Hey there from Germany. I own four Cannondales. Three of them with Leftys (F700 / Jekyll 4000 / Raven 4000) and one with the DLR80 (Scalpel). No problem so far even under hard conditions (24h races and X-Alp challenges). All forks receive regular re-greasings. But that's it. As engineer I'm not happy with the lock-out as it's done using the rebound assembly. Full lockout, high load and bumpy ride might cause the unit to fail as pressures in fluids can quickly exceed design limits of seals, discs and valves. I use the ELO of the leftys only on uphill and asphalt. Cheers .... rob
I have a cannondale bad boy ultra that I just picked up for cheap. I have the opposite problem. My shock is “locked out” no matter what way the lever is flipped.
I have a 1996 F900 with a DDR60 Headshok, it has been great with only a yearly grease of the bearings, sorry to hear of all your probs. I also have a 2010 Specialised Stump Jumper which has been great, still love my Cannondale which I use as a road bike :)
After seeing this video I'm so glad I didn't buy a Cannondale... So happy with my current bike and shocks... thanks for posting and good luck with your ongoing shock problems :(
Sorry but I can't feel sorry for someone who keeps buying bike after bike with the same damn issue. Someone is in need of an intervention. Stop buying their damn bikes!
@petsoon93 I have a trail SL 1 with a standard Headshock Fatty, I use the bike nearly every day for road and off road, So far I've had no problems, and the lock out is fully working. This is my second hardtail from cannondale and it fits like a glove, I can highly recomend getting one.
Rebuilt a headshok in a F400 last night. Super easy as long as you have the right spanner (SPA 1). Refilled it with 15-40 (what I had on hand). Works great now. I'll refill it with some non-detergent / lighter weight oil at some point.
How old are these bikes? I Was planning on buying a 2012 cannondal Flash 3 but now I got a little bit scared of buying it in case I will get unsatisfied. Thanks for posting so I/we could see the problems! Regards Kristofer
I agree completey with Brad... I will never ever purchase another Cannondale as long as I live. I had exactly the same problem as you and They even made me pay for a new assembly even after 4 weeks old! Never again!!!! Just awful!!!
I never had a problem with that shock either. It was the DLR 80's. I miss my Cannondales but have moved on to more reliable shocks. I'd still buy a Cannondale if their high end models didn't have Lefty's. Only way to not get a Lefty is to buy a cheap Cannondale which sucks.
I saved an F1000 from the bin with a Fatty D 60mm travel. The elastomer was rotten, I managed to get a replacement. I just don't like seeing any scrapped. You can service them yourself, but the question is of course if you can be bothered to buy the special tools and do it. But special standards are more hassle, and Cannondale parts are harder to get. I'm not sure I'd buy one new... especially not as it's all made in Taiwan now, like everything else... [this was is an USA made one with pretty paint]
Wow my AMP research and my sons AMP research forks are almost 20 years old other that a little cleaning and lubing there has been 0 problems. I was just looking at a lefty the other day and considering buying one but now i think ill hold off. Thank you for the information.
At this point, being the first real ride of the year, I figured I forgot to check the air pressure in the forks. So I locked out the fork. After about a mile of riding rough dirt trails the fork was compressed again...even when locked out! So again I would unlock the fork, put my foot on the front tire and extended the fork and then locked it out. Every time I did this I could smell something like the air let out of a rubber inner tube. At this point I knew the seals were done in the fork.
Circa 2006 Cannodale F3 Caffeine. (Still states "Handmade in the USA" on the bike by the way It has been a great bike.) While on a short 20 mile ride the other day I noticed my riding position was changing, looked at the down at the noticed the fork (Headshok DLR80) and saw it was fully compressed. Got of the bike and the forks stayed compressed. I could pull up on the handlebars (while holding the front tire down, fork unlocked) and the fork opened.....
I had a Taurine for a few years with mild usage never a problem. I had 2 lefties with 0 problems, if your shock failed in 1 month return it for repair but sucks you need to wait. I liked my Taurine, very smooth frame
I got a cannondale last yead and no nothing about it. Only rode 4 times. Rear shock is cane creek, looks like it takes air and two adjustment screws. Not sure how much pressure goes in? Doesnt seem something is right with it but..front head shock is all black(no red) i can adjust front ride height with it but there is totally no spring at all. Does front take air somewhere as well? If so how and how much. (P.s. I thought was like hydraulic or spring loaded) shows what i know. Thanks for any insight..
Most shocks nowadays are air with a very few coil shocks on really high end bikes. If you have a Cannondale with a Headshock, the air valve is under the bottom arch of the fork. Check out this link: www.eighty-aid.com/sites/default/files/Headshok%20DLR80%3Ared%20.pdf (Page 2 has the location of the air valve and recommended pressure by rider weight).
I’ve owned an orange F900 Cannondale since the late 90’s and the head shock has never been serviced and is faultless - lockout works perfectly. I guess the older units had better build quality. My only complaint stems from the fact that the Irish Cannondale distributor has no interest in servicing the fork - suggested that there were a couple of specialists in the UK and Amsterdam who could . My bike has had reasonable use both on fire trails and road for the initial 10-15 years but light road use in the last 10 years. So it’s not all bad news.
Took the bike home, flipped it upside-down. Took off the front tire to access the schrader valve and noticed some oil around the cup at the bottom of the fork around the valve. Filled the fork with air. Within minutes, leaked out the air. Now I have a problem....should I spend the money on a repair kit...or convert the fork to other brand?
Thanks for the very good and tested information. I was about to buy one cannon date 4 with fatty single head tube fork. Now i am pretty sure, i am not going to get it, instead will install FOX. Thanks so much again, Brad!
Thanks for posting this video! I have a 2001 Cannonade Jekyll with super fatty fork. It seeps oil out the bottom but still works great. I also have a Specialized Epic with Fox Forx Float 100 RL and it locks 100%
I have a 1998 f400 and I've never serviced the head shock once. When I originally got it I had the Cannondale dealership put an adjustable air shock and take the spring off. However today this air shock will only hold are in the summer in the winter there's no way it holds air. Also the five different adjustments that used to do a bit of difference don't do any difference anymore. I'm looking to get the original shocked that they gave me back installed back in. Finding someone to do this is near impossible.. it is 2024 April now.
Invest in the castle tool and service your self. However, before you do that, just replace the valve inner 1st. I did a partial service on mine (DLR80, 2008), replaced all 'O' rings, suspension oil, 10W as opposed to the 5W that cannondale use, and it works fine. It does take some balls to do, but if you take photos and notes as you go along, it isn't beyond anyone who has basic skills. If you need a walk through, I'll post one.
Hi, my shock seems to me too soft. It moves so fast that it bounces back when you remove your body weight from the handlebars. Along the ride, the knockings are very disturbing. It looks like either the oil level has dropped or the viscosity is too thin. Have you ever measured the volume of the oil that is required to fill the shock absorber up? Also how much pressure you put in it? I'm 75 kg's and pump it up to 110 PSI. When I have assembled to dial adjuster, it was locking but after approximately 1000 km's it doesn't lock out nor it's stiffness vary. It looks just an air spring. Thank you for sharing your valuable information with us.
I have a 1995 F700 with a shock that's only been rebuilt once. My wife has a 2001 F600 with original headshock. So I've been sold on Cannondale's system. Hate like hell you've had such problems. Hope they've been rectified.
Santa Cruz with Fox at 6:55 had almost completely stiff lockout, guy put his whole weight on it and it barely gave in. Why would you need a stiffer fork?
Totally agree iwth you! I switched to Specialized Epics and LOVE THEM. Best fitting bikes I've ever owned. Every Cannondale I ever had, I switched out the stem and bars for something else. The Specialized, I put the stem (which has an insert that can be flipped to give you different angles) to the highest rise and that was the only think I changed. Also the brain shock is the only bike that truly gives you full suspension with the efficiency of a hardtail.
I suppose, after having researched a bit on the web today and learning how prevalent this problem is, I must have been pretty lucky and got a set of headshok forks that were actually, unusual and, reliable. Realised about a year ago that they were down on air pressure and pumped them up. They lost pressure over the next month (Sept thru Oct) so pumped up again. Then from Oct. thru April (during the cold months) they held pressure but have recently started losing it at a much quicker rate.
I recently got a second hand 2005/6 (05 serial number) f700 sl with the dlr80 your showing and it had been unused until 2014 (owner was ill then died :( ). Love the bike (almost as light as my carbon adorned rigid felt) but it just wont hold pressure for too long. Seems OK ish in cold but in the heat atm it looses it. Think due to its age are the seals perished?
If you like 100% lock out then get a full rigid. The lockout keeps the fork from moving while you're pedaling and they don't move much other than that. If they didn't move at all they would break, maybe that's why the headshoks break so much.
Your problem sounds like the seals, which is something I never had trouble with. Does your fork have the red inner rebound adjustment at the top? If it doesn't, then I'd get it repaired because I found those to be reliable. If it does, then you have something that in my experience fails a lot and I'd replace it with a conventional fork. It'll be expensive. Cane creek makes a reducing headset. I'll make a video real soon and show what I've done.
I bought a F500, about 17 years ago. Its headshock after 4 years was out of service Terrible performance. However, I still keep the frame, it is marvelous and I am just close to painting it, and so far this is only piece that I keep from the original bike.
As a Cannondale RIZE CARBON & Cannondale Bad Boy owner. I also have problems about lockout. About 7or 8 months ago, my cannondale rize carbon fork lock also failed. Because it is 2009 model, I repaired it by myself, but i wonder if it can last one or two years? and my cannondale bad boy also have lock problem. I really like lefty and fatty shock, but cannondale must pay more attention on it to keep it working!
Specialized are the best. Offer a huge range from great and cheap starters with good componants to proffesional extreame cyclist bikes.Im on my first Specialized its a Hardrock Sport Disk 2012 and its great. I know i will be with the Specialized brand for a long time to come now !
I never had problems with headshocks till they added the red rebound adjuster knob which I don't think you have... I could go years without even putting air in the old shocks.
Ha - good luck, Cannondale has seen the video and has never done anything to fix their shocks. Cane Creek makes a headset reducer which let's you put a normal 1-1/8" shock on your bike. I'm going to make a video showing that soon. Maybe I'll try to get it out today.
I have a F500 and i bought it in 1998. I havent done enything with my head shock and it works fine after all this years. Maybe it´s another suspension than the one in the film. Some years it have done a lot of kilometers with a average of maybe 500 - 2000km/year. Should i be worried?
I wish the engineers at cannondale could see this. Great video. BTW I have an 02 F700 with a 60mm Fatty D, and believe it or not it still works to this day and lockout is perfect. I guess I'm the exception.
My dad's headshok lasted 17 years without having it rebuilt and I have only had to rebuild my headshok once since I bought it 4 years ago and cannondale rebuilt mine under warranty.
I guess I must be one of the lucky ones with a 2006 F800 with over 26,000 miles on the frame and no cracks or problems. I had a air leak problem with the dlr2 that came with the bike acouple years after I bought it but a quick trip to the dealer and the rep fixed it no problem. I now have the 2010 carbon sl model I traded my old one in for and no problems. I sent it to mendone cycles in New york and the guy their upgraded my air chamber and replaced my needle races with new ones no problems.
This video is why I spent the extra cash back in 2006 and got the F800 with lefty front fork instead. Unlike this fork which has always been junk the lefty only gave me trouble once two years after I bought it with not holding air. A simple trip to the bike shop where I bought it and the cannondale rep replaced a small part inside of it and did a oil chainge in less than a hour and good as new. I now have a 2010 carbon sl I traded my old one in for and it's been flawless since last year.
@3Rbmxer I can agree with you there, but... my much older headshocks with lockout would work for years without service. eventually, they'd get cruddy - the slides would - and i'd have to get them serviced to bring back the nice smooth feel, but actual failures were very rare, in fact, I can't remember if I actually ever had a failure.... unlike the versions with rebound adjustment - which fail like clockwork.
LOL... Yeh - I know... I bought a Specialized Epic last Fall and LOVE IT. I've been slowly selling off all my Cannondale's except one which I converted to a rigid bike. One of my Taurine frames cracked (or more accurately came unglued). Seems like durability isn't something Cannondale worries about.
Hey I recently bought a cannondale f4 caffeine from my cousin, I'm having trouble finding what year it is exactly, but I guess the question I have is what year is the bike in the video and how to I go about removing the shock so I can get a replacment, I like the the bike its self but not to hot about the headshok. And do you know of any compatible forks that would fit it?????
Hi Brad. I have a vintage'93 delta V with a head shock.It's dead of course and I want to replace the shock.Thanks for the video.For the money you could have tried your nearest college with a mechanical engineering school and asked them to find out why the shock failed and to offer possible solutions.You would at least have answers. I have owned 4 vintage made in USA cannondales and I love them but am bothered by the current quality issues.
not an issue with leftys. My friend had one for 3 years and never had to service it once. I just got mine and it works perfectly but I dont have lockout on mine. So besides the lockout issue with yours the rebound isnt working either? Thats so annoying. I hope they fix the problem.
I am a Cannondale-bikefan since 1992. I have had Headshock, but ride Lefty since about 4 years now. Big difference, much better performance, less problems. However, when there is a problem, Cannondale Corp is like banks and insurancecompanies, they are not there for you, but for themselve, customers are a pain in the a..
Correct, mine doesn't have a rebound adjuster. The only downside is that it only has 60mm of Are the newer shocks smooth or do they still make that squishy brearing sound?
I still ride my 2009 F4 Caffeine with Headshok Ultra Fatty. No maintenance on the shock, I just ride. This is July 2019. Maybe its the type of riding people do. Its a cross country trail bike not a Down Hill racer or Dirt jump bike.
If your friends who do not get their forks serviced run into a problem later down the road, the company would not have to warranty anything since they did not follow the specified service plan for their forks. If you never change your cars oil because your car is driving fine and nobody originally told you you have to change it regularly, do you think that car company will warranty your engine when it seizes?
I just bought the F3 lefty and I got some problems with the fork, some noises stared and I don't like... then I bought a SL3 for my girlfriend and it got a frame fracture... I really don't know what will happened with cannon´s reputation. So I will back to my old Giant´s bike with 11 years old and works better!!
Have the same problem, head shox or lefty are good but they broke in 2 months, what i do becouse cannondale bike are good for me i buy a rock shox or fox shox and i put it in the cannondale frame,
I got two years out of my Headshock, then same exact problem... The worst part about it is Headshocks need rebuilt by Cdale/shops because of special tools. I can rebuild my RockShox in my garage, no issue.
@zzkokko You should see what I did! Took a carbon fiber Flash (26" wheels) and put a Niner (29") carbon fiber fork on it. I should make a video. It's awesome. 20lbs. Ideal for dirt road riding. I'll try to make a video in a few days. Measure a rigid 29er fork compared to your headshock fork and get a cane creek headset reducer from 1.5" to 1 1/8" and you'll be good. Or - if you could, leave the headshock outside all winter and it might rust in place.
Oh! Brad, I am French, and I like Cannondale (I had a Caad), I ordered a kinneto Headshok 2014 ... after hesitating between it and the rigid ... Should I expect the worst?
Hopefully they've fixed the design, but who knows. I got ride of all mine so no idea what they're up to now. Plus I think it depends on how much you ride. I ride a lot.
Brad Herder I hope so! They don't communicate sufficient about this fork, they make just publicity; yet they know the problems ... I did not know before seeing your video. Thanks!
Other issues: 1/ rigid (with bigger tires) can it do the work of a suspension fork on dirt roads? and 2 / if headshok is blocked, does it work as a rigid fork on asphalt? Thanks!
If you lockout the headshock it is just like a rigid bike on pavement. That was the best part of them. I actually tried rigid but it was too harsh in the woods. I'm riding Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Hard Tail now with a Rock Shox fork which has been super reliable. Also have a Specialized Epic with brain in the rear which is WORSE THAN Cannondale's Headshock as far as reliability goes.
@bradtube1 So you mean that it shouldn't be any problems with a 2012 since they've fixed the problem? Hope I did understand you right :) Specialixed makes great bikes but cannondale flash 3 look great!
I'm actually in the market for a new suspension fork. Just out of curiosity, how much are you looking to get for your 80mm DLRs? I know in your video you said you were having constant problems, but are they functional?
Brad, Cannondale headshox and lefty forks are some the smoothest and stiffest shocks out in the market, period. ALL suspension needs to be serviced at regular intervals, if you were to read in ANY of there manuals, they would tell you this. If you are running your shocks locked out and that is when they are failing, then it is your fault.
You made a Wonderful Work! I bought 4 years ago a cannondale and the fork is my only source of frustration. I would Kille them! But I love my bike for many reasons! Anyway again. Great Work!
Well what I know is that the lockout is only when you are going uphill. So you are not bouncing when pedaling hard. It is NOT to make the fork rigid and thinking you have a solid fork. If you lockout and force it you can brake the mechanism inside. Thats why forks like the Fox 6:53 does not lock out to 100% to prevent any damage.
Problem solvers makes a headset reducer. You can then use a standard fork. That's what I did to one of my bikes. Sold the rest, bought Specialized Epic which I LOVE.
I got a B..E..A..Uuuutiful Retro (disk and Vee)Cannondale F1000 frame (black into silver into white with orange and black branding and decals) I'm gonna make up with Top notch new carbon fibre components,gears,crank,stem,bars,forks ALL Carbon.. dunno about wheels..Thinking crossmax's.. Gonna be freakin a Ri-donkulousley light city bike! Just thought I'd mention my plans but if any of You'z lot have any suggestions or any good ideas for Her..Por Favor!..LEMME KNO 🙃
Does anyone know how to replace the Cannondale F4 DLR with a lefty. Is it a direct conversion or no? I know that I'd have to get a new wheel, but is a head tube converter needed?
@3Rbmxer I primarily lock out my shock when climbing on dirt or paved roads where I want to stand up. I always unlock the shock on downhills and in the woods. One of my most recent failures, I was riding down a dirt road with the shock unlocked and it turned into a pogo stick - no rebound dampening. If you can't use lockout, why'd they put it on there?
that's cool how you interview these ppl that give up riding time for your video and then you shitted all over and around their bike for not "fully locking out" (smthng no one I've ever met has cared about enough to bring it up) . I bet they are eager to go riding with you again real soon!
Hi. I have a cannondale 1FG. My headshok bit the dust and because of all the complaints I've read about the the headshok I decided not to rebuild it. Does anyone have experience with the conversion kits?
I have a Marzocchi bomber z1 from 1997. Still working perfectly. Only has new seals and one oil change. Super robust. You can buy one at Dr. Marzocchi. Doesn’t have lockout. I can adjust the springs super stiff in a few seconds, which is close enough for me to lock out. Not the cheap crap that has to be rebuilt all the time. shocks where always crap. Cannondale shocks have been. Rap from day one . Everybody knows that. What’s new here. I also have a Killer v Cannondale. Works well with a Marzocchi fork from 1995. And a Jamis Dakar from 1997. With the Marzocchi bomber z1 from 1997. Clearly better than Cannondale.
Headshock and leftys are not designed to be ridden locked out and to take hits at the same time, this is how they fail. if you want to run a fork locked out on the trail then you need to ride a different brand fork. The reason other brands do not fully lock out is so that they dont fail while being locked out, they are designed to allow the fork to blow through the lockout if needed, thus saving the internals.
This is an old video but maybe peeps will see. I'm just about to sell my 2005 Cannondale F400 feminine (upgraded to Can. synapse road bike) It's served me very very well as only been using on roads, however - a Big However, the suspension broke about three months after I purchased the bike.... Same sh+t. The place i bought the bike from said they would have to order replacement from the States at a cost of 250 aussie dollars. Whatever! So, it's stayed in collapsed mode for around 8 years. The rest of the bike is fine. Any guestimates on how much I could sell this bike with the collapsed suspension?
Yep, I have 4 Cannondales, and all their headshocks and leftys have gone after only a little use. Typically I have to service them after about 30 rides so I don't get much 'wear for the money'. I now see they've discontinued the headshock and replaced the whole lefty design. That leaves us mugs that bought earlier bikes unsupported and unloved. I love Cannondales but they really try my patience. I even invested in shares a while back, to see the company go bankrupt chasing false hopes of a motorbike division. I see the ex-CEO now farming himself out as a lead business consultant. Good luck with that.
@@bmo5906 Well no, the lockout just means that it won't lock rigid, that is, it will always be in dampening mode. But if you ride it off a cliff, then yes you would probably die.
If you want a fork that you can lockout on smooth terrain and have the stiffest fork possible, then ride a cannondale. If you have a high end lefty you will not ever need to lock out your fork on the trail. they have rebound, damping and compression settings for a reason.
Have had the bike, a Bad Boy Ultra, since summer of '09 and it is used as a commuter/training bike so has seen a bit over 16,000 kilometres of, mostly, paved road use. Contemplating just cutting a piece of plastic pipe to use as a spacer for permanent lock-out. Maybe even use a bit of 1/2 inch thick rubber at either end for a little shock absorption to lessen wear and tear. Any thoughts as to how wise/unwise this plan of action might be??
@borri68 I don't anymore... I sold a couple bikes, converted a couple to 100% rigid by putting Niner 29er carbon fiber forks on them. Just one bike left with a headshok, which is the bike I gave to my father-in-law awhile ago... don't really want to sell it on him. Now I have a Specialized Epic with front and rear brain shocks - so far - no problems.
manitou forks have 100% lockout, they are relatively cheap, and very reliable, I own skareb, in perfect condition, 10+ years and still working perfectly ;) now I bought minute and I love the abs+ damper, it's just awesome :D
I have a new bike - Rocky Mountain Sherpa - with a Manitou fork which is awesome. Not quite 100% lockout, but has a great feel. I've been wondering what ABS+ stands for.
it stand for absolute plus, it has shim stack based lockout (blow off), for me it's 100% lockout, when I ride it doesn't move, but when I hit an obstacle, it works like it was not locked up, I love it :D you can modify the shim stack by removing the top portion of the damper (you just unscrew it and take out, be careful not to spill too much oil or you will have to refill it ;)
This is my new bike: www.bikes.com/en/bikes/sherpa/2016 has a Manitou Magnum www.manitoumtb.com/products/forks/magnum/. It has a great feel to it, better than any fork I've ever had.
Skareb is heavy? Lol what you smokin bro ;) skareb weights about 1400 grams (mine was 1430) with alu steerer, headstock is still better, and lighter because skareb is not as stiff, but still- skareb is more reliable (at least looking by the opinions) my skareb was working perfectly for 10 years, without any service, then I looked inside and the oil was at low amount, but still perfectly clean, so I just added some and continued riding, now I have minute and it's even better (abs+ damper, and stiffer)
I love Canndondale as well. My F600 head shock died and I found this doing some research on replacing and repairing. It seems like Cannondale no longer makes the part. WTF?? I realize it's a 17 yr old bike but with Cannondale you are stuck having to replace with Cannondale parts. I'm thinking of salvaging my beloved F600 and going with Specialized or Giant.
You can put a standard fork on - my local bike shop got a headset reducer and installed it. ruclips.net/video/pwpLxVxAS90/видео.html A friend of mine just last month did the same with his F600 - put a cheap Manitou fork on it.
Thanks Brad. How much did that set your friend back? I asked a local bike shop and they scoffed at me - in quote - "It's way more $ than you will want to invest in this bike." I get his point and of course he is looking to make a sale on a new bike but I a guessing it will be somewhere around 400 bucks(on the low end). Most of the bike shops around me have the same strategy - quote you a ridiculous price on a repair and push their new bikes on you.
I hate to say it, but this Brad is a bit silly....why would he purchase one, let alone six (6) bikes with the same problematic shock? Seems like a bit of a glutton for punishment, if you ask me. If you don't like the way something is designed or works, would you go out and buy 6 more of them? The letter from Cannondale, especially regarding the retail price of the shock is simply to say "we covered it under warranty, but here's the value to you..." If they replaced your shock, nothing to get pissy about. Sounds like Brad is a bit of a whiner?
Ron Galvin They ride so nice road or dirt. I've never had a problem with mine even with several thousand miles the only problem I've had was some jackass fiddled with the adjuster and lost the dial.
lambanmartyr NO He is not... Cannondale really are terrible .. no customer service. One month of use and they say that it is normal wear and tear. I did not even use it off road before the shock collapsed and would not fill with air. KRAP ENGINEERING! I had to pay for the repair and it took 2 months to get my bike back. The forks are very good when they work and I can see why Brad likes them BUT I agree that Brad shouldn't have kept on buying Cannondales after his first breakdown. I certainly will never ever buy Cannondale branded stuff again. HOW CAN WE GET THIS TO GO VIRAL AND GET OUR BIKES SORTED AND RUNNING? THEN WE WOULD ALL GO OUT AND BUY ANOTHER CANNONDALE WHEN WE LIKE TO BUY A NEW ONE AND ALSO TELL OUR FRIENDS ABOUT HOW GOOD THEY ARE BUT UNTIL THEN CANNONDALE STINK!
+Iain Cameron Most Cannondale Bike suppliers have stopped importing and selling Cannondale Bikes here in Berlin Germany due to their Crappy Customer Service
I was 53 probably when that video was made, look at the people I ride with, there's no jumping or hucking, but we do a lot of 2 mile long climbs with 2-3 mile continuous descents as fast as I can go. I lock out only on dirt and paved road climbs. My wife, who never rides in the woods, just dirt roads and paved roads has had hers crap out too. Oh - and yeh - I'm heavy, but my wife is 110 lbs. It takes her a lot longer to blow hers out (like 2 years) but she mostly runs, I ride every day.
@theagk19781 The look of the C. Flash 3 2012 really speaks to me, since I love white and green in combination! Love the look the bike gets by the fatty fork too! But i really have to consider buying this, since I'm thinking of buying a Scott spark 70... Thank you for your good respons and may be a good idea to contact cannondale themselves, to get another (probably more of a partial) view.
Hey mate I know its a long time since you put this video up but I'm from New zealand looking for a shorter stem for my headshok and was wondering if you have any that I could buy off you and you could ship here? Cheers
My dad has a super v with the original shock. The shock shit the bed sooo he had a brand new one put on. A month after he got it the lockout and rebound stopped working. Also the travel is not smooth. Alreadyyyyyyy needs a rebuild. It's honestly annoying.
You could replace his headshock with a regular suspension fork. Probably could get a 80mm or 100mm suspension fork and use a Cane Creek Headshock Reducer: Cannondale Headshock Solutions
BTW - I have had ZERO problems with Rockshock Forks. My friends with Rockshock forks have experienced similar good luck - over time, they will need some maintenance but you can get years out of them without doing any and they don't fail, they just get crudded up and don't work as well - at least that's been my recent experience with Rockshock forks! Just an idea. Forks cost a boat load nowadays, but maybe you can find an older 100mm on ebay or something.
@petsoon93 2008 and earlier, but shocks bought in 2010 failed in 2011. i'd stay away from headshocks at all cost. i got a specialized epic expert which is no where near as light being full suspension and all but has front and rear brain shocks which work great so far. i had a taurine frame seperate at the rear axle - cannondale replaced it with a flash frame - very very light. i built it up as a rigid bike for dirt roads though.
Hey there from Germany. I own four Cannondales. Three of them with Leftys (F700 / Jekyll 4000 / Raven 4000) and one with the DLR80 (Scalpel). No problem so far even under hard conditions (24h races and X-Alp challenges). All forks receive regular re-greasings. But that's it. As engineer I'm not happy with the lock-out as it's done using the rebound assembly. Full lockout, high load and bumpy ride might cause the unit to fail as pressures in fluids can quickly exceed design limits of seals, discs and valves. I use the ELO of the leftys only on uphill and asphalt. Cheers .... rob
Wo in Deutschland?
I have a cannondale bad boy ultra that I just picked up for cheap. I have the opposite problem. My shock is “locked out” no matter what way the lever is flipped.
Same problem hier. Could you repair it or you had to replace it?
I have a 1996 F900 with a DDR60 Headshok, it has been great with only a yearly grease of the bearings, sorry to hear of all your probs. I also have a 2010 Specialised Stump Jumper which has been great, still love my Cannondale which I use as a road bike :)
After seeing this video I'm so glad I didn't buy a Cannondale... So happy with my current bike and shocks... thanks for posting and good luck with your ongoing shock problems :(
what bike is it you are glad you chose over cannondale?
Sorry but I can't feel sorry for someone who keeps buying bike after bike with the same damn issue. Someone is in need of an intervention. Stop buying their damn bikes!
@petsoon93 I have a trail SL 1 with a standard Headshock Fatty, I use the bike nearly every day for road and off road, So far I've had no problems, and the lock out is fully working. This is my second hardtail from cannondale and it fits like a glove, I can highly recomend getting one.
Rebuilt a headshok in a F400 last night. Super easy as long as you have the right spanner (SPA 1). Refilled it with 15-40 (what I had on hand). Works great now. I'll refill it with some non-detergent / lighter weight oil at some point.
How old are these bikes? I Was planning on buying a 2012 cannondal Flash 3 but now I got a little bit scared of buying it in case I will get unsatisfied. Thanks for posting so I/we could see the problems!
Regards
Kristofer
I agree completey with Brad... I will never ever purchase another Cannondale as long as I live. I had exactly the same problem as you and They even made me pay for a new assembly even after 4 weeks old! Never again!!!! Just awful!!!
I've had a cannondale f500 with MC 60 headshok for twenty years with no problems at all
the forks need serviceing every twenty hours
I never had a problem with that shock either. It was the DLR 80's. I miss my Cannondales but have moved on to more reliable shocks. I'd still buy a Cannondale if their high end models didn't have Lefty's. Only way to not get a Lefty is to buy a cheap Cannondale which sucks.
I saved an F1000 from the bin with a Fatty D 60mm travel. The elastomer was rotten, I managed to get a replacement. I just don't like seeing any scrapped. You can service them yourself, but the question is of course if you can be bothered to buy the special tools and do it. But special standards are more hassle, and Cannondale parts are harder to get. I'm not sure I'd buy one new... especially not as it's all made in Taiwan now, like everything else... [this was is an USA made one with pretty paint]
Wow my AMP research and my sons AMP research forks are almost 20 years old other that a little cleaning and lubing there has been 0 problems. I was just looking at a lefty the other day and considering buying one but now i think ill hold off. Thank you for the information.
At this point, being the first real ride of the year, I figured I forgot to check the air pressure in the forks. So I locked out the fork. After about a mile of riding rough dirt trails the fork was compressed again...even when locked out! So again I would unlock the fork, put my foot on the front tire and extended the fork and then locked it out. Every time I did this I could smell something like the air let out of a rubber inner tube. At this point I knew the seals were done in the fork.
Circa 2006 Cannodale F3 Caffeine. (Still states "Handmade in the USA" on the bike by the way It has been a great bike.) While on a short 20 mile ride the other day I noticed my riding position was changing, looked at the down at the noticed the fork (Headshok DLR80) and saw it was fully compressed. Got of the bike and the forks stayed compressed. I could pull up on the handlebars (while holding the front tire down, fork unlocked) and the fork opened.....
I had a Taurine for a few years with mild usage never a problem. I had 2 lefties with 0 problems, if your shock failed in 1 month return it for repair but sucks you need to wait. I liked my Taurine, very smooth frame
I got a cannondale last yead and no nothing about it. Only rode 4 times. Rear shock is cane creek, looks like it takes air and two adjustment screws. Not sure how much pressure goes in? Doesnt seem something is right with it but..front head shock is all black(no red) i can adjust front ride height with it but there is totally no spring at all. Does front take air somewhere as well? If so how and how much. (P.s. I thought was like hydraulic or spring loaded) shows what i know. Thanks for any insight..
Most shocks nowadays are air with a very few coil shocks on really high end bikes. If you have a Cannondale with a Headshock, the air valve is under the bottom arch of the fork. Check out this link: www.eighty-aid.com/sites/default/files/Headshok%20DLR80%3Ared%20.pdf (Page 2 has the location of the air valve and recommended pressure by rider weight).
I’ve owned an orange F900 Cannondale since the late 90’s and the head shock has never been serviced and is faultless - lockout works perfectly. I guess the older units had better build quality. My only complaint stems from the fact that the Irish Cannondale distributor has no interest in servicing the fork - suggested that there were a couple of specialists in the UK and Amsterdam who could . My bike has had reasonable use both on fire trails and road for the initial 10-15 years but light road use in the last 10 years. So it’s not all bad news.
Had an f700, never had problems with the shock. Have an f3 cafinee, also have had many problems with the headshock
Took the bike home, flipped it upside-down. Took off the front tire to access the schrader valve and noticed some oil around the cup at the bottom of the fork around the valve. Filled the fork with air. Within minutes, leaked out the air. Now I have a problem....should I spend the money on a repair kit...or convert the fork to other brand?
Thanks for the very good and tested information. I was about to buy one cannon date 4 with fatty single head tube fork. Now i am pretty sure, i am not going to get it, instead will install FOX. Thanks so much again, Brad!
Thanks for posting this video! I have a 2001 Cannonade Jekyll with super fatty fork. It seeps oil out the bottom but still works great. I also have a Specialized Epic with Fox Forx Float 100 RL and it locks 100%
I have a 1998 f400 and I've never serviced the head shock once. When I originally got it I had the Cannondale dealership put an adjustable air shock and take the spring off. However today this air shock will only hold are in the summer in the winter there's no way it holds air. Also the five different adjustments that used to do a bit of difference don't do any difference anymore. I'm looking to get the original shocked that they gave me back installed back in. Finding someone to do this is near impossible.. it is 2024 April now.
Thanks for the video .
I’m having same issue .
Invest in the castle tool and service your self. However, before you do that, just replace the valve inner 1st. I did a partial service on mine (DLR80, 2008), replaced all 'O' rings, suspension oil, 10W as opposed to the 5W that cannondale use, and it works fine. It does take some balls to do, but if you take photos and notes as you go along, it isn't beyond anyone who has basic skills. If you need a walk through, I'll post one.
Hi, my shock seems to me too soft. It moves so fast that it bounces back when you remove your body weight from the handlebars. Along the ride, the knockings are very disturbing. It looks like either the oil level has dropped or the viscosity is too thin. Have you ever measured the volume of the oil that is required to fill the shock absorber up? Also how much pressure you put in it? I'm 75 kg's and pump it up to 110 PSI. When I have assembled to dial adjuster, it was locking but after approximately 1000 km's it doesn't lock out nor it's stiffness vary. It looks just an air spring. Thank you for sharing your valuable information with us.
I have a 1995 F700 with a shock that's only been rebuilt once. My wife has a 2001 F600 with original headshock. So I've been sold on Cannondale's system. Hate like hell you've had such problems. Hope they've been rectified.
Santa Cruz with Fox at 6:55 had almost completely stiff lockout, guy put his whole weight on it and it barely gave in. Why would you need a stiffer fork?
Totally agree iwth you! I switched to Specialized Epics and LOVE THEM. Best fitting bikes I've ever owned. Every Cannondale I ever had, I switched out the stem and bars for something else. The Specialized, I put the stem (which has an insert that can be flipped to give you different angles) to the highest rise and that was the only think I changed. Also the brain shock is the only bike that truly gives you full suspension with the efficiency of a hardtail.
I suppose, after having researched a bit on the web today and learning how prevalent this problem is, I must have been pretty lucky and got a set of headshok forks that were actually, unusual and, reliable. Realised about a year ago that they were down on air pressure and pumped them up. They lost pressure over the next month (Sept thru Oct) so pumped up again. Then from Oct. thru April (during the cold months) they held pressure but have recently started losing it at a much quicker rate.
I recently got a second hand 2005/6 (05 serial number) f700 sl with the dlr80 your showing and it had been unused until 2014 (owner was ill then died :( ). Love the bike (almost as light as my carbon adorned rigid felt) but it just wont hold pressure for too long. Seems OK ish in cold but in the heat atm it looses it. Think due to its age are the seals perished?
If you like 100% lock out then get a full rigid. The lockout keeps the fork from moving while you're pedaling and they don't move much other than that. If they didn't move at all they would break, maybe that's why the headshoks break so much.
Your problem sounds like the seals, which is something I never had trouble with. Does your fork have the red inner rebound adjustment at the top? If it doesn't, then I'd get it repaired because I found those to be reliable. If it does, then you have something that in my experience fails a lot and I'd replace it with a conventional fork. It'll be expensive. Cane creek makes a reducing headset. I'll make a video real soon and show what I've done.
Has there been a solution to these problematic shocks? Recalls?
Is it possible to put a different fork/shock?
I bought a F500, about 17 years ago. Its headshock after 4 years was out of service Terrible performance. However, I still keep the frame, it is marvelous and I am just close to painting it, and so far this is only piece that I keep from the original bike.
As a Cannondale RIZE CARBON & Cannondale Bad Boy owner. I also have problems about lockout. About 7or 8 months ago, my cannondale rize carbon fork lock also failed. Because it is 2009 model, I repaired it by myself, but i wonder if it can last one or two years? and my cannondale bad boy also have lock problem. I really like lefty and fatty shock, but cannondale must pay more attention on it to keep it working!
Specialized are the best. Offer a huge range from great and cheap starters with good componants to proffesional extreame cyclist bikes.Im on my first Specialized its a Hardrock Sport Disk 2012 and its great. I know i will be with the Specialized brand for a long time to come now !
Brad, I have the same problem, I want to change the bicycle fork, is it possible?, if you understand how to do it you tell me.
Here's what my local bike shop did for me: ruclips.net/video/pwpLxVxAS90/видео.html
I never had problems with headshocks till they added the red rebound adjuster knob which I don't think you have... I could go years without even putting air in the old shocks.
Ha - good luck, Cannondale has seen the video and has never done anything to fix their shocks. Cane Creek makes a headset reducer which let's you put a normal 1-1/8" shock on your bike. I'm going to make a video showing that soon. Maybe I'll try to get it out today.
Cannondale has got no problem!
It is only the customer's problem! :D
REGARDS FROM GERMANY.
I have a F500 and i bought it in 1998. I havent done enything with my head shock and it works fine after all this years. Maybe it´s another suspension than the one in the film. Some years it have done a lot of kilometers with a average of maybe 500 - 2000km/year. Should i be worried?
They were good for 30 years and only now is there a cronic problem and mine just failed too. I've been riding them that long too.
I wish the engineers at cannondale could see this. Great video. BTW I have an 02 F700 with a 60mm Fatty D, and believe it or not it still works to this day and lockout is perfect. I guess I'm the exception.
My dad's headshok lasted 17 years without having it rebuilt and I have only had to rebuild my headshok once since I bought it 4 years ago and cannondale rebuilt mine under warranty.
I guess I must be one of the lucky ones with a 2006 F800 with over 26,000 miles on the frame and no cracks or problems. I had a air leak problem with the dlr2 that came with the bike acouple years after I bought it but a quick trip to the dealer and the rep fixed it no problem. I now have the 2010 carbon sl model I traded my old one in for and no problems. I sent it to mendone cycles in New york and the guy their upgraded my air chamber and replaced my needle races with new ones no problems.
Need a video on replacing the fork on a Cannondale Head Shox with a standard Dual Shox fork.
Time to start using Lefty instead. I have 2 Lefty Dales and they are amazing!
This video is why I spent the extra cash back in 2006 and got the F800 with lefty front fork instead. Unlike this fork which has always been junk the lefty only gave me trouble once two years after I bought it with not holding air. A simple trip to the bike shop where I bought it and the cannondale rep replaced a small part inside of it and did a oil chainge in less than a hour and good as new. I now have a 2010 carbon sl I traded my old one in for and it's been flawless since last year.
@3Rbmxer I can agree with you there, but... my much older headshocks with lockout would work for years without service. eventually, they'd get cruddy - the slides would - and i'd have to get them serviced to bring back the nice smooth feel, but actual failures were very rare, in fact, I can't remember if I actually ever had a failure.... unlike the versions with rebound adjustment - which fail like clockwork.
LOL... Yeh - I know... I bought a Specialized Epic last Fall and LOVE IT. I've been slowly selling off all my Cannondale's except one which I converted to a rigid bike. One of my Taurine frames cracked (or more accurately came unglued). Seems like durability isn't something Cannondale worries about.
Hey I recently bought a cannondale f4 caffeine from my cousin, I'm having trouble finding what year it is exactly, but I guess the question I have is what year is the bike in the video and how to I go about removing the shock so I can get a replacment, I like the the bike its self but not to hot about the headshok. And do you know of any compatible forks that would fit it?????
Hi Brad. I have a vintage'93 delta V with a head shock.It's dead of course and I want to replace the shock.Thanks for the video.For the money you could have tried your nearest college with a mechanical engineering school and asked them to find out why the shock failed and to offer possible solutions.You would at least have answers. I have owned 4 vintage made in USA cannondales and I love them but am bothered by the current quality issues.
not an issue with leftys. My friend had one for 3 years and never had to service it once. I just got mine and it works perfectly but I dont have lockout on mine. So besides the lockout issue with yours the rebound isnt working either? Thats so annoying. I hope they fix the problem.
I am a Cannondale-bikefan since 1992. I have had Headshock, but ride Lefty since about 4 years now. Big difference, much better performance, less problems.
However, when there is a problem, Cannondale Corp is like banks and insurancecompanies, they are not there for you, but for themselve, customers are a pain in the a..
I have a 1997 Super V 800 with Headshock fork. Locking out solid after all these years. I am expecting it to break now lol ;-)
hey i really like your channel, i really like to ride mtb but i dont know how start from and where should i join. Are you live at east cost?
Correct, mine doesn't have a rebound adjuster. The only downside is that it only has 60mm of Are the newer shocks smooth or do they still make that squishy brearing sound?
I want a shock, but want full lockout for climbing. I moved on to a bike with Specialized Brain Front and rear. Pretty happy with it.
I still ride my 2009 F4 Caffeine with Headshok Ultra Fatty. No maintenance on the shock, I just ride. This is July 2019. Maybe its the type of riding people do. Its a cross country trail bike not a Down Hill racer or Dirt jump bike.
If your friends who do not get their forks serviced run into a problem later down the road, the company would not have to warranty anything since they did not follow the specified service plan for their forks. If you never change your cars oil because your car is driving fine and nobody originally told you you have to change it regularly, do you think that car company will warranty your engine when it seizes?
I just bought the F3 lefty and I got some problems with the fork, some noises stared and I don't like... then I bought a SL3 for my girlfriend and it got a frame fracture... I really don't know what will happened with cannon´s reputation.
So I will back to my old Giant´s bike with 11 years old and works better!!
Have the same problem, head shox or lefty are good but they broke in 2 months, what i do becouse cannondale bike are good for me i buy a rock shox or fox shox and i put it in the cannondale frame,
I got two years out of my Headshock, then same exact problem...
The worst part about it is Headshocks need rebuilt by Cdale/shops because of special tools. I can rebuild my RockShox in my garage, no issue.
my manitous are an 07 model and the lockout works perfect.
@zzkokko You should see what I did! Took a carbon fiber Flash (26" wheels) and put a Niner (29") carbon fiber fork on it. I should make a video. It's awesome. 20lbs. Ideal for dirt road riding. I'll try to make a video in a few days. Measure a rigid 29er fork compared to your headshock fork and get a cane creek headset reducer from 1.5" to 1 1/8" and you'll be good. Or - if you could, leave the headshock outside all winter and it might rust in place.
Oh! Brad, I am French, and I like Cannondale (I had a Caad), I ordered a kinneto Headshok 2014 ... after hesitating between it and the rigid ... Should I expect the worst?
Hopefully they've fixed the design, but who knows. I got ride of all mine so no idea what they're up to now. Plus I think it depends on how much you ride. I ride a lot.
Brad Herder I hope so! They don't communicate sufficient about this fork, they make just publicity; yet they know the problems ... I did not know before seeing your video. Thanks!
My problem is when i unlock the shock and push the shock down it does not go back up
Other issues: 1/ rigid (with bigger tires) can it do the work of a suspension fork on dirt roads? and 2 / if headshok is blocked, does it work as a rigid fork on asphalt? Thanks!
If you lockout the headshock it is just like a rigid bike on pavement. That was the best part of them. I actually tried rigid but it was too harsh in the woods. I'm riding Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Hard Tail now with a Rock Shox fork which has been super reliable. Also have a Specialized Epic with brain in the rear which is WORSE THAN Cannondale's Headshock as far as reliability goes.
I'm a slow rider all right and have tried fat bikes and they're fun downhill and level but torture uphill. I don't know how you guys do it. Thanks.
@bradtube1 So you mean that it shouldn't be any problems with a 2012 since they've fixed the problem? Hope I did understand you right :) Specialixed makes great bikes but cannondale flash 3 look great!
I'm actually in the market for a new suspension fork. Just out of curiosity, how much are you looking to get for your 80mm DLRs? I know in your video you said you were having constant problems, but are they functional?
Brad,
Cannondale headshox and lefty forks are some the smoothest and stiffest shocks out in the market, period. ALL suspension needs to be serviced at regular intervals, if you were to read in ANY of there manuals, they would tell you this. If you are running your shocks locked out and that is when they are failing, then it is your fault.
You made a Wonderful Work! I bought 4 years ago a cannondale and the fork is my only source of frustration. I would Kille them! But I love my bike for many reasons! Anyway again. Great Work!
Well what I know is that the lockout is only when you are going uphill. So you are not bouncing when pedaling hard. It is NOT to make the fork rigid and thinking you have a solid fork. If you lockout and force it you can brake the mechanism inside. Thats why forks like the Fox 6:53 does not lock out to 100% to prevent any damage.
I have f600 and i dond need headshock so much, i ride cravelroads mostly. Do you know any good way to make fork stif? Or do i just need new fork
Problem solvers makes a headset reducer. You can then use a standard fork. That's what I did to one of my bikes. Sold the rest, bought Specialized Epic which I LOVE.
I got a B..E..A..Uuuutiful Retro (disk and Vee)Cannondale F1000 frame (black into silver into white with orange and black branding and decals) I'm gonna make up with Top notch new carbon fibre components,gears,crank,stem,bars,forks ALL Carbon.. dunno about wheels..Thinking crossmax's.. Gonna be freakin a Ri-donkulousley light city bike!
Just thought I'd mention my plans but if any of You'z lot have any suggestions or any good ideas for Her..Por Favor!..LEMME KNO 🙃
Does anyone know how to replace the Cannondale F4 DLR with a lefty. Is it a direct conversion or no? I know that I'd have to get a new wheel, but is a head tube converter needed?
@3Rbmxer I primarily lock out my shock when climbing on dirt or paved roads where I want to stand up. I always unlock the shock on downhills and in the woods. One of my most recent failures, I was riding down a dirt road with the shock unlocked and it turned into a pogo stick - no rebound dampening. If you can't use lockout, why'd they put it on there?
that's cool how you interview these ppl that give up riding time for your video and then you shitted all over and around their bike for not "fully locking out" (smthng no one I've ever met has cared about enough to bring it up) . I bet they are eager to go riding with you again real soon!
Hi. I have a cannondale 1FG. My headshok bit the dust and because of all the complaints I've read about the the headshok I decided not to rebuild it. Does anyone have experience with the conversion kits?
I have a Marzocchi bomber z1 from 1997. Still working perfectly. Only has new seals and one oil change. Super robust. You can buy one at Dr. Marzocchi. Doesn’t have lockout. I can adjust the springs super stiff in a few seconds, which is close enough for me to lock out. Not the cheap crap that has to be rebuilt all the time. shocks where always crap. Cannondale shocks have been. Rap from day one . Everybody knows that. What’s new here. I also have a Killer v Cannondale. Works well with a Marzocchi fork from 1995. And a Jamis Dakar from 1997. With the Marzocchi bomber z1 from 1997. Clearly better than Cannondale.
Time to leave Cannondale.
Headshock and leftys are not designed to be ridden locked out and to take hits at the same time, this is how they fail. if you want to run a fork locked out on the trail then you need to ride a different brand fork. The reason other brands do not fully lock out is so that they dont fail while being locked out, they are designed to allow the fork to blow through the lockout if needed, thus saving the internals.
This is an old video but maybe peeps will see. I'm just about to sell my 2005 Cannondale F400 feminine (upgraded to Can. synapse road bike) It's served me very very well as only been using on roads, however - a Big However, the suspension broke about three months after I purchased the bike.... Same sh+t. The place i bought the bike from said they would have to order replacement from the States at a cost of 250 aussie dollars. Whatever! So, it's stayed in collapsed mode for around 8 years. The rest of the bike is fine. Any guestimates on how much I could sell this bike with the collapsed suspension?
Yep, I have 4 Cannondales, and all their headshocks and leftys have gone after only a little use. Typically I have to service them after about 30 rides so I don't get much 'wear for the money'. I now see they've discontinued the headshock and replaced the whole lefty design. That leaves us mugs that bought earlier bikes unsupported and unloved. I love Cannondales but they really try my patience. I even invested in shares a while back, to see the company go bankrupt chasing false hopes of a motorbike division. I see the ex-CEO now farming himself out as a lead business consultant. Good luck with that.
@@bmo5906 Well no, the lockout just means that it won't lock rigid, that is, it will always be in dampening mode. But if you ride it off a cliff, then yes you would probably die.
If you want a fork that you can lockout on smooth terrain and have the stiffest fork possible, then ride a cannondale. If you have a high end lefty you will not ever need to lock out your fork on the trail. they have rebound, damping and compression settings for a reason.
And by the way I do wash it with spray wax that's all if any water gets into your shock deal you're over
Have had the bike, a Bad Boy Ultra, since summer of '09 and it is used as a commuter/training bike so has seen a bit over 16,000 kilometres of, mostly, paved road use. Contemplating just cutting a piece of plastic pipe to use as a spacer for permanent lock-out. Maybe even use a bit of 1/2 inch thick rubber at either end for a little shock absorption to lessen wear and tear. Any thoughts as to how wise/unwise this plan of action might be??
Blast from the past! Did you ever figure something out like the piece of pipe?
Could u please post a video of how to remove a head shock it would be greatly appreciated
Sorry, I don't have any of those bikes anymore.
@borri68 I don't anymore... I sold a couple bikes, converted a couple to 100% rigid by putting Niner 29er carbon fiber forks on them. Just one bike left with a headshok, which is the bike I gave to my father-in-law awhile ago... don't really want to sell it on him. Now I have a Specialized Epic with front and rear brain shocks - so far - no problems.
manitou forks have 100% lockout, they are relatively cheap, and very reliable, I own skareb, in perfect condition, 10+ years and still working perfectly ;) now I bought minute and I love the abs+ damper, it's just awesome :D
I have a new bike - Rocky Mountain Sherpa - with a Manitou fork which is awesome. Not quite 100% lockout, but has a great feel. I've been wondering what ABS+ stands for.
it stand for absolute plus, it has shim stack based lockout (blow off), for me it's 100% lockout, when I ride it doesn't move, but when I hit an obstacle, it works like it was not locked up, I love it :D you can modify the shim stack by removing the top portion of the damper (you just unscrew it and take out, be careful not to spill too much oil or you will have to refill it ;)
This is my new bike: www.bikes.com/en/bikes/sherpa/2016 has a Manitou Magnum www.manitoumtb.com/products/forks/magnum/. It has a great feel to it, better than any fork I've ever had.
The Skareb is a good fork but it's heavy as all hell. The Headshok is seriously light.
Skareb is heavy? Lol what you smokin bro ;) skareb weights about 1400 grams (mine was 1430) with alu steerer, headstock is still better, and lighter because skareb is not as stiff, but still- skareb is more reliable (at least looking by the opinions) my skareb was working perfectly for 10 years, without any service, then I looked inside and the oil was at low amount, but still perfectly clean, so I just added some and continued riding, now I have minute and it's even better (abs+ damper, and stiffer)
Can you still get these rebuilt? I have a Cannondale Silk 400
I really have no idea. You'll have to try a Cannondale dealer.
I love Canndondale as well. My F600 head shock died and I found this doing some research on replacing and repairing. It seems like Cannondale no longer makes the part. WTF?? I realize it's a 17 yr old bike but with Cannondale you are stuck having to replace with Cannondale parts. I'm thinking of salvaging my beloved F600 and going with Specialized or Giant.
You can put a standard fork on - my local bike shop got a headset reducer and installed it. ruclips.net/video/pwpLxVxAS90/видео.html A friend of mine just last month did the same with his F600 - put a cheap Manitou fork on it.
Thanks Brad. How much did that set your friend back? I asked a local bike shop and they scoffed at me - in quote - "It's way more $ than you will want to invest in this bike." I get his point and of course he is looking to make a sale on a new bike but I a guessing it will be somewhere around 400 bucks(on the low end). Most of the bike shops around me have the same strategy - quote you a ridiculous price on a repair and push their new bikes on you.
I hate to say it, but this Brad is a bit silly....why would he purchase one, let alone six (6) bikes with the same problematic shock? Seems like a bit of a glutton for punishment, if you ask me. If you don't like the way something is designed or works, would you go out and buy 6 more of them? The letter from Cannondale, especially regarding the retail price of the shock is simply to say "we covered it under warranty, but here's the value to you..." If they replaced your shock, nothing to get pissy about. Sounds like Brad is a bit of a whiner?
didn't know it was so bad right away... loved the bikes until they all started crapping out at once.
Ron Galvin They ride so nice road or dirt. I've never had a problem with mine even with several thousand miles the only problem I've had was some jackass fiddled with the adjuster and lost the dial.
lambanmartyr NO He is not... Cannondale really are terrible .. no customer service. One month of use and they say that it is normal wear and tear. I did not even use it off road before the shock collapsed and would not fill with air. KRAP ENGINEERING! I had to pay for the repair and it took 2 months to get my bike back. The forks are very good when they work and I can see why Brad likes them BUT I agree that Brad shouldn't have kept on buying Cannondales after his first breakdown. I certainly will never ever buy Cannondale branded stuff again. HOW CAN WE GET THIS TO GO VIRAL AND GET OUR BIKES SORTED AND RUNNING? THEN WE WOULD ALL GO OUT AND BUY ANOTHER CANNONDALE WHEN WE LIKE TO BUY A NEW ONE AND ALSO TELL OUR FRIENDS ABOUT HOW GOOD THEY ARE BUT UNTIL THEN CANNONDALE STINK!
+Iain Cameron Most Cannondale Bike suppliers have stopped importing and selling Cannondale Bikes here in Berlin Germany due to their Crappy Customer Service
Ron Gavin has anything changed ?did Cannondale step up and support you ?
how about a follow-up video?
Had an f400, never had problems with the shock
this video reminds me of Clint Eastwood talking to the empty chair.
I was 53 probably when that video was made, look at the people I ride with, there's no jumping or hucking, but we do a lot of 2 mile long climbs with 2-3 mile continuous descents as fast as I can go. I lock out only on dirt and paved road climbs. My wife, who never rides in the woods, just dirt roads and paved roads has had hers crap out too. Oh - and yeh - I'm heavy, but my wife is 110 lbs. It takes her a lot longer to blow hers out (like 2 years) but she mostly runs, I ride every day.
@theagk19781 The look of the C. Flash 3 2012 really speaks to me, since I love white and green in combination! Love the look the bike gets by the fatty fork too! But i really have to consider buying this, since I'm thinking of buying a Scott spark 70...
Thank you for your good respons and may be a good idea to contact cannondale themselves, to get another (probably more of a partial) view.
Hey mate I know its a long time since you put this video up but I'm from New zealand looking for a shorter stem for my headshok and was wondering if you have any that I could buy off you and you could ship here? Cheers
Sorry - I don't, don't have any bikes with head shocks anymore.
My dad has a super v with the original shock. The shock shit the bed sooo he had a brand new one put on. A month after he got it the lockout and rebound stopped working. Also the travel is not smooth. Alreadyyyyyyy needs a rebuild. It's honestly annoying.
You could replace his headshock with a regular suspension fork. Probably could get a 80mm or 100mm suspension fork and use a Cane Creek Headshock Reducer: Cannondale Headshock Solutions
BTW - I have had ZERO problems with Rockshock Forks. My friends with Rockshock forks have experienced similar good luck - over time, they will need some maintenance but you can get years out of them without doing any and they don't fail, they just get crudded up and don't work as well - at least that's been my recent experience with Rockshock forks! Just an idea. Forks cost a boat load nowadays, but maybe you can find an older 100mm on ebay or something.
@petsoon93 2008 and earlier, but shocks bought in 2010 failed in 2011. i'd stay away from headshocks at all cost. i got a specialized epic expert which is no where near as light being full suspension and all but has front and rear brain shocks which work great so far. i had a taurine frame seperate at the rear axle - cannondale replaced it with a flash frame - very very light. i built it up as a rigid bike for dirt roads though.