Warning: Using a 68-tooth chainring on this bike could void your warranty! Cannondale has just unleashed its latest weapon in the battle for speed—the all-new SuperSlice time trial bike. But here's where it gets controversial: while the brand touts this as its fastest bike ever, it’s also quietly warning riders about the risks of oversized chainrings. Could this be a game-changer or a recipe for disaster? Let’s dive in.
Earlier this year, we caught a glimpse of this sleek machine at the Mallorca Challenge, alongside other newcomers from BMC, Aurum, and a mysterious Colnago prototype tested by none other than Tadej Pogačar. It’s clear that 2024 is shaping up to be a big year for time trial innovations. Cannondale’s SuperSlice, however, stands out with bold claims of a 10-watt savings at 50 kph compared to its predecessor—a difference that could make or break a pro rider’s performance.
Priced at £6,995 / $6,999 for the frameset, the Lab71 SuperSlice is no budget option. While complete bike pricing remains under wraps, the investment promises cutting-edge technology. The brand describes it as 'the distillation of everything we know about speed,' and the updates are extensive. The frame and fork have been completely redesigned, backed by 'hundreds of hours' of CFD analysis and wind tunnel testing. The most striking change? A dramatically deeper front fork, though Cannondale insists this is just one piece of the aerodynamic puzzle.
And this is the part most people miss: the bike’s 14% reduction in drag comes at the cost of adding 60 grams to the frame. Yes, you read that right—weight has been strategically added to enhance aerodynamics, though it’s offset by savings in the integrated carbon base bar. Headtube and bottom bracket stiffness have also been beefed up, and tire clearance now matches the new SuperSix at 32mm. The geometry remains familiar, but adjustments to the seat angle and tri bar pad stack offer greater customization for dialing in the perfect time trial position.
Now, let’s talk about that chainring controversy. Cannondale explicitly states that frame damage from oversized chainrings—like a 68-tooth monster—won’t be covered under warranty. Officially, the bike is compatible with a max 64-tooth SRAM Red aero chainring, with a recommended 3.7mm clearance. Is this a necessary precaution or an overreaction? We’ll let you decide in the comments.
For riders like Ben Healy, who recently extended his contract with EF Education, the SuperSlice’s timing couldn’t be better. With the Tour de France’s opening team time trial on the horizon, this bike could be the key to securing victories. Cannondale’s white paper highlights that on typical TT courses with climbs, aero efficiency trumps weight savings—a philosophy embodied in the SuperSlice’s design.
The brand has focused heavily on the front end, integrating the base bar and mono riser with Vision time trial extensions for seamless aerodynamics. But here’s a thought-provoking question: In the pursuit of speed, are we sacrificing too much practicality? Let us know your take below.
As for our tech writer, Tom, he’s no stranger to the world of cycling. With over a decade of experience as a qualified mechanic and a racing background spanning road, track, and more, he’s the perfect guide to dissecting this bike’s innovations. From interviewing legends like Mathieu van der Poel to testing aero helmets in the wind tunnel, Tom’s expertise ensures you’re getting the full story. So, is the SuperSlice worth the hype? Share your thoughts—we’re all ears!
