Cannondale SuperSix EVO 5 105 (2014)

High end tech, middle end bike

Pros

- EVO frame
- Reliable Shimano 105 components

Cons

- None

Review

The SuperSix EVO 5 continues Cannondale's habit of making some of their previously high end technology available at a more affordable price point. The heart of this bike is the EVO carbon which, while not the uber expensive Nano or Hi mod, is still representative of the quality of this frameset.

The SuperSix, whatever the guise, is a classic road race bike with a massive tally of wins in the pro scene, and while this isn't that bike exactly, it has the geometry and design that makes its big brother a winner. This is one of the best handling, accelerating and thrilling road bikes you will ever ride. Be warned though, if you want a gran fondo bike look elsewhere! This machine is designed for the club racer on a budget.

Cannondale invented the BB30 bottom bracket design as featured here. The massive shell affords a super stiff and super efficient method of getting all your power to the rear end. It gives the bike a purposeful solid look.

Frameset aside, the EVO 5 comes kitted out with Shimano 105 which, like the frame it adorns, is the result of trickle down technology. Modern 105 groupsets perform almost flawlessly and are a perfect match to this bike. I have always been a fan also of Shimano wheels and I think they really enhance the EVO. In saying that, this is an area you could happily upgrade with what you save on the bike purchase. A top set of race wheels for the weekend maybe? The quality of this bike makes upgrades an investment, not a loss.

If you are looking for an affordable club race bike you could do worse, a lot worse, than the SuperSix EVO 5. It is an efficient thoroughbred screaming to be ridden fast and is a great investment for the long term.