As part of their 30th birthday celebrations Cannondale have re-launched the “Black Lightning” name, first used 15 years ago.
The frame uses ‘Dales ultralight CAAD 6 frameset in a jet black finish, with gold decals. An all black “Slice” carbon fork is fitted together with gold anodised Hollowgram chainset, and a special black anodised Campagnolo Record groupset with gold detailing. Should be perfect for those who never grew out of their JPS Lotus adoration phase.
Saeco even wore all black outfits on the tenth stage of the Giro (earning themselves a $3000 fine), with Fabio Sacchi taking 4th on his new pimp wagon. However although Cippolini was riding Lightning No1, he was in standard team red after being fined and threatened with a race ban for a typically impressive “no skin” anatomical – muscles, sinews and all – print skinsuit in the opening time trial. He did however comment that the Black Lightning is “a stunning bicycle. It is a celebration of elegance and speed, the incarnation of style and performance – much like myself. It is my pleasure to ride such a gorgeous bicycle.”
In fact we couldn’t think of a better match of showmanship and performance either!
For those getting itchy wallets, their will only be 99 of the bikes produced this year, at an as yet unspecified price, so get your order in early.
Cannondale will also be producing a birthday mountain bike the “Good Boy” in polished aluminium with custom silver polished Shimano componentry, carbon Lefty fork and two disc wheelsets. One MTB, one road.
To keep trivia fans occupied, if you can tell us what product Cannondale first made, we might even manage to find a Big C related prize.