Yes, That’s A New Lefty Nueve. Cannondale Factory Racing is Racing Prototype MTB Fork.

Cannondale Factory Racing has been spotted using a new prototype inverted suspension fork, unofficially dubbed the Lefty Nueve, signalling a forthcoming update to the long-standing Lefty Ocho model. While official details remain under wraps, the presence of the new fork across the entire team suggests this is more than a one-off experiment and could soon enter production. The Lefty Ocho has been a staple in cross-country racing since 2018, making this refresh a significant development in the XC fork market. The prototype retains the distinctive one-legged design but introduces several subtle refinements aimed at improving performance and integration. Notably, the upper section of the fork is slimmer and features a smoother taper, reducing bulk around the crown and headset area. This redesign includes a new hole beneath the steerer tube, which may serve functional purposes such as mounting a fender or securing a light, indicating thoughtful attention to race-day practicality. Mechanical updates include revised damper controls, with compression damping adjustments now hidden beneath a rubber cover rather than being tool-free on top of the fork. This change hints at more sophisticated internal damping options, potentially offering both high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments. The brake mount has also been reworked with a new quick-release StopLock system, possibly to facilitate easier wheel removal or accommodate different rotor sizes, alongside a redesigned brake line guide and a more open stanchion guard for race equipment mounting. The new fork’s finish and setup suggest it is close to production readiness, as Cannondale Factory Racing appears to have fully adopted it for competition use. This development points to an imminent launch of the Lefty Nueve, which would mark a notable evolution in Cannondale’s iconic single-sided fork lineage. Riders and enthusiasts can expect a fresh take on a proven design that has dominated World Cup XC racing for nearly a decade.