Cannondale Trail 8 - 75mm Fork and 29-Inch Wheels

Cannondale Trail 8 is an entry-level hardtail mountain bike with a SmartForm C3 alloy frame, front suspension, and wheel sizing tied to frame size. Cannondale lists it for low-impact trails, gravel roads, and leisurely rides, while its larger sizes use 29-inch wheels.

Trail 8 Frame And Fit

The aluminum frame uses SAVE micro-suspension, a 68-degree head angle, post-mount disc fittings, and internal shift and dropper-post cable routing. The frame is also dropper-post compatible, accepting a 31.6mm dropper post that is not included.

Cannondale specifies 29-inch wheels for larger sizes and 27.5-inch wheels for smaller sizes. The 29-inch setup uses WTB Ranger Comp tires measuring 29x2.25 inches, while the official size range runs from XS through XL.

Suspension And Drivetrain

The SR Suntour M3030 coil fork provides 75mm of travel, with a 46mm offset on the 29-inch configuration. That travel suits gravel, paved paths, and modest trail surfaces rather than aggressive downhill riding.

A microSHIFT 2x7-speed drivetrain pairs a Prowheel 36/22 crank with a Sunrace 11-34, 7-speed cassette. The combination provides 14 gear positions, while Tektro mechanical disc brakes use 160mm rotors at the front and rear.

Price And Ownership Context

REI lists the Cannondale Trail 8 at $419.93, compared with $600.00, and identifies the listing as discontinued. Cannondale's US page provides free shipping and professional assembly through an authorized local retailer for current bike orders.

REI lists the bike at 32 pounds 14.4 ounces and includes platform pedals. The retailer also specifies height ranges from 4 feet 6 inches to 6 feet 3 inches across the listed frame sizes, making fit selection a central part of the purchase decision.

Who The Trail 8 Fits

The Trail 8 fits riders seeking a basic hardtail for low-impact trails, gravel roads, and paved recreational routes. Its 75mm coil fork, 2x7 gearing, and mechanical disc brakes place it below more advanced trail bikes with longer-travel suspension, hydraulic brakes, or single-chainring drivetrains.

Compared with a current $600.00 reference price shown by REI, the listed $419.93 price is lower by the retailer's displayed comparison. The discontinued status makes the Trail 8 more relevant to shoppers considering remaining inventory than to riders seeking Cannondale's newest trail platform.