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It is debatable whether the supported Cannondale Synapse Neo Allroad 1 passes as a "real" gravel bike. On the one hand, the voluminous tyres and the wide-ranging single drive are typical features. On the other hand, the manufacturer refers to the model as Allroad, and the model name Synapse also builds a bridge to the marathon racing bike of the same name. Alternatively, the bike is also available with a Shimano 2x12 drivetrain and narrow 30-millimetre tyres.
Traction limit of the Cannondale Synapse Neo Allroad 1 quickly reached
Although the low-profile tyres on the test bike are ten millimetres wider, they are not really suitable for off-road riding. The majority of the competition rolls on much wider and grippier tyres, which is an advantage off-road with a motor: the Cannondale reaches its traction limits early on. The promise of comfort is also essentially limited to the extremely upright riding position; in comparison, the Cannondale rides rather harshly. Even in this configuration, the Synapse Neo feels much more comfortable on paved terrain than on rough trails. There, the powerful Bosch motor rides best with higher cadences.
More e-gravel bikes in the test
Quite a lot of power
It then pushes the bike gently but noticeably towards the 25 km/h mark in the lowest level of assistance, whereby you only have to pedal gently. On flat terrain, everything above Eco mode seems exaggerated.
With the 400 Wh battery, triple-digit kilometres are easily possible. The drive really comes into its own on steep climbs, which literally become child's play in turbo mode. If you want to do sport with the Cannondale, you have to force yourself to throttle back the power unit or switch it off completely. However, the very upright riding position and the high weight put the brakes on a lot of fun. On the other hand, the 6999 euro bike is perfect for leisurely tours or relaxed commuting. The other Neo models cost 5899 euros (Allroad) or 8499 euros (Road).
Cannondale Synapse Neo Allroad 1 in detail
- Price: 6,999 Euro >> available here
- Weight of complete wheel: 14.3 kilos
- Max. system weight: 150 kilos
- Frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
Geometry
- Seat/top/head tube: 544/571/193 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR: 643/396 millimetres/1.62
- Stack+/Reach+/STR+: 702/559 millimetres/1.26
- Wheelbase/caster: 1084/62 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive/gear shift: SRAM Force XPLR AXS (1x12; 38, 10-44 t.)
- Brakes: SRAM Force (160/160 mm)
- Tyres: Vittoria Terreno Dry (40 mm)
- Impellers: Cannondale GXD10
- Impeller weights: 1,728/2,328 grammes
Motor
- Model: Bosch Performance Line SX (mid-engine)
- Top performance: 600 watts
- Maximum torque: 55 Nm
- Battery capacity: 400 Wh
- Speed levels: 4
Advantages and disadvantages of the Cannondale Synapse Neo Allroad 1
- Plus: Powerful motor with long range, very high weight release
- Minus: Relatively heavy, tyres with little traction off-road
Jens Klötzer
Editor
