Hi Guys:

I recently test rode a System Six equipped with Ultegra & Mavic Equipe wheels. The ride was short but I did go over some rough pavement. I didn't notice the bike to be overly comfortable as described by other members. The bike was very stable and stiff, asolutely no flex. However, I didn't feel the bike to be more comfortable than my CAAD4 frame. Am I missing something about the bike? I did find the Six13 and Synapse far more shock absorbing than the System Six or my CAAD4. Out of curiosity, when you test ride a bike, in what type of situations do you put the bike through?

Thanks,
CHL

I went from a CAAD4 (with Ksyrium SL) to a System Six (with Ksyrium ES) last year. The System Six is slightly more compliant but not what significantly noticeable unless you really try to take note. At best, I'd say it absorbs high freq vibrations 10-15% better just from my seat of the pants measure.

As far as testing, you need to use the same course (ideally one that you're familiar with), using the same wheel/tire combo would actually be good. and most importantly, have the same tire pressures!

I got the same setup for Caad7,Six13 and now System Six by far S6 is the most comfy & fast bike I've ever ridden, of course I compare it with the same route.
Can't wait until Super 6 is release ?

I've never owned a SystemSix but I test rode a demo from Cannondale (they brought their trailer with a gizzilion test bikes inside) on the route I normally ride for about six miles or so, and found the SystemSix to be ridiculously stiff on the front with no wasted effort on power transfer. More power-efficient and stable than the Six13, and it held lines better than the Six13. But I regularly ride a Six13 and immediately noticed during that test that the Six13 -- in my opinion -- absorbed the edge on bumps slightly better.

CAAD8/9, SystemSix and Six13 are all great bikes. On race day I wish I had a SystemSix. And for downhill stability I also wish I had a SystemSix. But between the SystemSix and the Six13 on long training rides, centuries, etc., I would prefer the Six13. Again, just another opinion.

I find my S6 to be fairly comfortable but it's first and foremost a race bike which will never be like riding on a magic carpet. Compared to some other bikes I've owned it's probably mid pack for comfort but I'm also a big believer that tires, tire pressure and wheels make a bigger difference than frame/fork. I've done some big training weeks on the S6 and it wasn't an issue. 20+ hours a week and it was fine, not like riding a bike with 28mm tires but plenty good for what it is.

I'd say if someone is referring to the S6 as overly comfortable some of that has to be new-bike-its but that's just me.