Cannondale Synapse 2 RLE Endurance Bike Review - feat. SmartSense + Shimano Ultegra Di2 + Fizik Argo

Endurance bikes strike a balance between comfort and performance by utilizing less aggressive geometry and complaint setups to soak up harshness on the road. Cannondale’s popular Synapse series of bikes offer carbon fiber and aluminum options for new or experienced cyclists looking for comfort and speed. In this review, we’ll be specifically looking at the $5500 Cannondale Synapse Carbon 2 RLE which combines a full carbon frame with their innovative SmartSense system. As a mid-tier bike in the Synapse Carbon lineup, the Synapse Carbon 2 RLE comes equipped with the 12-speed Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8000 drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes. The bike also features the integrated SmartSense system which utilizes a central battery with internal cable routing to a Lezyne headlight, taillight and a Garmin Varia rear radar. Wide 700x30mm Vittoria tires combined with discreet flex zones in the carbon frame ensure a smooth and compliant ride. To simplify maintenance and upgrades, the Synapse Carbon features standard BSA threaded BB, flat mounted brakes and 12x142mm thru-axles. Cannondale also offers the Synapse Carbon in a number of variations from the $2600 Synapse Carbon 4 with Tiagra all the way up to the $9050 Synapse Carbon 1 RLE with Dura-Ace Di2. The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 2 RLE combines classic endurance geometry with modern materials and sleek tube shaping. As a full carbon bike there are no seams in sight, instead you have sharp creases and detailing along the frame. To achieve a more upright position the headtube is quite tall with a styled “C” on the front. Cables for the front brakes are routed down into the front of the fork while the rear brake and SmartSense power cable tuck into the square shaped downtube. Cannondale currently offers this bike in two color options: Gray and the Cool Mint color shown in this review. Each Synapse Carbon models offers unique gloss color options as well as a beautiful color-shifting Purple Haze. Our Cool Mint bike received quite a few compliments as it combines an attractive glossy mint with metallic green highlights on the rear triangle and inner fork. Subtle graphic fades help blend the two colors together and give the bike a distinctive look... ... Read the full review @ ~ 00:00 Intro 00:10 Unboxing Specs 02:59 Fit Finish 05:17 On The Road 08:03 Cannondale App 10:22 The Final Score ~ Visit Our Website - Follow Us On Instagram - ~ Cannondale - ~