With the arrival of the fourth-generation Cannondale SuperSix, a new frame material called Lab71 made its debut. The initial release showcased a striking gray and pink colorway, crafted in collaboration with Rapha. This duo-tone palette is one of Rapha’s most iconic combinations—back in the day, spotting a gray-and-pink cycling jersey meant it was an exclusive piece reserved for members of the Rapha Cycling Club (RCC).
It’s a fresh and sophisticated look that carries a certain charm—a wink to elegance.
The fourth-gen SuperSix marks a significant shift for Cannondale, moving away from their long-standing BB30 and PF30 bottom brackets to adopt the BSA standard—a move many enthusiasts have applauded. Additionally, the design eliminates the head tube limit seen in the third generation, while the battery placement near the bottom bracket feels well-thought-out.
A dedicated clamp for hydraulic lines has been added to the down tube, and the bike features an eye-catching handlebar designed in partnership with Momo Design. Its riding experience mirrors that of the Tarmac SL7—an all-around performer scoring consistently around 4.5 stars across categories. At a retail price of $35,000, it remains competitive against other premium frames from international brands, though I suspect many Lab71 buyers are primarily drawn to its stunning paint job—perhaps more than its technical merits.
Now, let’s touch on a few areas where I feel improvements could be made. First, there’s the triangular-shaped steerer tube, which has sparked some debate online. While safe when installed according to the manual, the average skill level among technicians isn’t always up to par—some even claim expertise after merely tightening a few screws.
Sigh. Secondly, the original setback seatpost lacks aesthetic appeal, and adjusting the saddle angle can lead to tool interference and scuffs against the post. To address this, I swapped it out for an HY model, which not only looks better but also shaves off some weight. Laughing. The position of the seatpost clamp bolt is slightly inconvenient, and the 80mm reach on the Momo Design integrated handlebar might feel a tad too extended for some riders.
When the fourth-gen SuperSix launched, critics accused it of mimicking the Tarmac SL7. While the riding experience does bear similarities, the frame details remain distinct. In my view, Cannondale is a brand brimming with creativity, innovation, and vitality—always pushing boundaries with unique designs. Doge.
To sum it up, this is a bike that clearly reflects a lot of thoughtful consideration, particularly in its paint scheme. Buy it now!
Maeve Stephens 
Adam Stone 
Lucas Ferguson