Deacon Blues
Well-Known Member
Looking for anyone who has purchased this bike and can give some feedback.
Synapse Neo SE Reviews?
- Thread starter Deacon Blues
- Start date
Hi, I bought one two days ago. I'm very pleased with it. I've written a few simple impressions on the 'Pedelec' forum. Here are a few of these comments from me and Nev.:
I live in the Peak District (UK) so very hilly!
Day 1.I've just done 10 miles in it for a 'shakedown' appraisal. So far I'm impressed. The frame rides and steers well and would be a very comfortable ride if it wasn't for the cast-iron saddle. The 'Turbo' and 'Sport's modes don't appear to be that different. The Purion display is a bit basic; a shame it doesn't display cadence. I can't get the Cannondale app to record my ride. Does it need an additional front wheel sensor does anyone know? (Answer: yes)
If so, any recommendations?
Changing gear to a larger cog is a little noisy - unlike the motor. Do these bikes need a period of 'running-in'?
No specific manual. On-line versions are for the whole 'family' and anything to do with Bosch needs another Google search and non-specific download. Time-wasting.
I had the same question re the extra cable in the box. I too think it must be for lights. I think these must be for Bosch units. Are there any cheaper options?
I've already tightened up the saddle.
I bought it from Evans' in Sheffield; they were very good; very professional.
Hi Bonky, yes I agree with you there is not a big difference between Sport and Turbo mode, this comes as a bit of a surprise if one has been riding a bike fitted with a Bosch CX motor.
I can't help you with the app unfortunately, I didn't even know one was available. I haven't noticed changing to a larger cog being noisy, perhaps your bike needs a little adjustment. I took mine back to the shop after a couple of months for a free service.
Like you I live in a very hilly area and find the bike is ideal for me, I prefer the looks of bikes like the Orbea Gain or the Ribble but I suspect I would struggle with those types of bikes on some of the hills I go up.
Thanks Nev; agreed. I was almost tempted by the new Boardman with the Fazua motor - partly 'cos of the looks and light weight - but it does have a limited range. A ride today from Lodge Moor to Hathersage should be interesting...
I had a test ride on a Cube Agree which has the Fazua motor, prior to buying the Cannondale. It was a lovely bike, but I really struggled on very steep hills with it and so opted for the Neo. All the best for your ride today I am sure you will enjoy it.
Day 2.Thanks Nev.Just returned; we actually went from Lodge Moor to the other side of Edale (about 36 miles- uphill and down-dale). Three battery bars remaining; a warm days but I hardly broke sweat. What a difference!
To use the Cannondale app one needs a front wheel sensor. Cannondale is bringing out a Garmin unit in August for their new 2020 bikes and these will also be available for a retrofit.
The Fazua motor is rated at 60Nm where's the Bosch unit is 58Nm (max) so I'm surprised you noticed such a difference when it came to hill-climbing, but I've read the same from others.
However, I went with a neighbour who has a hub motor on his new Bianchi AriaE. It only has a 250W battery; I could overtake him on the hills but he returned with half his battery capacity left - which rather surprised me. His motor is an efficient unit but noisier than the Bosch.
My backside and arms are numb...I'm really not bike-fit yet. I'm informed that the saddle is a 'good 'un'. I may need to tinker with the bars and saddle to relieve some of the pressure on my arms.
Summary:
All-in-all I'm impressed. I have the Neo 2 - so a good standard of equipment (Shimano Ultegra/105 etc).
Pros: Looks great; good standard of equipment. Mudguards and panniers can easily be fixed. Long range; good quiet motor. Stable; comfortable (I do have a few issues with the saddle though). Good range of gears.
Cons: it's heavy! (so no quick-release front wheel or saddle post).The battery can be removed though. Basic Bosch Purion display; no panniers/lights/mudguards etc. No physical and specific manual.
Hope that helped;...let us know...please!
Edit: The battery is still difficult to remove.
I live in the Peak District (UK) so very hilly!
Day 1.I've just done 10 miles in it for a 'shakedown' appraisal. So far I'm impressed. The frame rides and steers well and would be a very comfortable ride if it wasn't for the cast-iron saddle. The 'Turbo' and 'Sport's modes don't appear to be that different. The Purion display is a bit basic; a shame it doesn't display cadence. I can't get the Cannondale app to record my ride. Does it need an additional front wheel sensor does anyone know? (Answer: yes)
If so, any recommendations?
Changing gear to a larger cog is a little noisy - unlike the motor. Do these bikes need a period of 'running-in'?
No specific manual. On-line versions are for the whole 'family' and anything to do with Bosch needs another Google search and non-specific download. Time-wasting.
I had the same question re the extra cable in the box. I too think it must be for lights. I think these must be for Bosch units. Are there any cheaper options?
I've already tightened up the saddle.
I bought it from Evans' in Sheffield; they were very good; very professional.
Hi Bonky, yes I agree with you there is not a big difference between Sport and Turbo mode, this comes as a bit of a surprise if one has been riding a bike fitted with a Bosch CX motor.
I can't help you with the app unfortunately, I didn't even know one was available. I haven't noticed changing to a larger cog being noisy, perhaps your bike needs a little adjustment. I took mine back to the shop after a couple of months for a free service.
Like you I live in a very hilly area and find the bike is ideal for me, I prefer the looks of bikes like the Orbea Gain or the Ribble but I suspect I would struggle with those types of bikes on some of the hills I go up.
Thanks Nev; agreed. I was almost tempted by the new Boardman with the Fazua motor - partly 'cos of the looks and light weight - but it does have a limited range. A ride today from Lodge Moor to Hathersage should be interesting...
I had a test ride on a Cube Agree which has the Fazua motor, prior to buying the Cannondale. It was a lovely bike, but I really struggled on very steep hills with it and so opted for the Neo. All the best for your ride today I am sure you will enjoy it.
Day 2.Thanks Nev.Just returned; we actually went from Lodge Moor to the other side of Edale (about 36 miles- uphill and down-dale). Three battery bars remaining; a warm days but I hardly broke sweat. What a difference!
To use the Cannondale app one needs a front wheel sensor. Cannondale is bringing out a Garmin unit in August for their new 2020 bikes and these will also be available for a retrofit.
The Fazua motor is rated at 60Nm where's the Bosch unit is 58Nm (max) so I'm surprised you noticed such a difference when it came to hill-climbing, but I've read the same from others.
However, I went with a neighbour who has a hub motor on his new Bianchi AriaE. It only has a 250W battery; I could overtake him on the hills but he returned with half his battery capacity left - which rather surprised me. His motor is an efficient unit but noisier than the Bosch.
My backside and arms are numb...I'm really not bike-fit yet. I'm informed that the saddle is a 'good 'un'. I may need to tinker with the bars and saddle to relieve some of the pressure on my arms.
Summary:
All-in-all I'm impressed. I have the Neo 2 - so a good standard of equipment (Shimano Ultegra/105 etc).
Pros: Looks great; good standard of equipment. Mudguards and panniers can easily be fixed. Long range; good quiet motor. Stable; comfortable (I do have a few issues with the saddle though). Good range of gears.
Cons: it's heavy! (so no quick-release front wheel or saddle post).The battery can be removed though. Basic Bosch Purion display; no panniers/lights/mudguards etc. No physical and specific manual.
Hope that helped;...let us know...please!
Edit: The battery is still difficult to remove.
Last edited:
Just to add to my comments (above):
Nev replied:
Just found one minor irritation: I had a bottle rack on the down-tube opposite the battery. It's almost impossible to get the battery out.
r
Nev replied:
"Yes on paper both motors should have been about the same, but it just goes to show how important it is to take a test ride on the types of hills you are going to be riding up. The Bosch motor was far more powerful on the hills than the Fazua."Just found one minor irritation: I had a bottle rack on the down-tube opposite the battery. It's almost impossible to get the battery out.
r
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Hey Deacon, Your post is a little old so I'm replying being fully aware that you could have made a buying decision and have been enjoying your bike for awhile now. I just bought the SE through REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.). Been enjoying it a lot. Haven't tackled the full extent of the control functions, but will be soon. To speak to some of the other posts here, the Bosch and most of the other mid-drive systems have torque sensors as well as cadence. So a hub motor with a rating of ~60Nm, will not seem as responsive or peppy on a climb as a mid-drive with the same torque rating (~60Nm). I've ridden both and can confirm there's a notable difference.
Blackvipergts
Member
Hello everybody, just joined the Club.Due to quite serious health problem ( cancer + heart attack) I had to stop for few months my riding activity.
I was biking on average 12/13k kilometer/y totalling about 100-120k meter elevation, but doctor said that regardless my excellent recovery and general condition I should avoid strong effort and so far I decided to convert me to a road ebike.
I have been always a Specialized’s fan but today the Creo was not fulfilling my needs while the Neo SE was.At present I rode for about 250 km ( 3 rides) 75% without assistance and balance in ECO ( support requested to stay within 140 bpm on pendenze between 7%-9%).
Good impression and feeling , easy to keep on flat speed around 28-32 km/h without assistance ,
in ECO mode the weight is null + a small help..
With the WTB 47 tubeless tires inflated at 40 psi the bike is reasonably comfortable and fast in the descent .I have available a second wheel set at 700x 32 in case for only tarmac road.
Battery consumption as per statement at about 160/180 km in ECO ( important to keep the proper frequency in between 80-90 rpm).
I’m now planning to return on the classic Alps , I’m leaving in Italy close to the Swiss border, and curious to check how it shall perform.
Regards
Blackvipergts
I was biking on average 12/13k kilometer/y totalling about 100-120k meter elevation, but doctor said that regardless my excellent recovery and general condition I should avoid strong effort and so far I decided to convert me to a road ebike.
I have been always a Specialized’s fan but today the Creo was not fulfilling my needs while the Neo SE was.At present I rode for about 250 km ( 3 rides) 75% without assistance and balance in ECO ( support requested to stay within 140 bpm on pendenze between 7%-9%).
Good impression and feeling , easy to keep on flat speed around 28-32 km/h without assistance ,
in ECO mode the weight is null + a small help..
With the WTB 47 tubeless tires inflated at 40 psi the bike is reasonably comfortable and fast in the descent .I have available a second wheel set at 700x 32 in case for only tarmac road.
Battery consumption as per statement at about 160/180 km in ECO ( important to keep the proper frequency in between 80-90 rpm).
I’m now planning to return on the classic Alps , I’m leaving in Italy close to the Swiss border, and curious to check how it shall perform.
Regards
Blackvipergts
Thanks Blackvipergts - very interesting. Sorry to hear about your health issues.
Since I replied to this thread I've swapped the saddle and bought removable mudguards plus a pannier rack.
I'm still pleased with it...but... the Purion display doesn't seem waterproof!
Best wishes,
Bonky.
Since I replied to this thread I've swapped the saddle and bought removable mudguards plus a pannier rack.
I'm still pleased with it...but... the Purion display doesn't seem waterproof!
Best wishes,
Bonky.
Deacon Blues
Well-Known Member
Blackvipergts, I'd be interested in you comparing the 47mm tires and the 32mm tires.
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Deacon Blues
Well-Known Member
I was asking Blackvipergts, who has a set of both wheels/tires.
I was wondering if the bike is noticeably slower with the wider tires.
Blackvipergts
Member
Thank to everybody.For the time being I have not yet tested the SE with the 700x32 which I reserve for 100% tarmac .At present time I’m biking 60% tarmac and 40% on gravel and off-road ..
The WTB 47 inflated at 40 psi are performing quite satisfactory even on road or most probably my riding-style is simply changed: now much more relaxed , not longer fighting against the clock , not competing with my friends , taking time to watch around .... anyhow as soon as I shall tested I revert my impression ( which are not so relevant being a common biker )
Wishing a smart and profitable week to all the Members
Regards
Blackvipergts
My Bosch Purion doesn't seem to be waterproof. I wrote to Bosch and their reply is:
he Purion can allow condensation to build underneath the screen when there are rapid temperature changes or changes to air pressure where the bike is ridden and stored.
If this condensation does not clear by leaving the bike in a warm light filled area then please take the bike into a bike dealer for us to evaluate a warranty claim.
Please find here: https://www.bosch-ebike.com/en/service/dealer-search/
A tool to find your local Bosch bike dealers.
Best regards
Your Bosch eBike team
George Edem
he Purion can allow condensation to build underneath the screen when there are rapid temperature changes or changes to air pressure where the bike is ridden and stored.
If this condensation does not clear by leaving the bike in a warm light filled area then please take the bike into a bike dealer for us to evaluate a warranty claim.
Please find here: https://www.bosch-ebike.com/en/service/dealer-search/
A tool to find your local Bosch bike dealers.
Best regards
Your Bosch eBike team
George Edem
Blackvipergts
Member
Hi Guys , just back with a short update about my experience with the SE.At present ridden for 2500km and about 27.000 mt elevation the most part of it ( 80%) without assistance, the balance all in ECO ( not yet tested the others option).Globally I’m quite fine with the bike which is solid and well balanced.The sole point of concern , better to say of reflection, is about the overall weight which stand at 18kgs ( wheel 650B and tyres WTB 47) while for example the Specialized Creo SL E5 ( Aluminium) is at 14.5 Kgs.
If the bike is used mainly with the engine support the 4kgs gap are not relevant but in my case it could be a limiting factor either for the cruise speed as well as for the watt effort.
I would like to carry out a test on the same route comparing Creo vs SE , hope to succeed within next months.
The engine is reliable and it’s support is smooth and quite, battery is assuring long distance ( over 150 km and up to 1700mt elevation gain ) or better to say this has been my best result till today.
Regards
Blackvipergts
Ps:Not yet tested the 700x30 wheel used as spare
If the bike is used mainly with the engine support the 4kgs gap are not relevant but in my case it could be a limiting factor either for the cruise speed as well as for the watt effort.
I would like to carry out a test on the same route comparing Creo vs SE , hope to succeed within next months.
The engine is reliable and it’s support is smooth and quite, battery is assuring long distance ( over 150 km and up to 1700mt elevation gain ) or better to say this has been my best result till today.
Regards
Blackvipergts
Ps:Not yet tested the 700x30 wheel used as spare
Blackvipergts
Member
Yesterday I have been visiting my Cannondale Dealer and without any logical reason I decided to change the SE with the new Topstone Neo Lefty 3 ...
It's true the dealer was offering a very interesting bargain ( in practice I have used the SE more or less for two month at zero cost as I got 100% back )
and I have been for years in love with the Slate but not brave enough to buy it...Now at my age with not to much time upfront , right or wrong , I took
the game....Next week I should get the Topstone fully assembled , only changed the tires still WTB but Resolute 47, and ready to test it on road and off
here around Como's lake
All the best
Blackvipergts
It's true the dealer was offering a very interesting bargain ( in practice I have used the SE more or less for two month at zero cost as I got 100% back )
and I have been for years in love with the Slate but not brave enough to buy it...Now at my age with not to much time upfront , right or wrong , I took
the game....Next week I should get the Topstone fully assembled , only changed the tires still WTB but Resolute 47, and ready to test it on road and off
here around Como's lake
All the best
Blackvipergts
Deacon Blues
Well-Known Member
I've been following the Neo Lefty 3 with some interest.
Most of my riding is on pavement, but I do like to occasionally ride the (easier) trails and gravel pathways.
I'll be interested in your evaluation on your new Neo Lefty 3.
Most of my riding is on pavement, but I do like to occasionally ride the (easier) trails and gravel pathways.
I'll be interested in your evaluation on your new Neo Lefty 3.
Blackvipergts
Member
Thank, I’m now spending few days holiday in Bormio ( close to Passo dello Stelvio-Passo Gavia-Passo della Forcola ) back beginning next week.The Topstone should be ready on Wednesday and if all goes well first ride on Thursday.I shall revert my impression.
Regards
Regards
