Cannondale RZ 120's

[PeterW]

Today the Quail and I took our Brand New Cannondale RZ120's on their first rides, on Knox mountain.

I only did one loop of knox, but was able to get a quick impression of the bike.
What I found:
Climbing - at sub 27 pounds (wicked for a trail bike), this bike felt super responsive climbing. I noticed the shorter top tube compared to my XC bike, but the front wheel did not "bob" around, or lose traction. The Pedaling efficiency is great, both standing and seated. The front PBR lockout, combined with the pro-pedal in the rear make for an efficient climbing bike, with no feelings of lost power.

Descending/cornering - This is where the RZ 120 really shines. This bike was made to go fast downhill's, while still feeling peppy and maneuverable. The slackened front angles allowed me to maintain a more aggressive "over the front wheel" position around steep downhill corners, without feeling like I would go over the bars. The Kenda Slant six tires gripped the frozen soil great, despite our earlier concerns about their narrow width. The geometry felt great on the steep rocky sections, and the 120mm's felt super smooth, allowing me to roll through technical downhill section's I normally have to carefully pick my way though. It provided the confidence of riding a big DH bike, but still had the responsiveness of an XC race bike.

A pretty brief review at this point. But will keep updating my findings as I spend more time enjoying this ride. The RZ120 was designed for smith creek, an epic XC trail, with hucks and jumps all the way down.

[StephenU]

Great description Peter!

Very impressed with the Cannondale RZ 120 so far!  Here are my thoughts so far based on limited ride time in Knox Mtn. Park.
- I was surprised at how well balanced the bike is while climbing steep pitches.  There was no front wheel pop at all.  I did not have to fight to keep the front tyre on the ground, even on the steepest of climbs.
- This is my first lefty fork, ever!  Initial impressions are that it is plush and very stiff laterally.  I cannot wait to hit some more technical, rocky trails to really see what the fork can do.
- The Shimano XT drivetrain with 10 Speed Dynasys is awesome!  Having the 36T rear cassette enables you to stay in the middle chainring longer.  The shifting is crisp and fast.

I cannot wait to get back on the RZ 120 as soon as more trails open up in the spring.  I have my eye on a few trails in and around Kelowna which I want to test it on.    My medium is just over 26lbs and with some tweaking of the wheelset and tyres, but I think that it could be well suited to long epic days and longer, rougher races.

Quail