Discover the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte: The Ultimate Blend of Comfort and Urban Style
If you’re on the hunt for a bike that effortlessly combines fun, functionality, and a touch of retro flair, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte might just be your next ride. This versatile hybrid bike is designed for city dwellers who crave a smooth commute, leisurely weekend explorations, or even light fitness sessions without the hassle of a high-maintenance machine. In this in-depth review, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte, from its sleek design to its real-world performance. Whether you’re a beginner cyclist or a seasoned urban rider, this bike promises to elevate your daily adventures.
What Makes the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte Stand Out?
The Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte is part of Cannondale’s popular Treadwell series, which draws inspiration from classic bikes while incorporating modern engineering. Launched as a step-through (or “remixte”) model, it’s particularly appealing for riders who prefer easy mounting and dismounting—think hopping on in a skirt or with groceries in hand. The “Remixte” designation refers to its low-step frame, making it accessible for a wide range of body types and ages.
At its core, this bike is built for urban life. It’s not your typical road racer or rugged mountain bike; instead, it’s a playful hybrid that nods to the funky cruisers of yesteryear. With wide tires for stability on varied surfaces and a lightweight aluminum frame, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte handles everything from smooth pavement to light gravel paths with ease. According to user feedback on cycling forums, it’s praised for being a “comfortable casual cruiser” ideal for pavement and easy off-road trails.
One of the standout aspects is its balance of agility and comfort. Weighing in at a manageable level for its class, it doesn’t feel cumbersome when navigating crowded city streets or storing it in a small apartment. Available in colors like Jade, Dusty Rose, and more, it adds a pop of personality to your rides. If you’re tired of bland commuter bikes, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte brings a fresh, vibrant aesthetic to the table.
Design and Build Quality: Engineered for Everyday Durability
Let’s start with the foundation: the frame. The Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte features a SmartForm C3 Alloy frame with low-step Ride-Easy geometry. This design ensures a comfy reach to the handlebars and a seat position that allows you to easily put a foot down at stops—perfect for urban traffic. The frame includes Straightshot hidden cable routing for a clean look, Urban Armor bumpers to protect against dings from leaning against poles or racks, and mounts for racks and fenders, adding to its practicality.
Paired with the frame is a matching SmartForm C3 Alloy fork, complete with 1-1/8″ steerer, OutFront offset, and flat mount disc brakes. This setup enhances steering precision and absorbs minor bumps from potholes or uneven sidewalks. The overall build is light yet durable, making the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte a reliable choice for daily use.
Wheels are another highlight. It rolls on 650b (27.5-inch) Cannondale double-wall rims with 32 spokes, laced to sealed alloy disc hubs with quick-release skewers for easy maintenance. The Maxxis DTR-1 tires, sized at 650b x 47c, provide excellent grip and cushioning. These tires are inspired by dirt-track styles, offering versatility for city streets, bike paths, and even light trails. Reviewers note that this tire choice contributes to the bike’s playful handling, making it fun to zip around corners or cruise at a relaxed pace.
In terms of aesthetics, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte embraces a retro-modern vibe. The Cruise Control riser handlebar, made from 6061 Alloy with a 15° backsweep and 740mm width, gives it a BMX-inspired feel for better control during casual rides. Combined with Cannondale Comfort grips and a quilted Treadwell saddle (170mm wide with steel rails), it prioritizes rider comfort without sacrificing style.
Key Features: From Gearing to Brakes
Diving deeper into the specs, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte is equipped with a wide-range 9-speed drivetrain that’s perfect for tackling hills or maintaining speed on flats. The microSHIFT Advent rear derailleur and shifters handle smooth gear changes, while the Prowheel 38T crank and microSHIFT 11-42 cassette provide a broad gear ratio. This setup ensures you can pedal efficiently whether you’re commuting to work or exploring neighborhood parks.
Braking is handled by Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm front and 140mm rear rotors. These offer reliable stopping power in all weather conditions, a must-have for urban cycling where sudden stops are common. The levers are also from Tektro, providing a comfortable pull that’s easy on the hands.
One innovative feature is the Intellimount stem, which allows you to mount SP-Connect compatible smartphone cases directly to the bike. Pair this with the Cannondale App, and you can track speed, mileage, and other ride data in real-time. It’s a subtle tech integration that appeals to modern riders who want to monitor their fitness without bulky accessories.
Additional touches include a cartridge square taper bottom bracket for smooth pedaling, stainless steel 14g spokes for durability, and pedals with deck tape for grip in any footwear—from sneakers to sandals. The seatpost is a sturdy 6061 Alloy, 31.6x350mm, ensuring adjustability for different rider heights.
Performance on the Road: Smooth and Versatile
How does the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte perform in action? Based on hands-on reviews, it’s lively and responsive, making it ideal for city environments. The wide tires and balanced geometry provide stability at low speeds, while the lightweight frame allows for quick acceleration. Riders report that it’s excellent for pavement but can handle light gravel or dirt paths without issue, though it’s not built for aggressive off-roading.
On inclines, the 9-speed gearing shines, offering low gears for climbing without excessive effort. Flat-out speed isn’t its forte—it’s more about enjoyable cruising—but it can keep up with urban traffic effortlessly. The hydraulic discs inspire confidence, especially in wet conditions, stopping the bike predictably and powerfully.
For fitness enthusiasts, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte serves as a great entry-level option. It’s not as aggressive as a dedicated road bike, but its upright posture encourages longer rides without strain. One review describes it as falling “somewhere in between” a cruiser and a roadie, with grippy tires and Shimano shifters enhancing its versatility.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Ride All Day
Comfort is where the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte truly excels. The low-step frame makes it accessible, and the seat position is neither too upright nor too forward-leaning—striking a balance for extended comfort. The ribbed grips reduce hand fatigue, and the plush saddle absorbs vibrations from rough roads.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for real-life use. The ability to easily put a foot down at lights or intersections is a game-changer for city riders. Plus, with rack and fender mounts, you can customize it for commuting—add a basket for errands or fenders for rainy days. Users love how it accommodates casual attire, thanks to the grippy pedals that work with flip-flops or boots.
Tech Integrations and Accessories
Beyond basics, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte includes smart features like the aforementioned Intellimount. The Cannondale App turns your phone into a dashboard, tracking rides and even suggesting maintenance. While not as high-tech as e-bikes in the Treadwell Neo lineup (which add electric assist), it keeps things simple and connected.
Accessories-wise, it’s ready for upgrades. Mount a front rack for carrying items, or add lights for night rides. Some models in the series come equipped with these, but the base Treadwell 2 Remixte focuses on essentials, keeping the price accessible.
Pros and Cons of the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte
Pros:
- Comfortable Geometry: Easy to mount and ride for all skill levels.
- Versatile Tires: Handles urban and light off-road surfaces well.
- Reliable Components: Hydraulic brakes and 9-speed shifting for smooth operation.
- Tech-Friendly: Smartphone integration for tracking rides.
- Stylish Design: Retro-inspired look with practical features.
Cons:
- Weight: Slightly heavier than pure road bikes, which might matter for apartment dwellers.
- No Built-In Accessories: Lacks fenders or racks standard (though mounts are there).
- Limited Gearing for Steep Hills: Fine for most cities, but extreme inclines may require more effort.
Who Should Buy the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte?
This bike is ideal for urban commuters, casual riders, and fitness beginners. If you live in a city like New York and need something for short trips, errands, or park loops, it’s a fantastic fit. Women and shorter riders often appreciate the remixte frame, but it’s unisex in appeal. Avoid it if you’re into high-speed racing or heavy trail riding—opt for specialized models instead.
Compared to similar bikes like the Trek FX or Giant Escape, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte stands out for its playful vibe and comfort focus. It’s priced competitively, often around $800-$1000 depending on the retailer, making it a value-packed option.
Final Thoughts: Why the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte Deserves a Spot in Your Garage
In summary, the Cannondale Treadwell 2 Remixte is more than just a bike—it’s a companion for joyful, everyday cycling. With its durable build, comfortable ride, and smart features, it caters to the modern urbanite seeking style and substance. If you’re ready to rediscover the fun of biking, this model won’t disappoint. Check it out at your local dealer and take one for a spin—you might just find your new favorite way to get around.
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