50yr old guy - Focus Cayo to Synapse or SuperSix?

rnath

So... the time is long overdue to swap out my old 2009 Focus Cayo for a new bike while I've still got the legs to justify a new ride and I'd like to pick up something in the sales. The Cayo has been great, and with upgraded wheels and bars has been comfortable enough, but the ride quality is fairly "neutral"/clunky and I regularly feel fairly beaten up after long rides - something I notice more as I get older.

My head says Synapse to increase comfort for my ageing bones on my typical 60-80 mile rides around Surrey and Kent, but my heart wonders if the SuperSix would be more fun. I'm in no way a racer and my rides are just about going for longer rides in the countryside with the usual climbs (White Lane, Coldharbour, Box Hill etc). I'm specifically looking at the 2018 Synapse Ultegra disc vs 2019 SuperSix Ultegra disc - and I'd be looking to swap out the seatpost for a carbon SAVE post and the wheels from Aksiums to Ksyriums. Will a Synapse be too sedate, or will the SuperSix be too aggressive/race-orientated? I'd like more comfort, but still have a smile on my face bombing around the lanes, climbing, descending etc. Any comments from current owners appreciated!

PinarelloPrince

Math, I was doing some of my best riding in my 50s (it's no age) and owned several high end road bikes and enjoyed every one of them. I've ridden the SuperSix and it's a very fine frameset. I wouldn't describe it as aggressive particularly. It'll certainly put a smile on your face. If you like Cannondale and can afford the SuperSix then get it. I'm sure you won't regret it.

indyp

I've a Supersix HM 16 and I'm two years older, and it's an absolute blast to ride fast but then it is a race bike. It has a Save seat post which needs a good amount showing to work/flex.

I also had Ksyrium Elite wheels with GP4000S tyres but did feel bit beat up after 40-50 miles. I recently changed them for 50mm carbon wheels tubeless and they have completely changed how I feel when riding; it's much comfortable and great for distance rides.

For comparison, I've a Giant Defy Advanced Pro which has similar geometry and riding position to a Synapse but it doesn't get a look in when the weather is good, and that includes longer distances.

Maybe demo both at Evans Cycles before deciding?

indyp

Should add tyres are 25mm. Not sure if newer SS model take 28mm with it being disc. something I'd think about if so

w00dster

Supersix all day long. If you go Synapse each time you see the Supersix it would be like having a really nice wife at home, but you'll be longing for that dirty stripper you met on the stag do!!
Anyway, my advice is don't go for the endurance fit just yet!
My comfy bike is actually really "nice", 32mm tyres, disc brakes, yada yada yada....But fast aggressive bikes just have that different look about, hard to explain. Just makes me want to go out and ride like I did when I was 18!
I'm back in the market myself for a new bike, Supersix is right up there on my list. But then again I could be having the cycling equivalent of a mid life crisis as the other bikes I'm tempted by are the Cannondale System Six and a Venge.

svetty

I can do all day 100+ mile rides on my SS Evo without feeling unduly beaten up by the end. Unless you slam the front end the position isn't overly aggressive but the handling is reasonably taut and it's more fun to ride than my other bikes. The rear has some compliance too.

I'm sure the Venge ViAS is much less compliant over long rides - probably great for 50 mile hammer-fests tho, the SystemSix is probably somewhere in between comfort-wise. Don't know about the newest Venge.....

sloppyschleckonds

If you are taking all day to ride 100 miles i'd go for the Synapse

singleton

I had a supersix, but am a fan of CAADs so now my summer bike is a CAAD12.
Geometry is similar to the Supersix and I'm 50 and get on fine with it.
Get what you want - you're more likely to ride it and enjoy it.

trek_dan

I used to have an older Focus Cayo and they are actually very comfortable. If you are after comfort I think a SuperSix or any other stiff racing bike is probably a downgrade. I'd be looking at Syanpse, Domane or maybe steel.

The Spiderman

Last year I had a similar thought process when looking to change from my 2010 Giant Defy advanced.

I went for the Supersix because I loved the handling and the extra zip it had. Surprisingly comfort is still very good. Whilst it’s a little more stretched out than the Defy in some ways it deals with road buzz better.

Great bike.

gary_sparrow

Supersix for sure , be careful with the sizing . Caads and supersix are tall bikes , hardly any slope so if you’re short legged you won’t have a lot of seatpost. I ride a 52 in a caad 12( same geometry as a supersix) but often a 54 in other bikes .

Incidentally anyone see any deals on supersix models ?

The Spiderman

Hargrove have the 105 Evo for £1350.
I managed to get my Supersix ultegra for £1250 last year from wheelbase.

singleton

Often lots of deals at pauls cycles.

finknottle

I am in a similar situation to you... I am 43yo and currently ride a Focus Cayo (2013 Di2) and was looking at getting a Synapse for the improved comfort but having done a test ride at the weekend I found it too relaxed and a bit boring. I spent most of the ride wishing I was on my Focus!

Interested to know what you decide to go for. I am now toying with the SuperSix or Cervelo R5.