The Ultimate Lightweight Trail Bike for All-Around Riding
Words by Candice Hansen
Looking for the best lightweight trail bike that climbs and descends with ease? The Cannondale Habit LTD might just be the all-rounder you’re after. It’s a high-performance trail bike built for riders who want one rig that can handle everything—from techy climbs to fast descents. I only had the Habit LTD for a short time (3 rides) but after those rides on Sedona’s classic red rock trails, I got the feel of how great this trail bike is for both beginner and advanced riders alike. That was more than enough to get a feel for what this bike is capable of.
First Impressions: Light and Climb-Ready
The first thing I noticed about the Cannondale Habit LTD was how lightweight it felt. As I biked up a technical climb the bike responded to my riding and did great in tight turn spots. It’s a true climber, and the carbon frame makes uphill efforts feel easier.
I tested the Habit LTD on some of Sedona most classic technical trails and it held its own across the board. From slickrock rolls to chunky descents and steep, ledgy climbs, this trail bike handled it all like a pro. It’s a ride that thrives in both technical terrain and fast, flowy singletrack—a solid pick for anyone who wants versatility without compromise. Coming from a pedal-heavy region like Northwest Arkansas, I’m always hyper-aware of a bike’s weight and climbing capability when testing.
While we don’t have huge elevation where I normally ride, the climbs are short, punchy, steep and nothing makes that grind wirse than a heavy, sluggish frame feel like a punishment. The Habit LTD impressed me. It’s responsive on the ups, and light enough to make those punchy climbs feel manageable. Honestly, it would be an ideal bike for my local trails—and just about any terrain, really.
My Short Rider Perspective
At 5’0”, I’ve struggled in the past to find a premium trail bike that actually fits me, however, the Habit LTD’s XS frame with 27.5” wheels offers excellent standover clearance making it a great option for short riders. Cannondale really delivered here by not compromising on performance for smaller sizes and even offers customizability with every frame size. If you’re switching from a mullet setup (like myself) or coming from a hardtail, you’ll love how balanced this bike feels.
On the Trail-Sedona, Arizona
Descending
The Habit LTD really comes alive on the descents. The suspension feels plush without being overly soft, giving me just the right amount of support through rocky drops and fast, uneven trail. It’s the kind of setup that builds confidence—you can pick up speed, hit chunky lines, and stay in control without feeling like you’re getting bounced around. For a trail bike, it punches above its weight when the trail turns downhill.
Climbing
The Habit LTD climbs surprisingly well for a bike with this much capability on the descents. It feels light and efficient under power, especially on technical terrain where quick pedal response and balance make a difference. I noticed how easily it held traction on loose, rocky climbs in Sedona, and I could see it performing just as well on the punchy, root-filled climbs back home. It doesn’t feel like a drag to pedal—more like a bike that wants to keep moving forward.
Cornering
One of the first things I noticed was how quick and nimble the Habit LTD felt in tight corners. The 27.5” wheels on the XS size make a big difference here—snappy, responsive, and easy to maneuver through switchbacks and sharp trail features. It’s the kind of bike that encourages you to stay off the brakes and trust the line, which makes for a more playful and connected ride overall.
Components-Habit LTD
- Carbon Frame- XSmall Frame, Purple
- Travel- 130mm Rear, 140mm Front
- RockShox Pike Ultimate Fork
- RockShox Pike Ultimate Rear shock
- Drivetrain- SRAM XO AXS T-Type
- Full 27.5″ Wheelset
- SRAM G2 RSC Code Brakes, 180mm rotor
- RockShox Reverb AXS Dropper
- (R) Maxis Rekon, 29×2.4″ (27.5×2.4″ – XS), 3C, EXO, tubeless ready
- DT Swiss XMC 1501 Spline One Carbon
- (F) DT Swiss 240, 15x110mm thru-axle / (R) DT Swiss 240
- Cannondale Flat Race, Ti rails
- Cannondale Grips
- Cannondale’s HollowGram SAVE riser bar
What I loved about the Cannondale Habit LTD
Final Thoughts: All-Around Trail Beast
The Cannondale Habit LTD is an impressive carbon trail bike built for riders who want it all—efficient climbing, downhill confidence, and a lightweight, responsive feel. If you’re after a high-end trail rig that handles techy climbs, fast descents, and everything in between, the Habit LTD truly delivers.
Perfect for:
– Riders who rack up climbing miles but still want fun on the descents
– Petite riders seeking a true XS fit (the 27.5” wheels make a big difference)
– Trail riders looking for one versatile bike that can handle a wide range of terrain
If you’re in the market for a top-tier trail bike that doesn’t compromise, the Cannondale Habit LTD should be on your short list.
Pros:
- Great for short riders
- Lightweight
- Nimble
- Easy to pedal on steep terrain
- Great travel for trail riding
- Very plush on descents
Cons:
- Expensive- Although it is currently on sale.
- Saddle was not great
- Grips
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