Cannondale Supersix Lab71 Ride Review - Real World Testing
The Cannondale SuperSix EVO Lab 71 Team Edition has been a game changer for me. Coming from what I considered an extremely fast and capable bike, a 2021 Supersix Evo Himod Rapha team bike, the leap in performance to the Lab 71 has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it's evident from the personal bests I've achieved on some of Victoria’s toughest climbs.
Design and Aesthetics
The frame strikes a perfect balance between aggressive racing aesthetics and sleek sophistication. The streamlined design and race-inspired color scheme ensure it turns heads whether you’re at the start line or at the summit. The design feels purposeful, every line and contour contributes to performance, giving the bike a presence unlike anything I've ever ridden before.
Frame and Geometry
One of the standout features of this bike is it's frame. Compared to the Himod EF Rapha 2021, the SuperSix EVO is noticeably lighter, stiffer, and more aerodynamic. Whether powering up climbs like Lake Mountain, Mount Donna Buang, or Mount Hotham, the bike’s geometry and carbon frame helps translate every ounce of effort into forward motion. I really did notice the 7% weight reduction which made the bike feel a lot more responsive and like an extension of yourself.
The geometry allows for an aggressive riding position, perfect for pushing your limits on demanding climbs. But the frame isn’t just about race-day performance, it's designed for comfort on long rides, too, with industry-leading vertical compliance built into the carbon structure. Truly the best of both worlds as I was comfortable in the saddle for hours at a time without any overarching pain.
Ride Quality and Performance
If you’re looking for a bike that helps you break new records, it delivers. Since switching to the Lab71, I have shattered personal bests across the board. It’s not just the climb times, this bike has contributed to setting new power records across multiple durations, including 30 seconds, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 8 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, and even 1 hour.
The BallisTec Carbon frame feels responsive and remarkably stable, giving you confidence on everything from steep mountain passes to high-speed descents. The aerodynamics make it feel like you’re slicing through the wind, which is especially noticeable during sustained efforts on the flats and descents compared to my previous bike.
Components
Mine came outfitted with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and One-Piece Momo carbon handlebars, two high performance highlights that I appreciate. The electronic shifting is faultless, offering ultra-smooth and precise gear changes, every time. The Carbon cranks are optimized for lightweight strength and aerodynamics, allowing you to maximize your energy on both long climbs and fast, flat stretches. Another highlight not to be overlooked is the Vision SL60 wheels that the Team Edition bike came with. They ensure easy gliding and top speeds are held effortlessly, and much to some riders' dismay... the freehub has a nice, loud sound when freewheeling. They hear me coming.
For anyone who's serious about setting power records, the high-performance components elevate the bike's responsiveness, ensuring that every watt you generate is translated efficiently to the road.
Handling
The SuperSix EVO's handling is another huge upgrade compared to the EF Rapha 2021. You feel a level of confidence and control that allows you to focus solely on your effort and performance, not worrying about bike stability. The new aero-shaped HollowGram seatpost helps soften the ride without sacrificing stiffness, making it equally suited for both high-intensity efforts and endurance.
Weight and Aerodynamics
At a hair over 7.0kg (I ride a 61cm), the Lab71 is one of the lightest bikes in its class, and it’s not just lighter—it’s more aerodynamic, too. This combined lightness and aero advantage have undoubtedly helped me register personal bests on difficult climbs like Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. You’ll notice the difference when you’re grinding up steep gradients or holding a powerful position on flat terrain.
Overall Verdict
The Cannondale SuperSix EVO Lab 71 Team Edition is a monumental step up in performance, providing an extraordinary balance of lightness, speed, and stability. Not only have I achieved personal bests on every High Country climb taken on, but I’ve also set new power records across a variety of time intervals, proving that this bike is a genuine performance enhancer.
Its combination of responsive handling, top-tier components, and aerodynamic design makes it a must-have for any serious rider looking to push their limits. Whether you're racing or simply chasing new PRs, the SuperSix EVO Lab 71 will get you there faster, with more control, and with more confidence than ever before.
Rating: 9.8/10
This Product Review was written By Stu Mcgonagle, a local Bayside rider here in Melbourne and Urban Pedaler Ambassador. He can be seen any morning of the week out with the 1887 crew, Urban Pedaler shopride, Phats, or tackling the 'Nongs with some friends training for Three Peaks. His time on Three Peaks is 9:16, if you're curious. :)
