In this comparison, I’ll dissect two popular bike models; the Cannondale System Six vs Scott Foil RC.
I’ll compare their lineups, bike specifications, and suggested retail prices in USD, then discuss the carbon fiber technology (Cannondale BallisTec and Scott High Modulus Carbon) and frameset technologies.
The goal is to give you a better understanding of Cannondale System Six and Scott Foil RC to help in your decision-making.
| Cannondale System Six | Scott Foil RC | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of bike | Aero | Aero |
| Frame material | BallisTec Hi-Mod carbon | HMX-SL carbon HMX carbon |
| Frame sizes | 47, 51, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 | 47, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61 |
| Groupset | Shimano (12-speed) | Shimano, SRAM (12-speed) |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc | Hydraulic disc |
| Cabling | Internal | Internal |
| Price (USD) | $13,050 | $4,799 to $15,999 |
Cannondale System Six
The Cannondale SystemSix is the latest addition to the road bike lineup. It’s designed as an all-out aero bike with a 100% focus on speed.
The engineers designed the Cannondale SystemSix based on a six-part system (hence the name); the integration of frame, fork, seat post, handlebar, stem, and wheels in a package to maximize aerodynamic advantages. All cables are routed internally via the two-piece carbon Cannondale Knot SystemBar for all Cannondale SystemSix models.
In 2023, Cannondale streamlined its SystemSix offerings from five to only one model with the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) groupset.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD | Hi-MOD carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | HollowGram 64 SL KNØT | $13,050 |
Cannondale System Six vs others
Scott Foil RC
The Scott Foil RC was refreshed in mid-2022, just in time to debut at the Tour de France. Scott worked with aerodynamics expert Simon Smart, the founder of Drag2Zero. Simon is also the man behind the design of Enve wheels.
According to wind tunnel testing, the new Scott Foil RC is 9% lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the HMX-SL Carbon fiber layup, and 10% more aerodynamically efficient.
There are five models available in disc and electronic shifting only.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scott Foil RC Ultimate | Carbon (HMX-SL) | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Zipp 454 NSW | $15,999 |
| Scott Foil RC Pro | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Shimano Dura-Ace C50 | $10,999 |
| Scott Foil RC 10 | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Syncros Capital 1.0 50 | $6,999 |
| Scott Foil RC 20 | Carbon (HMX) | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | Syncros Capital 1.0 50 | $6,299 |
| Scott Foil RC 30 | Carbon (HMX) | Shimano 105 Di2 (R7100) | Syncros RR2.0 | $4,799 |
Scott Foil RC vs others
Cannondale vs Scott carbon fiber
Cannondale BallisTec Carbon
Cannondale BallisTec is a proprietary carbon fiber construction technique used to manufacture Cannondale bicycle frames.
The BallisTec carbon technology utilizes advanced engineering and construction methods to create frames that balance strength, stiffness, and weight. It involves the precise layering and placement of carbon fiber sheets, which are impregnated with epoxy resin and then molded under high pressure and temperature.
The BallisTec carbon is available in three grades.
- BallisTec LAB71 is Cannondale’s latest advancement in carbon construction. Also known as the Series 0 carbon, LAB71 is designed to be the lightest and most advanced, taking over from the Hi-MOD carbon. LAB71 frameset delivers exceptional performance, weight reduction, and overall ride quality.
- BallisTec Hi-MOD stands for High-Modulus, which refers to using high-modulus carbon fibers in the frame. This results in a stiffer and lighter structure, providing enhanced power transfer and a more responsive ride feel. Hi-MOD carbon frames are designed for riders who prioritize performance, stiffness, and weight savings.
- BallisTec is the standard carbon in Cannondale’s frames, which offers a balance of weight, stiffness, and durability at more affordable prices.
Scott High Modulus Carbon
Scott implements two primary types of carbon fiber technology in their bicycle frame construction; HMX-SL, HMX, and HMF carbon.
- HMX-SL (High Modulus Xtreme, Super Light) carbon is the pinnacle of Scott’s carbon fiber technology. This innovative blend of carbon fiber is designed for ultimate stiffness and minimal weight. Scott uses HMX-SL Carbon in their highest-end models, such as the premium version of the Scott Addict RC Ultimate and Foil RC Ultimate road bike. These bikes, with HMX-SL Carbon frames, are the go-to choice for professional cyclists competing in world-class races.
- HMX carbon is a level below the HMX-SL, and is still a top-tier carbon material offering a fantastic blend of stiffness and lightweight construction, albeit not as light or rigid as the HMX-SL. It’s an excellent choice for serious and experienced cyclists looking for a high-performance bike without the additional premium.
- HMF (High Modulus Fiber) carbon, may not be as light or stiff as HMX carbon, but it’s still a superior material that contributes to a robust, light, and efficient ride. Scott uses HMF carbon in their bikes that strike a balance between affordability and performance.
Frameset technologies and innovations
Cannondale System Six and Scott Foil RC framesets incorporate advanced technologies to enhance their bikes’ performance and ride characteristics.
Here’s an overview of the technologies used in each bike model.
Cannondale System Six
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| BallisTec carbon construction | A proprietary manufacturing technology that uses meticulously woven carbon fiber material to create strong and lightweight bike frames. The goal is to maximize the stiffness-to-weight ratio, providing riders with a responsive and efficient ride experience. Available in three grades; BallisTec LAB71, BallisTec Hi-MOD, and BallisTec |
| Speed of Six | A comprehensive system consisting of frame, fork, seatpost, handlebar, stem, and wheels to minimize drag. |
| Customized airfoils | Tailored airfoil shapes for each frame section to reduce drag across various wind angles and increase aerodynamic efficiency. |
Scott Foil RC
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| F01 Airfoil Technology | Scott’s proprietary F01 Airfoil Technology ensures that each tube and junction on the Scott Foil RC is optimized for the best aerodynamic performance. This technology, backed by extensive computer simulations and wind tunnel testing, allows the Scott Foil RC to claim the title of the fastest road bike Scott has ever produced. |
| Oversize Bottom Bracket | The Scott Foil RC features an oversized down tube and bottom bracket intersection, among the widest on the current road bike market. This extensive cross-section and smooth transition handle loads effectively, reducing unwanted frame flex and ensuring efficient power transfer to the drivetrain. |
| Hollow Frame Structure | The entire frame set of Scott Foil RC is built with a hollow structure and has an immaculately clean inside, which significantly reduces the overall weight. |
| Oversized Head Tube | The Scott Foil RC sports an oversized head tube. Besides allowing for fully integrated cabling for both mechanical and electronic shifting systems, it functions as an airfoil, splitting oncoming air to reduce aerodynamic drag as you speed forward. |
| One-Piece Handlebar | The Syncros Creston IC SL Aero handlebar and stem combo is an integral feature of the Foil RC’s aerodynamic design. This combo, which was taken from the popular Scott Addict RC, has undergone wind-tunnel testing and slimmed down to cut through the wind and improve the bike’s overall aerodynamic efficiency. Interestingly, it adapts to load changes, providing more compliance under light loads and stiffening up for power delivery when you’re in full race mode. |
| Aero Seatpost | The Syncros Duncan SL Aero CFT is a patented, innovative seatpost designed for comfort and power efficiency. Its unique two-part construction, featuring a carbon fiber load-bearing piece, flexes on rough surfaces to keep you comfortably seated and capable of delivering maximum power. It can also accommodate the separately sold Syncros Campbell 20 Aero iL Rear Light, which provides 20 lumens of output for safe rides in all conditions. |
| Dropped Seatstays | The Scott Foil RC features dropped seat stays for rider comfort and improved aerodynamics. Angled at 10º, these seat stays channel the passing air into the spinning spokes, resulting in substantial aerodynamic benefits. This design also cleverly hides the disc brake calipers, reducing aero drag and contributing to a cleaner aesthetic. |
| Evo-Lap Technology | Scott applies Evo-Lap technology in designing the Scott Foil RC, using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software to simulate different forces on the frame and optimize the carbon lay-up. By modeling the frame and testing stress distribution in different areas, Scott has optimized carbon layers throughout the frame, creating a lightweight yet resilient structure. |
Where to buy
Cannondale retailers
- Cannondale retailers. Use this tool to find your nearest Cannondale retailers.
Scott retailers
- Scott retailers. Use this tool to find your nearest Scott retailers.
- Scott distributors. Use this tool to find your local Scott distributors.
Bernard Lu has 7+ years of experience working in a bicycle shop, overseeing the retail and workshop operations. He’s a qualified bicycle mechanic who understands a cyclist’s needs and speaks the same cycling lingo.
If you meet him at the cafe, he will happily talk to you for hours about all the intricacies of bikes and cycling tech. Just buy him a coffee next time you see him.