Cannondale Treadwell Neo EQ Remixte Review - $2.75k

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Motor and battery details at 3:18, Charger at 10:53 Control pad 13:18, Lights 14:18, Smartphone app 16:37 Ride test begins at 17:33, Hill climbs at 19:10 and 22:13 Third person shots at 20:39, Frame shots at 20:54

[@wallyman1948]

Hi, As someone who was looking for a bike that I could ride after a left hip replacement this machine has been perfect. The step thru bar really helped me get my confidence back after three years hardly even able to walk. Now I am a seventy two year old who cycles regularly again and whose life has improved vastly.

[@sooznd]

I have the Cannondale Treadwell Neo non /EQ model and it supports a rear rack. I have a a 25 year old Blackburn Mountain Rack installed! Super comfy & light weight for a 72 year old!

[@tomherron4334]

I appreciate your honest, critical review. I hope that Cannondale shows this review to their designers and comes out with a vastly improved model in 2021.

[@OrlandoStreets]

Great, fair and honest review as always. My opinion is that you are paying for the name on this one.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Thanks Orlando! Doing my best out here... hope you're well, my friend ;)

[@wallyman1948]

It;s been a great bike ror me !

[@geoffmary1767]

Thanks for your review - one of the only ones out there for this new bike. I bought this bike for my partner (the simpler, green non equipped model) and I have the Cannondale Quick Neo SL. I got the Quick because I prefer a hybrid style while my partner prefers the more upright position of the Treadwell. We tried a few other ebikes with more powerful systems before we bought, but found them to be too heavy for our needs. We wanted an ebike for an active lifestyle which would provide assistance when required, but also feel just like a regular bike when we choose to not have the motor engaged. I should note that we are both 50+ . We love our new bikes! They are: lightweight, stealthy (no frowns from other riders in bike lanes or on paths), have great dealer support, lots of range based on our usage patterns (about 100 km per charge) and the perfect amount of power to feel like you have exercised, but giving you the boost you need on hills, into headwinds or simply on the way home after a long ride. We also got the Cannondale SP headstock kit for our phones and mostly use either the eBikemotion or Cannondale apps to track our speed/mileage/calories daily and keeps a log of activity over time. Also, a supplementary battery pack is available, in the shape of a ‘water bottle’ is available, but I don’t think we would need as daily ride less than capacity, and the charger is light and easy to carry for overnight charging if required. After a week, the control button system became second nature and very easy to use - only downside is need to cycle through the power levels to get back to lowest level after a big hill. Overall, very happy with purchase based on our requirements. May not suit all, but perfect for our needs.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Wonderful! Thanks for sharing your experiences with the Cannondale ebikes, Geoff! It sounds we're on the same page about this being a great option for people who are active and care about lightweight integrated designs. Wonderful to hear that the dealer is supporting you well :)

[@benedictusparaan3139]

I tried the Treadwell Neo which is the base model and had the same frame but no fenders, lights or basket. I wasn't too enthused about having no display and the semi-confusing single button that controls it. The first thing that I noticed was the light and nimble feel that you get from premium bikes. The wide handlebar gave a lot of leverage, the tires rolled efficiently, the suspension seatpost and the non-descript saddle were very comfortable and the "weakling" 250 watt motor was peppy, responsive and accelerated quickly. Motor response felt like a mid-drive with a torque sensor. I had to verify what control setup it had. My Rad Rover feels like an ungainly pig with all the weight providing a hindrance to accelerate, stop or change direction. The Treadwell Neo rides really nicely. I think people should try it before they pass judgment based on a spec sheet. Wrestling with a big heavy bike sucks and this bike feels very light.Much easier to get out of the house to go for a ride.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Very well said! Thanks for providing your experienced viewpoint here. I had similar feelings while riding... but the Faraday Porteur, Specialized Turbo Vado SL, Velec CITI, and many other lightweight models offered a similar feel with a more intuitive or feature rich interface. I liked the Treadwell Neo EQ quite a bit, but it seems to be for active riders who put a premium on style and weight. I'd be more enthusiastic about it at a lower price or with some improved features (like the fender or brakes having motor inhibitors). Here are some of the other nimble lightweight models I've tested in recent years. I really enjoyed your comment, especially the contrasting feel of your RadRover. electricbikereview.com/category/light/

[@DJbace1]

I couldnt agree more its the weight for me, im able to haul it up and down my staircase leading to my house with ease. And the motor is amazing. I use it to commute to work and im not sweaty anymore on arrival. Its a game changer! Highly recommend this bike. I especially like the front trunk. Its a perfect table as well!

[@GaryFujiokaSr]

I read the review on the site first and had to see the video. Very cool ebike, and only 40 lbs. This is what every Goth kid still rocking Doc Martens® will ride. Thanks Court, it's nice to be able to watch this industry mature like this.

[@wesflack992]

Another great review, Court. Regarding the bike, I love the lightness, and the style. It looks like it would be really fun to ride, and I have been coveting Cannondales since I first saw one of those fat aluminum mountain bikes in the 80s,... for me to spend my money on a Treadwell, I would want 750 watts, a throttle, a bigger battery, and brake motor inhibitors. But again, much credit to Cannondale for producing another beautiful bike.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Very constructive feedback, Wes! Thank you. I worked hard to identify all of the benefits and considerations for this bike, and really enjoyed seeing something unique and different. Indeed, props to Cannondale for producing ebikes and making some custom plays like the Treadwell series ;)

[@TheColonelKlink]

I bought the non "EQ" Treadwell Neo and saved $700.00. I used those savings to kit the bike out in proper urban fashion. A great light weight bike for ripping around the city. A rear rack and one or two other touches and you are away. I love it.

[@fogel76]

Were you able to mount a rear rack? If so, how?

[@TheColonelKlink]

@@fogel76 I installed a Bontrager rear cargo rack in the normal fashion, as done on any other bike. No problem

[@fogel76]

@@TheColonelKlink Do you also have the rear fender on as well as the rack? Ive read some comments that there isn't sufficient mounting points for both the rear fender and a rack. Thanks for your response! My treadwell should be arriving any day now

[@TheColonelKlink]

@@fogel76 I have full sized front and rear Axiom fenders and a Bontrager rear rack. Plenty of room and proper mounting points on the bike for everything. Happy trails

[@timscott3027]

Hey Court I think mixte is supposed to sound like mixed so like re-mixed you know. Thanks for the reviews over the years, best on KZbin. Take care x

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Cool! Thanks Tim :D that makes sense... though I still kind of like re-mix-teeeeehaww XD

[@funkyfearon1]

The additional battery goes in the bottle cage which you mount under the frame

[@Antwort2und40]

I think the Quick SL makes more sense, as it’s lighter (33-34lbs) and has a better riding position. I bought one to replace my Faraday Porteur-same power, way more range from the Ebikemotion tech. These bikes are for people who want an e-bike that rides like an analog bike, and actually ride it without assist like an analog bike the majority of the time. Kick on assist when you need to make time, headwinds, you’re climbing, or your legs need a little boost. They’re fun! You can dial back the assist in the Ebikemotion app separately in each mode if you’re a stronger rider (I dial Green and orange back 50-65%) which is a nice benefit vs the Faraday. Range is 3-4x the Faraday. It put thousands of miles on my Faraday and expect to do the same with the Cannondale. Also: my wife bought the same bike, she’s not as strong of a rider and it allows her to keep up with me on my analog bikes (or the Quick SL with assist off). Negatives? The Iwoc 1 requires knowledge of Morse code (use the phone app), I miss the assist switch on the handlebar, the spec is lower quality than expected for the price (I’ll likely replace the derailleur), my internal cables rattled my shop had to disassemble and add a foam spacer to quiet them, I wish the rims were tubeless ready, and the bottle battery would be nice for 80 miles+ but where is it Cannondale??

[@hornet224]

I was liking this bike, but your review changed my mind.

[@phatrickmoore]

You are right about the remixte large seeming a tad small, it is actually equivalent to the high-step medium. Great vid :)

[@MrWelfarehater]

Thanks for making this video. Cannondale Treadwell Neos are on sale at my local bike shop. For under 1700 dollars I thought it would be perfect. After watching your video I think I will pass. Mainly because it is advised that you don't ride in the rain. Here in Florida showers can pop up with no notice. I think that a more expensive bike may be a better option.

[@cherylc475]

They have come out with a 2022 Treadwell Neo “2” version that seems to address some of the issues mentioned. Assist level/ battery indicator moved to a switch on the handlebar and more intuitive. Torque sensor on the bottom bracket as opposed to cadence sensor on the rear wheel. Saddle is no longer fabric. Also the base model is priced under $2,000. Some of the other components may be lower grade? Hyena 250w battery and hub motor and microshift, 7 speed. I rented the bike reviewed here- loved the light weight and handling and found the power adequate for my needs. But I HATED having to remove a hand from the handlebar and take my eyes off the road to push that stupid button multiple times. That was a deal breaker. I may consider this newer model. I have not seen any reviews of it yet.

[@kathrynwest1072]

excellent review. thank you for the very efficient conveyance of information. also “bag of puppies” made me laugh

[@Kyle-mk2xx]

I really enjoy your reviews on these ebike's. I hoping you will review the Scott ebikes 20 or the 10 and the new Triumph electric bike in the future.

[@AlonzoWhite]

Are the controls in Morris Code? Weird . . . LOL. Awesome Review!

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Lol, that's an awesome theory :P

[@rdkuless]

Love the idea, not well executed.. would be nice with a rear rack..(lack of bosses is not well thought out) This would be a perfect bike to have a 250w solar trailer on. That would balance the 250w motor. I don't now if the charge port on the battery would accommodate the current from the panel..? If they are balance motor watts to solar watts that simplifies things. It would be interesting to check out in more detail. Good review my friend IC.. ride safely

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Oh yeah! I like that idea, Rob. Your solar trailer is AWESOME! How's it holding up, by the way? I hope you're doing well, God bless :)

[@rdkuless]

@@ElectricBikeReview i'm fully loaded and ready to go.. I'm able to get a charge thru my windows when the sun shines in. (almost unheard of with a solar ebike) I have only done some 3-4 hour rides and the batteries remain charged on sunny days. I guess the test will be riding into the late hours when the sun goes down, and watching how quickly the solar system can charge them up when they start to get low. That will be the real test. I still bring my Grin CycleSatiator for when there is an electric outlet at night. :) God be with you and your family Court. put on the full armor each day. Talk Soon. Robb

[@MusabTahaTarik]

very nice detail review thank you

[@SplittingVoices]

Any chance you'll be coming to Victoria. E bikes are becoming quite popular here. I have a converted bike and I love it. 1000w hub motor on Nakamura bike. 48v 20ah rack mounted battery. I don' do much pedaling, lol

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Oh, I should really do that! I made friends with a shop there last year and was hoping to visit, but got distracted. Do you live out there? Got any brands or models you'd like to see :D

[@SplittingVoices]

@@ElectricBikeReview I live in Victoria.. I really like the new Juiced Scorpian (electric moped-style) . I had a bike in my garage for four years and never used it until I recently converted it. Now I love it.

[@MumfordJim]

Wow this looks good on the surface, but it seems to have a lot of design problem. I would really want a rear rack.

[@robert1222222]

Hi,maybe in the future ,would you test a cannondale canvas neo 1? thank you

[@mousmaker1090]

Hello, can we adapt a postmount brake. Does it work with the adapter on the rear wheel? . Thanks ☺️

[@paulhester8086]

Cort- Your review overlooked the fact that SMART bike manufacturers like Rad has a GOOD front rack mount that WORKS well. So many overlook that fact, reviewers and manufacturers both. I had one but had to sell it as I'm too short for its height. Too few bikes for shorter riders include working front baskets like the Radrover. Please include statements to that effect in your reviews.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hi Paul, I tried to cover that point indirectly by showing how the front rack here impacted steering. This wasn't meant to be a direct comparison to any other ebike (none of my reviews are). You are correct that Rad Power Bikes offers a frame mount front rack, as well as Ariel Rider, Tern, and many others. Rather than highlight one particular brand, I try to express the trade-off... but I could do better to present solutions. Thanks for your input :)

[@paulhester8086]

@@ElectricBikeReview Hey cort, thanks for your reply. I'm having a hard time finding a smaller ebike with a substantial basket up front like radrover. I had a rover but I'm 5 7 with a 30 inseam and am a 65 y o disabled man. I had to sell my rover. It was too tall. I need a 20inch ebike with front frame mounted rack and at least front suspension. Can you point me in a good direction? Thanks for mentioning those two manufacturers. Do you know more?

[@RobBlazoff]

Not sure why a phone mount on that thin bar would be wanted when the stem has the SB Connect mount.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

It's a great point, and something I missed during the spoken portion of the video. I overlaid a picture of the SB Connect mount. That said, it would be nice to have a USB charging port, I prefer to have the phone up higher for easier/safer viewing, and I like to be able to adjust the angle for glare. I was a little concerned about the smaller bar blocking the display, but I suspect the position and angle would permit an unobstructed view. Great input! You are always welcome to critique me and help make these reviews accurate and fair if I miss something :)

[@stateniland]

Is it made with a belt drive also? How do you compare this with a similar R&M bike? Thanks Joe

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I don't think so, but that's a great idea for a bike like this. Belt drive would be quiet and smooth. The Riese & Müller products tend to use Bosch systems and weigh more in general. I don't know if they have a model that matches the Treadwell Neo exactly, but they have many great city options that I've covered back at the site here with videos: electricbikereview.com/brand/riese-muller/ hope this helps!

[@stateniland]

@@ElectricBikeReview TY for your reply.. BELT DRIVE is the way to go. IMO

[@dickiedollop]

All in all it had nothing that appealed to me from the battery or motor in fact it comes across as underpowered and not well thought through as for stowage and lighting. There are much better e bikes out there.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I feel ya on that, Richard. Part of me is very attracted to the design, approachability, nice lights and fenders. Digging a bit deeper, I feel like I learned a lot and was really able to see the full picture of what is on offer. Hopefully Cannondale sticks with it and continues to refine this series because it does have some great features, and the price is okay for a name-brand dealer electric bike :)

[@RoissyAngel]

First glance it appealed but then it became clear that it was style over substance... and a huge over-priced price tag.

[@277kne]

I gave you a thumbs up because you are a good reviewer and I like you. A thumbs down on the bike.

[@racerx2095]

Something for the UK market imo

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Yeah, it would be a great fit there... especially with the EQ model having fenders and the basket. This is a handsome city bike in my opinion, great for quick errands around the city and carrying up stairs easily :)

[@cindyvillalva02]

good for lla of people

[@LOUISWSPW]

Thumbs up for honest review , thumbs down for this bike not sure if I am willing to pay more than $$1300 for what I can get much better with other brand like RAD

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Thanks! I try to be constructive and thorough, glad you found some value and interest in this review. Rad is awesome, also check out RIZE, and I think Magnum is great in terms of dealers. If you're into cruisers, check out the Electric Bike Company. They are doing a lot of custom fun stuff and the prices are excellent ;)

[@armchairwanderer1287]

👍👍

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Thanks for the support!!

[@notsofresh8563]

Rear rack will share the same bolt holes as the fender. This is not uncommon on factory bikes that come with the rack.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Hmm, I was wondering if that was the case? I thought the support struts for the fender would collide with the rack and rack supports or weaken the support by pushing the bolt out further. I usually see two sets of bosses, one for rack and one for fenders... or some custom setups that have a rear fender that directly interfaces with the fender so you get this clean integrated look. Thanks for the tip on this :)

[@notsofresh8563]

@@ElectricBikeReview Generally the rack goes on the inside with the fenders attached on the outside. This was standard procedure on schwinn bikes back in the day...Btw Court, this is Doug.......

[@kristensorensen2219]

$2,700+ for what? Inflation is evil!! 👺

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Well, to be fair, without the fenders, rack, and headlight, it would cost $2,300. The custom frame, drivetrain, and smart systems aren't as cheap as a more generic frame sold in only one size and without dealers, those things just add up. But yeah, I feel you... inflation is oppressive. Have you read a book called The Bitcoin Standard? I learned a lot from it and really enjoyed it :)

[@mahmam3128]

@@ElectricBikeReview a trek verve is way better than this

[@heidimcdonald6608]

Can you tell me how to get the app. What is the name of it.

[@uziemiacz007]

you put the rack on fender tread

[@LightBWK]

lots of compromises

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Indeed... I really enjoyed doing this review because I've learned so much over the years, and it's easy to just see a beautiful bike and miss some of the little things. I hope this video and the writeup brings great insights to people who are considering this new unique bike series from Cannondale ;)

[@reelreeler8778]

Has too many negative points for $2.75K

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Yeah, this bike isn't super exciting at that price point. Maybe they have some padding for sales or discounts? It costs a lot to build a custom product, run dealers, and provide support. That said, the Cannondale / Ebikemotion electric bikes only offer a one year comprehensive warranty vs. many Bosch, Yamaha, Shimano, and Brose products with two year, so that was a bit of a bummer for me to see. I figured that paying more would me longer support.

[@cwitham69]

Duder, I've never seen you kick someones ass so bad. wtf?

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Well, I try to be contructive. I think the extra effort spent trying to figure everything out and realizing the trade-offs, and having to contact Cannondale for input and details about the specs (since they weren't all publicly available) built up to more of a critical look. Someone else commented that we expect the se name-brand bikes that are expensive to really get things right... and I feel like they missed some opportunities with this model. All of the other videos and reviews are just highlight reels, so I wanted to do the bike and all of you justice by being constructive, fair, and thorough. I meant no disrespect to the bike or the company though :)

[@cwitham69]

@@ElectricBikeReview I understand all that Cory, you just sounded angry so I was concerned.

[@RS-hh3et]

Is that stupid rack removable..??

[@LordMerovingian]

"...imagine if you've got a bag of puppies..." 😂😂😂 [You made me spit out my strawberry and pomegranate Stash tea 😭...] I dare say you don't seem too enthused with this bike. A LOT more of your usual "hmms" and "mehs" than normal. Too many trade offs and compromises for a bike this expensive. No back rack, no throttle, no mid drive, no suspension, looks like you need a PhD just to use it (wouldn't dare get this for my parents or anyone older than 35), weak motor, non-removable battery. Le sigh...no bueno for me.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I really really enjoyed filming this review! But studying for it felt like a lot of work and I kept stumbling across "compromises" vs. "delighters" so yeah. Hmm... Had there actually been a bag of puppies in the basket, I would never have made it through the manual :P

[@onoff314]

2.75k with the specs of a $1k bike. Nicer build i am sure though not even a screen/range monitor

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Maybe they are following the Apple model... charge more for less ;) kidding aside, I like Apple and can see how this custom system would cost a lot and give you style, durability, and lightweight.

[@windingroadmagazine]

@@ElectricBikeReview Please name the $1k e-bike that weighs under 40 lb and is step-through with dealer support.

[@aidenchizinya3840]

Court is the kind of guy that... Oh sorry wrong channel.

[@dp9324]

I own a regular Cannondale mountain bike, and I'm embarrassed at this overpriced P.O.S. posing as a "value" e-bike. I really can't tell where the extra $2100.00 in profit is frankly, as this particular bike seems to have many of the same "features" and specs as the $600.00 e-bikes being sold at Walmart.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

How do you like your regular Cannondale mountain bike?

[@dp9324]

​@@ElectricBikeReview I really like it, and I am a big fan of Cannondale overall which is why I was so shocked at the poor price/performance ratio of their new Treadwell e-bike.

[@ExSkyCyclePilot]

I don't see $1,400 worth of e-bike here, much less twice that.

[@NWforager]

good review of a Meh.. bike . we all expect Cannondale to come with the goods . not here . under-powered , over priced , bad lay-out . I do like the no-frills cruiser mixte build a lot .

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Thanks, did my best here... and I think you captured a great point. I do expect the more expensive name-brand ebikes to be great. Lots of other reviews and previews only highlight the benefits. Yeah, it's stylish, multiple sizes, lightweight, rides pretty well. With lots of competitors in the space now, I do hold bikes to a higher standard if they cost more and the systems are missing big features, like removable battery, cleaner fender implementation, no bottle cage bosses on the top tube. If this ebike was $1,500 I'd be way more excited, but I would still communicate the trade-offs. Even for models like the Specialized Turbo Vado SL (which I loved), I did complain about the semi-permanent internal battery. But, at least that one has some range extender external battery options :)

[@twainedebiri97]

@@ElectricBikeReview It's annoying that the Treadwell also has the option for the range extender but only the version with "men" frame.

[@JerseyStyle7]

I know its like 38 pounds, but 🤔 i wish u would have commented about the weight, maybe u did, but 😴 💤 u lost me 💤

[@markcrapeau4748]

Wow what a huge miss. Have a lot of respect for Cannondale but it is like they are totally checked out on the e bike market. I wonder if any American companies will be good at it or if we all have to turn to Europe for bikes.

[@cmerighe2]

In other words, they need to go back to the drawing board.

[@jmleon92]

What. A. Ripoff.

[@mootrail9487]

Just another brand name slapped on a poorly constructed ebike. Sad🤒

[@j0epark1]

Definitely going to be a failure in the market. Much better options out there for half the price. It's very basic and it seems like they didn't even use premium parts to justify their price. It's gonna be a pass for most people and it should. If you can get your hands on an HPC, I think that would be awesome content.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Sweet! I haven't covered Hi-Powered Cycles for years! I'd love to check them out again, thanks for the tip ;) here's my old stuff: electricbikereview.com/brand/hi-power-cycles/

[@RenataCann-c8n]

Too much talking

[@aberdeenbelfry316]

Over complicated and underperforming. A no go for me.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

I feel ya. Which ebikes are you following or considering? I'm catching up on things and planning to do more variety of reviews, so open to requests ;)

[@aberdeenbelfry316]

ElectricBikeReview.com I’m looking at the Emmo VGO 2.0 I haven’t found many reviews of them.

[@ElectricBikeReview]

Thanks Aberdeen, the cast rims look cool, I'll keep an eye out for that model.

[@hotdoug1000]

Watched this just after Mrs bought one for herself a couple of months ago. This is a heavy bike. Stupid seat design BUT the major flaw on this frame is, you cannot fit a bottle cage! What manufacturer designs a bike that you can't stick a bottle on close? We have bought many designs to try and fit but did not work. Recently bought an Elite cage adapter that fits to the silly tiny seatpost but keeps moving around and has scratched the paintwork down to the metal already. Recently she tried to catch the bottle from falling and crashed, smashing the front light and possible handlebar bend. I am not happy with Cannondale😠. Thankfully she is ok but why have boss UNDER the frame next to the front wheel you can't use? Wish I could return this abomination to Cannondale. Oh and don't get me started on the pathetic UK 15mph max assist. Can't wait for her warranty to run out and pimp it for her😈.Only 10 months to go.

[@brianburnett9138]

Sorry to hear that, I too was having issues, luckily my wonderful LBS was able to send back to Cannondale and able to credit towards the SL2 and never been happier, 4 months now and zero issues.

[@VerdonTrigance]

cute but useless design

[@ForbinColossus]

Looks like Cannondale slapped their distinguished name on a generic janky e-bike. In the automotive field, that's derisively labeled "Badge Engineering". Very disappointing, Cannondale!