This article applies to SmartSense Gen. 2 only.
How does my SmartSense system work?
See: Getting Started with SmartSense Gen 2
I'm having technical difficulty
See: SmartSense Gen. 2 troubleshooting
How do I update firmware?
See: SmartSense Gen. firmware updates
My friends complain my lights are too bright during group rides
Light modes can be changed in the Cannondale app or by pressing the button on the side of the radar/taillight. For models with flashing light pattern options (this does not apply to StVZO countries) default light mode #3 includes a "Peloton" rear light setting. You can further customize that in the app if you wish by setting the headlight to solid and lower power. See: Lights in Getting Started with SmartSense Gen. 2
Are SmartSense Gen. 2 components backward compatible with my SmartSense Gen. 1 bike?
No. While the systems have many similarities, all of the components are inter-dependent and Gen. 1 and Gen. 2 are compatible with different bike models.
What happens to shifting if my battery dies? Can I replace the cable with an AXS battery?
The system was designed so that the shifting always works unless the battery is completely depleted. At low battery levels, the system will automatically turn off the lights and radar to make sure that shifting is still available. You can configure what battery percent this happens in the Cannondale app. Keep in mind that the SmartSense battery has roughly 20 times the capacity of a Sram AXS battery, so 5% battery on a SmartSense battery is equivalent to a fully-charged AXS battery. If you still have concerns, the Sram AXS extension cable can be disconnected and replaced with a battery. However, the cable is connected to the battery near the bottom bracket of the bike and requires additional tools to disconnect. The cable would need to be held in place or removed to be prevented from getting caught in the wheel or drivetrain.
Can I add a Garmin Power Mount to charge my Edge from the SmartSense battery?
Yes! You can use the SmartSense Gen. 2 system to provide power to a Garmin Edge cycling computer if you purchase the Garmin Edge Power Mount https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/784702. Check your specific Edge model's Power Mount compatibility with Gamin. For SmartSense you won't need to purchase any of their additional adapter cable options - the standard cable of the Power Mount will plug directly into a SmartSense extension wire.
On a SmartSense Gen. 2 equipped bike, like the 2025 Synapse Carbon SmartSense, getting power to the Power Mount will also require two additional SmartSense wiring parts be installed by your authorized Cannondale dealer (find them here: https://www.cannondale.com/find-a-dealer). The parts can be ordered and installed by your dealer and are:
- K75005 (SmartSense Gen. 2 Splitter)
- K7520380 (Higo Extension Cable 800mm)
Of course this will slightly increase SmartSense battery drain and decrease your overall battery runtime, but it's relatively low draw as compared to the lights. It's a great solution!
How do I get my saddle bag or tool roll to fit with my taillight?
Your SmartSense Gen. 2 bike comes with the Cannondale StashPort and StashBag in the downtube, which can accommodate many of your tools and spares needed for riding. If this is not large enough, there is also mounting points for a top tube bag. If you would still prefer a saddle bag, GoPro style extension arms are available from many retailers which can be used to move the light slightly and give space for a saddle bag.
Can I get flashing modes on my StVZO lights?
This is not possible. To ensure compliance with European road regulations, the lights marked StVZO-compliant with a K-number cannot be put into flashing modes. Both a new headlight and taillight would be required. Please note that an international headlight with an StVZO taillight would also not be able to enter the flashing modes.