CUTTINGEDGE XC WEAPON

The Cannondale Scalpel HT is ready to slice through the pack, just like its full-suspension sibling

Five things you need to know about Cannondale’s new cross-country hardtail: 1 IT’S SLACK FOR AN XC BIKE

To improve speed and control, the Scalpel HT mimics its full-suspension namesake with geometry that wouldn’t have looked out of place on a trail bike a few years ago. All but the top build have a 67-degree head angle. This is paired with 410mm to 470mm reach figures, and proportional chainstay lengths that grow by 5mm with each step up the size range (430-445mm).

THE TOP MODEL’S EVEN SLACKER 2

The top-spec Hi-MOD 1 comes fitted with Cannondale’s 110mm-travel, single-legged Lefty Ocho Carbon fork, while the other bikes have a 100mm-travel RockShox SID. The longer-travel fork slackens the head angle out to 66.5 degrees and reduces the reach slightly.

3 THERE ARE TWO FRAMES

On the top bike you get a high-grade Hi-MOD carbon fibre chassis, claimed to weigh a paltry 895g (medium size, without hardware). The frame used for the standard carbon bikes is slightly heavier. There are three models available in the UK, all 29ers, priced from £2,400 to £6,200.

INBUILT FLEX ADDS COMFORT 4

‘Sculpted flex zones’ on the chainstays – similar to Cannondale’s SAVE microsuspension – are matched with dropped seatstays to provide rear-end compliance over chattery terrain.

IT’LL TELL YOU WHEN IT NEEDS TLC! 5

Fitted to the front wheel is a sensor that connects to Cannondale’s app to provide information such as current speed, route and ride distance, plus it reminds you when your bike needs servicing.