I am looking to buy a Cannibal. A local dealer has a 03 for $6500 and a 02 for $5500. What is the difference bethween the 02 and 03 models; and is it worth the extra $1000?

Thanks

 

That's not a bad price for either of them. Check and see if the '02 has Ohlins shocks all the way around. Then ask the dealer if it has the MC500 or 1000 computer. It is easy to determine the 1000, look under the left front plastic above the wheel and see if it has a detachable grey plug. This would indicate the 1000. Also ask if all of the Service bulletins have been done. If it is an '02 with 1000 computer and ohlins all the way around, then it is well worth the $5500.00. Hell if it even has the 500 computer it is well worth it also. Just my opinion.

 

What about an '02 Speed. Called my dealer up here a few days ago and he said he had some '02's left over. Anything I should be looking for on them?

 

Ask him to list all the updates. Then check that with the Cannondale website. It should have all of the current ones done to it. Engine stud, front engine mount, wire shield, etc. If they're not updated, then make an deal with the dealership. He gets the parts for free, and gets paid from Cannondale to update the quad. This is a must. You do not want to be stuck with a machine that may be faulty. And make sure he's still giving you the full warranty. I doubt you'll see a quad with the MC500 computer on it.

The major improvements between 02 and 03.

Steering stem geometery. The old ones have a straight neck on them. THe new ones have a more comfortable location, it follows the stem.

Head pipe. THe new 03's go into one pipe closer to the exhaust. This gives you about 20% more power.

A-Arms. The 03's have a better design.

Gas tank. The 03 gas tank does not have the quick connect on the bottom of the tank, and has a better match between the threads on the gas cap. Some of the 02 tanks do stripout, and Cannondale is replacing gas tanks over this. Some people have had gas leak on them.

THat's the major differences that covers the Cannibal and the Speed. One thing I like better on the 02, is the gas filter location. I like mine better down under the tank by the subframe. The 03 has it right next to the fuel pump(left side up beside the tank) which makes it harder to change.

Just don't trust the dealer. Make sure he's "up to date" on the Cannons, and the 02's will be a great bargain.

 

Speeds never had the 500 computer. There is nothing at all wrong with the 500, the 1 and only downfall is the the map loading, although it still can be done.

Check for all the service updates and the Speed is a very good ride.

 

Thanks Dubya. That's all I needed to hear.

 

Thanks for the info. I looked at the 02 models and liked the features on the Speed a little better. I'll post when I pick mine up [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]