Cannondale Cujo 2 Review
- Price: $1,344
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: 27.5″
- Drivetrain: 1 × 12
What we like about it: The RockShox Judy Silver TK 120mm fork and SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain take the hard work out of climbing. At less than $1,400, it’s certainly the optimal solution for the novice climber’s wallet.
What we don’t like about it: The single-color setting is probably the only downside to this wonderful bike. Of course, if you like Mantis forget I said it.
Rating (4.75/5)
If you also like upward rock climbing on mountain walls, then you don’t want to miss this Cannondale Cujo 2 trail bike today.
It’s true that, as a climber, a lightweight, tough, non-oxidizable aluminum frame is preferred. The RockShox Judy Silver TK 120mm fork also ensures that you will be stable on the way up, even in the face of steep rocks. I believe that when you ride this bike to compete with your friends in climbing, it will help you come out on top.
Let’s analysis the ride, key features, components, and specifications of the Cannondale Cujo2 and other versions.
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Cannondale Cujo 2 Climbing Test
For true climbers, sweating profusely for a few steps away is a lot of work. As a member of the Cannondale Cujo family, the Cannondale Cujo 2 wowed me.
When I first rode it through the rough and winding trails, I thought my insides would be turned out of my body. But the RockShox Judy Silver TK 120mm fork and dropper seat post setup proved to be more than enough to keep me on my toes. Combined with the unbeatable feel of the Cannondale Platform and Cannondale Locking Grips, I was able to tackle the challenging uphill trails with more ease.
However, what impressed me most was not the steadiness and comfort it gave me, but the speed of its climbing. So 20 miles of uphill climbing was easily completed by me in less than an hour.
Experience
I believe the WTB Ranger Comp’s 27.5 x 2.8″ tires are an excellent aid. The strong traction allowed me to ascend quickly even on rocky trails. This consistent grip gave me great confidence and made me more and more eager to climb.
The risk of a flat tire is of course one of the most troubling issues for the rider when traveling over such unfavorable terrain. However, you should trust the Cannondale Cujo 2 WTB Ranger Comp tire configuration. Even on extremely rugged and winding trails, or in the face of an unexpectedly sharp turn, the Cannondale Cujo 2’s tires remain firm and full. The tires are also protected by the RockShox Judy Silver TK, a 120mm vacuum shock tube.
Likewise, I believe that in such complex road conditions, you will be worried about the possibility of danger in case the wiring is exposed and entangled with obstacles. But the Cannondale Cujo 2 uses StraightShot internal wiring, perfectly avoiding this risk. Also, the clutch setup eliminates the awkward accompaniment of a rattling chain.
Of course, as speedsters, the ability to shift quickly and efficiently is also a concern for riders. Let’s just say that the Cannondale Cujo 2 knows how to climb, and the SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain meets the rider’s needs for shifting on different trails. With its simple, nimble, and quick shifting, it allows you to handle even gravelly trails with ease.
Cannondale Cujo 2 General Riding Test
I made my way through the gravelly uphill trail to the flat river trail at the top of the hill. The Cannondale 3 riser, 6061 alloy handlebar with 15mm rise, 8° sweep, and 4° rise, 780mm made me feel like it was tailor-made for me.
The trail at the top of the hill is mostly dirt, but there is a lot of gravel. However riding on Cannondale Cujo 2 makes you feel like you are getting a massage from your fingers to your hips, comfortable and fun.
I have to admit, it was a wonderful feeling. I slowed down the pedaling and the bike slowed down steadily. The dropper seat post with the Cannondale Stage 3 saddle made me feel as if my body was one with the bike. It was as if every step forward and every vibration up and down was stealing my mind and moving. It understood what I wanted to feel.
Admittedly, the pursuit of speed is no longer what you want most at the top of the mountain where the scenery is just right. After all, it’s time for you to slow down and see the view.
Main Features
Frame
The Cannondale Cujo 2 still adheres to the advanced SmartForm C2’s use of aluminum alloys in a carbon frame that is being touted more and more today. After all, mountain climbing is more important to ensure the safety of the rider. The combination of lightweight, high strength, and toughness of aluminum ensures a lightweight body while improving safety.
This is supported by the Cannondale Cujo 2’s unique weight reduction buttress and seamless double weld technology, giving the rider an unparalleled comfortable ride. The StraightShot internal alignment of the Cannondale Cujo 2 not only facilitates cleaning and maintenance but also eliminates the risk of line dragging. Therefore, you can boldly show off your skills.
Geometry
From the moment I sat on the Cannondale Cujo 2, I felt a strong sense of sincerity from the manufacturer. The 73.3° seat tube angle is perfect for rock climbing. The angle of the bend at the same time satisfies the aerodynamic principles while allowing maximum muscle relaxation.
In addition, the 68.5° head tube angle allows me to face steep uphill trails without any pressure. When riding, whether climbing or making sharp turns, it performs quite steadily.
The only downside of this geometry is that it is still on the conservative side. So you can still feel the inconsistent grip of the tires during the ride.
Components and Specifications
Shimano MT200 Hydro Disc
It’s not uncommon for soldiers to encounter unexpected obstacles on a fast and furious road, and you don’t have to worry about it. Because in front of the Shimano MT200 hydro disc, then the unexpected obstacles are easy to drive through. Compared with traditional mechanical braking, hydraulic braking is known for its lightness, dexterity, and speed. With the support of SRAM SX Eagle’s Crank and Chain, the bike can be brought to a steady stop with a simple hook of the finger. You know that in terms of price, this requires manufacturers to pay a higher cost. So this also reflects the sincerity of Cannondale Cujo 2.
Of course, it also means that you have to spend more effort to maintain it. But I believe that it is worth it.
SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed Drivetrain
When it comes to configuration, the SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain is a must-mention. As we all know, as a mountain bike, a 1× system is standard. Because on rugged mountain roads, the smoother the process of speed regulation, the more it can guarantee the speed and stability of the bike.
With just one hand turning the paddles, you can feel the fun that different speeds give you. If you are always on the way to climbing, I suggest you use the lower gears more often. This way you can traverse freely even on mountain roads.
In addition, the clutch is also equipped so that you do not have to think about the chain off the gears. After all, the sport is fun, safety is always the first.
WTB Ranger Comp Tires
Can you believe it, the Cannondale Cujo 2 also has a complete WTB wheelset for its tires. Among them, the rim technology upgraded WTB STX i35 material can effectively absorb vibration, and the spokes are also made of stainless steel, which is exceptionally strong. This will add another layer of protection to your riding safety.
Be aware that on mountain roads, oddly shaped rocks are everywhere and they can easily hit your tires. There is also the unfortunate possibility of grass and trees growing wildly across the road, which can cause damage to your tires. So a strong wheel set material is less likely to break and oxidize, giving you another big saving in terms of maintenance.
Other versions of Cannondale Cujo
After knowing the above advantages of Cannondale Cujo 2, we can also look at other versions of Cannondale Cujo. See if they can give you more options.
I prefer the Cannondale Cujo 2 to the Cannondale Cujo 1, not only because of the latter’s friendlier price but also because of the feedback from most riders. We can tell that the two bikes are comparable in terms of riding experience, after all, the technology used in them is the same. The difference is that the Cannondale Cujo 1 uses a higher-end Shimano MT400 hydro disc on the Groupset and Maxxis Rekon vacuum tires. If you’re looking for more quality, you can go with the Cannondale Cujo 1. But that means you’ll pay more than two hundred dollars more.
The Cannondale Cujo 3 is probably more suitable for conservative players. I feel that more speed options can give me a more fun experience in mountain touring. Furthermore, more speed control options can be used during the climbing process to make the ride smoother and save time and effort.
The Cannondale Cujo series are very good, but the color settings are surprisingly consistent single. As a colorist, I hope Cannondale has more color patterns.
What we like about it?
- The first choice of novice climbers, and price friendly.
- Good at climbing and extremely fast at climbing mountains.
- The advanced SmartForm C2 is made of aluminum alloy, which is lightweight while guaranteeing strength and hardness.
- SRAM SX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain is easy to operate and effortless to climb.
- Shimano MT200 hydro disc braking is more sensitive, bringing absolute confidence to challenge higher difficulties.
- RockShox Judy Silver TK 120mm fork dampens the shock with less relief, more comfort, and less effort.
- The simplicity of the internal alignment, while saving a lot of winding for the ride.
- In addition, there are children’s models Cannondale Cujo 20 & Cannondale Cujo 24 to meet the parents and children to experience the fun of riding together.
What we don’t like about it?
- Single color does not provide more choice and is not very friendly to face-controlled players.
- Downhill and acceleration are indeed weaknesses.
FAQs
- What is the size of the Cannondale Cujo 2 tires?
The Cannondale Cujo 2 has a tire size of 27.5 x 2.8″.
- What is the Cannondale Cujo 2 drivetrain?
The Cannondale Cujo 2 drivetrain is SRAM SX Eagle, 1×12 speed.
- What are Cannondale Cujo 2 brakes?
Cannondale Cujo 2 brakes are Shimano MT200 hydro discs.
- How do I choose the Cannondale Cujo 2 size?
| size | Rider height |
| SM | 154 – 162cm |
| MD | 162- 172 cm |
| LG | 170- 182 cm |
| XL | 182 – 190 cm |
Cannondale Cujo 2 specs
Build
| Frame | SmartForm C2 Alloy, SAVE, Boost spacing, tapered 1-1/8″ to 1.5″ headtube, flat mount brake, StraightShot internal cable routing, BSA-73 BB Standard: BSA, 73mm, Threaded Color: Mantis |
| Fork | RockShox Judy Silver TK, 120mm, Solo Air, 15×110, tapered steerer, 51mm offset |
| Bottom Bracket | Truvativ Power Spline |
| Headset | Semi Integrated, 1-1/8″ to 1-1/2″ |
| Stem | Cannondale 3, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 7° |
| Handlebar | Cannondale 3 Riser, 6061 Alloy, 15mm rise, 8° sweep, 4° rise, 780mm |
| Saddle | Cannondale Stage 3 |
| Seatpost | TranzX dropper, internal routing, 31.6, 80mm (XS), 100mm (S), 120mm (M-XL) |
| Pedals | Cannondale Platform |
| Grips | Cannondale Locking Grips |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB STX i35, 32h |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel, 14g |
| Front Hub | Shimano MT400 15×110, Boost 110 |
| Rear Hub | Shimano MT200, Boost 141, QR |
| Tires | WTB Ranger Comp, 27.5 x 2.8″, DNA Compound |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM SX Eagle |
| Crank | SRAM SX Eagle, 30T |
| Shifters | SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed |
| Cassette | SRAM PG-1210, SX Eagle, 11-50, 12-speed |
| Chain | SRAM SX Eagle, 12-speed |
| Brakes | Shimano MT200 hydro disc, 180/160mm RT10 rotors |
| Brake Levers | Shimano MT200 hydro disc |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Trek Ro scoe 6 | $1,199 | 1×10 | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | 27.5 x 2.8″ | Click view |
| Salsa Rangefinder Advent X 29 | $1,199 | 1×10 | Shimano MT200 OR Tektro M520 | 29 x 2.6″ | Click view |
| Diamondback Lux 3 | $1,400 | 1×12 | Shimano BR-M200 Hydraulic Lever w/ Reach Adjust | 27.5×2.35″ | Click view |
| Giant Fathom 2 | $1,500 | 1×10 | Tektro HDM 275 | 27.5×2.6″ | Click view |
Trek Roscoe 6 vs Cannondale Cujo 2
If you’re a climbing enthusiast, I’m sure the Trek Roscoe 6 has been on your radar.
Honestly, there is not much difference between the Cannondale Cujo 2 and the Trek Roscoe 6 in terms of appearance and size. But the Cannondale Cujo 2 gives you a lighter feel. Not only because the Cannondale Cujo 2 is lighter due to the aluminum, but also because of the TranzX dropper seat post configuration and the more advanced SRAM SX Eagle 1×12 speed bonus.
As mentioned before 1×10 shifting gives us less fun on the ride. If your friend climbs with you on the Trek Roscoe 6 and Cannondale Cujo 2 respectively, I’m sure you’ll get to the top as fast as the wind. But I have to admit that the Trek Roscoe 6 gives us more options in terms of color choices.
Trek Roscoe 6 Review – A Qualified Novice Hardtail Bike
Salsa Rangefinder Advent X 29 vs Cannondale Cujo 2
As a rock climber, the Salsa Rangefinder Advent X 29 and the Cannondale Cujo 2 are equally light, but the Cannondale Cujo 2 is more perfect in terms of how it feels on the bumps.
A closer look at the configuration makes it easy to see that the Cannondale Cujo 2 is an improvement over the Salsa Rangefinder Advent X 29 in more ways than just the seat post configuration of the TranzX dropper. In addition, the WTB Ranger Comp’s vacuum tires are more advantageous on the climb.
We all know that hills are difficult, but the 2.8″ is more stable. Admittedly, the 27.5″ tire size may be more strenuous compared to the 29″. If you’re looking to build up your fitness while climbing, the Cannondale Cujo 2 is a good choice.
Diamondback Lux 3 Vs Cannondale Cujo 2
Although in terms of the basic configuration, the Diamondback Lux 3 is not very different from the Cannondale Cujo 2, we can feel the difference in the design concept.
First, the Diamondback Lux 3 has a shorter Stack, which gives your muscles more room to relax on climbs and gives you longer physical support on long rides. But with a more upright seating position, you may face more air resistance, and if you ride in colder weather or when it’s windy, the cold wind may sting your face.
Secondly, unfortunately, the Diamondback Lux 3 does not come with vacuum tires. If you want to have better damping, you need to pay an extra price for vacuum tires.
If you don’t know about tire maintenance, it is not recommended that you buy it immediately without knowing anything about it. The Cannondale Cujo 2, on the other hand, is similar to the former in terms of basic configuration and more affordable in comparison.
Giant Fathom 2 vs Cannondale Cujo 2
I have to admit that the 130mm fork on the Giant Fathom 2 is a little more pronounced than the damping feel of the Cannondale Cujo 2. But both are the same in climbing speed and in general road riding.
But they both have an advantage over similar bikes on the hike. Likewise, both are slightly less capable on descents and sprints. But if you want to spend less money while having a bike with more gears, then the Cannondale Cujo 2 might be a better fit for you.
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Learn more : Top 10 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes – For Different Budgets
