Presented in 2019, the new SuperSix Evo is the latest version of a bicycle that has made cycling history. The Team replica version we had the pleasure of testing is the same one used by the professionals of theEF Education-Nippo and this is precisely why we also talked about it with Alberto Bettiol, rider of the American team and winner of the 2019 Tour of Flanders.
New project
This new version compared to the previous ones is the result of a totally new project and adopts technical choices in line with current trends. What immediately catches the eye is the shape of the tubes: no longer rounded, but more square. The truncated profile, clearly visible in the seat tube and seat post, improves aerodynamic efficiencyThis is a feature that really comes into its own on the flat; in fact, one aspect that surprised us was the relative ease with which high speeds can be reached and maintained. Of course, you shouldn't think of yourself as riding an aerodynamic bike, like its sister, the SystemSix.
In two pieces
even the HollowGram Save carbon handlebar joined toHollowGram Knot aluminum stem internal cable routing contributes to clean and efficient frontal aerodynamics. The two-piece cockpit offers the advantage of greater interchangeability between the two components and allows for a 8 degree tilt adjustment, for better customization. The slim handlebar design dampens vibrations well and helps improve comfort.
Compact wagon
A crucial point of the frame is the rear carriage, which is very compact. In addition to the low seat stay attachment, the The horizontal sheath has a length of 40,8 centimetersA very interesting result considering that frames with disc brakes require a few more millimeters of travel than those with rim brakes. This might suggest a very stiff and somewhat uncomfortable bike. In reality, the second surprise was the very high level of comfort.
The HollowGram 27 SL Knot Carbon Seatpost works in sync with the seat tube and effectively dampens vibrations that come from the ground. The compact chassis allows at the same time to have a bicycle that reacts quickly to changes in pace on climbsAnd this is precisely the terrain where we had the best sensations, confirmed by the climbing times on our usual climbs, which were truly competitive.
High-end wheels
In addition to the low weight of the bicycle, which stands at 7,2 kilograms, the wheels play an important role. HollowGram 45 Knot SL have proven to be very versatileThe 45mm profile is well suited to all terrains, fast on the flats and light on the climbs. But the strong point is the internal channel width of 21 mmThis feature allows 25mm tires to work best, without creating the famous balloon effect that occurs when the rim is too narrow. The difference in vibration damping and smoothness is noticeable.
Easy to drive
The Cannondale SuperSix Evo has proven to be a versatile bicycle that is easy to ride even on descents with disastrous asphaltHaving tested it for many days, we thoroughly appreciated its excellent handling, which allows us to correct any errors in trajectory without problems. Easy to ride downhill, fast uphill, and with a high level of comfort, the SuperSix Evo is proposed as a the ideal bike for riders and anyone who loves spending many hours in the saddle, on any type of route.
More aerodynamic
To confirm our feelings there is the opinion of Alberto Bettiol, with whom we spoke precisely about this bike of his.
«I've been riding Cannondale bikes since 2014 – says the Tuscan rider – and I have to say that the latest version of the SuperSix has improved in many ways. First of all the rear triangle and fork are stiffer. But the big step forward was the aerodynamic improvement with internal cable routing and more squared tube shapes."
The winner of the 2019 Tour of Flanders also focuses on comfort.
«The seat post flexes forward and backward, dampening vibrations – he explains to us – but he maintains the lateral stiffnessIt provides great comfort and at the same time has a nice responsiveness. This is a feature wanted by Cannondale engineers."
Bettiol told us that some of his companions use a negative handlebar stem because the head tube is sometimes too high for the high aerodynamic needs of professionals and this confirms a trend which we had spoken with Angelo Furlan.
Bettiol's favorite
Finally, Bettiol confided to us that: "I like the SuperSix, even though Cannondale technicians tell me that the SystemSix is faster. But for the races I'm aiming for, where I've had climbs of 6-7 percent above... the lightness of the SuperSix is an added value that I appreciate very much».
