![\"ccs-62657-0-02935700-1519136086.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-62657-0-02935700-1519136086.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/p>\nThe Cannondale Scalpel-Si was first launched<\/a> in early 2016 and, at the time, was considered a bold, progressive move with its slacker geometry and stubby chainstays. We\u2019re no stranger to the Scalpel Si having spent some time on one in the launch year<\/a>, but we happily took the opportunity to test out the 2018 Cannondale Scalpel Si 1 and revisit the platform.<\/p>\n The Scalpel-Si Carbon 1 model sits towards the top end of the range with only the Scalpel-Si Team and Scalpel-Si Black Inc. topping out the lineup in the South African market. Fittingly, the Carbon 1 comes equipped with top end components for an altogether impressive and light build.<\/p>\n All three of the models mentioned share the same frame construction using Cannondale\u2019s BallisTec Hi-MOD carbon construction which makes an appearance across their top tier carbon bikes. This construction method uses high and ultra-high modulus carbon fiber to create an incredibly stiff frame with less material, therefore, saving weight.<\/p>\n Suspension<\/strong> Drivetrain<\/strong> Brakes<\/strong> Wheels and tyres<\/strong> On the point of tyres, the Rocket Ron\u2019s are well matched to the bike and it was pleasing to see a manufacturer spec a tyre based on functional performance over vanity metrics (weight).<\/p>\n Not to steal the Scalpel-Si\u2019s thunder, but one thing we noted in our earlier \u2018First Ride\u2019<\/a> is that a dropper post would complete the package. This time around we had the chance to fit a Crankbrothers Highline 125mm dropper post to test both the dropper itself and how it affected the feel of the bike.<\/p>\n The Highline is an internally routed, cable actuated hydraulic dropper post available in 100mm, 125mm and 160mm drop options to fit 30.9 or 31.6 diameter seat tubes. The remote lever is smartly designed with a ball and socket type fitting to allow customisation of the placement. I did miss the one-by style remote lever I\u2019ve become used to, but on cockpit sans remote lockout levers there would be more placement options available.<\/p>\nSpecification list<\/h2>\n
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A pairing of the Lefty 2.0 Carbon \u201cfork\u201d upfront and RockShox Monarch XX 100mm rear shock keep the Scalpel sharp. Both are linked to a dual remote lockout to quickly lock out should the need arise. The XLoc remote lockout on our test model was a bit sticky and in some instances didn\u2019t want to release back to open mode. It is a widely reported issue though, but one said to be easily solved under warranty should it arise.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The drivetrain is SRAM Eagle 12 speed<\/a> with an X01 Eagle shifter and XX1 Eagle rear derailleur. A Truvativ Stylo Carbon Eagle crankset keeps the wheels turning. There is not much to be said for Eagle that hasn\u2019t already. It just works. Shifting is smooth and quiet and it offers a great range.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The SRAM Level TLM brake set features a 180mm rotor up front and 160mm rotor in the rear. Given the class of bike, it offers ample stopping power while keeping weight down. The Scalpel-Si\u2019s capable nature did lead me into a few situations where burlier brakes would have been useful, but not a must-have.<\/p>\n
Cannondale\u2019s HollowGram carbon rims are laced to a Lefty front hub and DT Swiss hub in the rear, held together by DT Swiss Aerolite spokes. The HollowGram rims feature a 23mm internal diameter, very much on trend with what you\u2019d expect in this class, but I couldn\u2019t help feeling that an extra millimeter or two wouldn\u2019t hurt to create a more stable tyre profile, especially if you\u2019re opting for anything wider than the stock 2.25 Schwalbe Rocket Ron\u2019s.<\/p>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nMini review: Crankbrothers Highline Dropper Post<\/h2>\n
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