With 120 millimetres of suspension travel, the Scalpel now offers even more reserves for the toughest cross-country trails in the world. As with the predecessor model, this model also relies on the familiar flexstays (leaf spring-like chainstays instead of a traditional Horst link joint). This not only provides additional stiffness, but also reduces the weight and has a positive effect on the maintenance effort of the rear triangle. The already well-known and established anti-rise/anti-squat values, which are familiar from the previous kinematics of the Scalpel and which Cannondale does not want to do without due to the low drive influences, are also still used.

As the rider's center of gravity has a major influence on the riding dynamics of the entire bike, the Proportional Response approach known from Cannondale is also used on the Scalpel. This means that each frame size is individually adapted in terms of kinematics and geometry, allowing riders from size small to extra-large to benefit.

The Scalpel's geometry data already shows what modern XC bikes are capable of today. The slack 66.6-degree head angle almost has the character of a trail bike, providing plenty of directional stability on steep, fast sections and, above all, the necessary confidence to fight for every second. Added to this is the 75.5 degree seat angle, which means that even the steepest and most technical climbs can be mastered with ease. The chainstay lengths adapted to the different frame sizes also have a positive effect here.

The top model continues to rely on the Lefty Ocho 120 fork developed by Cannondale. For almost 20 years, the Lefty has not only stood out for its unique design, but also for its unsurpassed sensitivity. Needle bearings and its unique design minimize friction, internal torsion and wear on the running surfaces. At the same time, the latest generation of the Lefty remains extremely light, stiff and transmits every steering movement precisely to the front wheel. Massive traction and straight-line stability are the order of the day.

The SystemBar XC-One is the first one-piece carbon cockpit on a Scalpel. The advantage: the SystemBar is lighter and stiffer than almost all two-piece cockpits. The handlebar/stem unit, designed for comfort, has a width of 760 millimetres and has a central cable entry, which allows the cables to be routed cleanly through the headset.

The new Scalpel complete package is rounded off by even more tire clearance at the rear, which means there is now room for grippy 2.4-inch tires. A variable seatpost is standard across all models.

The Scalpel is available in sizes Small to Extra-Large. The Lefty Ocho 120 will be available for the Lefty models Scalpel Carbon Lab 71, Scalpel Carbon 1 and Scalpel Carbon 2 (only in Europe). The SystemBar XC-One is also available for the Scalpel Carbon Lab 71 and Scalpel Carbon 1. Both the Lefty Ocho 120 and the SystemBar XC-One bar are available as individual parts.

cannondale.com