Cannondale CAAD12 105 (2019) - Review

The Cannondale CAAD 12 15 (2019) is built on a lightweight Alloy frame. <b>CAAD</b> stands for Cannondale Advanced Aluminium Design. In this frame there are SmartForm, SPEED SAVE, and a Delta seat tube technologies used. SmartForm describes the hydroforming process used to shape the 669 alloy tubes. The SPEED SAVE concept makes the seat, and chainstays of the CAAD12 flatter in profile which helps increase strength while keeping the weight in check. The geometry is race specific with a bit of aggressiveness giving optimum performance for the rider. The BallisTec carbon fork is bladed which decreases the weight even more in the front half of the bicycle.

As in the name of this bicycle this CAAD 12 (2019) comes with a full Shimano 15 drivetrain. The front derailleur is a Shimano 15 2-Speed, and the rear derailleur is a Shimano 15 11-Speed. Shimano 15 2x11 paddle shifters control the gear system. This combination of the 15 drivetrain provides smooth shifting and is ideal for sprints and climbs.

The CAAD 12 15 219 which I test rode came in a full Orange primary colour on the frame with Black as the secondary colour. The gloss finish paint job was bright and shining. This shade of Orange is termed as Acid Red by Cannondale. The overall design was simple yet and elegant. The internal cable routing saves the cables and makes the bicycle look neat.

The braking set up for the CAAD 12 15 (2019) is the Shimano 15 road caliper brakes. The full 15 brake set up has a strong yet sleek build and a deep dual pivot system. The dual pivot caliper allowed for consistent lever feel and generated excellent stopping power coupled with the soft compound pads with easy bolt on Allen key pad fixings to forged Aluminium arms. This improved braking quality allows the rider to ride with greater confidence on steep descents and quick turns.The C3 Compact drop handlebar on the CAAD 12 15 (2019) offers a superb strength-to-weight ratio for uncompromised performance and exceptional comfort. This handlebar comes with little drop and reach and it has also got a modern, ergonomic shape for an excellent shoulder position.

The CAAD 12 15 (2019) rolls on a pair of Vittoria Zaffiro Pro 7x25c slick tires. These tires use a single compound which provides good grip during testing. These tires have a light tread pattern at the edge which helps in traction in wet roads and on turns as well. The Prologo Nago saddle has an ergonomic design with the perfect amount of padding making it ideal for racing and long distance rides.