I had a Cannondale M300 - recreational model, not serious racing - that appeared by serial # and style to be a 1999, yet the paint job, decals and front badge were all 2000. I would imagine it is not uncommon to use leftover unsold inventory (although this was made in May 99) and slap the next year's model decals, paint, etc. on it - especially for a rec model. I contacted Cannondale, and while they have been very helpful to me for years, they really would not fess up to even doing this simple switchover. One response said "It's a 2000." Then when I countered with the other info they simply stated "It's a 99", with no real explaination for it.

I realize this is an entirely different situation than yours... but my point is.... I would definitely contact them to see how they respond. With all the corporate and manufacturing changes with Cannondale these last few years, I am also curious to know if there are any BFers who may have ever worked for Cannondale....especially "back in the day"... who are familiar with framebuilding history.

I am not a "conspiracy theorist" type person... I do understand the whole "global economy" situation that necessitates the mass production of bikes (and other things) in order for some companies to survive. However, I do think it is the right of the consumer to know the origin of anything we purchase - and I strongly believe in not only our rights but our obligations as consumers to press manufacturers (of anthing - not just bikes) for this information. After all, where would they be without us?

Good luck... I'm anxious to hear if you get any answers.