Cannondale Carbon vs Alloy: Which Road Bike Frame Is Worth Your Money?

The biggest decision in picking a Cannondale road bike comes down to this: should you go with carbon or alloy frame? Carbon frames weigh several hundred grams less than alloy ones, which affects your entire riding experience. Since 1971, Cannondale has crafted bikes and grown from aluminum pioneers into carbon fiber innovators while keeping strong lineups in both materials.

Carbon road bikes from Cannondale stand apart from their alloy counterparts in more ways than just weight. These bikes accelerate better, handle more precisely, and brake with improved performance. Carbon's natural ability to dampen vibrations absorbs road shock that would normally travel straight to your body. The benefits sound great, but with premium performance road bikes priced between $1,000 and $13,000, you might wonder if the extra cost makes sense.

Cannondale's bike models show off amazing engineering in both materials. Take the aerodynamic SuperSix Evo that claims to be 12 watts more efficient at 45kph than its predecessor, or check out the versatile Topstone with its unique Kingpin suspension system. The modern carbon technology has become so advanced that the latest Synapse endurance bike's top LAB71 specification features a sub-kilogram carbon frame.

This piece breaks down what each material offers to help you decide if carbon's performance benefits justify its premium price tag, or if Cannondale's well-known alloy frames provide better value for your riding style. Let's explore what matters most in choosing between these excellent frame materials! 🚴‍♂️

Frame Geometry and Fit: How Carbon and Alloy Differ

Your Cannondale road bike's frame geometry shapes how it rides and feels, whatever material you choose. Carbon and alloy frames come in different geometries, and each material lets designers create unique characteristics that you'll feel every time you ride.

Rider Position: Upright vs Aggressive Geometry

Your riding position depends directly on frame geometry, with clear differences between endurance and race designs. Cannondale's carbon endurance bikes like the Synapse use taller head tubes to keep riders more upright, which boosts comfort and visibility ^[1]. This relaxed position helps your back and neck feel better on long rides.

Race-focused frames like the SuperSix EVO put you in a lower, stretched position. This aggressive stance cuts through the air better but you just need more flexibility. CAAD series alloy bikes usually have race-oriented geometry, though they're nowhere near as extreme as their carbon siblings.

The frame material itself guides these geometry choices. Carbon fiber's moldability lets Cannondale's engineers adjust head tube angles and lengths more precisely than alloy frames allow. That's why carbon Cannondale road bikes often give you more geometry options in each model line.

Wheelbase and Stability Differences

The distance between your wheel axles - the wheelbase - substantially changes stability and handling. Cannondale's endurance bikes typically have longer wheelbases to stay more stable, especially at high speeds ^[1]. Riders say this longer wheelbase makes the bike feel less "twitchy" and more forgiving on rough roads.

Race frames use shorter wheelbases to turn quickly - something you need for competitive riding. Alloy CAAD frames fit this aggressive style with shorter wheelbases that favor quick responses over stability.

Head tube angles also change how stable your bike feels. Relaxed geometry bikes use slacker head angles (around 72-73 degrees) to naturally track straight ^[2]. Race frames have steeper angles (74-75 degrees) for quicker steering, but you'll need to pay more attention while riding.

Impact on Handling and Responsiveness

These geometry differences create distinct personalities in how Cannondale bikes handle. Bikes with longer wheelbases and slacker head angles feel solid and confident, especially when you're descending or hitting rough patches. You'll find this stable geometry mostly in Cannondale's endurance carbon models.

Race-oriented frames with shorter wheelbases and steeper angles react instantly to your movements. Experienced riders say the alloy CAAD10 performs exceptionally well if you're used to aggressive geometry and longer rides ^[3].

Frame materials do more than just set geometry. Carbon naturally absorbs road buzz and complements endurance geometry, while aluminum's stiffness makes race frames more responsive. Carbon also lets Cannondale add flex zones that aren't possible with alloy.

Geometry differences often matter more than frame material when switching between models. New riders might prefer the Synapse's upright geometry in either carbon or alloy ^[3]. Flexible, experienced cyclists often love the race geometry of a carbon SuperSix EVO or alloy CAAD13.

Weight and Efficiency: Carbon vs Alloy in Real Numbers

The weight gap between carbon and alloy frames creates noticeable performance differences that you'll feel while riding. Cannondale's lineup shows how these differences play out on the ground.

Frame Weight: 770g vs 1200g Examples

Cannondale's carbon and alloy frames have a big weight difference. Their top-tier SuperSix EVO carbon frame weighs just 770g for a size 56cm, ready to build and painted ^[4]. This incredibly light frame delivers excellent aerodynamics, handling, and quick acceleration. Standard aluminum frames are nowhere near as light at 1400-1800g ^[5] – they weigh almost twice as much as carbon models.

You'll find different grades of carbon in Cannondale's range too. The high-end Lab71 carbon frame weighs about 770g, while the standard carbon version comes in at 930g ^[6]. This 160g difference shows how carbon fiber manufacturing methods can create notable weight variations even in the same material.

All the same, today's aluminum engineering has closed this gap a bit. High-end aluminum frames are getting closer to carbon weights, though they still weigh 20-30% more than similar carbon options ^[7]. This weight difference becomes a key factor when you're picking the best Cannondale road bike.

Acceleration and Climbing Efficiency

Frame weight matters most when you're accelerating or climbing. Riders on aluminum frames need to put out 7-10% more power to accelerate at the same rate as lighter carbon models ^[5]. You'll notice this especially in criterium races with lots of sprints or on routes with many short, steep climbs.

Carbon's unique properties help transfer power better too. Engineers can make it stiff where needed while keeping comfort elsewhere. This means each pedal stroke moves you forward more efficiently, giving riders what they often call an "effortless" feel compared to heavier materials ^[5].

Competitive cyclists get a clear advantage from carbon frames like the SuperSix EVO on climbs. Saving 400-500g over aluminum means you'll climb more efficiently and use less energy to keep your pace on hills.

Battery Range Impact on E-Road Bikes

Frame weight affects more than just how hard you work on an e-road bike – it changes how far you can ride too. Research shows that "a 500g reduction in frame weight can extend e-bike range by approximately 3-5%" ^[7]. This means fewer charges and your battery might last longer.

Carbon frames make e-bikes better in several ways:

• They use less energy to speed up
• You can ride further on one charge
• Electrical parts work under less stress
• Motors work better, especially climbing hills

The lighter carbon frame also makes the bike more responsive to handle, even with the battery and motor attached. Cannondale's e-road bikes feel more like regular road bikes because of this.

Weight differences between carbon and alloy create gaps in performance that most riders can feel. Aluminum Cannondale road bikes offer great value, but you'll need more energy to match a carbon bike's performance. Your choice between them depends on how you ride, where you ride, and what you can spend.

Ride Comfort and Vibration Dampening

Your cycling experience depends on more than just performance metrics and geometry. The materials in your Cannondale road bike affect how it feels under you, especially when you ride longer or on rough surfaces.

Material Flexibility: Carbon Layup vs Alloy Tubing

Carbon fiber gives Cannondale engineers unique control over how frames respond to road conditions. The frame contains thousands of individual fibers in strategic layers. Cannondale's Synapse Carbon has "discreet flex zones in the rear triangle, seat tube and seatpost" that absorb vibrations without adding weight ^[8]. Metal frames can't match this engineered compliance.

Aluminum bikes aren't as harsh as their reputation suggests. Over the last several years, they've improved a lot. Modern alloy frames use hydroforming to vary tube thickness—some parts are "as thin as a soda can" where you need more flex ^[9]. Cannondale's CAAD frames show how modern manufacturing has closed the gap between materials. While aluminum can't match carbon's adaptability, the difference isn't what it was 20 years ago.

Carbon still has one big advantage. It stays stiff when you pedal but flexes over bumps—what marketing teams call "laterally stiff and vertically compliant" ^[9].

Vibration Absorption on Rough Roads

Carbon's fibrous nature creates a natural dampening effect on rough surfaces. Carbon frames "absorb a significant portion of the shock" compared to alloy frames, which transfer more vibration to the rider ^[10]. This natural absorption explains why carbon frames feel smoother even without extra compliance features.

The Synapse Carbon takes full advantage of this. "Everything you need for a bump-absorbing smooth ride is engineered into the frame shape and carbon layup" ^[8]. Hi-Mod carbon Synapse models lead their class in compliance, according to expert reviews ^[11].

Alloy frames get their comfort from:

• Tube shapes that allow vertical flex
• Strategic thinning of tube walls
• Room for wider tires (up to 32mm on Synapse models) ^[11]

Long-Distance Comfort Comparison

Comfort turns into performance for endurance riders. Less vibration means your muscles don't tire as quickly on century rides or multi-day tours. The Synapse Carbon works great for long-distance riders. Its "frame, fork and seatpost all designed to flex and absorb under rough riding conditions" ^[11].

Cannondale's "Proportional Response" technology makes this even better. It creates "size-specific construction" that matches frame stiffness and compliance to each size, so every rider gets the right feel ^[8].

Carbon has its perks, but many experienced cyclists love their modern aluminum Cannondale frames for long rides. Forum posts show that well-set-up aluminum bikes can feel great, particularly with good wheels and tires ^[12]. One rider put it well: "I personally wouldn't sweat the difference between alloy and carbon, especially if finances are a factor" ^[12].

Both materials can give you a great ride, though carbon edges ahead in vibration dampening. Tire pressure, seatpost material, and handlebar tape thickness often matter more than frame material. When picking your ideal Cannondale road bike, remember that carbon offers better vibration absorption, but modern alloy frames deliver great comfort at a lower price.

Durability and Maintenance Over Time

Your Cannondale road bike's long-term value depends on how well different materials hold up over time. Knowing how carbon and alloy frames last helps you decide which one gives you better value beyond just looking at performance.

Crash Resistance and Repairability

Carbon and alloy frames react quite differently to impacts. Carbon fiber's strength-to-weight ratio beats even steel. This lets it handle a lot of abuse during normal rides. But carbon can crack from direct hits and crash forces. The good news? Specialists can fix carbon frames and make them work just like new.

Aluminum frames tend to dent or bend instead of cracking when they take a hit. Riders can often keep using the bike after minor crashes, though you should always get your frame checked by a pro after any impact. The catch? You can't really fix aluminum frames. You'll need to replace them after serious damage. At least aluminum frames cost much less to replace than carbon ones.

Want to check for carbon damage? Run a clean cloth over the tubes to find loose fibers. You can also tap the area you're worried about. A sharp "tick" sound means it's good, while a dull "thwack" might mean trouble. With aluminum, look closely at the welds since cracks usually start there.

Corrosion and Weather Resistance

Weather affects these materials differently as time goes by. Carbon fiber doesn't corrode, but UV light can break down the resin that holds the fibers together. That's why makers add paint or clear coat with UV protection. Even "raw" carbon frames have protective clear coats.

Aluminum naturally fights rust, which makes it great for wet weather. But it can still corrode, especially where parts connect and around different metals. Cannondale's warranty doesn't cover "corrosion" damage, which tells us this matters even with today's frames.

Both materials need regular cleaning and proper storage. Keeping your bike dry and away from big temperature swings helps it last longer. Most riders will find that basic maintenance matters more than their choice of material.

Frame Lifespan Expectations

Carbon fiber can last almost forever in perfect conditions. Well-maintained carbon frames show hardly any wear from normal riding, even after 20+ years. This makes carbon frames a smart choice if you want to keep your premium Cannondale for many years.

Aluminum frames don't last quite as long in theory. The industry says they're good for 5-10 years of regular use before fatigue might set in. Some old-school riders say their aluminum frames feel "softer" after years of use. But this rarely matters in real life. Most cyclists upgrade before this happens, and many aluminum frames work fine for decades with good care.

Cannondale's warranty covers factory defects but not normal wear or damage from "abuse, neglect, improper repair, improper assembly, lack of maintenance, alteration, or improper use." Their warranty shows that both materials should serve you well for years if you take care of them.

Your riding style affects durability more than your choice of material. If you're worried about crashes, aluminum shows damage more clearly and costs less to replace. If you care most about long-term performance, carbon's better resistance to fatigue makes it worth the higher price. Both materials in Cannondale's lineup can last a long time if you maintain them well and use them as intended.

Performance Use Cases: Race, Endurance, and Gravel

Cannondale's wide range of bikes shows how frame materials define a bike's best use on different terrains. Riders can choose from 15 platforms and more than 60 models that span race, endurance, and gravel categories to find their perfect match ^[13].

Cannondale SuperSix EVO: Carbon Race Machine

The SuperSix EVO showcases Cannondale's best carbon engineering—it climbs like a mountain goat and cuts through wind like an arrow. The frame weighs just 770g (size 56cm, painted and ready to build), making it incredibly light without losing aerodynamic benefits ^[4]. The fourth-generation SuperSix EVO keeps the snappy acceleration and razor-sharp handling that made earlier versions so popular with racers.

This race-focused carbon masterpiece puts speed first. From the MOMO-designed SystemBar cockpit to streamlined frame shapes and special aero bottles, every detail matters ^[4]. Competitive riders who want every possible edge will love this bike, especially when they need to climb fast and slice through the wind.

CAAD13 and Optimo: Alloy for Training and Entry-Level

Cannondale's CAAD (Cannondale Advanced Aluminum Design) bikes have led the aluminum frame market for almost 40 years. The CAAD13 carries this torch as their most advanced alloy race bike ^[14]. It costs way less than carbon options but still packs features like dropped seat stays and special tube shapes that create up to 30% less drag than regular round tubes ^[14].

The Optimo serves as Cannondale's starter race bike with prices that won't break the bank. It stands out from other budget bikes by including a full carbon fork with tapered steerer—a premium feature rarely seen on competing bikes at this price ^[15]. The Optimo matches the CAAD13's aggressive riding position, making it perfect for new racers who want to test the waters without spending too much ^[15].

Topstone Carbon vs Alloy: Gravel Versatility

The Topstone series demonstrates how carbon and alloy materials create unique riding experiences in the same bike family. Carbon models feature Cannondale's special Kingpin suspension system—a pivot point that lets the rear triangle flex up to 30mm on rough ground ^[16]. This clever design adds comfort without complicated suspension parts, perfect for long gravel rides.

The aluminum Topstone costs much less, starting at $1,050 versus $2,750 for carbon models ^[16]. Both bikes fit tires up to 45mm wide for serious off-road capability ^[17]. Gravel riders must choose between comfort and value—carbon offers advanced suspension tech and lighter weight, while aluminum brings a lower price tag and easier maintenance.

Technology and Features: What You Get at Each Level

Cannondale's lineup shows a distinct separation between their premium carbon models and more affordable alloy bikes. Your choice of frame material determines which advanced features you can access.

SmartSense Integration in Carbon Models

SmartSense stands as Cannondale's crowning achievement in technology integration. This complete ecosystem of lights, radar, and sensors improves rider visibility and awareness. The system debuted in 2022 and has evolved into its second generation with the 2025 Synapse Carbon ^[18]. The latest version comes with these improvements:

• A compact headlight that delivers 800 lumens—more than twice as bright as its predecessor ^[18]
• A rear radar and taillight combo that spots vehicles up to 140 meters behind you ^[18]
• A frame-integrated battery that doubles the capacity (50 watt-hours) and runs up to 24 hours in flashing mode ^[18]

SmartSense Gen 2 now works with SRAM AXS electronic shifting, making it a complete power solution ^[18]. These features appear mostly on high-end carbon models, and the full system comes only with the Synapse Carbon LAB71 ^[19].

Component Tiers: Shimano 105 vs Ultegra vs SRAM AXS

Component choices create big differences in price and performance across Cannondale's range. Shimano's 105 Di2 electronic groupset weighs 2,950g—373g more than the premium Ultegra ^[20]. Both systems use hydraulic disk brakes, but Ultegra adds Servo Wave technology for better brake control ^[20].

SRAM takes a unique path with its wireless AXS system. Riders can get Rival AXS for $1,420, while Shimano 105 Di2 costs $1,890 ^[21]. Each system shifts differently—Shimano gives you two customizable buttons per shifter, while SRAM keeps it simple with one button per shifter ^[21].

Carbon models in Cannondale's lineup usually get electronic shifting, though some premium alloy bikes might have mechanical versions of high-end groupsets.

Brake Types and Tire Clearance Differences

Most Cannondale road bikes now use disk brakes. Premium models feature hydraulic systems, while budget bikes come with mechanical disks ^[2]. These choices, along with tire clearance, affect how versatile the bikes can be.

The new Synapse fits impressive tire sizes—48mm front and 42mm rear ^[22]. The race-focused SuperSix only takes up to 30mm tires ^[19]. Topstone gravel bikes split the difference with 45mm clearance on both carbon and alloy frames ^[23].

Your riding style should guide your frame material choice as much as component selection. Carbon models usually offer wider tire clearance and better braking options, making them more adaptable to different terrains.

Pricing and Value: Is Carbon Worth the Premium?

The financial analysis of Cannondale bikes reveals a crucial question about the price gap between materials: Does carbon's performance justify its higher cost?

Entry-Level Alloy vs Mid-Range Carbon

Manufacturing complexities create the price difference between carbon and alloy frames. Carbon production needs dedicated molds, engineering expertise, and hand layup processes. Aluminum frames can be partially machine-built ^[24]. Alloy bikes feature superior components at equivalent price points because manufacturers balance frame and component costs. The CAAD13 with higher-grade components delivers performance comparable to entry-level carbon models with simple components.

A $1,800 alloy Cannondale might include better shifting components or wheels compared to a similarly priced carbon model. This creates a practical choice - better frame material or better components? Components can be upgraded later, unlike frames ^[24].

Upgrade Paths and Long-Term Investment

Riding style determines the long-term ownership costs. Casual riders benefit from alloy's lower cost and component-focused upgrades. Competitive cyclists find carbon's performance advantages worth the premium, especially with longer frame lifespans.

Carbon frames let riders make selective upgrades without hitting the "frame ceiling" where component upgrades stop improving performance. This makes carbon more suitable for riders who plan years of incremental improvements.

Resale Value Considerations

Carbon bikes retain their value better than aluminum models. The SuperSix EVO carbon retains about 65% of its original MSRP ^[1], ranking seventh among top-performing road bikes. The aluminum Specialized Allez Sprint stands alone as the only alloy bike in the top 15 for value retention, keeping 64% of its MSRP ^[1].

Cannondale holds 58% of original value ^[1], ranking 12th among major manufacturers. Budget-conscious buyers should note that carbon frames represent both higher upfront costs and better value preservation at resale time.

Cannondale Bike Reviews and Owner Feedback

Ground experiences tell us a lot about how Cannondale's carbon and alloy frames perform once they leave the showroom floor. Riders' feedback gives us a clear picture of what matters when choosing between materials.

User Ratings for Carbon Road Bikes

The Synapse Carbon gets high praise from riders and testers alike. One professional rider described it as "butter," noting that "everything about it felt super smooth" ^[3]. Another expert called it "great ride quality. Very smooth and composed. So, so comfy" while also noting that "it doesn't feel soft at all, either up front torsionally or especially out of the saddle pedaling" ^[3]. The Synapse Carbon's weight looks underwhelming on paper, but testers rarely mentioned this as a negative point.

The Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset got approval across the board with "not a single negative remark" from test riders ^[3]. The SmartSense system has mixed reviews though—good concept but questionable execution with "unexpectedly large" lights that aren't bright enough ^[3].

Common Praise and Complaints for Alloy Models

Cannondale takes pride in its aluminum heritage and calls itself the "Aluminati" ^[25]. The CAAD12's ride quality stands out thanks to Tube Flow Modeling and SmartForm Alloy Construction ^[25]. These techniques combine hydroforming, taper butting, and other methods to create what Cannondale calls "near-carbon-quality comfort" ^[25].

Riders say CAAD frames feel "heavy and geared too high for terrain" despite their light weight on paper ^[25]. They "suffered more" on the CAAD12 compared to carbon alternatives ^[25]. The aluminum frame just "won't climb like carbon, won't descend like it either" ^[25].

Which Cannondale Road Bike Models Are Most Loved?

Cyclists who value aluminum's benefits have created a strong following around Cannondale's CAAD series. These enthusiasts add premium components to their frames, leading to what Cannondale sees as a "cult popularity" ^[25].

The Topstone Carbon stands out with its innovative Kingpin suspension system. It handles rough terrain well, and testers like how it "climbs, descends, and corners like you'd expect from the brand" ^[16].

The SuperSix Evo leads Cannondale's road performance lineup. The Synapse focuses on comfort without losing speed, making it perfect to consider for endurance riders who want all-day comfort ^[3].

Comparison Table

Conclusion

The verdict on Cannondale's carbon and alloy bikes becomes clear after looking at every detail. Both materials shine in their own way, and your best pick depends on how you ride, what you can spend, and what matters most to you.

Carbon frames deliver better performance numbers hands down. These frames weigh much less (770g vs 1800g) which makes a real difference when climbing hills or speeding up. The carbon's natural ability to absorb vibrations gives you a smoother ride and less tiredness on long trips. You'll need to spend more upfront, but carbon frames keep performing well forever and hold about 65% of their value as time goes by.

Alloy frames pack quite a punch for many riders. The lower cost lets you get better parts for the same total price. Most riders won't have to worry about durability since these frames last longer than you'll probably keep the bike. Modern aluminum technology has made these frames much more comfortable. Cannondale even markets their hydroformed, variable-shaped tubes as giving "near-carbon-quality comfort."

Serious racers who want peak performance should go for carbon frames like the SuperSix EVO. The lighter weight, better aerodynamics, and cool features like SmartSense make sense if you're chasing podium spots or personal records.

The CAAD13 gives you race-ready performance at better prices, while the Optimo makes a great starter bike with geometry that matches its pricier cousins. These alloy options work great for casual riders, budget-conscious buyers, and newcomers to cycling.

Your tires, how well your bike fits, and the quality of your components affect your rides more than frame material alone. You'll probably enjoy your bike more if you focus on these things along with your frame choice.

Carbon really shows its worth when you push hard or tackle tough terrain. But alloy frames keep their loyal fans thanks to great value and real-life usefulness. Carbon's extra cost makes sense based on how hard you ride, how often you ride, and what you can spend.

You might end up loving either material in your Cannondale road bike. Knowing these differences will help you pick the right bike for your cycling experience.

FAQs

Q1. Is a carbon frame worth the extra cost over aluminum? Carbon frames generally offer superior performance, with better vibration dampening, lighter weight, and more efficient power transfer. However, high-quality aluminum frames can provide excellent value, especially for newer riders or those on a budget. The decision ultimately depends on your riding goals and budget.

Q2. How long can I expect a Cannondale aluminum frame to last? With proper care and maintenance, a Cannondale aluminum frame can last 5-10 years or more. Regular maintenance and avoiding neglect are key to maximizing the lifespan of any bike frame, regardless of material.

Q3. What are the main differences in ride quality between carbon and aluminum frames? Carbon frames typically offer a smoother ride with better vibration absorption, while aluminum frames tend to be stiffer and more responsive. Modern aluminum frames have improved in comfort, but carbon still holds an edge in dampening road vibrations and providing a more comfortable ride over long distances.

Q4. Are carbon frames more fragile than aluminum frames? While carbon frames can crack under certain impacts, they are generally very durable. Aluminum frames tend to dent or bend rather than crack. Both materials have their strengths, with carbon being repairable in many cases and aluminum often being more resistant to minor impacts.

Q5. How does frame material affect climbing and acceleration? Carbon frames are typically lighter, which can provide an advantage in climbing efficiency and acceleration. Riders may need to generate 7-10% more power on an aluminum frame to maintain the same acceleration rate as on a comparable carbon frame. However, high-quality aluminum frames can still offer excellent performance in these areas.

References

[1] - https://www.theproscloset.com/blogs/news/faq-the-top-15-road-bikes-that-hold-their-value?srsltid=AfmBOop2N99CuTc0dxGF6cL9CWRhyGtmwj1gUlljQYpXSFAsMygcTpvv
[2] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/blog/road-bike-buying-guide
[3] - https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/cannondale-synapse-carbon-2-rle-review-field-test-2022/
[4] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/bikes/road/race/supersix-evo
[5] - https://newurtopia.com/blogs/blog/carbon-vs-aluminum-ebike-frames?srsltid=AfmBOoqrSmsphz162eVMrRnJOqmEIHO7YjBvMQHHlqmY9vo2EYZ4Ef3M
[6] - https://weightweenies.starbike.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=171597&start=2250
[7] - https://movcan-bike.com/blogs/blog/carbon-fiber-vs-aluminum-alloy-e-bike-frame-materials-compared?srsltid=AfmBOopGKOMrdaHZnRxrjPHtjCZ-PzcdLRP9X0g-zevCAa38Q3893ySW
[8] - https://www.cannondale.com/en/bikes/road/endurance/synapse-carbon/synapse-carbon-ltd-rle
[9] - https://www.theproscloset.com/blogs/news/frame-material-carbon-vs-aluminum?srsltid=AfmBOoqtFuhFCEtnLysldWRLJBLp9qHvb5NyYeCKUeH8TnjEa-H98CxW
[10] - https://www.cannondale.com/en/blog/carbon-vs-alloy-a-commuters-question
[11] - https://www.bikeride.com/cannondale-synapse/
[12] - https://www.bikeforums.net/road-cycling/705005-cannondale-alloy-carbon.html
[13] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/bikes/road
[14] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/bikes/road/race/caad13
[15] - https://www.bikeradar.com/news/cannondale-caad-optimo
[16] - https://theradavist.com/the-cannondale-carbon-topstone-has-evolved-past-its-aluminum-sibling
[17] - https://99spokes.com/en/compare?bikes=cannondale-topstone-1-2023,cannondale-topstone-carbon-3-2023
[18] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/technology/smartsense
[19] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/buying-guides/cannondale-supersix-systemsix-synapse
[20] - http://www.bikeradar.com/advice/buyers-guides/shimano-105-di2-vs-shimano-ultegra
[21] - https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear/a43316110/shimano-105-di2-vs-sram-rival-axs/
[22] - https://www.cannondale.com/en-us/bikes/road/endurance/synapse-carbon/synapse-lab71-smartsense
[23] - https://www.tiso.com/blog/cannondale-topstone-buyer-s-guide
[24] - https://www.theproscloset.com/blogs/news/frame-material-carbon-vs-aluminum?srsltid=AfmBOooTmGG4j0Ze_bHC3LkqyzRd1dKTX48ew-QyXRGiCQ9_FIL8P67f
[25] - https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/cannondale-wants-us-to-join-the-cult-of-aluminum-but-were-not-ready/