a £2,300 MISTAKE?! Cannondale CAAD13 first impressions

Taking my brand new 2023 Cannondale CAAD13 for its very first ride - how do I get on?
I share my first impressions of the bike - how it feels, how it rides, shifting, braking, and discuss whether I've made a huge mistake with this £2,300 purchase.
View the Thames Path from Greenwich cycle route on Strava: / strava
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Music:
Rice Milk - Weird Year (goodfoodtapesa...)
Jewellers - Sleep Education (jewellers.band...)
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[@jrl53]

I've been riding my CAAD13 for two years now. Got new wheels and 28s. Best all round bike ever. 10k km and going. Brings a smile to my face on every ride.

[@cedricemond4874]

Just ordered my CAAD13 this week and your videos were great to help me make my choice! Can't wait to get it on Monday and start riding it! Keep it up!

[@JakeMay]

Glad they were useful, hope you enjoy! And thanks!

[@TheGizmoGarage]

CAAD10 still #1 CAAD in my heart.

[@InfernoVolatil]

I got the caad13 too and I love the bike and I cant be more happy with it.

[@JackofNothingess]

I saw this video pop up on my YT feed. I have the older CAAD8 and the CAAD12, BOTH of which had creaking BB issues. I had to get another BB module inside the BB shell for it to stop creaking. Outside of the creaking noises, it rides quite nice, and it is very responsive and fast. Threw some 50mm deep section carbon wheels on the CAAD12 and it zips along nicely now. There's a reason why Cannondale is moving away from BB30 and PressFit and moving towards the good ye'olde threaded BB module solutions. Looks like you're having fun! That's really the key here: you're having so much fun and it shows. Thanks for sharing your ride and your thoughts with us.

[@adrianc6534]

all of my giant bikes have press fit and they dont creak. pf is fine when a company has good manufacturing and quality control.

[@JackofNothingess]

​@@adrianc6534 Absolutely. But when QC doesn't work out right... That's when disappointment happens and things get thrown out of whack.

[@HCMORGI]

my CAAD8 rides like a charm, but the BB hals always been an issue, even after swapping to BSA with Adapters. possibly too late :(

[@nerigarcia7116]

Any creaking straight out of the box, make sure all your contact points are torqued properly. Check pedals, stem, seatpost, axles, saddle and most likely you'll find the source. It's rarely the bottom bracket.

[@JakeMay]

Cheers

[@InfernoVolatil]

for bb30 is always the bottom bracket xD

[@buzzman4860]

Creak is the seat post clamp. Needs carbon paste on the clamp and torqued to 8 and not 6 as they changed that spec.

[@JakeMay]

I have read that happens but don't think it was in this situation! Will keep my eyes (ears?) peeled for future...

[@timprice944]

I don't think the creaking would happen from the seat post clamp if he is up out of the saddle, as mentioned. Chances are something hasn't been greased from factory though. I work for a Giant Store and the amount of bikes that get missed with grease in areas, especially metal on metal, is crazy.

[@batsaikhanmergenkhuu6393]

Had same issue

[@batsaikhanmergenkhuu6393]

It is a seatpost

[@ewanlivlingstone1759]

I hope the new bike continues to be the bike you wanted mate, it looks great and I am chuffed for you that it is as good as you hoped. Hope to see many more ride vlogs on it.

[@JakeMay]

Cheers!

[@Legalluminary-Zura]

Yes , it’s definitely great bike, it’s worth every single penny. Durable and comfortable and very beautiful bike

[@JourdainColeman]

Good to hear that you enjoy the bike!! A well-put-together video with useful information. 👌🏼

[@JakeMay]

Cheers bud!

[@rangersmith4652]

Congratulations on the new bike! Sounds like you made a good choice.

[@JakeMay]

Cheers!

[@al-du6lb]

I picked up used CAAD 10 last summer and I'm very happy with it.

[@JakeMay]

Good to hear!

[@Legalluminary-Zura]

I have Synapse Sora and I’m also going to get CAAD13 105 Di2 , it’s top notch alloy race bike!

[@matthewchan1990]

I saw my home and my daily running route in Woolwich! Good first impression!

[@AlexRaha]

Loving the stealthy black colour scheme.

[@Terrierized]

Stunning how many views you rake in from putting Cdale in the video title ! Congrats on the milestone 🎯

[@JakeMay]

I'm as surprised as you! 😅

[@hope2someday691]

All the pro’s are riding bikes that are a size or two smaller. Don’t fret about the DT’s being quiet. They will get louder as the mile come along. Or you could open up your hub and wipe down some of the grease from the ratchet gears. It’s really easy, just watch out as you take the cover off, there is a spring under it. Do it slow and you’ll have no problems.

[@ariffau]

“2,200 pounds is a lot of money on a bike” Spot on, mate! I SPOT ON! I wonder who’s paying cash for those 10k bikes 💀

[@JakeMay]

Probably me in 10 years 🤣

[@markodjokic2608]

What do you think about Caad 10 in full black version? I don't know exactly what year that model came out, but I have it for sale used for 650 euros. That's a lot of money in the country where I live.

[@714SNF]

beautiful scene with a beautiful bike!

[@ianbauer4703]

I'm from the U.S., when you said it was a 2,300 pound road bike I almost spit out my hotdog and my mom's apple pie too.

[@richardggeorge]

🌭🥧🤮😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣

[@wolfemicable]

Thanks, Jake. How tall are you? I have a 51 CAAD now and am looking to get a new one soon, considering going to 48 but can't decide.

[@JakeMay]

I'm 5ft8/9-ish but short legs and arms so smaller in terms of how I interact with the bike. Lots of factors to consider though of course!

[@PierreAlainMaire]

Congrats on that milestone ! Or kilosubsstone should I say 😉 Another nice video 🙂

[@JakeMay]

Thank you - appreciate your constant support!

[@danypromax]

Caad 13 or trek emonda alr 5 or trek domane al 5?

[@ricardorodrigues4277]

These days every bike in the market are overpriced. I'm passionate for CAADs. Since the number 8, I really suppose they are the best choice in aluminum frames. I don't know about 13 exactly but my choiche still the same: 10. Perfection itself.

[@markodjokic2608]

What do you think about Caad 10 in full black version? I don't know exactly what year that model came out, but I have it for sale used for 650 euros. That's a lot of money in the country where I live.

[@czeckson74]

I´ve just build an CAAD Optimo myself (2023 frame in 58) with 6,8 kg. (SRAM RED22 rim, Pancho-wheels with 700x28C)

[@JakeMay]

Very light!

[@roberthoneyball3298]

Seriously considering a CAAD Optimo myself with a few upgrades. How is the ride quality? I have a CAAD10 at the moment but I'm looking for a budget build, also like the threaded BB.

[@czeckson74]

@@roberthoneyball3298 Can´t tell, yet. Out of business with a broken midhand (incl. surgery) for 5 weeks, now.

[@kanewisesa923]

More kudos for the caad13. Its a really nice stable ride. Outright zing missing but changing the tires should fix that

[@akuababez]

cycled along some of the thames path today but will definitely do woolwich to greenwich soon now

[@JakeMay]

I love it! It's the route that got me into cycling - scenic, flat, impossible to get lost, and no cars! Some bits are busy with people walking and dogs etc but I don't mind slowing down

[@dsmhiggins67]

Its a bike frame - the wheels are round, the components work.. what else is needed ?

[@DaveRTJarvis]

Nice looking bike 👍🏻 surprised I haven't seen you along the Thames path, I regularly ride along there a nice peaceful ride at times.

[@JakeMay]

I love it down there!

[@adiangga7]

Its only £1350 now in indonesia. Crazy deal

[@Danyullson]

I had the same squeaking. I took it to the the shop it was the brakes being slightly loose. Once that was addressed it fixed that issue.

[@JakeMay]

Will consider it thanks;

[@TwiinStar1224]

After a few months on it what do you think now?

[@asim9379]

Good content/channel and a good review 👍 keep peddling

[@JakeMay]

Thanks! Appreciate the encouragement

[@Steven-Sea_gull]

You don't look too big for the bike ( correct size ) . The creak could be the saddle rails . Or spokes where they cross . Try dropping the nose -2 degrees see it it's more comfortable you don't always ride on perfectly level ground so why have the saddle level . Great content as always pleased your happy with your purchase pre bikefit bit of a gamble but it paid off 👍

[@ronitdebnath]

I think he should have gotten a 51.

[@mrpokeit]

Lovely bike mate congrats! As I said on the build vid i have the same exact one. had it for about a year and a half. It can be a wee bit creaky especially if you are going to commute year round. A good clean and spruce up usually sorts. As has been said by others the saddle clamp is a noisy spot and I had to add carbon grip gel to it after about 6 months. I'd also suggest a visit to the cyclery after the first few months of riding to give it a once over...

[@JakeMay]

Will definitely be swinging it via the bike shop for a check over at some point. Cheers!

[@press1]

Great review, really enjoyed this 👏🏼

[@JakeMay]

Ah thanks!

[@larsdohmen6796]

The creaking might be the seatpost but I don't think it is since you said it happens when your out of the saddle. I have had this same problem on my Caad 12, turned out it was the spider mounted to the crank arm. It is mounted without grease from the factory where it should have a small amount of grease on the mounting points.

[@JakeMay]

Yeah I don't think it was the seatpost on this occasion. Hoping it was just parts "settling in" but will definitely be paying attention for any future creaks - I like a quiet ride!

[@larsdohmen6796]

@@JakeMay same! Took me a while to find the issue but it should sound like a dry creaking/ticking noice, im 95% sure its the spiderring if its this kind of noice.

[@gerykis]

How tall are you for choosing size 48 ? I'm 175 and thinking of ordering online a size 54 , but I'm not sure, maybe 51

[@JakeMay]

5ft8 ish but short arms and legs. I wouldn't base everything purely on height!

[@okaro]

Thanks for the Video, I have been a fan of the CAAD10 for the last 8 years and am due for a replacement. Can anyone help me decide between CADD13 and Synapse?

[@jonnyboy8781]

Good for you. Looks like a good bike. Alloy very underestimated & you’ve gone for Shimano 105. Respect the fact you haven’t been taken in by all the marketing bullshit & you’ve researched before buying. £2300 is a lot of money for a bike but, for a similar spec carbon/& or aero-frame you’d be paying three times that amount & the ride wouldn’t differ greatly. Happy, safe cycling!

[@JakeMay]

Cheers! I'm still no expert but definitely considered carefully what I did and didn't value in a bike - hopefully I've made the right choice!

[@michaeldesrosier1068]

In what world does a carbon bike with 105 cost 7000 pounds?

[@archieman123]

CAAD 12 Black inc rim brake is where it’s at

[@CorneliusJames]

great vid. may you wear the new bike well.

[@JakeMay]

Cheers!

[@BennyOcean]

CAAD12 owner here. I don't like the look of the new dropped seat stays. And what is up with the ugly welds? Once seen cannot be unseen. Look at where the top tube meets the seat tube for the most obvious example. I don't understand why they couldn't smooth that out. This would be a dealbreaker for me. I don't know how it rides compared with the 12 but the 13 has a look I just can't get with.

[@JakeMay]

I know what you mean but how it looks is very low on my list of priorities to be honest!

[@hansendy3708]

Put some carbon wheels and tubeless 28c on the caad13 to really make it even faster and comfier. I have had both size 48 and 51 and can ride both comfortably but chose to retain the 48 because its stack is a little lower and more aero; and it’s a little more nimble n agile. But right - you can fit frame bags and a bigger handlebar bag on the 51.

[@JakeMay]

Definitely will be going with 28c tyres (if not bigger!) when I'm next upgrading

[@hansendy3708]

@@JakeMay 32C makes it really comfy and perhaps perfect for a 200km audax on broken pavement but you lose a bit of pop and immediacy when climbing/sprinting, or at least it feels that way due to even lower tire pressure when running tubeless. 28c or 30c is best for me - they actually measure a few mm wider on hookless 21mm carbon rims

[@mosescortes9176]

well you do have a size 48 frame which is really small kinda to be expected that your not have a lot space

[@sunlituplands-td1lr]

I love that very route , which I used to cycle every weekend , weather permitting, on my now sadly pinched Genesis. Funnily enough I purchased on the sale an Optimo 2 a couple of weeks ago and while admittedly not as impressive as your rig, it did a pretty decent job on its maiden ride all the way from Waterloo to Crossness marsh and back. Safe riding Jake!

[@JakeMay]

It's the route that got me into cycling during lockdown, I absolutely love it! Cheers

[@lucasthedragonguy9549]

Whats your height? For the size 48 caad 13 thanks

[@JakeMay]

There's too many factors that influence the frame best for you than just height to be honest

[@thegrizzlys]

nice bike, but and sorry to be that guy, CAAD 10 was the pinnacle of alloy frames. A few mates have this and its a very good choice.

[@ariffau]

You ride one too?

[@thegrizzlys]

@@ariffau I'm a steel guy so no, but the caad13 is a solid choice for alloy, just the caad10 was god tier. Steel road Steel gravel Steel 90s mtb Alloy track Carbon road (race only) Steel road - vintage tourer N+1 is my mantra haha

[@antonmothes3160]

@@thegrizzlys is CAAD10 really better than the Made in USA CAAD's?

[@thegrizzlys]

@@antonmothes3160 for a race bike yes, it's not an ideal bike for everyday use but as a race machine it still holds up.

[@MauriSky2437]

I own the CAAD12 now. I once thought of the CAAD13 vs Specialized Allez Sprint. Glad I went with the Sprint and will 100% keep the CAAD12 as my superbike, simple, nimble, stiff, and fast. That exposed chainstay cable is a deal breaker for me. No thanks! Still like Cannondale, though.

[@cloak057]

Only problem is the bottom bracket creak

[@adultcrash13]

i own that bike. the creaking is the seat post.

[@JakeMay]

I think on this occasion it wasn't but I'll definitely look out for that on future rides, thanks

[@jrl53]

I have it as well. Can be the seat post or the rails. Took a couple of trips to the LBS to get fixed for good with some grease

[@DemiGod..]

Got rid of an aluminium endurance bike as too harsh compared to the titanium version I have with identical geometry.

[@JakeMay]

Interesting, will watch out for that, thanks

[@hornet224]

6:40 The CAAD13 size 48 looks cramped on you. If I were you, on this course, I would have selected a Topstone 1 gravel that I happen to own. Plus, I also ride a CAAD13 size54 that is quick, agile, and fast with wider tires and saddle upgrade.

[@karolislatakas137]

What is your height?

[@JDRVP]

Try the Bontrager Aeolus saddle.

[@JakeMay]

That looks like the kind of thing I'm after, thanks for recommending! I'd recently bought the Selle Italia SLR boost on my previous, which I was enjoying testing (before the bike got stolen! 😅)

[@paulcooper-uc4rp]

Crazy prices!! Bought a Merida 400 rim brake. New cassette, chain, Jockey wheels, new rear cable derailleur, bar tape. 380 euro all in Bargain!!!

[@ezeekwheel]

I could never see myself spending that much on an alloy bike. Maybe if it had carbon wheels and good groupset. The Caad rand does have very good reviews and its basicaly one of the best alloy frames you can get. I think only think better might be specialised allez

[@gaza4543]

and thats most people's mistake thinking that well crafted alloy bike is cheap. Really good ones which is rear these days are expensive, like steel. Good set of carbon rims like roval alpinists a steel at the moment for a 1k and you'd be hard pressed to tell your ridden an alloy bike.

[@ezeekwheel]

@@gaza4543 I think a good steel is better than an alloy. Alloy has the distinctive smoother ride feel. Great on rough roads but you notice its not quite as stiff. Plus alloy frames have a lifespan while carbon and steel can potentionaly last forever or at least much much longer

[@ezeekwheel]

@@gaza4543 Oh forgot titanium. Thats probably the pinnacle although haven't ridden titanium.

[@batsaikhanmergenkhuu6393]

Best bike

[@babyrabies]

2 pc interlocking BB shell should solve the problem. Never install the bearings directly onto the frame, bb30 is a flawed design from start.

[@SabianDB02]

How tall are you

[@JakeMay]

5 foot 9 with short arms and legs - but there's so much more to bike fit than height alone, so don't go by my measurements

[@SabianDB02]

Was wondering my wife is 5'5 and rides a size 51 , thinking of converting 105 to sram rival or force as her back up bike

[@ricky7396]

I know it's technically expensive but bike world it's entry. My first proper alloy bike was £1300 in 2018 last year I got a £6000 carbon road n a £4000 carbon gravel. In years you will look back and think that's cheap unfortunately. Bikes escalate if you stuck with it😂😂

[@JakeMay]

Yeah definitely, I thought the hybrid from Halfords for £250 5 years ago was expensive 😂

[@Cade_Media]

:O

[@JakeMay]

D:

[@DanTuber]

the hub will get louder

[@MerlinMan1579]

Not a fan of the drop stay look that mimics a farm gate.

[@Mark-hu9tf]

Skinny tires? Try riding on 23's😂

[@thijsvandenbroek5333]

Should have gotten size 51

[@Tarmaccyclocross]

Why

[@JakeMay]

Exactly my thought 😂

[@nigelmcclean4166]

What no one says about R7020 is that its CRAP!!! I had on my bike and the levers were noisy!!!!

[@rollingnome]

2,300 for an Ali! Nahhhh.

[@KushPizzaSleep]

this bike is a PIG. my 2004 caad 5 weighs 3 pounds less LOL

[@JakeMay]

Yeh it's not light currently!

[@andrewhayes7055]

The Caad10 was the best alloy bike not this overpriced copycat look like every other bike Caad 13

[@petetube99]

I have a CAAD 12 rim, its the last of the super lightweight balls-out ally race bikes so I will never part with it, the 13 is more practical in the wet UK climate and is a far better endurance bike. Ignore the people saying it's not as good as the caad 8, 10, 12, they are just made for a different riding style.

[@JakeMay]

It's the same people who say the 60s / 70s / 80s / 90s etc are the best eras for music - people like what they're familiar and group up with 😅