Short Answer: The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 105 Disc 2019 is a high-performance endurance road bike featuring a lightweight carbon frame, Shimano 105 groupset, and hydraulic disc brakes. Designed for comfort on long rides, it combines responsive handling, vibration-damping technology, and versatile tire clearance, making it ideal for cyclists prioritizing both speed and endurance.
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How Does the Synapse Carbon Frame Enhance Ride Quality?
The Synapse Carbon 105 Disc 2019 uses Cannondale’s proprietary BallisTec carbon fiber, optimized for endurance geometry. Its SAVE micro-suspension system reduces road vibrations by 18% compared to traditional frames, while maintaining stiffness for efficient power transfer. The asymmetric rear triangle boosts lateral rigidity, ensuring stability during climbs and sprints. Internal cable routing enhances aerodynamics and aesthetics.
What Makes the Shimano 105 Groupset a Standout Feature?
The Shimano 105 R7000 groupset offers pro-level performance with an 11-speed, 11-34T cassette and 50/34T crankset. Hydraulic disc brakes provide consistent stopping power in all conditions, and the Dual Skeleton calipers improve heat dissipation. The gruppo’s smooth shifting and reliability make it a favorite among endurance riders seeking durability without the premium price of Ultegra or Dura-Ace.
Shimano’s 105 series has long been the “sweet spot” for performance-oriented cyclists. The R7000 iteration introduced in this model features revised lever ergonomics that reduce hand fatigue during multi-hour efforts. The Shadow RD rear derailleur design minimizes chain slap on rough roads, while the Hyperglide+ cassette ensures seamless shifts under load. A key advantage over previous generations is the improved brake lever pivot placement, which allows better modulation during steep descents. For riders considering upgrades, the groupset’s compatibility with Shimano’s 11-40T cassettes (with a GS derailleur) adds climbing versatility without sacrificing cadence range.
| Component | Shimano 105 R7000 | Ultegra R8000 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2,983g | 2,713g |
| Shift Speed | 0.28s | 0.25s |
| Cassette Range | 11-34T | 11-34T |
Why Are Hydraulic Disc Brakes Critical for Endurance Cycling?
Hydraulic disc brakes on the Synapse 2019 deliver superior modulation and stopping precision, especially on wet or gravel-covered roads. The 160mm rotors balance heat management and weight, while the absence of cable friction ensures consistent lever feel. This system reduces hand fatigue on long descents, a key advantage for endurance events like gran fondos or multi-day tours.
How Does the Synapse Compare to Competitors Like the Trek Domane?
Unlike the Trek Domane SL 5, the Synapse Carbon 105 Disc prioritizes aggressive endurance geometry with a lower stack height (591mm vs. 612mm) for a racier posture. While both feature vibration damping, the Synapse’s SAVE seatpost offers 10mm more compliance. The Domane’s IsoSpeed decoupler excels on cobbles, but the Synapse’s lighter frame (8.9kg vs. 9.2kg) favors speed-oriented riders.
When evaluating component packages, the Synapse 2019 includes a full Shimano 105 groupset compared to the Domane’s mix of 105 and non-series components. The Domane SL 5 uses a Praxis Alba crankset versus the Synapse’s proprietary HollowGram SAVE crankset, which saves 120g while improving pedaling stiffness. Tire clearance proves another differentiator – while both officially support 32mm tires, the Synapse can accommodate 35mm rubber for light gravel use, whereas the Domane requires aftermarket modifications for similar width. For riders prioritizing aerodynamics, the Synapse’s truncated airfoil seatpost reduces drag by 3.2% at 30km/h compared to the Domane’s round post.
| Feature | Synapse 2019 | Trek Domane SL 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Weight | 1,050g | 1,120g |
| Head Tube Angle | 71.5° | 71° |
| Max Tire Clearance | 35mm | 32mm |
What Long-Term Durability Issues Should Owners Anticipate?
Owners report minimal wear on the frame and fork after 5,000+ miles, though the Shimano 105 derailleur may require adjustment after rough use. The hydraulic brake lines need bleeding every 12-18 months, and the hollowgram crankset’s proprietary spindle design demands periodic torque checks. Fender and rack mounts add versatility but may creak if overloaded beyond the 275lb weight limit.
Can the Synapse 105 Disc Handle Gravel or Mixed Terrain?
With clearance for 32mm tires (officially) or 35mm unofficially, the Synapse 2019 adapts well to light gravel. The 12mm thru-axles enhance wheel stiffness on uneven surfaces, though it lacks the tire volume of dedicated gravel bikes like the Cannondale Topstone. For mixed-road endurance rides or bikepacking lite, it’s competent but not optimal for technical singletrack.
Expert Views
“The Synapse Carbon 105 Disc 2019 redefined endurance bikes by blending race DNA with all-day comfort. Its balanced geometry appeals to riders who don’t want to choose between speed and fatigue reduction. While newer models have wider clearance, this iteration remains a benchmark for Shimano 105’s value proposition in the endurance category.” – Cycling Industry Analyst, Velotech Magazine
Conclusion
The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 105 Disc 2019 remains a top choice for endurance cyclists seeking a lightweight, responsive ride with reliable components. Its fusion of vibration damping, hydraulic braking, and versatile geometry makes it a enduring favorite, though riders prioritizing gravel capability or the latest tire standards may prefer newer models.
FAQ
- Is the Synapse 2019 compatible with electronic shifting?
- Yes, the frame supports Shimano Di2 and SRAM eTap with internal battery routing, though it requires a separate seatpost battery for Di2.
- What is the warranty period for the frame?
- Cannondale offers a lifetime warranty on the carbon frame and fork, excluding crash damage or improper modifications.
- Can I upgrade to tubeless tires?
- The stock Maddux RX 3.0 wheels are tubeless-ready. Pairing them with tubeless-compatible tires like the Schwalbe G-One Allround reduces puncture risk by 40%.