I'm riding an '92 Cannondale right now, and looking to begin building a new ride, and am trying to decide on a frame to start with. I'm a Cannondale fan, but don't want to rule out other options. I found a 2008 Fuji SL1 Toyota United frame (same as in the picture) for $1000. I really like the look of it. I've never ridden a carbon frame before, so I'm not sure what I can expect or how it compares to an aluminum frame. I'm into triathlons also, so would like a bike that would work ok for that also, at least for now. I don't want to spend much over $1000 on a frame. What Cannondale frame would you recommend in that price range? I don't mind buying used to get more value, as long as it's in good shape. I know the CAAD9 is a fan favorite here, but does it compare to the Fuji SL1? Cannondale has so many different models now, it's kind of confusing.



Thanks for the help.

Going from Cannondale to Fuji is like going from Audi to Honda.

i would have a tough time riding a frame that says toyota or shimano, so this fuji would be completely out of the question.


in all seriousness, i have not ridden either frame, but from what i have heard and read, if i were going to build a bike today i would probably start with a caad 9

Thanks thirdgenbird. Caad 8, I guess I shouldn't expect an objective answer from somebody named Caad 8 And FWIW, I have 2 Honda's and love them.

Any other suggestions out there? I just find it hard to believe that most people would recommend a caad 9 aluminum frame over a Fuji SL1 carbon professional frame.

Just one more try to see if anybody else has any suggestions.

and exactly what do you think the Caad 9 was?

CAAD9 nicest aluminum production frame on the market

Fuji makes a damned good frame, don't listen to these snobs.

I was making the point that the Fuji SL1 is a carbon frame and the caad9 in an aluminum frame. I did not imply that the caad9 is not a professional frame. People are acting like a professional carbon Fuji frame does not compare to a caad9.

I agree. But I'm asking how it compares to the carbon Fuji SL1, regarding performance, ride, durability, etc.