One of our favorite creator Oleg from Twisted Wheels YouTube Channel has transformed a 2007 Cannondale SystemSix into an ultralight masterpiece weighing just 6.255 kg – over 500 grams below the UCI weight limit. This build showcases how vintage frames can be modernized with contemporary components, including state-of-the-art FARSPORTS wheels.
The Foundation: 2007 Cannondale SystemSix Frame
This build starts with a piece of American cycling history:
- USA-made Cannondale SystemSix frame from 2007
- Unique hybrid construction: carbon front triangle with aluminum rear end
- Oversized 1.5-inch head tube (with reducer for standard fork)
- Carefully restored finish with minimalist branding
- Remarkably light for its era, especially considering the aluminum rear triangle
The Centerpiece: FARSPORTS Air 4 Wheelset
The build features FARSPORTS' premium Air 4 wheelset, demonstrating the perfect blend of modern aerodynamics with rim brake compatibility:
- FARSPORTS Air 4 rim brake version - the lightest offering in FARSPORTS' range
- 45mm deep aerodynamic profile
- Unique rimless construction (no access holes, saving 30-40g in rim tape)
- Carbon-T hub construction with color-matched design:
- Silver rear hub
- Black front hub
- Sapim Spra spokes for optimal weight and reliability
- Total wheelset weight: approximately 1300g
- Clean aesthetic achieved by removing decals
- Compatible with high-performance rim brake setups
Groupset Configuration
SRAM Wireless Integration
- SRAM eTap 11-speed groupset
- Wireless shifting for clean cable routing
- Only brake cables visible, maintaining the frame's clean lines
Cannondale SI Cranks
- Cannondale Hollowgram SI SL cranks
- Custom sandblasted silver finish
- Spider ring design
- One of the lightest and stiffest cranksets available
Additional Components
- Data Superleggera handlebar
- Extra-light stem
- Beyond super light saddle
- Challenge Criterium tires
- Color-matched bolt-on quick releases:
- Black front
- Silver rear
Aesthetic Design Philosophy
The build follows a distinctive two-tone theme:
- Front end: Black components
- Rear end: Silver components
- Minimalist approach to branding
- Clean, restored frame finish
- Thoughtful color matching of small components
Performance Analysis
Real-world testing revealed:
- Impressive stiffness characteristics
- More comfortable ride than modern equivalents
- Excellent power transfer
- Responsive handling
- Superior performance from the FARSPORTS wheelset
Technical Weight Achievement
The final build achieves an impressive 6.255 kg (13.79 lbs), which is:
- Over 500g below UCI weight limit
- Achieved while maintaining full functionality
- Accomplished using rim brakes
- Including aerodynamic wheels
Modern vs Vintage Integration
This build demonstrates how vintage frames can be modernized:
- Integration of wireless electronic shifting
- Modern carbon wheel technology
- Contemporary lightweight components
- Preservation of classic frame characteristics
Conclusion
This Cannondale SystemSix build, featuring the impressive FARSPORTS Air 4 wheelset, proves that rim brake bikes are far from obsolete. By combining a classic frame with modern components, particularly the ultralight FARSPORTS wheels, this build achieves an impressive sub-6.3kg weight while maintaining full functionality and aesthetic appeal. It stands as a testament to both the enduring quality of well-designed frames and the advancement of modern cycling components.
