[net.bicycle] Aluminum Frame?

hartmann@uiucuxc.UUCP (04/18/84)

#N:uiucuxc:26700007:000:234
uiucuxc!hartmann    Apr 17 21:59:00 1984

Anybody out there familiar with the Cannondale aluminum frame?  I'm considering
purchasing a Cannondale bike, but before I part with my hard earned
$600 I want to know if it's worth it.  Thanks.
uiucdcs!uiucuxc!hartmann
-jim hartmann

fhsu@uw-june.UUCP (04/20/84)

I have test ridden the Cannondale, and you should test ride it before
making any decisions costing $600.  Call 1-800-BIKE-USA for a test
center near you.  You can also call that number to ask questions about
the bike.

>From my test ride, I found the frame to be incredibly stiff, yet
resilient and comfortable.  I road the thing over lane divider bumps
(equivalent to Bicycling's washboard test) and did not lose control.
Very stable ride.  If you are a short rider though, beware of the
components and rims -- ie.  you don't want to buy it now.  The 19"
frame came with 26" rims and used Specialized Commuter tires (55 psi!)
which felt like mush.  And, 170mm cranks so you have NO clearance.
And long stem (short "throw").  It is possible to fit a 700c rim on
the 19" bike, but it's pretty close...  I also road the 21" bike and
the 27" tires made it feel better.  Again, NO bottom bracket flex, but
still a lively ride.