In demand: Versatile bike with light weight
One trend is clearly emerging for the 2005 season: a lot of suspension travel no longer needs to weigh a lot. Bikes with 140 millimeters of front and rear travel will break the 12-kilo mark next year, are easy to ride uphill and a lot of fun to ride downhill. The "Prophet" from Cannondale is one of these lightweight enduro bikes. Based on the "Gemini" freeride model, the engineers have designed a chassis that is suitable for enduro use as well as freeride descents and 4-cross races. Because the head tube angle can be varied by 1.5 degrees via the shock mount, the "Prophet" turns out to be a tourer with precise handling and amazing climbing characteristics or a light freerider with confident handling - the difference between the two settings is striking.

Since not all of the add-on parts corresponded to the series, the sample bikes in Valbella weighed between 12.5 and 13 kilograms - but at least the finest "Prophet" models should break the 12-kilo mark thanks to add-on parts such as Crossmax SL wheels from Mavic, a Lefty suspension fork in carbon version, the "Martha SL" disc from Magura or SRAM's X.0 rear derailleur. There is also a 4-cross replica with chain guide, different suspension strut, robust wheels and Louise FR brakes. However, the measured 15 kilogram fighting weight suggests that the frame of this model is somewhat heavier. From the voluminous head tube to the Delta main frame to the swingarm, which runs on a well-mounted axle, the "Prophet" is instantly recognizable as a Cannondale. How does the bike, which will be available from this fall, perform on the trails of the Bikerheide?

The practical test in the Bikerheide
We started with two shuttle rides, so the slacker "Freeride" setting was suitable for the steering angle. In rocky or rooty passages, the "Prophet" feels bombproof, and even at high speeds, it pulls its course safely. Tight bends and serpentines, on the other hand, require a little more physical effort from the rider. Thanks to the low weight, even short counter-climbs and pullbacks are no problem at all, even if the front wheel does get a little unsteady on steep ramps. On the contrary, the successful geometry invites a playful riding style, and the Bikerheide proves to be suitable terrain.

After lunch, I set off again on a "Prophet". This time, I'm not planning to ride a mountain bike, so I set the shock in the "XC" position. The difference is striking: even uphill, the "Prophet" and its makers make no empty promises. Even with the cranked handlebars, there is enough pressure on the handlebars, and the SPV damper technology in the shock absorber and fork reliably suppresses any bobbing. Switchbacks are also much easier to ride thanks to the steeper steering tube angle, but the bike betrays a certain nervousness in blocked passages.

A "Prophet" for all occasions
Conclusion: With the "Prophet", Cannondale has closed the gap between the "Gemini" and the "Jekyll". Plenty of travel, light weight and playful handling are a mix that not only makes sense for dedicated singletrack enthusiasts. The "Prophet" wouldn't be out of place on marathons with demanding routes either ? as long as you're not fighting doggedly for positions and seconds, but want to enjoy the route, at least. Thanks to this Prophet, I got a taste of the next model year - and it whets my appetite for more.