Cannondale RZ120 1 (2013)

Just a standard 26" trail bike from Cannondale

Pros

- Stiff and solid ride
- 1.5" head tube

Cons

- Heavy wheels
- Low spec

Review

The RZ120 has been somewhat relegated by Cannondale to, we assume, make room for the Trigger, and as such this is the highest specced version of the platform currently available to the North American market. This is still a fine, solid MTB platform to play on, but we feel there's a couple of short-comings.

The RZ120 1 is the more expensive of the two models, although at only $2,220 it is not a bad price for a Cannondale... Indeed, these guys have been making bikes since the very beginning of dual suspension. That sort of history and know-how usually commands a decent price. The frame is solid with a massive 1.5" headtube and downtube which dominate the front half of the bike. No worries about flex under power from this beast.

Suspension is all RockShox and typically features lock-out and rebound adjustments. This setup is ample for general trail riding conditions.

The problem with the RZ is that X5 and X7 gearing, while reliable and good value, isn't truly on par with other bikes available at this price, or with similar capabilities. Also the wheels are probably a little heavy to truly experience the simple trail riding pleasure that could be possible with such a no-nonsense single pivot frame.

I would call the RZ a fun, solid and dependable trail bike. It won't win any medals climbing, accelerating or dropping down a steep singletrack, but it also won't fall apart at the first rock garden. If you're looking for an efficient, light weight MTB for fast trail riding from Cannondale, save your pennies for a carbon Trigger. Twice the fun, half the weight.