Cannondale Gemini 1000
Dual Suspension Freeride Bike
Gemini 1000 - SRP: $3524.99 CND - specs
Gemini 2000 - SRP: $4403.99 CND - specs
Cannondale has come out with a bona-fide freeride bike, available in two models, the Gemini 1000 and 2000.
New for 2002, the Cannondale Gemini 1000 and 2000 models share the same single-pivot frames, but different component setups. The main difference between the two is the forks - the 1000 has a RockShox Psylo SL and the 2000 has the Marzocchi SuperT pro. The Gemini's suspension system, similar-looking to the Santa Cruz Bullit, can be set at 7, 6, or 5 inches of travel with the resulting slack-to-steeper geometry changes. The 1000 comes in a beautiful all black with dark black/grey ghost flame design and a hot "tangello" yellow-orange with black flames. The 2000 model has one color choice, red with silver rear swing arm and black flames.
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Background
While the Fulcrum Downhill bike uses linkage suspension system, Cannondale opted for single pivot in the case of the Gemini because they believe that the advantages of design simplicity and low maintenance outweigh the slight advantages that multi-pivot or linkage systems offered. The Gemini employs a single sealed-bearing pivot above and forward of the bottom bracket in almost the identical setup as the Bullit. One thing to keep in mind whenever considering a Cannondale frame of any model, is that their tube sets are quality handmade to each bike size, not just model, unlike most companies which use overseas manufacturing to produce different sized frames from same model tube sets. For example the Gemini uses a different tube set for each size of frame, while a Kona Stinky would use the same tube set for all sizes, just different tube lengths. Also, like always, their workmanship is second to none in terms of the welds and paint job.
Chris Hancock of Experience Cycling, a local Vancouver Island bike shop, is currently test riding a black Gemini 1000 and I was lucky enough to have an afternoon of riding on Mt. Tzouhalem with Chris and his new Gemini 1000. Chris is an outstanding local rider here in the Duncan area and his expertise and input in full suspension performance and design was invaluable. We decided to hit up the "Shocker", the legendary jump trail created by Chris and other area riders.
Out of the Shop
The overall spec of our 2002 Gemini 1000 test bike is excellent for the price. For a rear suspension, the bike uses the tried and tested Fox Vanilla RC, while the 5-inch RockShox Psylo SL with 20mm Tullio system takes care of the front-end duties. With adjustable travel (orange knob), compression and lockout (red), and rebound damping (bottom of fork leg), the Psylo seems to have endless tuning capabilities. We like the Tullio 20mm system, a true thru-axle and very easy to operate, with locking levers on each dropout. Some die-hard Marzocchi fans will likely replace the Psylo with a Z1 or Dirtjumper. Rounding out our Gemini 1000 test-bike setup were top of the line Mavic D321 rims, 8" Hayes hydraulic disc brakes, Cane Creek headset, XT/LX 9-speed drive-train, WTB Weirwolf rubber, Titec bar/stem combo and WTB saddle. However I understand some the componentry may vary. There is a special spacer that Cannondale uses with the headset that adjusts the geometry of the bike for the particular fork. The Gemini 1000 has the spacer under the headset with the single crown Psylo and the 2000 has it on top of the headset for the Super T. Another interesting feature was nifty Syntac stem with easily adjustable angle.
The only minor change necessary out of the box was a bash guard instead of the big chain ring. Considering the quality of the frameset craftsmanship, the consumer is also getting an outstanding component spec value with the Gemini 1000.
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Performance
Upon riding the Gemini 1000, the most apparent difference between this and other similar bikes was the tight geometry and lightweight feel. The short cockpit, stiff front triangle and relatively rigid single pivot suspension lead to outstanding maneuverability, nimble handling and accurate tracking. Chris rails his Gemini 1000 around berms and over dirt jumps and effortlessly pulls tricks on the sub-35 pound test bike, a nice change from his behemoth RM7 FR with Monster T's. According to Chris, "this bike always makes you want to sprint… it rides like a dual bike." I too found that the Gemini made me want to go faster no matter what and loved the short cockpit actually. The bike seems right at home on tight single track, dirt-jumps, high berms, and technical terrain. But if Freeride to you means uphill as well, then this same setup can also feel a bit cramped for long climbs unfortunately. However the relatively light stiff frame and fork lockout help make up for this. The test bike weighed in at around 34 pounds, nice compared to my beefy 36 pound hardtail. Chris rides his rear suspension setting at 5 inches and finds that more than adequate for most of his riding, and with its adjustable front and rear travel, the Gemini is indeed very versatile. The bike rides quiet and smoothly, yet the system seems to be active and plush on hits big and small. There is some pedal-induced bob when mashing or climbing, especially out of the saddle, but that is to be expected for this design. As for the 2002 Psylo, it performs well on the trail, with excellent lateral stiffness, plush ride and precise control. The only concerns with the fork seem to be its longer-term reliability under North Shore conditions and repeated big hits.
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The Verdict
This bike rips! I never thought I would say this about a Cannondale, but if I could afford to buy any full suspension bike right now this would be it. I love the tight feel and the simple but active single pivot system, and the component choices are outstanding. The frameset is beautifully made and Cannondale backs it with a 3-year warranty. Like some riders, I might opt to swap the Psylo for a Marzocchi single crown, but there is no complaints about the Psylo so far. The performance, workmanship and price of the Gemini 1000 are excellent compared to similar full suspension models. Since this is its first year in production, the only question with the bike seem to be its durability against long-term shore-style abuse. But clearly, Cannondale is on the right track with the Gemini Series and I have already seen a few of them on the trails with happy riders.
Special thanks to Experience Cycling and Cannondale for use of the Gemini 1000 test bike. You can see Chris and other talented Vancouver Island riders in the upcoming Dirt2 video to be released in spring of 2002.
Action photos: Blaine Louis
Still photos: Chris Hancock
Rider: Chris Hancock
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