[krayzie]

Just wondering how much of an improvement are the new Furio and Optimo frames when compare to the CAAD5 design which probably dates back already 6 years?!? Is the CAAD5 still a racing worthy base?

My CAAD5 frame is the third one and the lightest I've had, the previous two being a Easton Elite custom and a Gary Fisher Genesis Geometry...

 

[damion]

Upgradeitis?

What is the deal? Are you getting the upgrade itch?

THe CAAD5 frame is great. THe newer ones are slightly lighter, and the stays offer some compliance that the 5 does not. However, we are talking about 200gm or so off of the frame weight. (If I remember right, the CAAD models from 3-7 dropped approx. 100gm per model design.)

If you have the CAAD5 sitck with it. However, Cannondale does have a trade in program, so if you NEED that OPTIMO frame, you can get it at a reduced price if you are the original owner of the 5.

 

[DirtDad]

Not big differences

I had a CAAD5 at one time - it was my favorite hardtail ever. The Furio is a very different frame. The Optimo is what compares to a CAAD5, and the only differences I am aware of is the use of Optimo tubing in most - but not all - of the frame. I think they may have relaxed the head angle, too, but I do not know if that is a frame change or was due to the lefty's additional travel. From what I have seen, there is no compelling reason to upgrade, but you never know, take a test ride and see what you think.

 

[MendonCycleSmith]

Just remember, "how good" is soooooo relative. As said by others, both are great, and unless you have cash just burning a hole in your pocket, and everything else on the current rig is as good as it can get, there's no substantial argument for an upgraded frame! My 2 cents.

 

[krayzie]

Thanks for all the knowledgeble replies.. no actually I don't have cash burning in my pocket, just wanna see what improvements Cannondale has put into its frame development ever since CAAD5 (which I have) came out... Can't seem to find much info on the web regarding the improvements they've put into the design with each new introduction, and almost nothing on the Furio and Optimo.

Actually I find CAAD5 pretty smoove as it feels like you just flow through the terrain but for some reason it doesn't seem to climb as fast as my old Gary Fisher... I think it's probably my riser bar, gonna try a flat bar (when I do find one as they seem to be out of style) to see if it improves on the climbs.