Cannondale's latest innovation is a bold move, but one that might leave some riders questioning their warranty coverage. The brand has unveiled its new SuperSlice time trial bike, a machine that pushes the boundaries of speed and aerodynamics. But here's where it gets controversial—the bike's design comes with a warning.
Use a 68t chainring at your own risk, Cannondale cautions. This new SuperSlice, spotted at the Mallorca Challenge, is the result of extensive research and development, with the brand claiming it's the fastest Cannondale ever made. The bike promises a 10-watt saving at 50kph compared to its predecessor, a significant improvement that will undoubtedly catch the attention of pro riders seeking every advantage.
The bike has undergone a complete transformation, with a brand new frame and fork, all thanks to hundreds of hours of CFD analysis and wind tunnel testing. The most noticeable change is the deeper front fork, but Cannondale assures us there's more to it than meets the eye. The redesigned frame offers a 14% reduction in drag, saving 10 watts while adding 60 grams. Interestingly, weight has been strategically added to the frame for aerodynamics and then saved in other areas like the base bar.
The new SuperSlice also boasts increased headtube and bottom bracket stiffness, and a tyre clearance of 32mm, matching the new SuperSix. It features a custom-designed Cannondale carbon base bar, paired exclusively with a mono riser and Vision time trial extensions. While the geometry remains similar, the seat angle and tri bar pad stack and reach ranges have been enhanced for better time trial position customization.
However, a notable caveat is the warranty exclusion for frame damage caused by oversized chainrings. Cannondale specifies that only a max 64 tooth SRAM Red aero chainring is officially compatible, recommending a 3.7mm clearance between chainrings and the frame. This detail could spark debates among riders, especially those who prefer larger chainrings.
With the Tour de France's team time trial on the horizon, this update might be just what Ben Healy needs to replicate his past successes. Cannondale's white paper for the SuperSix highlights the importance of aero efficiency over weight reduction on typical TT courses with climbs. The brand's focus on the SuperSlice's front end and base bar integration showcases their commitment to speed.
And this is the part most people miss—the man behind the tech writing, Tom, brings a unique perspective. With a background in English Literature and a decade of experience as a qualified mechanic, he's equally at home in the garage and on the road. His hands-on approach to testing and his passion for pro-team tech make him the perfect guide through the world of cycling innovations. So, what do you think about this new SuperSlice? Is the design worth the potential warranty risks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
