Cannondale Scalpel 3 – Light 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 race-ready components, this cross-country bike allows you to conquer every trail and tackle races with maximum efficiency. An XC and Marathon winner, 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 a smooth ride 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, 120mm travel, and Proportional Response geometry

• RockShox SID Select 120mm fork, SIDLuxe Select+ shock, and TwistLoc remote control

• Race-ready Shimano XT/Deore M6100 12-speed drivetrain

• Shimano Deore M6100 hydraulic disc brakes for maximum power and modulation

• Stan's NoTubes Crest MK4 tubeless-ready wheels with Maxxis Rekon Race and Aspen WT 2.4” tires

• Cannondale DownLow dropper seatpost

Improved travel

Not just more travel: FlexPivot and Proportional Response suspension improve traction and control. The 120mm of travel offers fun, efficiency, and World Cup-level responsiveness.

Race geometry

The slack 66.6° head tube angle, steep 75.5° seat tube angle, and size-proportional chainstay length ensure maximum rider balance. More climbing power, cornering precision, and high-speed confidence.

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 an elegant and aggressive design.

Technical Specifications

Frameset

• 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

• Rear Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Select+, 190x45, TwistLoc remote

Drivetrain

• Rear Derailleur: Shimano XT

• Shifters: 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

• Brakes: Shimano Deore M6100, 180/160mm RT54

• Brake Levers: Shimano Deore M6100

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

• Wheel Sensor: Cannondale Wheel Sensor

Please Note

Technical specifications may be subject to change without notice based on component availability.
Product images are for illustrative purposes only 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:

1. Check out our size charts for each bike type.
2. 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.

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.

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:

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

1. Consult the manufacturer's instructions : Always check the brand's guidelines.
2. Ask an expert : a specialized workshop can help you choose based on your height, ideal reach and goals.
3. Test the bike : If possible, test the model you intend to purchase.