For 2018, Cannondale have released a number of SE versions of a number of their most popular bikes. The aim being to broaden the scope of a particular model for specific types of riding within the remit of the platform. In the case of the CAADX, this 105 equipped SE version features a more road and gravel dialled specification, with wider ratio gearing from a 48/32t chainset, upgraded WTB wheels and wider 37mm, tubeless, gum-wall slick tyres. The perfect adventure bike.
Redesigned last season from the ground up, the new Cannondale CAAD X platform offers real off-road cyclocross performance whilst remaining suitable for the off-season commute and weekend hack.
Serious do-it-all versatility meets serious ‘cross racing capability. With a lightweight, smooth-riding frame and the same traction, fit and handling as the new SuperX, CAADX is the ultimate “race on Sunday, commute on Monday” all-around adventure machine.
The 2018 Cannondale CAADX is a completely new machine. Designed with modern, technical Cyclocross courses in mind and with the considered added benefit of rack and guard mounts that are discreet enough to preserve the racy look and ride but that offer the flexibility to ride or commute when not racing on the weekend. The innovative geometry and more dedicated Cyclocross focus make the CAADX one for those who want to race but need to ride.
The 2018 CAADX 105 Disc features a durable and reliable Shimano 105 11 speed groupset. The frame is constructed from SmartForm C2 Alloy and features CAAD12-inspired tube shapes to keep it light and easy to shoulder. Redesigned SPEED SAVE micro-suspension helps absorb shock for better control, tracking and of course, comfort. The CAADX 105 has exceptional strength to weight - ideal for the sport of 'cross - and is equipped with everything you might need to take you forward in Cyclocross. An 11 speed 105 groupset lends reliable, race-ready shifting performance to the ride while TRP's industry benchmark Spyre C cable disc brakes provide masses of stopping power. Cannondale's CX2.0 wheels with 12mm thru-axle front hub for excellent stiffness and strength and they are shod with Schwalbe's Rapid Rob 35mm tyres so you're ready to race. FSA's BB30 Gossamer Cross chainset features FSA 46-36 chainrings and takes care of the drive.
The CAADX is not new to Cannondale's range and has been a successful bike over previous seasons. Its legendary low weight and nimble handling have kept it amongst the favourites for 'cross lovers and commuters for a while. With the evolution of shifting and braking technologies and the sport as a whole, Cannondale have drawn on their mountain bike innovations in order to help develop a modern, stable yet superior handling machine.
Since 2014, veteran Cyclocross rider Tim Johnson has been riding prototype geometry frames back to back with his old SuperX in order to refine the new SuperX - and by extension, the new CAADX since they share the same geometry. The twin goals of stability and traction were at the forefront of the design. Historically a mid size 'cross bike would have an headtube angle of around 71 degrees and a fork rake (offset) of between 45 and 47mm. Modern Cyclocross courses are becoming more and more technical and riders require extremely nimble yet stable bikes in order to stay ahead. The difficulty comes in reconciling these two elements as they are often mutually exclusive.
Back in the 1990's Gary Fisher introduced Genesis Geometry in his mountain bikes which featured slacker headtube angles and increased fork offset; in around 2011 the likes of Swift Carbon did a similar thing with their Ultravox road frameset in order to stabilise the handling when their frames were partnered with super-light wheelsets. Cannondale have taken a leaf from these books and created their new OutFront Steering Geometry which features a 55m fork rake on all sizes and, on a 56cm bike, a 71 degree head angle. Ultimately this change at the front end gives greater stability, particularly at high speed, while reducing the risk of toe overlap.
In addition to the stability improvements, Cannondale's other objective was to enhance traction and there have been some significant changes to the rear of the CAADX. Firstly, the chainstays have had a trim. Originally 43cm, the stays on the 2018 CAADX bikes are 42.2cm - one of the shortest on the market - they tuck in tightly behind the bottom bracket and provide greater bite when the power goes down. While it may not have the massive clearance of the Ai-equipped SuperX, the new CAADX platform has room to run full 35mm wide tyres, even with its super short chainstays.
Additional changes, whilst not as significant, certainly make the CAADX even more desirable. The bikes now feature 12mm Thru-Axles at the front for improved handling and stiffness and, though the discs aren't new, they now feature Cannondale's Flat Mount for lower weight penalties and minimal interference with handling. Headtubes are now 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" tapered steerer and headtube to provide the ideal blend of stout steering precision and light weight.
In order to improve the versatility of the CAADX platform - with the understanding that many will wish to race on the weekend and commute during the week - Cannondale have revisited the rack and guard mounts needed by many. Subtle rack mounts, a removable seatstay mudguard mount and hidden fork guard mounts expand its usability without affecting its racy looks.