I've had this bike about a month, so I figure it was time to do a review for everyone.

I will start with the minor negatives so that I can end with the positives. Changing the oil is a pain, but the process does get better with time. My shock bumper was smashed. It must have been a defect from the factory. It's being fixed under warranty by Jerry at Ohlins as I am writing this review. The battery connections loosened up as well as the ground wire. I figure from the shock slamming into the bad bumper. Easily fixed. If the bike bogs, backfires, sputters, or does anything odd, double check your connections.

Now the good stuff: Being an engineer, I am amazed at the quality of construction. It is the best built bike available. The components are top notch. The technology behind this bike is about 3 to 5 years ahead of it's time. This bike is precise. It may not be real quick handling, but it does exactly what you ask of it. The power and handling is all there.

Everyone wants to know how it compares to the crf450. The X440 is built much stronger, and is 10 to 12 lbs. heavier. The trade-off is worth it, because the bike won't fold like a pretzel if you go down. Suspension is way better. Throttle response is instant. There is no hit or transition, just smooth power and LOTS of it. Peak power is the same, but the Cannondale is more rideable.

In ending I just want everyone to know what a awesome bike we all have, and I only hope all the effort and technology will not be wasted in the end.