The resulting “FlexPivot” design introduces an incredibly thin carbon leaf spring into the back of the chainstay, something that mimics a bearing-based horst-link pivot. Called FlexPivot, Cannondale say it gives the Scalpel an effective four-bar linkage. However, Cannondale’s new Scalpel takes a different approach, one that aims to bring the reduced pedal kickback (the tugging on the chain when the suspension is compressed) of a four-bar system, while keeping the low weight and high stiffness of a single-pivot design.

And there’s certainly some truth to that. Specialized, Scott and even the previous Scalpel feature fixed rear ends, with the general excuse being that more complicated suspension designs aren’t necessary with limited rear-wheel travel. Recent years have seen many cross country dual suspension bikes move to simpler single pivot-type suspension designs in an effort to reduce the weight gap to a hardtail. And all four sizes are now intended for use with 29″ wheels only. However, where the previous generation Scalpel was available in extra small through to extra large, the new version drops the smallest size offering. The new Scalpel is longer and slacker, meaning it hits the must-have buzzwords of any new mountain bike release.įront centre lengths have been increased, too, and as a result, the new Scalpel offers a longer wheelbase than before. What remains is the long 55 mm offset fork rake on the Lefty Ocho, which in turns quickens the trail figure when compared to most other bikes with a comparably slack head angle. The head angle is now a degree slacker (68º), while the seat tube is a degree steeper (74.5º). Progressive geometryĬannondale is no stranger to progressive geometry on its cross country race bikes, and the new Scalpel continues that trend.

And while we’re yet to throw a leg over either version of these new machines ( our colleagues at Pinkbike have ridden it), there’s still plenty to tell. Courses are rougher and more technically challenging than ever, and the new Scalpel brings with it a progressive geometry and a novel take on a proven suspension design.įurthermore, the Scalpel is now split into two platforms: there’s the Scalpel (100 mm travel) intended for pinning on a number and chewing stem and then there’s the Scalpel SE, a longer-travel (120 mm) and burlier-built version. It’s still a bike designed to win races, but the new design comes with careful consideration that cross country racing has changed. The two just go hand-in-hand, and even way back in 2001, the Scalpel was a full suspension bike never far from a World Cup podium spot.įor 2021 Cannondale is overhauling the Scalpel once again.

Cannondale’s Scalpel is to cross country racing what tea is to hot water.

Cannondale ocho review