First Impression: Cannondale Rush 29 2

Editor’s note: This is one of six bikes we’ve gathered together that fall between $1,900 and $2,600. Read our introduction to see the other five and watch for our long-term reviews of each in Dirt Rag #182, due on newsstands and in mailboxes any day now. Subscribe now and you’ll never miss a bike review.

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The Rush is could be looked at as a rowdier little brother to Cannondale’s well-regarded Scalpel. The 100 mm travel 29er is may be the quintessential East Coast mountain bike—enough travel to take the edge off the rough terrain, but not enough to get in the way when dealing with the inevitable short, punchy climbs we see so much of around here.

Nothing fancy here—the rear suspension uses a basic single pivot with a swing link. A proven system and perhaps the most widely used in the industry, and a stark contrast to the Scalpel’s proprietary pivotless rear triangle.

 

The quick release axles front and rear speak to both the price ($2,170) and the cross country leanings of this bike.

Not so common anymore: the triple crank. Cold weather riding + big boots = worn logos after a few rides.

The full Shimano drivetrain and brake set-up, with a remote lockout for the fork, is perfect for when the time comes to sprint for that first World Cup podium.

While the stock tires are admittedly narrow, there is a ton of clearance on this rear end for both bigger tires and mud.

So far, I’ve had a lovely time on the 29-inch Rush, and have been impressed by how well those skinny little race tires are handling the wet trails. I did swap out the stock 120 mm stem for a 70 mm piece because, well, it is not 1995 anymore. But overall, the Rush has been a easy bike to get along with, other than relearning how to ride a triple crank.