The story of the Cannondale Synapse is one of versatility and capability. The newest iteration of this hard-to-categorize machine focuses on real-world gains. But don’t brush it off as an endurance or watered-down road bike—the Synapse has teeth. Plus, it’s bringing along some extra cool tech, thanks to the updated Cannondale SuperX.
What is the Cannondale Synapse?
In the early 2000s, Cannondale pulled a bit of a fast one on the road world. They launched the original Synapse—a bike that didn’t chase KOMs or world podiums but focused on something refreshingly grounded: real-world performance. It had just enough race pedigree to rip, but brought comfort and stability that let you enjoy the ride.
The Synapse was never the average endurance bike. In 2018, the entire EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale team was aboard the Cannondale Synapse for Paris-Roubaix. It’s neither a watered-down race bike nor a limp “comfort” bike. The Cannondale Synapse is what happens when you take performance seriously—but not so seriously that you forget to smile during a five-hour ride.
Meet the New Cannondale Synapse
The newest version of the Cannondale Synapse looks fast standing still. Seeming to cherry-pick some of the best features from the Cannondale drop bar lineup, melding them into a comfortable, capable road machine.
Every version of the new Synapse (and most of Cannondale’s other bikes) centers on Cannondale’s Proportional Response design. Size-specific geometry and carbon layups make each frame ride just right for its intended rider. Whether smashing a Gran Fondo or commuting through a midwestern winter, the Synapse always delivers a ride that feels planted, fast, and smooth enough to take the edge off the broken pavement. We expect the same from the newest offering, but some extra.
Frame Details
Cannondale claims the new Synapse Hi-MOD frames weigh under 1,000g (979g for Hi-MOD and 1143g for standard). The new Synapse also includes Cannondale’s Delta Steerer system and SystemBar integration. The updated design allows cables to route directly through the headset into the head tube and around the new triangular-shaped steerer tube. The design is a triangular truncated steerer (Delta) that allowed the Cannondale design team to create a smaller frontal profile. It basically just chopped off the two sides of the otherwise round steerer tube (narrower at the front, wider at the back), with cables run through the upper bearing on either side of the reshaped steerer.
These updates keep things tidy and aero up front (something missing from the previous model), while their signature seatpost D-shaping boosts vertical compliance.
Big Tires and Big Comfort
With clearance for up to 42mm tires (48mm up front with appropriate clearance), Synapse riders won’t fear chip seal, chunky tarmac, or even light gravel detours. The Cannondale engineering team says the new frame is more compliant than the last generation.
How much? 18% more, according to Cannondale.
Stash Some Snacks
The new Cannondale StashPort downtube storage adds glovebox-style convenience, with room for tools, snacks, or a rain jacket (a personal favorite here). The updated SmartSense uses this slot to house the battery that powers your lights, radar, and even SRAM AXS shifting. Yes, you heard that right. The Synapse can run your drivetrain, radar, and headlight from one centralized power source. Neat.
Cannondale hasn’t gone into detail about how this system will actually work, and what will presumably be some kind of wiring harness that attaches to the AXS derailleurs, but we’ve asked for more detail and will update when we get it.
Updated SmartSense
Speaking about SmartSense, the updated Gen 2 gets a slick refresh too. The systems see smaller but brighter lights (up to 800 lumens up front), an integrated Garmin Varia radar/taillight combo, and a removable internal battery that now lasts up to 24 hours. Fewer wires, more ride time.
Cannondale Synapse Geometry
Models to Match the Mission
The range is wide and practical, from the ultra-premium LAB71 build (sporting SRAM RED XPLR and DT Swiss 180 hubs) to the more budget-conscious Synapse Carbon 5 (mech Shimano 105). Most builds lean on wireless shifting, integrated power meters, and aero-carbon wheelsets. Even the mid-tier Synapse Carbon 3 is equipped with Shimano Di2 and tubeless-ready wheels. Here is a quick Cannondale Synapse model breakdown:
LAB71 Synapse: Top-tier everything—Hi-MOD frame, RED AXS XPLR, Reserve carbon wheels, SmartSense 2.0, and that beautiful StashPort. Also available in Smartsense.
Synapse Carbon 1: Ultegra Di2, Reserve 42|49 wheels, 4iii power meter, and available in the complete SmartSense kit.
Carbon 2 & 3: Ultegra and 105 Di2, respectively, carbon wheelsets and integrated storage.
Carbon 5: Mechanical 105, budget wheels, still with StashPort and confident geometry.
2025 Synapse Carbon Pricing (USD / CAD)
- Synapse LAB71 SmartSense – $16,499 / $22,099
- Synapse LAB71 Frameset – $5,999 / $8,099
- Synapse Carbon 1 – $9,399 / $12,899
- Synapse Carbon 2 – $7,499 / $10,099
- Synapse Carbon 4 – $4,599 / $6,299
- Synapse Carbon 5 – $3,599 / $4,899
