I own a 2012 CAAD10-3 (Ultegra). Since buying it I have logged over 13,000 miles on the frame (the wheels, front and rear derailleur, and handlebar have been replaced with upgrades). I've ridden in all sorts of terrain (hilly, 13% grades, rollers, flats), conditions (from 95 F to 8 F), and speeds (15 MPH cruises to 25 MPH hammerfests). This bike replaced a much loved, much raced, high mile Campy-equipped 1992 Pinarello.
At first we had a plain business relationship -- there was no love, just functional acceptance. As the miles increased, I started to appreciate what this bike could do. I started pushing, it started responding. Soon, we had a firm foundation. I've come to appreciate the CAAD10s many virtues, while overlooking a few minor flaws.
The flaws include the PFBB30 design -- it cannot handle rain. My Pinarello is my dedicated rain bike now because a ride in the rain with the CAAD10 meant another trip to the dealer for a BB cleanout and lube (I didn't want to spring for a $150 BB30 Park Press Fit tool). I'm not sure why this particular bottom bracket is so easy to foul. Chris King doesn't make a PFBB30 so the replacement options are limited.
The stock wheels, saddle, and cables are throwaways. I replaced them all within weeks, but that's normal -- I'd rather pay less for the built-up bike and have money left to spend on upgrades.
Cannondale hit a home run with this aluminum frame. It's race capable with a few upgrades (wheels, tires, saddle), and solid, true, and lightweight.
At first we had a plain business relationship -- there was no love, just functional acceptance. As the miles increased, I started to appreciate what this bike could do. I started pushing, it started responding. Soon, we had a firm foundation. I've come to appreciate the CAAD10s many virtues, while overlooking a few minor flaws.
The flaws include the PFBB30 design -- it cannot handle rain. My Pinarello is my dedicated rain bike now because a ride in the rain with the CAAD10 meant another trip to the dealer for a BB cleanout and lube (I didn't want to spring for a $150 BB30 Park Press Fit tool). I'm not sure why this particular bottom bracket is so easy to foul. Chris King doesn't make a PFBB30 so the replacement options are limited.
The stock wheels, saddle, and cables are throwaways. I replaced them all within weeks, but that's normal -- I'd rather pay less for the built-up bike and have money left to spend on upgrades.
Cannondale hit a home run with this aluminum frame. It's race capable with a few upgrades (wheels, tires, saddle), and solid, true, and lightweight.
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| My Cannondale CAAD10 after an early morning winter ride |
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