Hold onto your helmets, because Cannondale is dropping a brand-new SuperSlice time trial bike, and it’s built for pure, unadulterated speed!
This isn't just any bike; it's described by Cannondale as 'the distillation of everything we know about speed,' and it's clear they've been working tirelessly behind the scenes. This launch comes hot on the heels of their new SuperSix Evo road bike, suggesting a major push in aerodynamic innovation from the brand. And it seems we're in for a treat this year, as the time trial bike scene is buzzing! We've already seen glimpses of new machines from BMC and Aurum, and even Tadej Pogačar has been spotted testing what looks like a prototype Colnago TT bike. It's a thrilling time for speed enthusiasts!
But here's where it gets controversial... Cannondale is launching this beast with a stern warning: 'Use a 68t chainring at your own risk.' Yes, you read that right. The new SuperSlice frameset will set you back £6,995 / $6,999, and while we don't have pricing for complete builds yet, the warranty information is already raising eyebrows. Cannondale explicitly states that frame damage caused by oversize chainrings will not be covered under warranty. They officially support a maximum of a 64-tooth SRAM Red aero chainring and recommend a healthy 3.7mm clearance between your chainrings and any part of the frame. This is a bold move, and it makes you wonder: are they pushing the boundaries of what's possible, or are they anticipating some truly extreme setups from riders?
Cannondale claims this new SuperSlice is their fastest bike ever, boasting a 10-watt saving at 50 kph compared to its predecessor. For professional riders constantly chasing every single watt, this is monumental news. The brand has completely revamped the frame and fork, the result of hundreds of hours dedicated to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis and wind tunnel testing. Visually, the most striking change is the significantly deeper front fork, meticulously designed for optimal airflow.
This aerodynamic focus has led to a claimed 14% reduction in overall frameset drag. While this might sound counterintuitive, they've actually added 60 grams to the frame to make it more aerodynamic. This weight has been cleverly redistributed, with savings found at the base bar. Beyond aerodynamics, they've also increased headtube and bottom bracket stiffness, and boosted tire clearance to a generous 32mm, matching their new SuperSix.
And this is the part most people miss: the integration is key. Cannondale has developed a fresh, integrated carbon base bar specifically for this frame, which works in tandem with a mono riser and Vision time trial extensions. While the core geometry remains similar, they've expanded the seat angle and tri-bar pad stack and reach ranges, offering riders greater adjustability for achieving that perfect, personalized time trial position.
Considering the Tour de France's opening team time trial and riders like Ben Healy extending their contracts, this SuperSlice update couldn't come at a better time. Cannondale's white paper for the SuperSix even touches on the SuperSlice, highlighting that on typical TT courses with climbs, ultimate aero efficiency often trumps weight reduction due to the higher overall speeds achieved. They've really zeroed in on the entire front end, emphasizing the critical role of integrating the base bar and front of the bike for maximum speed.
So, what do you think about Cannondale's bold stance on chainring size and warranty? Are you excited about the prospect of such significant aerodynamic gains, or does the warning give you pause? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
