Cannondale Synapse Carbon Disc Ultegra

The Synapse is well established as one of the benchmark endurance road bikes. There are no fancy suspension mechanisms here, it's all about Cannondale's expertise with shaping and layering carbon fibre. This mechanical Ultegra build is a great entry point into what they can offer, giving you a superb frameset combined with a strong, reliable set of components that can be upgraded over time - if you wish - to further save weight.

The now traditional super-skinny 25.4mm seatpost, along with the strong but slim seatstays, help to provide that magic carpet ride over rougher surfaces. The wheels - well, they're perfectly functional, Fulcrum know how to build a decent wheelset, but they're towards the budget end of the spectrum. That's fine, it enables Cannondale to offer their full carbon frameset at a more affordable price, and they'll most likely be the first thing that gets upgraded. Treat yourself to a lightweight carbon wheelset for racing and keep the Fulcrums for training, they're tough and durable enough that it'd be a shame to waste them!

photos by Bence Bujaki