Cannondale Scalpel 3 – Lightweight and Fast XC Bike
Get ready to experience the thrill of speed!
The Cannondale Scalpel 3 takes the XC experience to the next level: with cutting-edge suspension, Proportional Response geometry, and components ready to unleash, this cross-country bike lets you dominate every trail and tackle races with maximum efficiency. Winner in XC and Marathon, the Scalpel is the ideal choice for those seeking performance, control, and lightness.
The Scalpel 3 is an XC mountain bike designed to be fast, light, and high-performing. The Series 1 carbon frame ensures stiffness and lightness, while the Shimano XT/Deore 12-speed drivetrain, RockShox SID Select suspension with remote lockout, and Stan's NoTubes Crest MK4 wheels guarantee exceptional control and smooth riding even on the most technical trails.
Perfect for
XC and Marathon: speed and precision in racing
Technical trails: superior control and traction
Demanding riders: those seeking lightness, efficiency, and reliability
Strengths
Series 1 carbon frame with FlexPivot, 120 mm travel and Proportional Response geometry
Fork RockShox SID Select 120mm, shock SIDLuxe Select+ and TwistLoc remote
Race-ready Shimano XT/Deore M6100 12-speed drivetrain
Hydraulic disc brakes Shimano Deore M6100 for maximum power and modulation
Tubeless-ready Stan's NoTubes Crest MK4 wheels with Maxxis Rekon Race and Aspen WT 2.4” tires
Cannondale DownLow dropper post
Improved travel
Not just more travel: the FlexPivot and Proportional Response suspension improve traction and control. The 120 mm travel offers fun, efficiency, and responsiveness worthy of a World Cup bike.
Race geometry
The slack head angle of 66.6°, the vertical seat angle of 75.5°, and the chainstay length proportional to the size ensure the rider's maximum balance. More power uphill, precision in corners, and confidence at high speeds.
The beauty of speed
Every detail of the Scalpel 3 is designed to maximize performance: kinematics, weight, and stiffness work together for a fast and functional experience. High performance also means a sleek and aggressive design.
Technical Specifications
Frame Kit
Frame: Scalpel, Series 1 carbon, 120mm travel, Proportional Response, FlexPivot, internal cable routing, 73mm BSA, 1.5" headtube, 148x12mm thru-axle, UDH, post-mount disc 160mm
Fork: RockShox SID Select, 120mm, DebonAir, 15x110mm, TwistLoc remote
Headset: Acros ICR
Shock absorber: RockShox SIDLuxe Select+, 190x45, remote TwistLoc
Drivetrain
Derailleur: Shimano XT
Shift levers: Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
Chain: Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
Crankset: Shimano Deore M6120, 32T
Cassette: Shimano Deore M6100, 10-51, 12 speed
Bottom bracket: Shimano BSA 73mm
Brakes
Wheels
Rims: Stan's NoTubes Crest MK4, 28h, tubeless-ready
Spokes: DT Swiss Competition Race
Tires: (F) Maxxis Rekon Race WT 29x2.4", (R) Maxxis Aspen WT 29x2.4", EXO Protection, tubeless-ready
Hubs: (F) Formula CL-811 15x110mm, (R) Shimano MT510B 12x148mm
Components
Handlebar: Cannondale 2 Flat Alloy, 31.8mm, 3° rise, 8° sweep, 760mm
Stem: Cannondale C1 Conceal Alloy, 31.8, -6°
Grips: RockShox Smooth Silicone
Saddle: Prologo Dimension NDR, STN rails
Seatpost: Cannondale DownLow Dropper, 31.6mm, 125mm (S), 150mm (M-XL)
Connectivity
Note Well
Technical specifications may change without notice depending on component availability.
Product images are purely indicative and may not exactly reflect the described features.
Discover the power, lightness, and control of the Cannondale Scalpel 3 and take your XC adventures to the next level.
Do you want to receive your bike ready for use? Don't forget to add the bike assembly service at the time of purchase! Discover all the details here: Francesconi bike assembly
A Complete Guide to Bike Sizes
Foreword: Not all bike sizes are the same
Each type of bike has a specific frame and often uses a different size scale. For example, a road bike with a 54cm frame might be considered a medium size by one brand, but a large by another.
Bicycle adjustment margins
Some types of bikes, like gravel bikes, offer a wide range of adjustments, adapting to different body types. Other models, however, have limitations in this regard. This is an important aspect to consider.
How to use size charts
We've created a simple guide to help you find the right bike size:
- Check out our size charts for each bike type.
- Learn more with specific tips to help you make the right choice.
Size Charts: Find Your Perfect Bike
Gravel and road bikes
Sizes are based on the length of the top tube (in cm), which determines the reach of the bike.
| Cut
|
Recommended height
|
Horizontal tube length
|
| XS |
Up to 157 cm |
48-50 cm |
| S |
157-167 cm |
50-53 cm |
| M |
168-178 cm |
53-56 cm |
| THE |
178-185 cm |
56-58 cm |
| XL |
Over 185cm |
58-62 cm |
For gravel, measurements may vary slightly due to different geometries, but remain similar.
Mountain bike
MTBs are measured in inches, based on the seat tube.
| Cut
|
Recommended height
|
Size (in inches)
|
| XS |
Up to 157 cm |
14"-16" |
| S |
157-167 cm |
15"-17" |
| M |
168-178 cm |
16"-19" |
| THE |
178-185 cm |
18"-20" |
| XL |
Over 185cm |
20"-23" |
Sizes also vary depending on the type of MTB: full-suspension , hardtail or fat bike .
Children's bikes
The size depends on the size of the wheels, often associated with age:
| Age
|
Wheel Size
|
| 1-3 years |
12" |
| 2-4 years |
14" |
| 4-6 years |
16" |
| 5-8 years |
20" |
| 8-10 years |
24" |
| Over 10 years |
26"/27.5" |
What to do with half measures?
If you are between two sizes:
-
Comfort : Choose the larger size.
-
Performance : Go for the smaller size.
Final tips for choosing
-
Consult the manufacturer's instructions : Always check the brand's guidelines.
-
Ask an expert : a specialized workshop can help you choose based on your height, ideal reach and goals.
-
Test the bike : If possible, test the model you intend to purchase.
