed: March 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Still getting there
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$770.00
Purchased At:
Criterium Bike Store
Strengths:
Great color and components. This bike is fairly light.
Weaknesses:
A little bit more chain slap than I wish for.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first mountain bike
Bike Setup:
I am not sure all of the components. I know that they are better than stock to include DART 3 forks.
Bottom Line:
I have had the bike for a about a year. The bike store that I bought it from (Criterium) helped me pick it out. I took it for a test ride and wasn't sure how much or how involved I was going to become in the sport, but I knew I wanted this bike. I mainly stuck to flat gravel trails to bet a feel for it and then I began riding on some more advanced trails here in the city and ralized that I got a great bike that I can grow with for a little bit. This bike is great and a lot of fun. I think that it is a great beginning to intermediate bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rodrigo Quirós
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose, Costa Rica Date Reviewed: February 29, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Universidad de la paz, Antenas
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Bicimontaña
Strengths:
The frame is the most important strength; I think that aside from the frame every part of this bike benefits from upgrades.
Weaknesses:
The fork with only 85mm of travel doesn’t let you ride with enough confidence on down hills. I traded the OEM Dart this bike comes with for a Reba Team with U-Turn. I also changed the stock pedals for some Candys, the saddle for a Serfas Acuna and the tires for both f/r WTB Weirwolfs. All the upgrades have been great so far, but I’ll be upgrading the brakes soon for some Shimano Hydraulics.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock, Haro Extreme X3
Bike Setup:
o Frame: Furio-X o Fork: Rock Shox Reba Team U-turn o Rims: Sun Black Eye, 32 hole o Hubs: Joy Tech Disc o Tires: WTB Weirwolf, 26 x 2.1" o Pedals: Cranckbrothers Candy C o Crank: TruVatiV ISOflow, 22/32/42 o Chain: SRAM 8-speed o Bottom Bracket: Shimano BB-UN26 o Shifters: SRAM SX5 Trigger o Handlebars: Cannondale C3, 20 mm rise o Saddle: Serfas Acuna o Seat Post: Cannondale C4 Alloy
Bottom Line:
For the price paid I think you get a good entry-level bike with an outstanding frame.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Kelly
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: February 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Round Valley, NJ
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Amazing Price, Good Components, Lightweight, Decent Fork, Amazing Looks
Weaknesses:
Pedals and Seat.. but who doesn't change them anyway?
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Vertex 30, Kona Something, Giant Rainer
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Respiro Seat and Shimano clippless with platforms
Bottom Line:
(2008 Model) I researched and tested the best hardtail for under $1,000 for over a week. Every single test I had, the F5 blazed ahead. The frame is great. Looks fantastic in Flat Black. The Dart3 Fork is everythign I need it for and with lockout its very nice. Shifts like butter. Its a very aggressive, quick and ultra responsive, hardtail. My riding enjoyment has skyrocketed since this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: January 28, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$630.00
Purchased At:
Planetary Cycles
Strengths:
NOTE: THIS IS A REVIEW FOR THE 2008 MODEL.
Components/features at the price point - Rock Shox Dart 3 (with lockout), SRAM X-5/7 components, disc brakes. Color (matte black).
Weaknesses:
None at this time
Similar Products Used:
Test rode similarly priced bikes from Trek, Specialized, Gary Fisher, Marin, and Giant.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
NOTE: THIS IS A REVIEW FOR THE 2008 MODEL.
It has been a long time since I had been on a bike (college) but I decided to purchase a new mountain bike recently and decided that my budget would be around $500. After test riding bikes and becoming familiar with the features, I decided that I should spend a little more to get the features I wanted. As mentioned above I test rode multiple bikes but found the Cannondale F5 (2008) to fit me so well. The simple matte black finish on the frame really appealed to me as well.
Well I've put about 70+ miles on the bike so far in the past couple of weeks and the fit still feels great. The shifting from the SRAM components are swift and smooth. I did have a chain slip once but I believe that was because I was in an extreme gear and I was putting my entire 200lbs of weight on the pedals (standing). I have since not had this happen again.
I just rode it off road at the Ho Chi Mihn Trail in Houston, TX and the Rock Shox were valuable. They absorbed a great deal of the bounce off of the roots throughout the trails. I'm sure there are better shocks including Fox etc but at the price point I paid for the bike, they work well. I also ride on the road so I love the lockout feature on the shocks which helps to not waste energy while pedaling. I believe the Dart 1's don't have a lockout feature and I would recommend you avoid a bike that does not have lockout on in.
I honestly believe that at the price point, I couldn't have found a better bike. It truly was a great purchase and I plan to enjoy it for a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie Rohrig
a Weekend Warrior
from LA, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
carbon canyon in Brea
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
The look, the frame, how it handles, how it feels, and price. Overall the bike is great!
Weaknesses:
For the price, none really. But if I had to nitpick I would say that the rear derailleur (SRAM X-5) isn’t the best one out there. It has slipped a couple of times, no biggy.
Similar Products Used:
Im brand new to mountain biking. I tested the 08 rockhopper, the 08 Trek 6000, and the Marin Nighthawk, all were good bikes, but the F5 just felt so much better. You basically get the same frame with all of these bikes but i decided on the F5 because the overall componets were better and it felt more comfortable to ride
Bike Setup:
Stock, i added front and rear safty lights to the bike, plus a GPS system to track my mileage, speed, and distance.
Bottom Line:
First off, she is a gorgeous looking bike. I can’t get enough of the all black! The Shimano BR-415 Mechanical Disc brakes work fine. The Dart 3 fork is great (has 100mm of travel and lockout.) The frame is strong and stiff. The SRAM X-5 Trigger shifters are comfortable and easy to use. The weight of the bike is pretty light considering the price of the bike. I can’t say enough about this bike.
The rear derailleur seems to be the only thing I can think of that I would change on this bike. Oh, some might not like the size of the tires. They are a bit skinny but they work great for me. I do about 50% trail 50% road. The traction on them works fine on trails and the less rubber on the pavement is appreciated when trying to pick up some speed.
The bike is just fun to ride and I cant seem to ride it enough! When bike shopping, add the 08 F5 to your list, its definitely worth the test drive.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loll
a
from Redwood City, CA Date Reviewed: November 13, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$589.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Cannondale frame Status, cheapest C'dale mtn bike that is very affordable
Weaknesses:
Tires, suspension, weight
Similar Products Used:
IronHorse HT
Bike Setup:
Stock/ WTB weirwolf tires upgrade, bar end upgrade, Shimano clipless
Bottom Line:
I think I owe this bike a second review. My first review back in June was a bit harsh.
The disc brake that I complained about still ain't top notch, but after having it properly adjusted at a bike shop, it is at least up to standard. Lesson learned: I will never bring my bike to the local REI for repair since the brake was terrible when I p/u the bike from them.
I swap the tires out. The original 2.0 where way too narrow and didn't have much tractions at speed. With the new tires, the bike is great!
I have been using this bike as a sprint training bike on the road, and have only took it offroad 4 times (I have a FR bike that I ride for dirt). This particular day, the FR bike was in the shop, so I took the F5 to a local XC trail. If u live in NorCal, I did Skeggs.
The bike was GREAT. I can truly say at this trail, the F5 rides much much more efficently than my 37 lb FR bike with the 7" travels. I was surprise at how responsive the bike turns, and how I can really power thru the rolling terrain on a 32/18 or 42/18 gearing. With the new tires, the bike feels very stable.
Major weakness now is at the suspension. Those 80 mm really isn't enough. I wished Cannondale had given this bike the Rockshox Dart with 100mm travel instead. When the terrain got technical, I soaked up most of the bumps with my body instead of the bike. There were these 3 other riders that I have been playing cat and mouse with that day on the trail. I was able to keep up with them pretty good through the technical decents. I wished the brake can be a bit stronger still. But for a sub 600 dollars bike, I can't ask for too much.
Recently I have included a local "wall" uphill ride into my road training. Minus the 31 pound wieght, this bike climbs very very well. I have been using harder and harder gearing on this climb just to push myself.
With that, my future plans for this bike is to convert it to single speed. I imagine this will resolve the weight issue. And getting rid of those lower end shifters and derailleur will actually make this bike a top notch SS. The frame is just worth more than any of it's parts.
Hopefully I will see a good deal on an adjustable all mountain fork. This will make the rocky decents much more enjoyable at speed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a
from Panama Date Reviewed: November 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$955.00
Purchased At:
Rali
Strengths:
The Frame, Cannondale makes frames and that what's about. All other component work as they should
Weaknesses:
There is a bike for everybody and this bike fits right for me, so I have nothing to complain
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
original setup
Bottom Line:
I did my homework testing and getting all information possible on several mtn bikes before buying this F5, the guys at the dealer made sure that everything was properly adjusted before giving it to me, today i rode it on a light trail near my house and everything operates as designed, it feels rock solid, it climbs easy, good control. Anyway that's my perception, Got to FEEL IT yourself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
João Oliveira
a Weekend Warrior
from Guimarães Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bize zone
Strengths:
The frame it is very well built, strong, the jet black (matte) it's discret and beautifull. The hidraulic disk brakes are quite powerfull.
Weaknesses:
For this price you can't expect more from the bike.
Similar Products Used:
None. This is my first mountain bike. I only drove in the store a couple of Scott bike, two Specialized, a Kona and a Trek.
Bike Setup:
The pedals (Wellgo alloy cages w/clip and strap) are in plastic, so I now have a bbb dual choice in aluminium. I also installed an wireless bike computer, a bottle cage from cannondale (gt 40) and a "frame protection" against sctractches.
Bottom Line:
This one it is a very beautiful bike, very well built with nice equipement (hidraulic disk brakes, shimano lx deore, etc,) and a good drive (altough I have never tested any other mtb on the road or cross country. I am very happy with Cannondale F5 2008.
PS - I have only ride for 60 kms.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aaron Erdmann
a Cross Country Rider
from Norfolk, Virginia Date Reviewed: October 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
York River State Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Conte's
Strengths:
Drivetrain, hot looks, stiff frame, geometry, nice welding
Weaknesses:
Promax brakes
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Rockhopper
Bike Setup:
Stock except Eggbeater pedals
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike, compared to similar bikes I've owned and tested, the frame on this one is second to none. Its slightly heavier than similar Specialized and Treks but it more than makes up for that in stiffness. I feel confident when taking on high jumps and obstacles. And, ITS HANDMADE IN THE USA!
On to the negative... The brakes on the '07 setup SUCK! If you're buying a closeout '07, do yourself a favor and pick up a decent pair of brakes while you're at the bike shop. Make sure you get new rotors too because the stock will warp.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyler
a Weekend Warrior
from Princeton Jct, NJ, US of A Date Reviewed: October 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mercer County Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$670.00
Purchased At:
Halter's Cycles
Strengths:
Awesome in general- components are top of line for this level of bike, most comfortable saddle ever!!!, brakes, shocks (lock out, adjustable, et al)
Weaknesses:
Black paint will chip if hit by any hard object moving at a fair rate of speed- just go to Home Depot and buy non-gloss black paint.
Similar Products Used:
none, new to this level of mountain bike
Bike Setup:
stock, except for slime tubes.
Bottom Line:
this is an awesome bike for the money. I had to pay $100 extra for shipping (one of the first '08s off the line). Looking to upgrade to Avid BB's or hydraulic disc (if I have the money) in a year or so. I do about 75% off-road biking and 25% on road (to and from school, getting to and from local trails), and it does both jobs very well. Put about 30-40 miles on it in the first two weeks. I'm roughly 6' and the XL fits me well, with some room to spare, which is good given I am only in high school. This bike begs to be ridden, and I can't stop riding it!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Allen W
a Weekend Warrior
from Richmond Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Pony Pasture
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Purchased At:
Conte's
Strengths:
Sram Components. Stiff light frame. Fit of the bike. Shifters. I am 5'8 and the medium size fits me perfect...also this bike climbs awsome!
Weaknesses:
Seat is very uncomfortable, the Cabellaro CST tires are actually 2.0 not 2.1 as Cannondale states in thier catalog and website. They really need to fix this. Shimano BR-M415 Mechanical Disc brakes are OK for this range of bike...would prefer Avid BB's..
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000, Kona Blast, Gary Fisher Marlin Disc, Specialized Rockhopper disc. All '08 models
Bike Setup:
Stock except for upgraded Panaracer Fire XC 2.1 tires.
Bottom Line:
I researched and tested all the above bikes very intensely and The Cannondale f5 '08 has the best component makeup and frame of all the bikes I tested. I really like the look and feel of the Kona, However there is not a Kona dealer within 100 miles of where I live and want my LBS to adjust and tune this bike up frequently. I challenge anyone to find a reason why I should have bought any of the above bikes over the Cannondale. You need to get his bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jimmy Struna
a Weekend Warrior
from Mechanicsburg Pa, USA Date Reviewed: October 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$540.00
Purchased At:
World Cup Ski and Cycle
Strengths:
Great frame, Made in USA, Good componets but avaliable for upgrade.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
Trek Y24
Bike Setup:
Stock, unless you count a computer saddle bag and water bottle cages.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the money, Awesome frame, good componets stock. Still lots of room for upgrade like lefty fork and better derailers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Baltimore, MD, USA Date Reviewed: September 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$280.00
Strengths:
Awesome bike, real light, great componetry, super comfortable grips, and stock disc brakes
Weaknesses:
third chainring and stock pedals bend easily and shocks are not adjustable.
Bike Setup:
replaced the stock pedals for steel BMX platform pedals everything else is pretty much stock. 3rd chainring is used as a chainring guard for the remaining 2!
Bottom Line:
awesome bike for everything, i use it for downhill freeride, climbing, and even jumping! works great for everything.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Medford, MA Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$570.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Climbs great, I noticed a difference right off the bat. The frame is great, easily worth keeping around for a while and upgrading componentry. The black frame looks so sexy...
Weaknesses:
handlebars are a bit wide for my liking, and the front dérailleur is a bit iffy, but you have to make compromises somewhere at this price, and the handlebars can quickly be cut down if it feels too wide for you too. I didn't like the tires too much, but that's also highly subjective...your mileage may vary!
Similar Products Used:
Raleigh M50 (with a bunch of upgrades)
Bike Setup:
Yeti grips, Shimano M520 clipless pedals, Ritchey Speedmax Beta tires. Eventually a Headshok :)
Bottom Line:
It's a great bike for its price, with a heck of a quality frame that is handbuilt in the USA. With all black accents, the bike just looks fast sitting in my living room. On the trail, it doesn't disappoint. Climbs great, is nimble, and handles downhills surprisingly well for what it is.
and What it is is a damn good bike for the person who is into XC, but doesn't have the dough to spend on a 1000+ rig. who needs full suspension anyway? :)
highly reccommend getting some clipless pedals for it, that was a great upgrade.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brendon Coleman
a Racer
from cedarburg, wisconsin Date Reviewed: August 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
greenbush, and all wors races
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
great frame, handmade frame will rarely see that on a sub $600 bike,love the hidden welds. this thing climbs like a beast gets me up any ski hill or mountain. the frame doesn't skip across rocks at all even at race speed. handel bars are great and the long top tube fit me prefect(I'm a taller guy 6'3), great FSA head set with awesome sun ringle rims haven't had to true them since i've had it and have beat the thing to hell in races.
Weaknesses:
brakes get grit in the cables when it's muddy, hubs are crap and the derailers are low end, tires ware out really fast with fast riding, rims are a bit heavy for racing, fork is a bit washy on down hills.
Similar Products Used:
every thing single speeds, down hill, all mountain full suspension, xc race, bmx
Bike Setup:
new tires Tioga red phynix 2.00 baby, cassette and chain, pedals soon shifters and derailer set up, had alex rims on but took them off because spokes bent.
Bottom Line:
great bike for price, frame itself is worth the money easy to hop on and ride setup, and has great cannondale quality frame will never break. great begining race bike and it holds it's value very well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Kerns
a
from Easton PA Date Reviewed: August 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Genesis Bicycles
Strengths:
Made in the USA, Cannondale Name
Weaknesses:
Construction, Parts Uses, cables, basically the whole thing is a P.O.S.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 4500
Bike Setup:
Stock as sold
Bottom Line:
The first week out of the shop, even though everything was tight, out of the show room, and rechecked befor first ride, the seat fell off, the handlebar came loose, no matter how many time I adjust it, even paid to have local shop adjust, not able to shift into all gears, stock grips keep coming off after 5-10 minutes of ride time. Regrettably I feel guilty of selling it to someone, because it is a POS and the shop where I bought it from will not take it back, so I guess I would never recommend this bike to anyone.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Herb
a Cross Country Rider
from Spartanburg Date Reviewed: July 25, 2007
Favorite Trail:
For now, Cottonwood Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Bike Worx
Strengths:
Stiff frame, great rear derailleur, decent brakes, exceptional climbing abilities
Weaknesses:
Tires not so grippy in the rain. Stock handlebar length too long for smaller-frame riders.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Wahoo disc, Wingra; Scott Reflex 45, Giant Yukon, Specialized Globe, Trek FX7.2, etc...
Bike Setup:
Completely stock. Beside a trip computer, saddle bag, and water bottle cage.
Bottom Line:
I don't think I have enough skill to "out-ride" this bike as it's my first serious bike in my life. I'm learning all the techniques for both communting and XC riding.
The bike is very robust. The frame is the stiffest on all the bikes I've tried. It offers a decent bag of serviceble componentry. I believe that's the best option for beginners. As a beginner's skill (and wallet) grows, one can add/change components when necessary.
As mentioned before, it will climb anything. I've used the bike to climb up storm drains in the city and plenty of steep hills on the trail.
The SRAM rear derailleurs is precise and shifts very crisply. On the other hand, the front derailleurs can be finicky at times and takes more than usual time to adjust.
Only thing that's broken is the front reflector which was destroy in a spill within 24hrs of the purchase.
The chain was cleaned once. I do not recommend wax based lube. It's less likely to collect dust. However, when it does collect dust eventually, the mess is difficult to clean. I have to soak the chain in Turpentine to clean it.
I got the one with the flat black paint job. The paint job is quite durable as I've found no nicks or scratches on the frame after a spill.
Two advantages for the black paint job: 1. Touch up is super-easy; either use a sharpie for some hairline scratches or get a bottle of flat black paint at the modeling section at Wally World. 2. For protection at certain areas (like the seatstay because I put my lock around the seatpost), you can put some electrical tape on it and it is invisible. Bonus: it just looks BADASS.
The saddle is serviceble, but I'm looking for a better one as we speak. I have a bony butt and my tailbone feels every bump.
4 Flaming Chilis for value because Cannondale is made in USA (for the last year on this model!!!), but the brand is in high demand thus very difficult to negotiate a good deal.
5 Flaming Chilis overall because I can see this bike to provide many years of service, and there's so much I have yet to get out of this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Kahres
a Weekend Warrior
from Fleetwood,Pa Date Reviewed: June 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Blue Marsh
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$560.00
Purchased At:
Spokes Bike shop
Strengths:
Cannondale frame,Geometry,shifting. I had this bike just over a month and I ride on roads and on trails. The bike is the best hill climber I ever ridden...I now look for the steepest hills to climb. I'm impressed with the lower end SRAM shifters, they are crisp and accurate and look 10x better than it's shimano rivals. The shifters take a while to get used to but they grew on me. The brakes have good stopping power. People complain about the tires but I like them because I do road riding as well. The Flat Black paint looks hands down awesome.
Weaknesses:
I can't really point any real weaknesses...I know the shock could be better but look at the price of the bike.
Similar Products Used:
Owned and ridden Trek,Bianchi,Schwinn....I also test drove anything under $700 at the shop...most impressed with this one
Bike Setup:
Totally stock minus reflectors.
Bottom Line:
Clearly the best bang for the buck. I waited 2 1/2 months because these were all on back order. If your an everyday rider and are not so much into hardcore backcountry this is the bike for you. Very pleased with the purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Plano Tx USA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Arbor hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
Mad Duck
Strengths:
This bike will climb walls, it begs for inclines. The Sram shifters are great once you get used to them. I don't belive I could ever go back to using that shimano crap again. The seat is comfortable for a mtb. The brakes are easy to adjust and have the ability to lock both front and back tires up.
Weaknesses:
TIRES!!! They are border line road tires, but who keeps stock tires anyway. The dart two fork is heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Evey bike under $1000
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F5 -choped the bars 2",XT front derailer, cateye enduro,shimano spd clipless PD-M540, specialized roll pro x tires .....more to come!
Bottom Line:
I have had this bike for just over a month now, just rounding 300 miles on it. I am Cannondale for life now. I just put in the order for the Ultra Fatty Headshok DLR. To drop some of the extra weight, although as stated this bike leaves every thing I have put it against in a climb. I love the geomotry of this rig!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loll
a Racer
from Redwood City, CA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All mtn/ freeride stuffs.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
589
Strengths:
Nice frame, and lots of candy components that might or might not work
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Alright, this is my review of the F5 from last nite at Waterdog Lake,
It can climb. I haven’t been able to power up hills like this since my XC racing days. The steeper it got, the more I jam it, and still have something left at the top. Shifting on it sucks though, many no-shift, both front and rear derailleur. The thing is, this is a brand new bike, didn’t expect any shifting problem.
The shock was alright, it did its job for a cheap sub 100 bucks fork. I was pretty slow on the downhill, anything that start getting rocky will force me to slow way down. Things that I fly down on the Bullit, now I suck up every single bump with my arm.
Turning was hard. Esp. at speed, I missed a few turns. May be it was the skiny 2.0 tires? Or the XC handle bar setup. There were many sketchy sections that I slowed down on. The tires were good skinny wise on the road, went sprinting yesterday morning and it was a blessing to have much less rolling resistance than the 2.5 on the bullit.
Brakes...What brakes? I don’t think I have rear brake, or at least it is not adjusted correctly, even after spending 20 minutes with the mechanic at REI trying to get more power on it. It is worst than V brakes.
I think I should remember why I got this bike. Is a cross training/ sprinting practice tool when I am not riding the bullit. With that, it does it’s job great. Trails I think it can handle are like Fremont Elder, Arastradero, and barely Waterdog. I think even Skegg’s downhill section is too much for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Loll
a Racer
from Redwood City, CA Date Reviewed: May 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
All mtn/ freeride stuffs.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
589
Strengths:
Nice frame, and lots of candy components that might or might not work
Weaknesses:
Brakes
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Alright, this is my review of the F5 from last nite at Waterdog Lake,
It can climb. I haven’t been able to power up hills like this since my XC racing days. The steeper it got, the more I jam it, and still have something left at the top. Shifting on it sucks though, many no-shift, both front and rear derailleur. The thing is, this is a brand new bike, didn’t expect any shifting problem.
The shock was alright, it did its job for a cheap sub 100 bucks fork. I was pretty slow on the downhill, anything that start getting rocky will force me to slow way down. Things that I fly down on the Bullit, now I suck up every single bump with my arm.
Turning was hard. Esp. at speed, I missed a few turns. May be it was the skiny 2.0 tires? Or the XC handle bar setup. There were many sketchy sections that I slowed down on. The tires were good skinny wise on the road, went sprinting yesterday morning and it was a blessing to have much less rolling resistance than the 2.5 on the bullit.
Brakes...What brakes? I don’t think I have rear brake, or at least it is not adjusted correctly, even after spending 20 minutes with the mechanic at REI trying to get more power on it. It is worst than V brakes.
I think I should remember why I got this bike. Is a cross training/ sprinting practice tool when I am not riding the bullit. With that, it does it’s job great. Trails I think it can handle are like Fremont Elder, Arastradero, and barely Waterdog. I think even Skegg’s downhill section is too much for it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip Confalone
a Cross Country Rider
from Smithtown, New York USA Date Reviewed: April 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Pinnacle New Hampshire
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$579.00
Purchased At:
Carl Hart Bicycles
Strengths:
Awesome made in USA frame. Light. Very fast accelerator. Great component package. Don't understand previous comments about shifters. They rock! Uphill shifts are seamless. Brakes are great. They're not Juicy's but they function more or less the same. Setup is really nice. Handles incredibly well. Upgraded the tires to Panaracer XC Pro Fires, made a big difference. I'm 235lbs. and this bike can take me jumping and stump hopping no problem. Great frame. Buy it!!!
Weaknesses:
Don't care for the shock. No noticeable difference in adjustment. No lockout either. Does its job though and for the price you can't beat it. Don't like the cassette either. Upgraded to Shimano XTR. Stock cassette did not affect performance, just didn't like it.
Similar Products Used:
You name it, I've ridden it.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for cassette and front shock. Oh yeah, pedals as well. Upgraded to Marzocchi drop off and Shimano XTR cassette. Went with crank brothers pedals.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike! Not meant to leap off buildings, but it can handle some rough terrain. Excellent value for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Harrison
a Weekend Warrior
from Athens, Ga Date Reviewed: April 16, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$550.00
Purchased At:
Ga Cycle Sport
Strengths:
extremely light and durable brakes are awsome handling is good.
Weaknesses:
fork ajustment is a bit iffy...cant tell the difference really. SRAM shifters suck. i always end up hitting the up shift with my thumb on hills = i die. my buddy switched all the SRAM parts with Shimano and loves it. im about to.
Bike Setup:
awesome
Bottom Line:
for the price you pay, it is an amazing bike! i recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek
a Weekend Warrior
from Tuscaloosa, Alabama Date Reviewed: April 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Sokol Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
Cahaba Cycles
Strengths:
Good overall quality for the price paid. Good combination of components. No maint issues after 3 months of 3-5 rides(6-8 miles) a week, except brake levers (except normal tune ups).
Weaknesses:
The brakes have performed well but recently the brake levers have hung up on the lever housing when I am releasing the brake. It is where the cable attaches to the lever, there is a metal bracket thing that has a pin in it that pins the cable to the lever. All I had to do was bend the housing out a little with a screwdriver but I am afraid that the levers may not make it too much longer if they are already getting enough play to hang up. It happened to both levers and I haven't crashed it hard (yet).
Also I am not too impressed with the shock. There is nothing wrong with it but nothing great about it either. It seems to do its job well enought but I cant really notice any difference no matter how far I adjust it.
Similar Products Used:
None really. Last bike was a FS Gary Fisher Joshua F4 (I think) that was busted up pretty good when I bought it cheap and used, and that was about 6 yrs ago.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for some Shimano M545 pedals
Bottom Line:
In my new to mnt biking opinion, this bike is spot on for what it is intended. It is a very well built, entry level hardtail. For the price, I dont believe you can beat the bag of components on this bike. I believe that frame would take way more punishment and/or miles than the components would but you have to sacrifice a litte performance for a good deal and that is exactly what u get with a F5. It is definitly not a race level bike but it is great entry into the world of disc brakes and smooth shifting.
I give it 5 for value cause it is the best bang for the buck from all the research I did before I bought mine.
I give it 4 for overall just because I think there is room for impovement overall, but the improvement would come with a price
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Treighton
a
from Sacramento, CA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
REI
Bottom Line:
Even though i am a new rider i feel that this bike was a great value!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Pennsylvania Date Reviewed: March 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Jacobsburg
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
Genesis Bikes
Strengths:
Frame & Geometry, Good Fork, Good Tires & Rims, Great Ride & Handling, and the Overall Level of Components. Great looking bike too!
Weaknesses:
Not wild about the trigger placement or the design of the SRAM SX-5 triggers.
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6000, Trek 4300
Bike Setup:
Standard Cannondale f5 with C-dale Bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
I was at my LBS ready to buy another Trek--this time a Trek 6000--when right next to it was a jet black Cannondale f5 that stood out and took my attention away.
After a quick test drive, I was hooked! This bike had to come home with me. It felt great, looked great, and rode great.
I've driven the f5 on road and on some mild dirt trails and it does very well--This is a nice ride, and I plan on letting it stay pretty for a while as I continue to beat up my old 4300 on the rocks and roots of my favorite trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clint
a Cross Country Rider
from Garland Tx USA Date Reviewed: March 4, 2007
Favorite Trail:
RCP
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
Plano Cycling
Strengths:
The quality of the bike, handmade frame, sram components, etc are the strengths.
Weaknesses:
none that I see
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock Pro Disc
Bottom Line:
I picked this bike up recently and was very impressed with it right from the get go. Its easy to steer and it reponds very well. The brakes are awesome and feel very very good.
I would recommend this bike to anyone that wants a good entry level race bike. Best bang for the buck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shaun C.
a Cross Country Rider
from Lexington Date Reviewed: December 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Minuteman Commuter Bike Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
The Bikeway Source
Strengths:
-Super light frame -Great SRAM SX5/Shimano Alivio Drivetrain: Very smooth shifting -Promax Mechanical disc brakes brings bike to a stop -Skinny (26x2.1") tires roll very fast -Cheap -Fork is awesome
Furio-X Frame SRAM SX5 Shifters + R. Derailleur Shimano Alivio F. Derailleur RockShox Dart 2 Fork with TurnKey Lockout Promax Disc Brakes
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great bike, with a 24 speed drivetrain and disc brakes. For only $580, it's rare that you get such a loaded bike from a great company. I've had no problems with this bike yet, and I hope I have none. Absolutely no problems whatsoever. This bike is great for beginners and enthusiasts alike. It's great for trail, XC and road riding, so grab one and ride if you do those!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MIKE
a Weekend Warrior
from PRATTVILLE, AL Date Reviewed: December 24, 2006
Favorite Trail:
swayback
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$580.00
Purchased At:
bobs bikes
Strengths:
Frame, shifters, brakes
Weaknesses:
I'm new to the mountain biking world and don't have a ton of experience to base my judgement but I really like the bike with the exception of the tires. Why in the world you would put skinny ass road bike looking tires on a mountain bike I have no idea but thats what it looks like. I bought this bike for my son and a Specialized Hardrock Disc for myself and it looks like I have monster truck tires compared to his bike.
Similar Products Used:
TREK 4500, SPECIALIZED HARDROCK SPORT DISC
Bike Setup:
SCRAM SHIFTERS AND DISC BRAKES
Bottom Line:
My kid loves the bike so far, the only problem I see right now is upgrading the tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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