With the SuperSix EVO, Cannondale are introducing a brand-new version of their timeless classic. Read on to find out whether the Americans have managed the delicate balance act between lightness and aerodynamics.
After presenting the Topstone Carbon gravel bike, which we have already tested and reported on last week, Cannondale are introducing yet another exciting racer: the new SuperSix EVO. No other bike in Cannondale’s road-portfolio has been around for such a long time. Now, for the 2020 season, the Americans have gifted their evergreen with a revised frame concept, several new aerodynamic features, a lighter tube set and a fully-integrated cable-routing system. All these changes are meant to improve the overall performance of the bike while providing a new generation of Super Six owners with a unique and exciting riding experience. But what sort of riders is the new Super Six aimed at? After careful consideration, Cannondale’s engineers finally put pen to paper and tailored the SuperSix EVO around those riders who sign up for the occasional week-end race, who also love chasing their riding buddies on fast paced after-work laps and see their bike as sports-equipment. Furthermore, they’re just as obsessed with the Pro tour as they’re with the readings from their power-meter and feel motivated by a lightweight, aerodynamically- efficient and good looking bike. Does it ring a bell? Then keep reading. Not you? Read anyway! 😉
The Cannondale SuperSix EVO in detail
The new version of the SuperSix EVO was designed to strike a perfect balance between aerodynamics and lightweight. But Cannondale also put integration high on their list of priorities; alongside the fully-internal cable routing, they combined a number of carefully chosen components such as the new HG KNØT45 wheelset, two-piece KNØT cockpit and the KNØT27 seatpost, to achieve a clean look and provide an optimal level of performance. The carbon frame with its adapted geometry, the lowered seat stays and tire clearance of up to 30 mm, are all available with either disc or rim-brake performance. Whilst the latest version of the SuperSix is noticeably lighter than its predecessor, the SuperSix EVO 2, the new platform was designed to provide a high level of comfort and allow for easy maintenance despite the high level of integration. Above all, the dimensions of the tubing, which are adapted specifically for each frame size, are intended to provide all riders with the same level of comfort without compromising the sporty character of previous EVO models.
To mitigate the negative reciprocal effects of aerodynamics and low weight, for the new version of the SuperSix Cannondale relies on airfoil-like aero-tubing. This is meant to reduce air resistance significantly compared to conventional rounded tubes. In addition, Cannondale tapped its internal synergies and developed the SuperSix EVO as a wholesome system consisting of frame, fork, seatpost, handlebar, stem and wheels. As a result, compared with the previous SuperSix model, you should be able to save about 30 watts – if you’re fit enough to reach a speed of 48.3 km/h in the flats!
The SuperSix includes Cannondale’s Connected Technology as standard, which allows you to digitally connect to your bike. Using the standard wheel sensor and the new Cannondale app, you can recall all the most important information about cruising speed, distance and your route directly on the screen of your smartphone. In addition, the app will remind you when the periodic maintenance is due. But there is one more interesting feature hiding inside the cranks of all high-end models with either a DURA-ACE Di2, ULTEGRA Di2 or mechanical Shimano DURA-ACE groupset: all of these come with a standard, integrated power2max power meter which can be activated via smartphone app for an additional cost of € 490.
For female riders, Cannondale released a total of four women-specific SuperSix EVO models, three of which come with standard disc brakes and one with rim brakes. Each model is available in sizes 44, 48, 51 and 54. Male riders, on the other hand, can choose from six models with disc brakes and two with rim brakes, all respectively available in sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62. Depending on the spec, Cannondale also offers a lighter “Hi-Mod” frameset (180 g less in size 56) instead of the regular BallisTec carbon frameset. The stated weight difference refers to the disc-frameset, which consists of a painted frame, all small parts, a painted and uncut fork, and an uncut seatpost.
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Geometrie
| Size | 44 | 48 | 51 | 54 | 56 | 58 | 60 | 62 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube | 400 mm | 438 mm | 477 mm | 515 mm | 536 mm | 558 mm | 579 mm | 600 mm |
| Top tube | 512 mm | 520 mm | 528 mm | 546 mm | 562 mm | 578 mm | 594 mm | 611 mm |
| Head tube | 99 mm | 114 mm | 130 mm | 153 mm | 164 mm | 188 mm | 209 mm | 230 mm |
| Head angle | 70.9° | 71.2° | 71.2° | 71.2° | 73.0° | 73.0° | 73.0° | 73.0° |
| Seat angle | 74.3° | 74.3° | 74.3° | 73.7° | 73.3° | 72.9° | 72.5° | 72.1° |
| Chainstay | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm | 408 mm |
| BB Height | 268 mm | 268 mm | 268 mm | 271 mm | 271 mm | 273 mm | 273 mm | 273 mm |
| Wheelbase | 979 mm | 985 mm | 994 mm | 1,000 mm | 992 mm | 1,005 mm | 1,016 mm | 1,028 mm |
| Reach | 370 mm | 374 mm | 378 mm | 384 mm | 390 mm | 395 mm | 400 mm | 406 mm |
| Stack | 504 mm | 519 mm | 534 mm | 554 mm | 574 mm | 594 mm | 614 mm | 634 mm |
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Disc DURA-ACE Di2 – our test bike
Groupset Shimano DURA-ACE Di2, 2×11, 52/36T with power2max NG EcoPower Meter (not activated)
Cassette Shimano DURA-ACE 11–30T
Brakes Shimano DURA-ACE Hydraulic with SM-RT900-rotors, 160/140 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram 45 SL KNØT
Tires Vittoria Corsa, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Hollowgram SystemBar SAVE, Carbon
Stem Hollowgram KNØT, Alu, -6°
Weight 7,49 kg in size 58
Price € 10,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Black (BLK)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Disc ULTEGRA Di2
Groupset Shimano ULTEGRA Di2, 2×11, 52/36T with power2max NG EcoPower Meter (not activated)
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano ULTEGRA Hydraulic with SM-RT700 rotors, 160/140 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram 45 SL KNØ
Tires Vittoria Corsa, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Hollowgram SystemBar SAVE, Carbo
Stem Hollowgram KNØT, Alu, -6°
Weight N/A
Price € 7,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Carbon (CRB)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Disc DURA-ACE
Groupset Shimano DURA-ACE mechanical, 2×11, 52/36T with power2max NG EcoPower Meter (not activated)
Cassette Shimano ULTEGRA 11–30T
Brakes Shimano DURA-ACE Hydraulic with SM-RT800 rotors, 160/140 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram 45 SL KNØT
Tires Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright Black, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Hollowgram SystemBar SAVE, Carbon
Stem Hollowgram KNØT, Alu, -6°
Weight N/A
Price € 6,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Agave (AGV)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Force eTap AXS
Groupset SRAM Force eTap AXS HRD, 2×12, 46/33T
Cassette SRAM Force eTap AXS
Brakes SRAM Force eTap AXS mit Centerline XR rotors, 160/160 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram 35, Carbon Clincher Disc
Tires Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright Black, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Hollowgram SystemBar SAVE, Carbon
Stem Hollowgram KNØT, Alu, -6°
Weight N/A
Price € 5,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Cashmere (CAS)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc ULTEGRA
Groupset Shimano ULTEGRA mechanical, 2×11, 52/36T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano ULTEGRA Hydraulic with SM-RT54 rotors, 160/160 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram Si, Carbon Clincher
Tires Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright Black, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 2, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 2, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 3,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour BBQ (BBQ) left / Goldfinger right (GDF)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon ULTEGRA
Groupset Shimano ULTEGRA Di2, 2×11, 52/36T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano ULTEGRA rim brakes
Wheelset Fulcrum Racing 500
Tires Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 3, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 3, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 2,899
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Black Pearl (BPL) left / Acid Red right (ARD)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc 105
Groupset Shimano 105 mechanical, 2×11, 52/36T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano 105 Hydraulic with SM-RT54 rotors 160/160 mm
Wheelset Fulcrum Racing 900 DB
Tires Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 3, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 3, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 2,799
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour Black Pearl (BPL) left / Acid Red right (ARD)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon 105
Groupset Shimano 105 mechanical, 2×11, 52/36T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano 105 rim brakes
Wheelset Fulcrum Racing 900
Tires Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 3, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 3, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 2,799
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
Colour BBQ (BBQ) left / Emerald right (EMR)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Women’s ULTEGRA Di
Groupset Shimano ULTEGRA Di2, 2×11, 52/36T with power2max NG EcoPower Meter (not activated)
Cassette Shimano 105 11–32T
Brakes Shimano ULTEGRA Hydraulic with SM-RT700 rotors,160/140 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram 45 SL KNØ
Tires Vittoria Corsa, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Hollowgram SystemBar SAVE, Carbo
Stem Hollowgram KNØT, Alu, -6°
Weight N/A
Price € 7,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54
Colour Black Pearl (BPL)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Women’s ULTEGRA
Groupset Shimano ULTEGRA Di2, 2×11, 52/36T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–32T
Brakes Shimano ULTEGRA Hydraulic with SM-RT54 rotors 160/140 mm
Wheelset Hollowgram Si, Carbon Clincher
Tires Vittoria Rubino Pro Bright Black, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 2, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 2, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 3,499
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54
Colour Champagne (CHP)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Disc Women’s 105
Groupset Shimano 105 mechanical, 2×11, 50/34T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano 105 Hydraulic with SM-RT54 rotors, 160/160 mm
Wheelset Fulcrum Racing 900 DB
Tires Vittoria Zaffiro Pro Slick, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 3, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 3, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 2,799
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54
Colour Emerald (EMR)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon Women’s 105
Groupset Shimano 105 mechanical, 2×11, 50/34T with Cannondale 1 cranks
Cassette Shimano 105 11–30T
Brakes Shimano 105 rim brakes
Wheelset Fulcrum Racing 900
Tires Vittoria Zaffiro, 700 x 25C
Seatpost Hollowgram 27 SL KNØT, Carbon
Handlebars Cannondale 3, Alu, Compact
Stem Cannondale 3, Alu, +7°
Weight N/A
Price € 2,799
Sizes 44, 48, 51, 54
Colour Black (BLK)
Available now at your trusted Cannondale dealership
Cannondale SuperSix EVO Hi-Mod Disc DURA-ACE Di2 in test
“From a distance, it really reminds me of the Specialized Tarmac SL 6, FOCUS IZALCO MAX, Wilier Zero SLR, SCOTT Addict RC or BMC Teammachine!” some of you may think looking at the new Cannondale. And it’s true: the lowered seat stays, bigger tire clearance and the airfoil tubeset, are all common features of modern race bikes. Whatever you may think of standardised concepts though, there is always a reason (or many) behind them: whenever a bike brand is trying to strike an optimal balance between aerodynamics, comfort, weight and stiffness, it is automatically restricting its options of potential frame designs. And rumor has it that there was even a time when 99% of all manufacturers were building racing bikes with a diamond frame. You know what we mean.
The fact is: Both the shape and the design language of the new SuperSix EVO are very pleasing! Whilst the level of integration is consistently implemented, this comes at a price: since the cables are guided through a shaft atop the head tube, the steering angle is somewhat restricted – a characteristic we also found on the Cannondale SystemSix.
In a tribute to previous EVO models with a straight top tube, Cannondale slopes the top tube of the new SuperSix only marginally, and lowers the seat stays in true aero-style. The new frame has now a tire clearance of up to 30 mm.
When setting off from a standstill, the new SuperSix EVO strikes with a stiff bottom bracket and nimble character. The Hollowgram 45 SL KNØT wheelset underlines the liveliness and provides sufficient stiffness for fast-paced sprints. Unfortunately, the standard power meter won’t tell us how much power we’re generating – we’d have to pay to activate the service first. This is a very clever feature if you want to train more specifically or if you want to keep an eye on your limits – and if you’re willing to pay the extra € 490. Still, we find the price extremely fair considering that you’re getting a dual-side power meter. Speaking of fairness, some of you might think that € 490 are a little steep just to activate the system. On the other hand, the service isn’t compulsory. Nevertheless, the extra few grams of the power meter are insignificant at this point.
The Cannondale feels at home on straight high-speed sections and is great fun in wide high-speed corners, too. Excellent directional stability and low crosswind susceptibility make for a composed ride and inspire tons of confidence. However, in tight corners and at a slower speed, the front-end feels a little sluggish and tends to pull towards the inside of the turns. We also noticed this when sprinting out of the saddle on climbs, where the lack of agility of the front-end tends to affect the liveliness of the bike a little. If you climb seated, however, the Cannondale is light-footed and very efficient even on the steepest of ramps.
In terms of comfort, the clever mix of components of our test bike hits the nail on the head. With an inner width of 21 mm, the KNØT carbon rims harmonise extremely well with the 25 mm Vittoria Corsa tires and give them a beautiful U shape. Together with the compliant seatpost, the tire/wheel combo provides effective vibration damping. And yet, you can clearly feel the harder hits, because the frame itself only provides minimal comfort. If you’re after a less aggressive, more upright riding position and you’re focusing on more relaxed rides, Cannondale’s Synapse endurance model might be a better option for you.
Conclusion
With the SuperSix EVO, Cannondale has introduced an all-rounder racer that shows its best side when riding at high speed. Here the bike shines with its composed character and low crosswind susceptibility. At low speeds, however, the front-end can feel a little sluggish. If you’re looking for an aerodynamically efficient all-rounder, Cannondale’s iconic racer is a very exciting, stylish option.
For more information head to cannondale.com
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Words: Photos: Robin Schmitt
