The Cannondale Bad Boy is a premium urban bike that offers style and substance in a single package. It delivers striking looks and performance urban commuters expect from a brand known for its premium bikes. The Bad Boy is definitely worth considering if you are looking for a great commuting bike with solid looks.
The 2019 Bad Boy is fairly similar to the 2018 model (except Bad Boy 1 which has WTB Byway 40c tires and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes). Let’s have a look at some compelling reasons that make the Bad Boy one of the best urban bikes currently available.
Main image from Tredz UK
Comfort
The Bad Boy is designed to minimize bumps and uneven surfaces so you feel comfortable while riding. The 40mm tires (Bad Boy 1) and 650b wheels along with Fabric Silicone Cell grips and Fabric Scoop Radius Elite saddle maximize comfort and provide a cushy ride. The Bad Boy takes inspiration from Cannondale’s mountain bikes and provides a seat position that improves visibility for a faster ride. This helps commuters reach their destination on time without feeling tired.
Agility and Stability
Cannondale is known the world over for its agile bikes and the Bad Boy is no exception. One Piece Integration, stiff lefty fork and alloy frame make the bike very agile and provide smooth handling you need to conquer urban jungles. The mountain-bike-like flat and wide handlebar offers better stability and feels solid.
Smooth Gear Shifting
Changing gears is smooth and super easy, thanks to the Shimano Alfine 8-speed rear hub and Gates carbon belt drive. Riders can effortlessly change gears when riding steep hills, while virtually maintenance-free chains means you don’t have to worry about greasy marks on your pants.
Integrated Lights
Cannondale went a step further and offers integrated LED strips for better visibility and aesthetics. The integrated lights on the fork and seatpost improve safety and come in handy in low-light conditions.
Efficient Braking System
Bikers need a reliable and powerful braking system to safely commute congested cities. The Shimano M396 (Bad Boy 1 2019) and Magura MT2 hydraulic disc-brakes provide urban commuters with the confidence and control they need to deal with city traffic and other obstacles.
Looks and Durability
As the name suggests, the Bad Boy is designed to stand out from the crowd and features a lefty fork, black and gray tones and clean lines. The head-turning design along with features such as Urban Armor system (soft padded trim to protect the bike when placed against poles, walls or locked) make Bad Boy eye-catching as well as durable.
Best Cannondale Bad Boy Bikes
Cannondale Bad Boy 1 (2019)
Suggested Price: AUD $2,499
https://www.bikechaser.com.au/cannondale-bad-boy-1-2019/20357
Key specifications
Available sizes: Small, Medium, Large and XL
SmartForm C1 Alloy frame, Urban Armor bumper, Bad Boy OPI
Lefty LightPipe rigid fork with integrated LED light strip (USB rechargeable)
Shimano M396 Hydro Disc brakes (160/160mm) and brake levers
FSA Comet crank and gates (46T) belt drive
Bad Boy C1 Rims (650b), double wall with eyelets
Lefty 50 (front) and Shimano Alfine 8-speed rear hub
Stainless steel spokes (14g)
650b x 40c WTB Byway tires
Gates Carbon Drove chain, 113T CDX Centertrack
Shimano Alfine Rapidfire shifters (8-speed)
720mm (8°-back, 4°-up) Cannondale C4 Riser handlebar (18mm rise, 6061 Alloy)
Fabric Silicone Cell grips, FSA Cartridge Bearing headset
LightSkin seatpost with LED strip (USB rechargeable)
Cannondale Bad Boy 1 (2018)
Suggested Price: AUD $2,499
https://www.bikechaser.com.au/cannondale-bad-boy-1-2018/13552
Key specifications
SmartForm C1 Alloy frame, Urban Armor bumper, Bad Boy OPI
Lefty LightPipe rigid fork with integrated LED light strip (USB rechargeable)
Magura MT2 Hydro Disc brakes (160/160mm) and brake levers
FSA Comet crank and gates (46T) belt drive
Bad Boy C1 Rims (650b), double wall with eyelets
Lefty 50 (front) and Shimano Alfine 8-speed rear hub
Stainless steel spokes (14g)
650 x 40c Schwalbe G-One Performance tires, folding
Gates CenterTrack Belt
Shimano Alfine Rapidfire shifters (8-speed)
720mm, 15mm rise, 6061 Alloy handlebar
Fabric Silicone Cell grips, FSA Cartridge Bearing headset
LightSkin seatpost with LED strip (USB rechargeable)
Cannondale Bad Boy 3 (2018)
Suggested price: AUD $1,099.00
https://www.bikechaser.com.au/cannondale-bad-boy-1-2018-1/13553
Key specifications
SmartForm C2 Alloy frame, Urban Armor bumper
Lefty LightPipe rigid fork with integrated LED light strip (USB rechargeable)
Magura MT2 Hydro Disc brakes (160/160mm) and brake levers
FSA Comet crank and gates (46T) belt drive
Bad Boy C1 Rims (650b), double wall with eyelets
Lefty 50 (front) and Shimano Alfine 8-speed rear hub
Stainless steel spokes (14g)
650 x 40c Schwalbe G-One Performance tires, folding
Gates CenterTrack Belt
Shimano Alfine Rapidfire shifters (8-speed)
720mm, 15mm rise, 6061 Alloy handlebar
Fabric Silicone Cell grips, FSA Cartridge Bearing headset
LightSkin seatpost with LED strip (USB rechargeable)
The Wrap Up
Although different Bad Boy models have some differences in specifications, you are not missing much if even if you plan on buying the least expensive one. The Bad Boy is designed to dominate the busy streets and provides comfort, control, modern aesthetics and durability bikers have come to expect from Cannondale.
Bad Boy 3 (2018) is a great option if you are looking for a reliable urban bike that does not cost a fortune. Bad Boy 1 (2018) is recommended if you can find a good deal for it, while the Bad Boy 1 (2019) is for you if you want the latest and greatest and cannot settle on anything less than the best.
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