Creating the Perfect Ride

Cannondale: a name so synonymous with innovation, quality and excellence for all self-respecting bike lovers that it has become legendary. The company was founded in 1971 by Joseph S. Montgomery; at the time, it specialised in designing cycling and camping bags and accessories and set up in a workshop in Connecticut, known as The Loft. In front of it was the modest Cannondale station, which then gave the company its name.

Behind this picturesque scene was a ingenious team who was hell-bent on disrupting a universe with fixed ways of doing things. Just one year after it was created, the American brand launched its first bike trailer, the only one of its kind worldwide. The reliable and innovative system won over the crowds and cemented Cannondale's reputation. It was not long until the brand then invested in its first factory in 1977.

In 1988, the American brand participated in its first Olympic Games and gained worldwide renown. It then expanded when it penetrated the European market via a new office The Netherlands before taking an interest in Japan.

Cannondale kicked off the 90s with the creation of the first MTB with rear suspension. The decade also stood out thanks to product innovation and the evolution of production methods. These achievements included the HeadShok front suspension and the use of computer-guided lasers to cut aluminium frames.

And we cannot fail to mention the iconic Super V, a bike with an avant-garde design, that has everything going for it.

Cannondale is also about sponsoring and multiple victories at the most prestigious races. In 1997, it became the first American company to sponsor a European team (Saeco) and won the Giro with Ivan Gotti, whereas Mario Cippollini won 2 Grande Boucle stages. That same year, Aaron Chase joined the Sobe/Cannondale DownHill MTB team.

In 2003, Gilberto Simoni also won the Italian grand tour, assisted by his Cannondale 613, a frame that was so light that it ended up needing to be made heavier to comply with UCI regulations. The brand distinguished itself in all areas, namely by winning the 2003 Red Bull Rampage with the indomitable Cédric Gracia and later through its many successes on the Iron Man circuit, thanks to the Cannondale Slice.

This quest for excellence is truly a part of the brand’s DNA and has never wavered. Indeed, it has paved the way for a plethora of other exploits and the current sponsoring of the World Tour EF Pro Cycling team.

The brand is now present at the biggest races and also participates in different expeditions, worldwide, never failing to raise the bar for its bikes.