Infinite Cycles Blog
14
2010
Bike of the week 9: 2010 Cannondale RZ 120 2
Here’s a little history lesson on where the RZ 120 comes from. A few years ago Cannondale had the race-winning 110mm travel Rush marathon bike and the versatile 140mm travel Prophet all-mountain bike. These were very successful bikes in each category. In 2009, the Prophet was discontinued and replaced by the all-new Rize with 130mm travel. It became one of the best “do everything” mountain bikes.
With the Rize came a number of trend-setting features and technologies, the most notable being the 3D forged backbone of the bike. By eliminating welds on the seat tube and suspension pivots by making it out of one piece of aluminum, Cannondale increased lateral (side to side) stiffness while reducing weight resulting in a more efficient, better handling bike. 
As you can see in the picture, the BB shell and lower pivot are not welded to the tube, while the down tube is welded on. The strength and stiffness from the 3D forging process makes it so that pivot does not need to be overweight for the desired performance.
An overlooked feature on the Rize was the integrated headset cups. Using the System Integration headset with the Lefty fork, the bearings sit directly in the frame, rather than into cups pressed into the frame, not unlike the BB30 crank system Cannondale pioneered many years ago. Stiffer, lighter, stronger, simpler… the essence of System Integration. This integrated technology is now featured on the 2010 Super Six, Cannondale’s award-winning full carbon racing road bike.
Cannondale also departed from the simple single-pivot suspension design of the Prophet and Rush by adding a rocker bar (still fundamentally a single pivot) to the Rize to better manage the suspension for the rider. This allows the first portion of suspension travel to be very supple and the bike just eats up small bumps for speed and control. The middle portion of travel is firmer for a solid pedaling platform so climbing is predictable and efficient. The last bit of travel ramps up, making it more difficult to bottom out, giving an invincible feeling while descending. All of this combines to make an incredible do everything bike.
Here we are in 2010. Cannondale split the Rize with 130mm travel into two new series, the RZ 120 and RZ 140. Both models feature all the new technology and features from the 2009 model, while making each bike a little more specific. The 120 replaces the classic Rush and the 140 takes the all-mountain category to a new level. While these two bikes are built on the same technology and platform, they are very different bikes. The geometry on the 120 lends itself to incredible climbing efficiency while the 140 is a master at coming down the mountain with great control. Both bikes are super versatile for all of the excellent trails we have here in Utah, but there is a model to match your personal riding style.
The RZ 120 2 in particular is the best value in the 120 line this year. All that technology and performance you need in the frame is matched to the all-new OPI (one piece integrated) Lefty Ultra PBR fork. This is another big deal for another post (but here’s some info on Cannondale’s site). Basically, they took that 3D forging technology to the next level by creating the Lefty upper and lower each out of one piece of aluminum for stiffness and weight savings. This model includes the easily adjustable PBR damping cartridge with easy access lockout. You get a solid SRAM parts kit, Avid hydraulic brakes, BB30 crankset, Fox rear shock, all coming in at just $3200.
We know this is going to be a hot bike for this year and we have the entire RZ 120 and RZ 140 series in stock. Come take a look and a test ride today and feel the difference.
Take a look at the color options and full specs on Cannondale.com.
Posted Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 by Brad
28
2009
Video review: New World Disorder 10 “Dust and Bones”
A cut above the rest.
A new video came out this fall that will complete an epic series of freeride mountain biking videos. New World Disorder 10 “Dust and Bones“. I am calling this movie a cut above the rest for a lot of reasons. It showcases new tricks, new bikes, new places (New Hampshire?), and new features. The cinematography and soundtrack combine to make one amazing ride throughout the entire movie.
The New World Disorder videos have done a lot for the progression of mountain biking as a whole, but particularly for the areas of freeride and downhill. When I was 13 years old, the first New World Disorder came out and really showed the outside world what “freeride” mountain biking was. Basically pushing the limits of gravity and what was possible on a bike. I was completely in shock and thought that the limits had officially been reached. I mean, Bender’s attempt at the Jawdrop scared me so bad I had to check my drawers for racing stripes!
Now almost 10 years later, a lot of filming techniques and the “new and insane” riding is almost laughable. There are some things that have dramatically improved the quality of these films over the life of the series. The most noticeable improvement has been in filming techniques. Using cables to run cameras down trails next to riders, high definition, and much improved helmet cameras. My favorite improvement has been in the soundtracks. NWD 10 is miles ahead in that regard as compared to earlier films in the series.
So, NWD 10 is here! I mentioned some reasons why I think it’s the best freeride film yet.First, I want to talk about some of the riders. The movie features a ton of the worlds best riders. But I want to focus on just a few.
Darren Barrecloth “the claw” makes a headlining appearance and absolutely KILLS it. He puts together a dream section that brings together all of his strengths as a rider. He gets really techy and goes big and fast. He is super goal oriented and has accomplished a lot for the sport.
Brandon Semenuk is the following rider. He is no longer an up and coming youngster, this guys is the real deal and at age 18, wins competition after competition over guys that have been riding for much longer. He looks so fluid on a bike and makes super technical dirt jump tricks look effortless.
Finally, Mr. Cam McCaul pretty much makes me want to only watch videos and not try to get better at riding anymore. The front flip, the no-footed backflip, he just destroys technical tricks like its nothing. I love watching him ride. He is pushing the limits and being creative with an attempt at a double backflip, and dragging a mini tractor out into the desert to build features where no one has ever ridden. His segment of the movie is amazing.
There are many other riders in Dust and Bones who just throw down amazing sections including Greg Watts, Cannondale’s Aaron Chase, and others. There is even a little sneak peak at Gee Atherton shredding in Italy.
There is a brand new freestyle park in New Hampshire called Highland Mountain Bike Park. It’s as good as it gets and I’m not sure if they just paid the riders in the film to say good things or not, but most riders interviewed about it say it’s better than Whistler? Can that happen? If Aaron Chase says so, then I might just agree. This is a park built by riders. It has everything from fast, flowey downhill trails to a huge park of doubles, hips, and drops.
The finale of the film is really really cool. Red Bull built a full set of doubles on a barge that they floated around the San Francisco Bay. Sounds cheesy, but it’s really sweet. They even put on the Giant’s jersey and got tugged up to the baseball stadium for a show between game innings. The crowd loved it and so did I.
Overall, this is a film that will tide you over for the winter months and maybe even inspire a Moab or St. George trip this winter. It will make you stoked to get out on your bike and show everyone you know why you are so obsessed with riding. Enjoy!
Posted Saturday, November 28th, 2009 by Ben
21
2009
How I roll #1 – Brad’s SuperSix
When I set out to get a new road bike for this year, I was between the Synapse Carbon 4 and building a custom SuperSix. It sounds like a no brainer, but it was an agonizing decision! My past two road bikes were Synapse Carbons, and it was hard to give up what I knew would be good. Nevertheless, I built the SuperSix and I’m not looking back!
With my SuperSix, I wanted to build it as a midrange bike, not too crazy or expensive but still exotic. I knew I wanted SRAM components, but I went with the base model Rival (which is not base level at all!).
Originally I built up Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels running Hutchinson tubeless tires. I really liked those wheels but I especially loved the tubeless tires. I just upgraded my wheelset to Zipp 404 Special Edition clinchers. There is definitely a ride quality and handling difference between road tubeless and traditional tube tires. I miss the tubeless ride, plus the peace of mind that comes with the less likely chance of a flat. I do like the Zipps though, they feel so much faster and stiffer.
Here’s the build kit I currently have
- Frame/Fork: 2009 Cannondale SuperSix Hi-Mod 56cm
- Shifters, derailleurs, brakes: 2009 SRAM Rival
- Cassette: SRAM 1070 11-28T
- Chain: SRAM PC-1090R
- Crankset: Cannondale Hollowgram SL 172.5mm 50/34T
- Bottom bracket: Cannondale Steel BB30 bearings
- Pedals: Speedplay Zero chromoly team green
- Wheelset: Zipp 404 Special Edition clincher
- Skewers: Salsa Flip-Offs black w/ stainless rods
- Tires: Schwalbe Ultremo R 23c w/ white stripes
- Handlebar: Easton EC70 Ergo
- Bar Tape: Fizik Microtex green w/ Fizik bar gel underneath
- Stem: FSA OS-115 white 90mm
- Seatpost: FSA K-Force Lite 32mm setback
- Saddle: Fizik Antares (testing to see if it is better than the Aliante XM I have)
- Cables/Housing: Jagwire Hyper green
- Indispensible addons: Garmin Edge 705 Deluxe, Cannondale GT40 black bottle cages, Fizik ICS seat bag, Knog Frog green rear light, huge InfiniteCycles.com sticker (its all about aerodynamics, right?)
- Weight as pictured: 16.51 pounds
After riding more on the road bike this year than any year before, I’ve come to a few conclusions.
- I love Cannondale’s bikes. It will take something very compelling to get me to ride something else.
- Road tubeless tires are worth everything despite the limited acceptance among wheel manufacturers.
- The Cannondale Hollowgram SI BB30 crankset is the best crankset. Ever. Stiff, lightest, BB30. Cannondale invented BB30 and now that other manufacturers are allowed to use it this year, we will see performance increases from everyone that uses it.
- Running a compact crankset with an 11-28 cassette is the most versatile setup for climbing AND speed. Its not the fastest (read biggest gear), but the most versatile.
- If a little carbon is good, then a lot must be better. Your list of relatively inexpensive upgrades to your current road bike should include a carbon handlebar and seatpost.
- I liked the Aliante saddle I had for years, but I’m trying this Antares and I love it. If you like something you have, but have an opportunity to try an alternative, try it. You might be surprised what you really like. We have demo saddles available from Fizik for you to try.
- Stiffness = efficiency = speed. Performance parts really perform better. Its not always about weight.
Want a $10 gift certificate? Write a How I Roll post like this and when it is published, you’ll get a $10 gift certificate to Infinite Cycles. Email us with questions or for details.
Posted Saturday, November 21st, 2009 by Brad
9
2009
Review: Light and Motion Seca 400
I picked up this light this year and it is very impressive. It is a high performer without getting into the ridiculous price category. Light and Motion makes it easy to mount, charge, and use. This Seca 400 is plenty bright for any road ride, and is excellent for mountain biking too.
Read the full review at BikeRumor.com
Posted Monday, November 9th, 2009 by Brad
17
2009
Review: Cannondale 3 Season Plus Gloves
I managed to lose my Pearl Izumi Cyclone gloves sometime since last winter. For Saturday’s Club ride, I wasn’t going to let my hands freeze again, so I took a gamble on the new Cannondale 3 Season Plus gloves. At $40.00, this is my new favorite thing! Coming down Suncrest at 42 degree weather, my entire body was frozen except my hands. I couldn’t believe it!
They call it a 3 season so you don’t call it a winter glove and not use it in the spring or fall. It is very much a capable cold weather glove. The Plus version of the glove gives it a quickly removable windbreak lobster cover to keep the wind off your hands when it is just cold. That’s the secret weapon that makes me love them so much.
They also have a regular 3 Season glove that doesn’t have the wind blocking cover for your fingers priced at $35.00.
We have these in stock now, come get a pair and quit dealing with frozen hands.
Posted Saturday, October 17th, 2009 by Brad
13
2009
Best Life magazine reports ‘How to buy the best road bike’
Best Life magazine wrote an article on how to buy the best road bike and featured the new Cannondale Six. We completely agree with the ideas presented in the article. Come check out the new Six from Cannondale.
How To Buy The Best….
A Road Bike
There’s a saying amongst cyclists: Friends don’t let friends buy bikes online. It’s not that good deals aren’t to be found there (indeed, from an absolute price standpoint, just the opposite is true), but rather because online purchases don’t come with the innumerable (and often unwritten) fringe benefits that many real-world shops provide, such as a fit service, free tune-ups, and the all-important test ride. These factors are so important that they comprise the first step in bike buying: Choose the right store. Here’s how to find a good shop and select the perfect set off wheels once you’re there. Buy local, your relationship with the bike shop doesn’t end when you sign the sales receipt. Odds are, you’ll need those bike experts to true your wheels, tighten cables, and even swap out worn parts at some point. Do you really want to drive an hour to get a tune-up? A good shop will also organize group rides, provide maintenance clinics that teach skills such as how to change a tire (it’s much harder than it sounds), and employ a sales staff that caters to every skill level. You’re going to rely on their bicycling knowledge until you develop enough of your own, so if you get attitude, or if the salesman seems uninterested, go elsewhere.
Consider the whole package, once a bike catches your eye don’t be distracted by its individual components. Manufacturers often install one high-end part to catch consumers’ attention and then skimp on the rest of the component package to make up the cost. Consider the component system as a whole, making sure that most of the parts are of the same quality. A top-of-the-line Shimano Dura-Ace rear derailleur won’t do you an ounce of good if your off-brand brakes fail in traffic.
Upgrade to carbon fiber. Many great sub- $1,000 bikes exist, but if you can afford to shop above that price point, you’ll be rewarded with carbon fiber. Most $1,200-plus road bikes come with carbon-fiber forks, and many also have carbon-fiber handlebars and seat posts, all of which dampen road vibrations better than aluminum (the material of choice for less expensive frames). Bottom line: The more carbon a bike has, the more enjoyable it will be to ride.
+ Best Life No-Brainer
If you can afford it, go for the Cannondale Six Carbon 6-C smooth riding, full carbon bike for $1800.00
Posted Monday, April 13th, 2009 by Brad
18
2009
Mountain Bike Action reviews the Cannondale F5
The April issue of Mountain Bike Action has an excellent review of Cannondale’s F5 hardtail. They said the F5 is “Not cheap: Don’t let the low price fool you. There is nothing cheap about Cannondale F5. Don’t hold back. Take the F5 to any trail and go for it. F5 got your back…”
We love this bike, too. It comes in both red and flat black and also in a women’s specific model for just $750. Read the full article by downloading the PDF below.
Download PDF of 2009 F5 review (422k)
Posted Wednesday, March 18th, 2009 by Brad
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