Cannondale's latest innovation comes with a warning: the new SuperSlice time trial bike boasts a 68t chainring, but at your own risk! This bold move is part of Cannondale's pursuit of speed, as they unveil their cutting-edge machine alongside an updated SuperSix Evo road bike.
The cycling world is abuzz with time trial bike updates, and Cannondale's SuperSlice is a standout. With a claimed 10-watt saving at 50kph, this bike promises to be a game-changer for pro riders seeking every advantage. But here's where it gets controversial—Cannondale warns that frame damage from oversized chainrings won't be covered under warranty. The brand recommends a max 64-tooth chainring, but the allure of that extra wattage may tempt some riders to push the limits.
The SuperSlice has undergone a significant transformation, with a brand new frame and fork, resulting from hundreds of hours of CFD analysis and wind tunnel testing. The most noticeable change is the deeper front fork, contributing to a 14% overall drag reduction. This design adds 60 grams to the frame for improved aerodynamics, while weight savings are achieved at the base bar.
Cannondale has also enhanced the headtube and bottom bracket stiffness and increased tire clearance to 32mm, matching the new SuperSix. The bike features an integrated Cannondale carbon base bar, designed exclusively for this frame, paired with a mono riser and Vision time trial extensions.
The geometry remains largely unchanged, but the seat angle and tri bar pad stack and reach ranges have been increased for better time trial position adjustments. This update couldn't have come at a better time, with the Tour de France's team time trial and Ben Healy's recent contract extension with EF Education.
Cannondale's white paper highlights the SuperSlice's focus on ultimate aero efficiency over weight reduction for TT courses with climbs. By concentrating on the front end and integrating the base bar, they've created a bike that's not just fast but also a potential source of debate in the cycling community.
Tom, our tech-savvy writer, brings his expertise to this review. With a background in cycling and a passion for tinkering, he's the perfect guide to explore this controversial yet exciting new bike. Will the SuperSlice live up to the hype, or will the oversized chainring be its Achilles' heel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
