Cannondale CAAD12 Review 

The CAAD12 Red Etap, CAAD12 Disc Dura-Ace, CAAD12 Ultegra, CAAD12 Disc 105, and CAAD12 105 are all apart of the CAAD12 series.

The CAAD12 series is considered a racing bike model, which Cannondale promotes to cycling enthusiasts or entry-to-mid level experienced competitive racers. The bike is best suited for road cycling.

Tech Specs

Cannondale bikes are versatile, from road bikes like the Cannondale Synapse to their hybrid Cannondale Quick series, or best versions of both road and mountain bike Cannondale Topstone Al 105 bike, and now they bring us the Cannondale CAAD12.

Cannondale's CAAD12 is designed to provide a powerful, efficient ride to competitive cyclists or those training in that area of interest. It is best suited as a cycling bike. Functionally, the bike can be used on all surfaces, but the better benefits of its tire and additional components work at peak on roads.

As part of the CAAD12 series, CAAD12 bikes are considered to be for speed-lovers who like smooth handling. Cannondale indicates that their CAAD12 bikes offer “a quantum leap” in aluminum performance, mainly because the CAAD12 series has preserved the likeness of a high-end, carbon produced models in their aluminum design.

This makes the CAAD12 models very refined, sophisticated bikes that have to provide superior control and responsiveness to you, the rider. Whether you are riding over rough asphalt or cutting a tight turn, the bike is designed to preserve its stiff frame and absorb ground vibrations.

The CAAD12 series are all very similar, and all are competitive race bikes that are suited for cycling.

The CAAD10 weighs nearly between 25 and 27 pounds, is available in both men and women's selections, and widely considered an affordable option to more expensive race bikes.

Frame Size

The CAAD12 series features an assortment of different frames:

These aluminum frames make a stiff, yet smooth and responsive riding frame, with superior handling ability. Also, the frame contains SAVE micro-suspension in the lightweight fork, which work to absorb shock, road vibration, increase handling, control, and enhances rider comfort.

In comparison to previous models like the CAAD9 and the CAAD10, the CAAD12 series places more of a focus on flat-out speed and rides smoother than its predecessors.

Cannondale offers the CAAD12 in SM, MD, LG, and XL.

Brake Type

Cannondale's CAAD12 features Shimano 105 brakes. Many former riders have indicated that the Shimano brakes give them more control when stopping, and are responsive to sensitive braking.

Shifter

The CAAD12 series feature Shimano 105 shifters, which provide precise shifting through 22 combinations at the gear. The front and back derailleurs, brake levers, and rear cogs are also Shimano 105.

The Shimano brand is designed to work best with race bikes like the CAAD12. Users have commended the shift components for the effortless performance when riding.

Rims

The CAAD12 has a variety of different rims:

Tires

Additionally, the CAAD12 series also provides different operating tires:

All of these tires fold to maximize handling and bike speed. Each tire set is also made of high-quality grade materials and is designed with the latest tire technology for superior biking performance.

Are you considering becoming a cycling enthusiast? Or do you prefer an adrenaline rush with your bike rides? If your answer is yes, then the CAAD12 series can provide the thrills you seek from your bike. In contrast to CAAD10 owners, CAAD12 users hold their tires with the high regard due to their performance in actual riding environments and conditions.

Price Range

Cost is always one of the more subjective debates when concerning high-end bikes. The CAAD12 series is known for providing value at price tag lower than their competitors.

You can find the latest prices on all of the Cannondale CAAD12 bikes here at REI.com.

What We Like

The CAAD12 series are all finely constructed, honed bikes designed with rider comfort and speed in mind. It is lightweight, has superior ride performance, and several promising features: lightweight, great performance, and lots of upgrade potential when concerning the components.

With the CAAD12 series, Cannondale vastly succeeded our expectations, especially in:

Pros

What We Don’t Like

Price is the most significant issue with the CAAD12 series; however, even that is nullified by the different versions of the bike.

Cons

Buying Advice

If your idea of fun is taking your bike speed cycling or chasing 50+ odd people around a competitive track, then a CAAD12 may be the bike for you.

Or, if you are seeking a responsive, strong bike that can minimize road vibrations.

But riders, we warned: The CAAD12 bikes are not for leisurely trips.

These are powerful machines that are meant to be pushed to their peak. You can view the whole CAAAD series here at REI.com

Conclusion

The Cannondale CAAD12 is a highly-competitive option in a crowded world of advanced racing bikes. So, if you are an amateur cyclist that's trying to select a bike that fits their needs, evaluate it regarding finances, the safety of bike, and heightened control.

The CAAD X series offers interested parties a complete bike that’s ready to be pushed through the rugged outdoors. 

The Cannondale lightweight frames and components are high-tech standouts among the bikes, and they are intricate enough to rival, even best, carbon in aesthetic value and performance -- all within a price that fits you.