Cannondale Scalpel Carbon 3 (2022)

Cannondale Scalpel Carbon 3

 One of the fastest cross country fullys. Laboratory measurements and field tests in the field have long proven that a full-suspension chassis is superior to a hardtail (rigid frame with suspension fork). Even though a fully-suspended chassis usually weighs more than a hardtail. The decisive factor is not (only) the weight of the bike, but its riding characteristics. And how these affect the rider. Take traction, for example: With Cannondale Scalpel Carbon 3, the rear wheel maintains constant contact with the ground, follows the contours of the terrain and hardly slips at all. This allows the rider to sit more comfortably in the saddle and reduces fatigue. In addition, its driving force is more continuously converted into propulsion than with a rigid rear wheel that slips through every now and then. Typically Cannondale, the Scalpel's chassis is loaded with innovations that provide further advantages: For example, the patented Ai (Asymmetric Integration) technology, which makes it possible to design extremely short chainstays. A Fully can also score points on downhill runs. Those who race know that the courses are becoming more and more technically demanding. And this is where the unique Lefty Ocho suspension fork comes into play. The one-arm forks are not only a trademark of the US manufacturer, but thanks to their smooth-running function and steering precision they are considered the ultimate for cross country riders.

Revised BallisTec Carbon frame

Let's talk about weight again: Even though the main advantages of a fullys are the handling characteristics, it was always the aim of the developers to make the Scalpel as light as possible. The frame weight of about 1900 grams including shock is a challenge for every hardtail! Cannondale has also made further improvements to the geometry: With a 1.5 degree flatter steering angle and a 1 degree steeper seat angle, the Scalpel Carbon 3 is now even more agile and aggressive. The BallisTec technology comes from the military, where similar carbon structures are used for armour. The frames withstand tens of thousands of load cycles without showing signs of fatigue. This makes the Scalpel Carbon 3 ready for the rough and tumble of everyday racing. Of course this Cross Country machine rolls on 29-inch wheels. Clever detail: a wheel sensor integrated in the front wheel documents ride data and reminds you of service intervals.

Highlights

• BallisTec carbon frame with FlexPivot chain stays
• Lefty Ocho suspension fork & Fox Float DPS Performance Elite EVOL shocks
• Shimano XT 1x12 gears & Shimano Deore disc brakes
• Stan's NoTubes Crest S1 29-inch wheelset, tubeless ready