Cannondale Synapse 6 review

Cannondale Synapse, sportive bikes
Cycling Weekly Verdict

In all, the Synapse is an extremely impressive bike. I'm loath to say that any machine is the best I've ever tested, but in terms of ride quality, stability, comfort and road manners, I honestly can't remember an aluminium bike that comes close to it.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Very refined ride quality

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Great frame means downgraded component spec compared to other models in this test

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The last bike grouptest I put my name to was the big-brand carbon spectacular in the May issue of Cycling Active. One thing we learned there was that, while household-name marques don't always offer the best value for money in terms of spec sheets, at their core they do offer unique, beautiful and thoroughly engineered bike frames.

And so that tradition continues here: while other machines on test come with eye-catching accoutrements - not least Shimano 105 shiny bits - Cannondale's Synapse has to make do with slightly less impressive fittings.

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Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.