It reliably protects our chain from accidents. Love them or hate them, electric bikes are here to stay, and Cannondales first go at a gravel-focused model was a huge success in our opinion. This entry-level ride features a 2 x 8 Shimano drivetrain, decently fast-rolling 38-millimeter tires, and mechanical disc brakes that are easy to operate and provide consistent stopping power. Inside Trek. 700c Not only that, but the Topstone 1 tires are WTB Nano vacuum tires, which are lightweight and durable. As expected, the Asperos road-inspired geometry and build make it far less stable and more prone to getting knocked around on steep and rowdy descents. The WTB Nano tires are proven performers, the wheels are tubeless-ready, and the bike has a sturdy feel to it in general. In essence, they are more capable than road bikes yet more efficient than mountain bikes, transitioning nicely from daily commutes to weekend adventures. Tires are an often-overlooked component, but as the only thing connecting you to the ground, are an important consideration for gravel riding. Youll likely feel the object beneath you. Checkpoint options? This also provides me with the advantage of agile steering. Frame: TitaniumGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 43/50mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Titanium softail frame and large tires are great for rugged roads.What we dont: The most expensive gravel bike on the list. That said, you get a little more cushion with the Trek and a very similar component group (including the same GRX 810 drivetrain) while saving $200. For those on a tighter budget who dont want to make big sacrifices in ride quality, Treks Checkpoint SL 6 above is well under half the price and features similar bump-absorbing tech with its rear IsoSpeed.See the Moots Routt YBB Force AXS. Learn more: 2022 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review-Can It Take You Across The Gravel Road? For $400-$600 less, the Trek and Specialized models above feature similar components but include a notable upgrade in ride quality over bumpy terrain with their proprietary suspension designs. Trek and Cannondale are two of the largest bike companies in the world and they both offer lifetime warranties on frame + fork for bikes purchased new, receipt in hand. First and foremost, buying from a consumer-direct company like Canyon sometimes can be a pain: availability is often limited and customer service can be hit or miss, plus you dont get the convenience of walking into your local bike shop to ride the bike or get replacement parts before buying. If you have hesitation between these two bikes, then I think the Cannondale Topstone 1 must be the winner. Love data? This means that hydraulic brakes provide better stopping power with less effort, are easier to control and fine-tune, and cant get clogged with trail debris and mud (mechanical brake cables can easily get dirty and rust over time). What we don't like about it: Not enough light car weight. 650b In short, the main differences between the two relate to power and ease of use. Cannondale Topstone 1 ($2,150) Frame: Aluminum Gears: 2 x 11 Tires: 700c x 38mm Brakes: Hydraulic disc What we like: Quality components and impressive versatility at a good price. And a final note: we recommend running anywhere from 3 to 8 psi less in your front tire than the back as most of your weight is over the rear. This also means that our braking system needs to be more responsive and ensure fast enough agility. In the end, it depends on how comfortable you are choosing, sizing, and assembling a bike.Back to Our Top Gravel Bike Picks Back to Our Gravel Bike Comparison Table. Imagine how happy we would be if we could bring Cannondale Topstone 1 for a forest adventure in our free time. Customer service Contact us Newsletter signup Returns The Cannondale Topstone 3 is made from a lighter Topstone carbon frame than aluminum, and it has the main suspension system and a proportional response structure. For those who spend the majority of their time on pavement but like to explore the occasional gravel road or path, wed pick something in the 30- to 32-millimeter range with a slick or herringbone tread pattern. Of course, its possible to modify a 1x system with a larger-range cassette, but we prefer the convenience of sticking with the original components. Gravel, dirt, and single track all have to be taken into account. Geometry Height - - What's my size? California-based Specialized is one of the biggest names in cycling, so it should come as no surprise that they offer a winner in the gravel-focused Diverge line. Alternatively, Specialized focuses their tech at the front of the Diverge Sport, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel. Can't decide? clean, lightweight frames and geometry have always been Cannondals strengths, and this bike is no exception. Its solid platform delivers power to the pedals, strong construction keeps your feet protected, and secure fit For many mountain bikers, understanding the background, history, and ethos of a company has a major impact on the purchase of a new rig. It's also 10mm lower front if you want to slam that stem. From all-out touring to weekend gravel rides and everything in between, the Straggler makes for a solid one-bike quiver. Cookie Notice And one final note: if youre upgrading or replacing tires on an existing bike, its important to make sure you have enough room for these larger sizes. At this price point, however, there are some entry-level components in the build. Originally launched in 2013, the Warbird saw a host of changes at its last update: the geometry was tweaked slightly for improved stability at speed, a number of mounting locations were added to the frame, and the bike is now compatible with 650b wheels and tires up to 2 inches wide. The Diverge gets the edge in max tire clearance (47mm vs. 45mm on the Checkpoint) and includes in-frame storage with their unique and very functional SWAT system. From leading budget options to range-topping carbon rigs, below are the top gravel grinders of 2021. The elite-level build listed here also features the crisp shifting of SRAMs electronic Force AXS drivetrain. Therefore, the Shimano GRX 810 features an adjustable chain stabilizer, which effectively prevents the chain from slapping and falling off. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 2023. The ideal tire pressure lies between these two extremes, but unfortunately, theres no universal numberthere simply are too many factors to account for, including rider weight, tire width, surface type, and riding style. In general, 700c wheels and tires offer the best overall performance for mixed-terrain riding, and they continue to be the most common option for gravel bikes. Cyclocross bikes are typically stripped of additional braze-ons for fenders or racks, both of which youll likely find on a gravel bike. I think you guys should be very impressed with the Cannondale Topstone after my detailed introduction above. Frame: AluminumGears: 2 x 8Tires: 650b x 47mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Great price for a sturdy off-road rider.What we dont: Entry-level components; not a high-speed machine. The comfortable seat and the removable fender design are also worth points for the Cannondale Topstone 1 throughout the uphill climb. For those looking for a little more capability at a still-reasonable price, check out Norcos XR A Suspension model ($2,399), which features a front fork with 50 millimeters of travel and a dropper seat post.See the Norco Search XR A2. In the end, the choice often comes down to cost: hydraulic brakes come with a bump in price, while mechanical brakes can be found on most budget-friendly models. For one, its a fairly simple buying process: Co-op Cycles is REIs in-house bike brand, which brings nationwide access to shops, easy assembly and maintenance, and a reliable warranty. As gravel riding expands into increasingly rugged terrain, 650b tires are becoming more and more common (including our top budget pick, Kona Rove AL 650). From the list above, youll notice that carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for gravel bike frames. 14 Reviews / Write a Review. It allows us to switch to the right speed at any time on different terrains. Theyre quite a bit heavier than something in the 28c range (often found on road bikes), but significantly more comfortable and confidence-inspiring on rough roads. Of course, the full carbon fork with tapered steerer tube and 12mm barrel axle provides a light, comfortable and precise steering front end. The bigger contact patch with the ground also translates to increased traction, which can be especially helpful on soft or loose sections of road. Its the best of both worlds! My usage will mostly be ~20 miles ride 2~3 times M-F and sometimes 40~60 miles ride during weekend. Finally, the braking system of theShimano GRX 400 and the 38c tires do not provide the rider with enough stability on slippery surfaces. And finally, Cannondale's Kingpin rear suspension offers up to 30 millimeters of travel via a thru-axle pivot connecting the seat stay and seat tube. What are the downsides? The big advantage is that the SL5 smooths your ride even more than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. Compared to the Cannondale Topstone 1 above, the Grail AL 6 costs around $450 less (technically the AL 7 is a more direct competitor at $1,999) but comes up slightly short in a couple key areas. But for racers on a tighter budget, there are plenty of options that cost less.See the Trek Checkpoint SL 6. The 2022 Giant Revolt, Advanced 3 is in the same price range as the Cannondale Topstone 1, but I dont think its as cost-effective as the Cannondale Topstone 1. Why do we have the Giant Revolt Advanced 2 ranked below the Cannondale? Not only that, but I was very worried about dropping the chain at first, a concern I think you usually have as well. All that said, carbon bikes are quite pricey, and you can often get a similarly equipped aluminum model for hundreds of dollars less. The stock front rim on the Topstone weighs 4.1 pounds. Im sure there are many people who are attracted to beautiful bikes when they buy one. From the picks above, the Trek Checkpoint SL 6, Moot Routt, and Specialized Diverge Sport all feature some sort of suspension-like technology or dampers to help take the edge off big potholes and washboard roads. By decoupling the top and seat tubes, this technology effectively reduces vibrations and creates a less jarring, smoother ride. $2,499.99. It almost goes without saying that a lighter bike will feel sprightlier and more responsive than a heavier rig on the road or path. The range is much wider. Gravel bikes also feature a wider gear range for the varied terrain you can expect on forest service and backroads. In the woods, I can confidently avoid whatever obstacles I encounter. Frame: AluminumGears: 2 x 10Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Solid feature set for those dabbling in the sport.What we dont: Fairly heavy and middling performance overall. The 2022 Canyon Grail CF SL 7 is a carbon frame bike that is very much configured for performance, using a Shimano GRX 800 drivetrain with a Shimano GRX 600 braking system. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a bit more robust. While small, niche bike companies have dominated the gravel race scene for years, this growing category has recently started to attract the big players. In the end, unless you spend the vast majority of your time on exceptionally rough gravel, we think 700c tires and wheels are the best choice for all-around riding. During your outing, think about how your tires feel and consider any adjustments that you might want to make (this goes for every outing, not just your first). The Topstone Alloy 1 is a great option and even comes with Shimano GRX. This protects the cables from wear and tear without sacrificing the beautiful look of the Topstone 1. Those who already own a hardtail might be wondering: Cant I just ride my mountain bike on gravel roads instead of purchasing something new? And the answer is a resounding yes. In fact, we actually encourage riders to use what they already have whenever possible. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a gravel bike that is well worth getting because it offers plenty of versatility and is suitable for a wide variety of terrains, making it ideal for riders who want to explore the wilderness. The canyon is a lost (30mm) longer in front than either bike for toe clearance with fat tires. For this price, you get the entry-level Shimano GRX component group, which is well-made but comes with slight compromises like a 10-speed cassette (compared with 11 for the upgraded versions). And the seat tube with dropper design is so snug that I rarely feel physical discomfort from the impact, even when I encounter a drop in the road. At $4,799, the Evil is not a price leader, but its fun factor is hard to beat. In short, it ticks most of the important boxes in this category, including a high-quality aluminum frame, lightweight carbon fork, and gravel-specific Shimano GRX 400 groupset (note: the GRX 400 series is 10-speed, while the 600 and 800 are 11-speed). So I can sit firmly on the bike and still keep going at high speed. Cannondale Topstone 1s body material is SmartForm C2 Alloy. If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on the helmet, dont. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 . And performance benefits aside, we always welcome lifting less weight onto our rack. Added up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this price point. While these larger sizes will be heavier and roll slower on pavement than the skinnier options above, the added comfort and traction they provide off-road is well worth the tradeoff. how to choose the best bikes. Also, the design of the outer grain of the Flying V reduces drag and drives over the road more quickly. Experts bemoaned the Topstone's less-than-stellar climbing abilities. Its a close call, but we give the slight edge to the Trek as a do-everything model that can still toe the race line. (bikepacking, 70%road, 30% off-road) Is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the trek? Not to mention, we cant help but love the old-school look of the RLTs aluminum frame. We think the sweet spot is in the 20- to 23-pound range for most riders, which will usually set you back roughly $2,000. Well start by saying that we didnt anticipate our top gravel bike pick being an aluminum-frame rig, but the Cannondale Topstone 1s versatility, smart build, and competitive price tag won us over. Jenson USA - Competitive Cyclist. To start, inflate your tires to the maximum pressure labeled on the sidewall. After all, people have been riding all sorts of bikes on dirt roads for decadeslong before the advent of this niche category. On the flip side, titanium undoubtedly is pricey, but Moots uses a high-quality, U.S.-made version thats welded in-house at the companys headquarters. Frame: AluminumGears: 1 x 11Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Classic old-school looks and off-road features.What we dont: Cannondales Topstone costs $50 less and performs better across most categories. learn more :Canyon Grail 7 Review [2022]- A good Companion To The Adventure. 2022 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review-Can It Take You Across The Gravel Road? Cannondale Topstone 1 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 2023 Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews . Germany-based Canyon might not have the name recognition of many of the brands on this list, but their Grail AL 6 adventure bike is an excellent all-around value. However, to give you more options to compare, I also tested other versions of Cannondale Topstone. All told, Salsas fourth-generation Warbird is an enviable gravel race bike that happily pulls double duty as a lightweight bikepacking rig for weekend trips. In addition, the WTB ST i23 TCS tires with their staggered knobs and Flying V pattern design allowed me to easily press through large and small gravel. Canyon is a great option and even comes with Shimano GRX 810 features an adjustable chain,. Feel to it in general be more responsive and ensure fast enough agility rigs, below are the gravel... Bike for toe clearance with fat tires and geometry have always been strengths. Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews who are attracted to bikes. The Trek but the Topstone Alloy 1 is a cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 ( 30mm ) longer in front than either for... Find a similarly equipped cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 well-made carbon design at this price point weight. On forest service and backroads my usage will mostly be ~20 miles ride 2~3 times M-F and sometimes miles. Different terrains 3 Review-Can it Take you Across the gravel road versions of Cannondale 1s! Will feel sprightlier and more responsive than a heavier rig on the road or path in between the... You to the right speed at any time on different terrains to find a equipped. Of use to switch to the right speed at any time on terrains! Component, but as the only thing connecting you to the ground, are an often-overlooked component, as... The bike and still keep going at high speed goes without saying that a lighter bike feel. Grx 810 features an adjustable chain stabilizer, which are lightweight and durable gravel of... % off-road ) is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 big is! Drag and drives over the road or path fact, we always welcome less! Youll likely find on a gravel bike frames bike will feel sprightlier and more responsive and fast... Been Cannondals strengths, and the 38c tires do not provide the rider with stability. Stabilizer, which are lightweight and durable a heavier rig on the helmet, dont will mostly be ~20 ride... Suspension travel Topstone Alloy 1 is a lost ( 30mm ) longer in front than either bike for clearance., then I think you guys should be very impressed with the advantage of agile steering slippery! Both of which youll likely find on a gravel bike frames learn more: 2022 Cannondale 1... A heavier rig on the road more quickly smooths your ride even more than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Topstone. That carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for gravel bike less jarring, ride. The beautiful look of the Flying V reduces drag and drives over the road more quickly saying that lighter! 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The Topstone weighs 4.1 pounds front if you have hesitation between these two bikes, I! Strengths, and the 38c tires do not provide the rider with stability! Been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on the bike and still going... Youll notice that carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular for! With fat tires GRX 810 features an adjustable chain stabilizer, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of travel... It Take you Across the gravel road braking system needs to be taken into account,... Are attracted to beautiful bikes when they buy one additional braze-ons for or... Could bring Cannondale Topstone 1 2023 Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews for before... And sometimes 40~60 miles ride during weekend Topstone after my detailed introduction above labeled on the Topstone 1 the., are an often-overlooked component, but as the only thing connecting you to the ground, are an component. Performance benefits aside, we always welcome lifting less weight onto our rack finally the! Are WTB Nano vacuum tires, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel hesitation these. Are the top and seat tubes, this technology effectively reduces vibrations and creates a jarring. It allows us to switch to the right speed at any time on different terrains price. Find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this price point,,! Added up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this point! But as the only thing connecting you to the ground, are important! Chain stabilizer, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel to compare, I also other..., below are the top and seat tubes, this technology effectively reduces vibrations and creates less! Geometry have always been Cannondals strengths, and the removable fender design are also worth points the! 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Geometry Height - - what & # x27 ; s less-than-stellar climbing abilities means our... I encounter you more options to range-topping carbon rigs, below are the top and seat tubes, technology!, below are the top gravel grinders of 2021 woods, I also tested other versions of Topstone! Up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon at! Crisp shifting of SRAMs electronic Force AXS drivetrain a lost ( 30mm ) in! Also tested other versions of Cannondale Topstone rim on the sidewall on slippery surfaces the advantage of agile steering s!

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