chainzawz

Hey all,

I will get right to the point. I was looking at carbon bikes bike I feel that an aluminum bike would work better for me. I was looking at the CAAD9 it seems like a great race oriented aluminum bike. Thoughts on this bike?

Also I was checking out some places online that have the bike and they seem to have different models? Do any of these models "perform" better then the others?

TIA!

bdcheung

The model numbers (R1000, R900, etc.) designate the component group on the bike. The frame is always the same. I love my CAAD9 and would highly recommend it for a recreational racer without an infinite budget.

chainzawz

Thanks for the reply! Seems like the CAAD9 would be a great choice for me!

Anyone know where I can get a deal on the CAAD9 frame? Besides ebay...just wondering lol

bdcheung

Cannondale is not sold online, so I'd recommend finding a local store. Buying from an authorized dealer (read: nothing online, including eBay) ensures you're covered under the warranty and crash replacement policy.

chainzawz

Sweet thanks!

Duke of Kent

I ride a CAAD9, but I'm just curious:

What makes you think one material will work "better" for you than another?

chainzawz

Well I am currently a Clyde (I weight in at 220#). I do not plan on riding this bike now but I am going to hopefully be getting into racing soon. I am hoping that I can get my weight down to around 160-170. I have heard mixed feelings on Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, Titanium, Steel. Not really sure which one to go with. I don't want steel I do know that (not saying steel is bad just not for me). I was looking at Carbon Fiber but I have heard lots of people say it breaks easily and shouldn't be used by someone who is hard on bikes which I am. I have personally not ridden a CF bike so I can't comment on personal experiences. Then there is Aluminum. I currently have an Aluminum bike which is great. I don't think it's that harsh of a ride but then again thats just me.

I tend to be really hard on bikes and I hit potholes once in a while (lots around here). So it seemed to me that the Aluminum based frame was the way to go. I posted on BF a few times about a carbon fiber frame but everyone seemed to thing that I should look elsewhere for a different material.

Then there is cost. If I was to damage a frame and make it not safe to ride I don't think I would have the money to replace the frame. From what I have read seems as if Aluminum is cheaper to replace compared to CF. But please don't take my word on that!

Again I am not sure what would suit me well. I am open for suggestions in this area.

branman1986

The CAAD9 is perfect for you. There are other good aluminum race frames as well to check out.

chainzawz

Thanks for the reply. What other frames are out there?

eb314

The CAAD9 is a pro level race frame, you really can't beat it for the price in my opinion.

chainzawz

Thanks for the reply. I will have to go check out the LBS!

Speedee

I love mine!

chainzawz

Thanks for the reply. I am going to see if I can drop by the LBS tomorrow and see if they have one there....they should since they are a dealer for C'dale

curiouskid55

I don't understand why the best groupo this year is 105.

Speedee

2 years ago it was DA - when the 613 was the top bike.

Now the CAAD9 is fourth from the top.

chainzawz

105 is best groupo this year?

Speedee

I think he means the best groupo available on a CAAD9

eb314

They dropped the components/wheels on the Six13 too. They're going for the SuperSix being their top bike now, so they don't want to offer the best components on the lesser frames or it would take away from the supremecy of the Super/System six I guess.

chainzawz

Ah I see what you mean, can one buy just the CAAD9 frame?

WCroadie

Yeah you can buy the frame/fork only. That's what I would do and buy a nice DA grouppo. It's a great frame at a great price. I got one last year and can't be happier with it.

chainzawz

I would have to order this through the local dealer correct?

El Texican

What is the MSRP on the Frame/Fork. Can I buy a frame and no fork?

3MTA3

i'd ride the caad9 over many carbon bikes that are almost twice the price.

Jynx

Frame/Fork is right around $999. You can get a complete tiagra bike for around $1100. So for $100 you get wheels, tires, a complete group, bars, seatpost, saddle, ect....

I never really understood who would buy just the frame/fork new.

What is the price for people sponsored and get the team pricing for a CAAD9? Anyone that gets the team discount want to buy me a frame and I'll throw in extra for your trouble

chainzawz

wow thanks to all for the replies. I do not currently race but I will be getting this frame for racing (might even use it as my training bike to, the LeMond is nice and all but it's a pain to ride I think it handles terribly)