Review by From the age of 16, I've always wanted a Cannondale. I can remember reading through countless mountain bike magazines oogling over the latest frame geometries and suspension setups. The invention of the HeadShok sealed the deal - I had to have one, but first I had to get a job to pay for it!
I'm not a hardcore biker but I like to ride whenever I can. I do everything from challenging single track to city streets and need a bike that can stand up to daily use with little or no maintenance. During an average summer, I ride roughly 1500 to 2000 Km. Most of that is 30 to 40 Km treks.
Aside from a couple of tune-ups at the local bike shop and a few wash jobs, I've done almost nothing to my bike over the last four years. The first frame cracked below the seat post after 12 months which is unfortunate as I think it was a fluke and not representative of the overall qualilty of Cannondale frames. The bike shop where I bought the bike took care of everything and two weeks later I had a brand new frame, and an upgraded HeadShok model free of charge. Last year my rear derailleur shifter finally gave up the ghost with a few broken teeth. Why can't they make those out of metal instead of plastic?
There's nothing fancy about this bike. The components are a mixture of Coda (Cannondale's inhouse parts brand), Shimano, and Avid. The Mavic rims have stayed true despite some nasty hits on roots and curbs. A complete list of components can be found here. Newer models of the F700 come with disc brakes and a Lefty fork. I can easily hurl myself over the handlebars should I choose to slam on the cantilever brakes. The Avid brake levers work great even with only one digit applying force.
I enjoy riding this bike. Everything feels solid and over the last four years the bike has never failed to get me from point A to point B, however, if you're planning to do longer stints in the saddle, do your back side a huge favour and replace the Coda seat. It was not designed for long rides, but, this is a mountain bike after all.
If and when I decide to trade in my F700 and get a new bike, another Cannondale will be very high up on my list of potential replacements.
Copyright © 2004-2008 silverorange. All rights reserved.
The more stuff you own, the less happy you will be - so be sure and own good stuff!
Comments
Jay - June 8, 2004 5:39 pm
I bought myself a F900 in 2000 which I heavily customized (completely different wheelset) and still ride. One of my main points for getting a Cannondale was the lifelong guarantee on the frame. And because it looks super-cool. :) I can recommend it to everyone.
Dilberto - December 17, 2007 2:47 am
Great bike, for any level rider. It will make a novice rider improve dramatically, due to it's inspiring performance capabilities.
Mike Salama - October 4, 2008 12:50 am
I purchased a 1999 F700 from my neighbor last year for $500 and I love it. The headshok is great for climbing. I replaced a couple things, cable chain, etc. But who cares? The bike 9 years old and still rides like new. Cannondale still makes this same basic frame, which I think says a lot as to the design. If you can find one of these used and in good condition, grab it up!