Should you buy a 2022 Cannondale Synapse with integrated lights and radar?

The new Cannondale Synapse is arguably the most divisive new bike launched this year due to the integration of "SmartSense", lights and radar that aim to boost rider safety. But is it a step too far? And leaving the tech to one side, how does this new bike perform on the road?
Cannondale Synapse First Look • NEW Cannondale Synapse...
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Content
00:00 Intro
00:52 Ride Performance
4:07 Smart Sense overview
5:09 Fitting bags problem
6:08 Radar impressions
7:42 Lights - the Good and Bad
8:58 Compared to aftermarket lights
10:49 The issue with Smart Sense
12:16 Price and value
15:11 Verdict - Hit or Miss?
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Twitter: / davearthur
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[@Peteflay]

I bought version 3 of this bike (lights only) a few months ago, and I'm ok with everything. Just to say that the SmartSense can be completely disassembled (lights, battery and base), covering the hole for the base with a screw-on plastic cover that Cannondale provides to its dealers. The bike rides very well, it's very comfortable for long distances and on climbs it feels great, and once it picks up speed it's easy to maintain. On the other hand, it is a heavy bike (around 9kg depending on version and components), not very reactive and hard to pick up speed. As for the SmartSense system, I also agree with David, it is a good idea but with improvable execution. In my case, I disassembled the SmartSense and I have the hole covered with the cover that I talked about before.

[@dustinbjohnson]

I called Cannondale and they sent me a cover plate. The electronics are easily removed and 2 bolts to secure the cover plate. Super happy with the bike but Cannondale should give you that plate when you buy the bike. Mine looks super clean without all the wires now 👌

[@iainhampson3442]

Do you have the contact details you used, I have the LTD RLE and plan on removing the smart sense electronics but can’t find any direct contact for them.

[@mariuszgarbarczyk5594]

The same question here. Also could you send some photos how does it look now?

[@davekashuba4730]

I just want to thank David for being objective about SmartSense in this review. I'm used to seeing nothing but positive remarks in most reviews of cycling products across different KZbin channels. Hearing both positives and negatives about a product gives me a better sense of confidence in the review. Add your dog Ally to the review, and then it's pure gold!

[@PaganiZondaF650hp]

How could he not address the negatives with the whole internet going mad. Still I think David is always one of the most objective reviewers although in theory he should be more of a marketing spokesperson for the brands than gcn and so on are because he is still rather small and brands could easily stop (or not even start) giving him the bikes if they dislike his channel

[@Hambini]

Well they've ditched BB30 which is basically an admission they can't make a hole round.

[@greg4318]

Well said……all the threaded groupies have come out!!

[@Hambini]

@@greg4318 the next thing that will happen is the aluminiium inserts will all corrode and then we get a different problem.

[@Sr.D]

Helloooo, it would be cool a video of what KZbin cycling channels you follow and why do you recommend them

[@andyking8464]

Love the Varia Radar! - I live in regional Australia and for the traffic conditions here it is brilliant. I think it'd be pointless in a big city as it'd be going off all the time. LOVED the saddle bag...er...'disposal'. You made my day with that one. Really good points about the limitations of having the light/radar systems hard wired from the factory. I use a 1500 lumen light from Exposure and it's perfect.

[@groad6551]

I bought it and I love it! My concern at first is that I lost some bag space but seriously I don't bike pack and I don't really need more bags on the bike. The bento bag is good enough for me. I appreciate the integrated system. My Wahoo synced to the radar is great. I mainly concentrate looking ahead and just a quick glance on the Wahoo when it beeps. Gives me much more situational awareness and confidence. The best thing is the bike itself. Geometry is just right for me and the bike is responsive. Sure you can get another bike and have a freedom to put on any lighting system or radar on your own but there is something about the simplicity of a smart integrated system. One battery to charge. I also have an e-bike so this kind of integration is not new to me. Once you manage to use it, battery life is a non-issue at all and I think the system will evolve overtime.

[@duckmanduckfairy8010]

I love the new features and the downtube cage mount and top tube are great for endurance, having access to gels etc and putting your tool keg down low helps keep center of gravity down some! I would like this model to be available without the light setup.

[@briantravis1851]

thank you for the review... as a Cannondale dealer I must admit... when it dawned on me the 350lumen front light and rather modest battery life it became clear this isn't a bicycle I want on my sales floor... cheers David, keep up the great work !

[@cameronwebster7663]

I just bought a Synapse Carbon 2 LE before Xmas 2023. Having watched this review, I accepted some of the negatives around the lights - especially the run time when lights are on full. I accepted on the basis that I could increase run time by using the lights in pulse mode (as demo’d by David in the review). It turns out (after I contacted Cannondale support) that smartsense bikes sold in Europe are all StVZO compliant and therefore don’t offer pulse/flash modes. Very irritating given that all the marketing material from Cannondale refers to pulsing. The run time of the lights on the full ‘on’ setting on a freezing Winter’s day commute is about 3 hours.

[@funkyfearon1]

Excellent review. I completely agree with this review

[@lewisbarlow3537]

I know I’m being an armchair quarterback and biking is a business looking at different trends, but I don’t understand why cannondale wanted to do a test run of integrated lights and radar on this incredible endurance/performance bike category. They should’ve started this test with the gravel bikes that are already an all-around bike. Side note: I needed to replace my performance/endurance bike this year so I had to leave cannondale to go to another brand.

[@kantace5198]

I have to disagree. Why would I need a Garmin Radar in the fields/woods/gravel roads. Nevertheless; I also don't believe in this product because the 3rd Party Items are cheaper by themselves and can be swapped between bikes

[@Janus1000]

Late reply, but I think of it more like this: The synapse is excellent. However, there are several bikes that are excellent in this category.. people have more choice than ever. It's not a matter of being innovative for innovations sake, it's a matter of not being forgotten in the flooded market. Eventually, it'll be looked at as something that they have the others do not.. most likely a long play. I happen to have used this system in terms of the components offered by Garmin and find this to be a worthy addition to my bike kit. It being clean and integrated means that this will be my next bike purchase.

[@capeflatterytrail]

I think the endurance bike is the perfect one for this technology. Isn't it the one you are most likely to find yourself riding for extended periods on roads with cars and trucks?

[@KoreaRides]

If it was mine I’d strip the radar and lights off it and use my own after market lights. The battery on the frame could be used as a battery bank to charge up your phone, bike computer or even Di2 (on the occasions when you forget to charge them beforehand) on long rides when you stop for coffee or food etc.

[@abdulzubaid6529]

Spectacular review. Thank you for the attention to detail and unbiased conclusion.

[@Mr_RichardH]

Excellent, balanced review David. I'm staggered that they made the front light so low-powered by today's standards. And the positioning of the battery feels very version 1.0. I can see future versions having a bigger battery in a SWAT-like space in the downtime under the bottle cage. Good idea, not great execution, as you say.

[@eveanddell]

Thanks for a really thorough review. Helped my decision.

[@andrewhayes7055]

I still can't justify paying £4k for a 9.8kg Ultegra build version over a £2.3k 8.3kg ultegra Canyon Endurace

[@ArnageLM]

Thing is, there are aluminium bikes with rim brakes and 105 that cost less and weigh less than both. Quite sad really.

[@stefanodirector]

On point as always David, thanks! I wonder if Cannondale is going to make the frameset alone available? That should make for one hell of a custom base. I really love the frame, not so much all the rest.

[@petesmitt]

I always use two sets of lights for redundancy, so I'd be happy to have the built-in lights as back-up to my preferred lights that I would fit as extra's; I always fit my rear light high up, so I wouldn't use a saddle bag.

[@rickbeckner9906]

Excellent review. I have an endurance bike and use daytime lights and a Garmin Varia (which I love). So, I should be a target market for this, but I would take a pass. First, as you note, the run time of the lights / radar are impacted by the central battery. Second, you can’t put the radar on your seat post like you can with a stand-alone Varia. Finally, since I already own lights and a Varia, I wouldn’t want to pay to have inferior versions baked in! It also looks like the built in light adds another cable in the front (not sure). It’s too bad, because the frame / build may be a better bike than the Domane and Roubaix.

[@paulbrook2459]

Great review David - it looks great but that’s silly money for any road bike ! I would like to see the sale figures for the next year 👍

[@jimpeyton1459]

Thanks for a thorough review. I was going to upgrade the drivetrain on my 2020 Roubaix to electronic shifting, but a complete LE Synapse is now about the same price as the upgrade. My current lights abd Varia radar get about 8 hours +/- per charge....far better than the approximately 3 hours for the Smart Sense technology. I'll echo other commenters in my wish that Cannondale wouls spec out a bike with smart sense optional.

[@Kingjay814]

If they stick with this Smart Sense functionality, they need to move the radar lower down on the seat tube. I would love to see the battery built into the frame like one what a lot of gravel bikes now have with their in frame storage. Personally, I think this is a good bike that's flawed by tech and the NEXT generation one will be the one to consider.

[@luukrutten1295]

Jup, the idea is sound. The execution missed some marks. The NEXT generation will be the one to have.

[@cohoonatube]

For a short time I was a Honda car salesman and there was one car which made Honda and that Honda would never make a mis-step on... the Civic. The Synapse is in many ways the modern "Civic" of the cycling world. It is a perfect daily driver that can race, climb, tour, gravel, etc. I have a 2015 Roubaix and a 2019 Synapse, both of which I love. The Synapse however is just a better blend of sport to comfort that allows me hours of training and enjoyment. Cannondale could have easily made the smart sense optional or even better, modular... they pulled a trick out of Steve Job's playbook, and last time I checked, the SD card is back on the Macbook Pros :D. Hoping for a frame sans the radar bits. BUT, they actually brought back one of my favorite paint schemes (Blue/Purple duo fade)... my first Mt Bike was a Cannondale M800 waaaay back in the day.

[@onenotesolo256]

The concept might work better for a low / mid-range price first endurance / commuting bike. I’d think that most people spending GBP5K-plus, let alone 9k, are already into bikes and have their preferred accessories (which would include leaving them all off sometimes), and often like to customise their bikes. I have a Garmin Varia - one of the best things I’ve bought for real world cycling on busy roads and for many of the reasons David mentioned - and a bunch of front lights, all of which I can chose to fit or not based on my ride and the conditions. And a saddle bag. As other people have suggested, Cannondale could bury the battery inside the frame like the new storage spaces on some other bikes, and then do the partnerships with accessory makers like Lezyne and let people buy and mount (or not!) and upgrade their lights of choice. Nice looking frame though. Good video, DA.

[@mmilestones]

Exactly!!! Or on an already all around bike -- gravel bikes.

[@jessieanderson3931]

I'm new to biking and I am looking to get involved in the sport with safety first. Distracted drivers is a large issue especially here in big cities. The performance aspect of this bike interest me - I really do like the concepts around what it can provide so I'm very interested in what is offered.

[@ashurany]

Wanted to come back to this review if because I've been riding the synapse and I can write to just how wonderful I think it is. Dave isn't wrong about the front light, although I'd argue that unless you're a regular night rider who rides dark streets or roads, it's not a big deal. Besides, even when I do ride at night, I take extra care and ride slower. Dave's also not wrong about Cannondale taking away from some freedom with smart sense integration...but the flip is the tremendous convenience it brings in being able to just hop on my bike and go without having to worry about my lights. Not unlike lights being standard on cars etc. Side bonus: I'm also more likely to charge the battery regularly simply because I'm more aware of the battery life and when it needs recharging, which just doesn't happen with my attachable lights. And the garmin varia radar? Game changer. Owned quite a few bikes in my life but never a synapse so I can't compare to previous versions, but the 2022 model is by far the best road bike I've owned. Fast, comfortable, and great at climbing the many hills/mountains where I live. Went with the 3L model (added the radar and a carbon wheelset after). Came with 105, which is fine for me.

[@jonathangregory9521]

Good and balanced review. Another elephant in the room and maybe something you missed from the breakdown is that the consumer needs their own cycle computer (and a compatible one at that) to make the radar function useable. This is an extra cost or an assumption on the part of cannondale that every potential customer already owns one. It’s half a product being sold as added value.

[@zroeder]

I am likely the target market for this bike (carbon disc rain bike w/ 28mm tires), and I'm ready to spend ~$7-9k on my next road bike. I always use lights and have heard great things about radar. I LOVE the concept. I hope they sell a lot of them because it seems like a practical road bike. If I was given this bike for free, I would be thrilled to ride it (although I would need a -17d+ stem to achieve the fit I want). I'm not buying though. There is the possibility of individual proprietary components failing without the benefit of (imo) aesthetically pleasing front light mount and a battery mounted in the frame. Cable routing at the front end could look nicer too (see the Turbo Creo SL cable port at the headtube/downtube). I think Cannondale should have included a tiny frame or downtube bag to mitigate the radar/seat bag issues. I would have been thrilled with this bike 10 years ago, but it does not fit in with the design language of integrated and aero everything. I try not to let aesthetics influence my purchases, as I realize winter bikes are a niche market, but at this price point everything matters. Even my old road bike with internally routed dynamo lights looks more modern. Kudos to Cannondale for taking a risk! With a few small changes, I would be thrilled to buy the next Synapse, especially if the electronic shifting and computer could be charged off of the same battery. I know that's up to drivetrain and computer manufacturers though.

[@williamsmith1453]

Though I believe it is a fantastic idea, the bike still should be offered with or without the smart tech. By having the bike smart tech infrastructure built in permanent, in my opinion negates customer choice. If the smart tech infrastructure was modular and not premanit, it would be easier to repaired and change or upgrade tech. And, What happens when the lights or radar brakes? If the tech was removable and modular, they could offer tech in diffent biulds. As well, the customer could use what they wanted instead of being stuck. No doubt, it is a Great bike but I would not buy it because it would lock me into specific tech. I do believe this is the future. The tech will always change. Better radar, better tech, etc., I would reather be able to upgrade tech as needed. Hope the company listens to feed back.

[@indobleh]

The Radar is great, I like the idea of being supplied as default with the bike, really great for those who do not have one. I already have one though and they are not cheap. If I was to buy this bike I don't need two and rather not pay extra for a device I already own.

[@Thomas-fy9yc]

As loyal Cannondale owner for over 30 years, I was going to upgrade my 2012 Supersix to a disc bike with more tire clearance. I have the Garmin Varia system already and love it,, but this unit baked in already is a deal breaker. I go on multi day rides and need every bag I can fit in some cases as well as 17 mile one way commute in pre sunrise mornings. They should have designed a tiagra commuter version with this installed , and made it plug and play for the higher end bikes. Guess I’ll be looking at TCR or new Supersix, maybe a Cervelo Caledonia instead.

[@ashleyhouse9690]

As an existing Synapse owner you have confirmed that this new bike suffers from an identity crisis. Better performance being more sporty but still comfortable, yet configured with technology as if it were a commuter. Cannondale should at least give you the option to have it in its purest form especially for many riders I'm sure who already have superior lights than this comes with. How many people are actually going to go for this bike because it has the NonSense technology? Very few I would think. Most people who go for the new Synapse will buy it in spite of it, probably gritting their teeth at the ridiculous pricing. Speaking personally, it has put me right off Cannondale.

[@rb3782]

FWIW, the integrated tech did push me over the line to make my decision to buy one. I am not an expert rider by any stretch, but I do lack time in my life to obsess about my hobbies and spend hours and hours on research. I also don’t ride at night and don’t care about front lights as more than a safety feature. Integrated system means fewer things to charge and check. And the synapse apart from the tech speaks for itself.

[@adrianc6534]

i would have purchased a synapse if it wasnt for the lights and battery. the other updates they made like the threaded BB are 100% appreciated, and the external cables is a must for me. i really want this bike, just without the tech included.

[@flurbyjim]

FYI - you can remove the lights and battery and it's actually pretty simple.

[@maxlloyd3740]

Love the bike and even the lights. It would be a good idea to have a modular system for the front light to change for something brighter though.I do a fair few commutes and usually 800 or 1300 lumens is sufficient. Not fussed with radar personally! Not bothered by saddlebag compatibility either I have always been a fan of the bumbag or fannypack as our American cousins call it! Hate bags jingalling around on a bike! Prefer my intergrated light mounts on my Cervelo. Go Pro mounts that fit on my seat post and stem. I have a few mounts including one for a Moon and one for an Exposure light that I can swap depending on what I am doing.

[@fredsanguino703]

I burst out laughing when David didn't find his saddle bag. But the truth is, why have a battery that only serves its accessories; It would be good if it served the electronic groups.

[@DYDtv]

I have owned this bike for a couple of months and I think David is spot on. The only addition I would add is that the integrated battery should be able to power the electronic gears and a phone or computer. My RLE2 in the USA didn't come with tubeless ready wheels and the I would rather have a quick release on the front axle. The inability to use a saddle bag is a real pain. Some have said that a goPro extension can be used to move the radar enough to allow the installation of a traditional saddlebag. I am not happy that Cannondale hasn't offered any solution to this problem.

[@DYDtv]

btw: I love the built in tech, especially the radar. I don't understand why anyone would ride on a road with cars without having a radar. I also have a 2019 Synapse with Ultegra but not Di2. The 2019 is tubeless and is definitely a more comfortable ride.

[@garybird8646]

I like the idea of charging one thing to power all three devices and on epic rides take an Anker power bank anyway. Like most riders I ride during the day and the run time and output is more than enough for normal use. I hear that the first models featured a headlight that passes the German standard and later this Year all bikes will come with a slightly more powerful head light. It's a bit weird how much focus there is on the light and varia integration in the cycling press, the Synapse is known to be one of the best riding endurance bikes on the market, that's what you are really buying first and foremost .

[@emotioneering]

I’ve just bought a Topstone with Smartsense. I’d have bought it with or without. I would have bought lights anyway, and probably wouldn’t have bother with a radar. After a few rides, the ease of charging just one battery, and seeing the real benefit of a warning of cars coming up behind, I’m sold on the system. It’s a little inelegant; the battery could have been better integrated but in amongst everything else that’ll be hanging off a gravel or endurance bike I guess it doesn’t matter. The battery life is not great, one with more capacity would be a good option

[@fede1275]

Very good analysis, but the prices for modern bikes are simply absurd, cannot comprehend.

[@amnaturephotography]

Great review David, I’m getting a little older now so fancy a more relaxed geometry, I’m not sure about the integration but pulled the trigger and bought the LTD RLE, as it was on offer. I’ve seen you can get a blanking plate for the battery. I’ll check out how much of a far it it’s to remove the lights etc. but as you said they are fine for day use.

[@twiceforlucktm9334]

Did you manage to remove the lights/radar etc? If so was it difficult? I tested this bike recently and really liked it, but I'm not keen on the integrated kit (that front light looks like a huge drag! 😄). If I knew it can be removed without a huge hassle I'd be really tempted to go for it (I'm looking at RLE 2 which has a different bar/stem so seems like it should be easy to remove front light at least, but can't get confirmation anywhere). Thanks.

[@amnaturephotography]

@@twiceforlucktm9334 hi it’s easy to remove, but have left it on as I’ve gotten used to it

[@RichThomas]

Thanks Dave. Great review. I have loved my old Synapse that is now quite long in the tooth - and from what you have said the bike itself (excl smartsense) sounds fantastic. Was wondering though - you made the point that pricing is pretty competitive. So - presumably one could permanently strip the smartsense off the bike, and would be left with a still well-priced and awesome bike? The only remnant the space where the battery goes - which you’d just have to live with. Maybe that would be a hack that addresses all the issues?

[@MrT_RainMan]

Start by saying thank you for a wonderful review! You have helped me make sure I do Not waste my time looking at or riding a Cannondale! The mounting of lights and radar will work for other rides but is a total waste for me. The primer gray is better than an All black bike. Looking at the primer gray Synapse is not a bike that gives the feeling walking into the garage of, OOOO how beautiful of a bike. No that bike will never have that.

[@grantwilliams2912]

Thank you for creating the review.. I really like the bike, but would not buy it due to the lights and radar not being an option-I want to run a saddle bag, and I have lights that do what I want them to (the front light on this bike would not be suitable for the night rides I do)

[@TheCruzFelipe]

Another downside that I see in this tech stuck in the bike is that from now on you need to rely on cannondale support of that battery format. A lost battery, an extra for a long trip or any other case I hope you can find on in stock in the future. As an overall bike, I like the Synapse series

[@walshman70]

It's a bit of a head scratcher to be honest... So many good things. Standard bottom bracket and seat post are a huge win. You have to applaud the innovation and willingness to complete a full system and put it on the market. But, at the same time it's extremely weird that they haven't introduced a frame set only option that doesn't have any of those no option tie-ins. Perhaps the lack of manufacturing capacity has something to do with it and there will be more options down the line?

[@feliperenaultcsp]

Not being able to use a saddlebag as a standard on an endurance bike is something I can't really understand. I see where they mean to be going, but it would take some improvements to get me onboard. Being a cannondale fan, the SupersixEvo seems a better choice until then...

[@peterf1]

Maybe I'm in the minority, but I think the bike is great. Up to 35 tires, can handle fenders, built in safety tech, yet still great performance... I can't figure out what not to like. Love the new minimalistic graphics package as well.

[@darrenbarlow5759]

David, great video mate. Does the rear light brighten as the car approaches to get their attention, like the original Varia does in addition to showing up on the head unit?

[@Xhadp]

Was looking at this bike and the Smartsense tech looked really awesome, being able to get lights, radar, detection all off of one battery is going to be so good for ease of use. Then I saw that the $3,300 model advertised and equipped with Smartsense didn't even have the Radar just lights? I thought that this was a system that encompassed all the tech. Meaning I'd have to spend around 5.5K for the radar system. Granted you still get other more suited options like Ultergera instead of 105 but being 2-3 tiers removed from entry level just to get this tech just doesn't seem right. The 3,300 model should be coming with the radar and detection unit by default.

[@2112bigd]

I’ve been riding a Synapse since 2015 and have really loved it. I have close to 20,000 miles on it. That said, I just can get excited about this latest update. I already have front and rear lights that I like better, and if I’m being honest they are better than what Cannondale is putting on the Synapse. Plus that battery pack is just so ugly and intrusive. The integrated radar seems interesting, but if I wanted it I would just purchase it as a stand-alone. If there was a way to remove all these items I don’t need/want I might consider it. It’s not for me, which is a shame because I need to replay my current Synapse sometime in the next 12 months. I plan on taking a close look at the Roubaix and Domane.

[@tosheshdaulta8899]

An optional dynamo to charge a larger battery with more powerful lights would tick all the right boxes it seems

[@regularMattMatt]

wow! very nice and detailed review. Question, is the synapse 3L can be upgraded later to RLE? also, is the front light upgradeable? I think i like this smartsense system, safety is the priority so we can ride further. Thanks

[@alanhill7965]

Great review Dave I think Cannondale should have incorporated down tube storage like the Domane that would have sorted the storage problem with having the fixed rear light , maybe the next model will get that

[@lewisbarlow3537]

In videos of professional cyclist training I’ve seen a few pop up every now and then with bags on their front handlebars. Very different but I wonder if that will be a growing trend?

[@lazarosnikolaidis256]

Nice review. Two questions: 1) Are seatstays painted with a reflective lacquer, or is my imagination? 2) Do you have any info that Cannondale will upgrade present SmartSense kit on later version with a lower price?

[@twatts4436]

It's not a bad idea, but they shouldn't be permanently affixed, andI can't help but think a dynamo option would be significantly better. No capacity issues. With regards the lights, I find that much above 400lumen on an unshaped light results in very angry drivers, but is bright enough for practical use. If there's a third bottle cage, then a lack of saddle bag is a non- issue. Tool kegs work much better in my experience.

[@treyquattro]

I think the lights are for safety: you wouldn't expect to use only Daytime Running Lights to see where you're going at night. I'd add an extra more powerful handlebar-mounted light for night time riding. It's not like we're restricted from adding more lights. The rear one works perfectly IMHO (saddlebag another issue)

[@davidarthur]

Yes that's a very good point, there's nothing to stop you adding a more powerful front light for serious night time riding

[@treyquattro]

@@davidarthur BTW - did you locate the saddlebag you threw?! (Might want to make that a pinned comment - inquiring minds & all that...)

[@davidarthur]

No :( I had a good rummage in the hedge until a farmer came along asking what I was up to

[@garyhocking6947]

The bike would be improved with down tube storage to contain the battery as well as storage for spares and tools.

[@stephanoschristou4602]

YES, they have.

[@inakilrg]

There is plenty of space for a dedicated saddle bag, only it has to be tailored by cannondale for that particular space between the radar and the seatpost.

[@vv5179]

Hope you were able to find the saddle bag

[@alainpfammatter8224]

nice review. Thank you. I personally dont like the look of the battery on the downtube. Why didnt they hide the battery inside the downtube in a storage compartement like on Trek or Specialized bikes?!

[@davidleonard3716]

Great review David. It’s a miss for me.

[@finncox23]

Is there a third bottle cage mount under the down tube to which the tool keg could be attached? If so, that does not seem like an unreasonable option for carrying tools/spares. However, the front light not being suited for true night time riding seems highly problematic.

[@rancescott]

Over 3k for 105 groupset!! I’ll stick to my 2014 synapse Great review tho

[@galenkehler]

I agree that the SmartSense has potential, but why not use that potential already, the higher capacity batteries for example are already available.

[@slc3636]

Hello David how tall are you? And what is your inseam? Just curious which size Synapse fit you best?

[@n22pdf]

I think they should offer it without the lighting options.. Id go Super Six Evo

[@Slackboy72]

I like it. Change my mind.

[@webbo73]

I don't mind the "integrated" approach, but I think the ability to leave the lights at home would have been easy to implement and would have avoided the noise.

[@marcgtsr]

And easile replace them. Quick connection or something. Maybe create a royalty free connection for the lights... Or USB c?

[@danflanagan9536]

Well balanced and critical review, but how is that front light connected to the battery pack? Is there some kind of wiring in the down tube? Is it possible to just pull it all out or disconnect it somehow? What happens to the battery ports in a rainstorm?

[@davidarthur]

It's all wiring so in theory you could remove it all

[@pierrec8563]

I'm still waiting to see the new CAAD14

[@mctaggm]

Well summed up! To me it doesn’t make sense, fundamentally it’s suppose to be an ‘endurance’ bike but all the whizz bang features are not aligned to this concept…

[@dennisstempher9684]

They should have made the Smart Sense system modular...

[@grahamdelamare6317]

Great review David. I think Cannondale has removed rider choice and created a solution to a problem that doesnt exist. I have many high power lights that i prefer and can use on all my bikes. Im not intetested in rear radar. We are losing the carefree freedom of cycling. Love the frame but the tech and price means i will look elsewhere.

[@SprintTri57]

Where and how do you store your repair kit?

[@charlesblithfield6182]

Remember brightness and lumen count are not linearly related. 2000 lumens is not twice as bright as 1000 lumens. The human eye perceives brightness logarithmically. I would want at least 2000 lumens for a front light with a lens that has a “thrower” strong focal point as well as some dispersion for lighting the sides nearer the bike. It’s tricky to do well.

[@BL-zt4es]

Can you upgrade the front light to a higher lumens? Does cannondale give you the option?

[@marcinpaw77]

...those big brands know very well how to earn more and more money but i am not sure whether they know how to deliver decent, lightweight for reasonable price bikes, probably in the forthcoming future we can forget

[@eo1830]

Was the reception of the bike about the technology or about the implementation of the technology...?

[@steverhysjenks]

Radar concept would be really helpful with EV cars due to lack of engine noise.

[@thomasblak5315]

The idea that you might reject a bike based on a lighting system seems a little over the top. It is still a bike, with a frame wheels and drive train and from all appearances they look excellent. The review seems to concur. All in all I like the bike, it is a worthy contender.

[@ashleyhouse9690]

I think the idea that forces you to buy a bike with £500-worth of equipment that very few people want is OTT in my opinion. Yes, great bike but seriously flawed by something unnecessary.

[@simonwilliams5871]

I have been running daytime lights on my motorbike forever, like everyone. I get it. But I will be adding a more powerful aftermarket for night work. About to put my deposit on tomorrow...the cost is smashing my cyclescheme saving which wasn't the plan...applies across all 2022 bikes tho

[@nickclark5883]

Yikes that external battery looks so ugly! I have a second hand 2019 Synapse Hi Mod with mechanical Dura Ace and absolutely love it. I use it for commuting and have some ENVE foundation 45s (also 2nd hand) for my long weekend rides. It's a great all rounder bike - my only complain is it's matte black which is a bit boring but still better colour than some of their paint jobs from 2019.

[@briandonovan1725]

Regarding SmartSense...any feature you can't turn off (or not decline as an option) is a bug.

[@aerobrain2001]

That saddle bag issue is a deal breaker for me. I need both bottle cages and too tube bags can be a pain. Jersey pockets are a no no for essentials as I’d need to remember to pack them every ride (which I guarantee would happen less than it didn’t). Whereas on my current bike my radar and and light is already permanently on my bike and if I need a front light I put on the appropriate one. And as you say, the single battery sounds great at first thought, but you quickly realise it’s another bad idea in reality. Battery dies and you loose front AND rear lights.

[@TrickyTree84]

I mean who uses a saddlebag really? Stick em in your pocket.

[@aerobrain2001]

@@TrickyTree84 guessing you didn’t actually read my whole comment given I already addressed that option ;-)

[@leeharding8306]

The in baked tech is a real bad move. It’s so easy to strap lights and radar systems of your choice to any bike and if you have a few bikes you can use one set on all of them. Why would you lock yourself in with tech you don’t want ? It’s a miss 👎🏼

[@hansendy3708]

I concur that the idea and intentions of smartsense is pretty good but the implementation is half baked at best especially the capacity, crude shape and aesthetically horrible location of the battery. On the other hand it’s the bike frame that is the heart and soul of the bike and that is all that counts - yes we have to pay extra for unwanted stuff but we’ve been doing exactly that whenever we buy a built bike anyway. Change cockpit, change wheelset … ditch the saddle …it’s nothing new. Really. Ditch the whole smartsense or buy the Tiagra model sans Smartsense and upgrade the drivetrain. The bigger question you forgot to address is considering how comfy the supersix evo and caad13 are is … is there a place for this synapse at all?

[@YourOwnAdventure]

I'm not sure if you are aware but even the base Tiagra model still has the mounting hardware on the downtube. They do have what looks to be a face plate in the product photos but just wanted to give a heads up. I thought about getting the base model as well until I saw this. Now, I think I'll just go for the lights only set up.

[@NomadFilmmaker305]

Can I buy this garmin radar with light separate ?

[@MattSwain1]

It’s astonishing that you can buy a bike that costs £9,000 with all the top bits on it and they put a £30 light on it - There’s nothing smart about that! I am a fan of the Varia radar, but I much prefer having one that I can switch between my bikes and if Garmin release a super new one in 12 months time then it’s easy for me to upgrade. Unfortunately even the standalone version doesn’t play nicely with most saddle bags and that’s something I’d like to see Garmin address in the future with some better mounting options.

[@areabass]

Such a shame about the tech. I'm looking for an endurance bike for all-round riding but also bikepacking. The lights and radar means no rear saddle bag and no bar bag.

[@ltsw06]

Can they not offer a model without Smart Sense for cheaper?

[@TheB1gduk]

Hi David. Been watching KZbin vids and Hitting up google without success. How do I connect up my Garmin Computer to the Smartsense battery to keep it topped up ? I see two rubber bungs on the back of the front light, are these power out ports for other devices ie a cycle computer ? Any ideas ?

[@joshhaibike1365]

The bike would of been better without the tech, just kept it simple and focused on the bike not the gimmicks. I attach a varia to the rear and an exposure to the front and take them on and off as I need them. Lights it’s personal preference.

[@jgogl9791]

I've got the 2019 Carbon Disc Synapse, and it was RRP £2300 with 105. The equivalent here is £1,000 - let me say that again - one THOUSAND pounds more expensive. Not factoring in the lights and radar. Because I don't want the lights and radar.

[@johndorney7812]

Personally I do not want any electronic/battery operated technology built into my bicycle. The idea that you need to recharge your bike before use is anathema to me. Now that said I won't be paying c.10,000 euro (in my case) for a bike any time soon. So the question probably doesn't arise.

[@vincerunnerretrobikevince4212]

My Varia taillight died during a 75 mile bike ride. Wonder how long the Cannondale’s lights are good for? That’s an endurance bike after all.

[@davidarthur]

What mode did you have it on out of interest? I've just started testing a Garmin Varia radar and it kept on working during a 300km ride last weekend in the daytime running mode

[@vincerunnerretrobikevince4212]

@@davidarthur Ummm. There’s a way to adjust? I just turn it on when I start a ride. Fully charged. Died at mile 55 / 75 (during Nova Eroica Califoria over the weekend). Let me read the manual. It’s at the flashing mode, that much I know for the rear.

[@davidarthur]

check the settings. You have four options usually to choose from, two day time and two night time settings

[@kamilpagaz6460]

Non integrated cables look terrible. 🙈

[@mjscpr]

It seems strange to me to phrase it in a way where you're »forced« to buy the bike with the lights. There are many road bikes out there one can choose from. Is it not reasonable that one of them comes packaged with technology some may like baked in? I'm not one of them, but I don't mind the existence of this bike either.

[@OccamsRzzr]

How much does this weigh?

[@burtonblume973]

I think it’s a hit but Cannondale should tell the market they have an upgrade package for long-distance riders: a 1200 lumen headlight and a more powerful battery.

[@marjoriejones5768]

Can the rear light be removed and installed on a different saddle?

[@jimpeyton1459]

My question exactly. I tried the saddle on a demo bike...it's not for me. I've been using Selle that I love, but I'm not sure if this light would mount on it.