Its not for everyone, but for riders that stick to relatively tame terrain and want a race-ready screamer, the Aspero is a great choice. Cannondale's Topstone 105 is an impressive bike, particularly for one retailing for less than $2,000. Have a great day! Why? At a minimum, we like 3 to 4 millimeters of clearance to account for mud and debris between the tire and frame. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a bit more robust. Not only that, but the flush-mounted design of the brake system is also easier for us to maintain. From all-out touring to weekend gravel rides and everything in between, the Straggler makes for a solid one-bike quiver. Tires in this size come in a variety of tread patterns which cover everything from smooth slicks to knobby options (resembling mini mountain bike tires). Bob & Dave. Taking the place of the unique and innovative Slate gravel bike is Cannondale's latest all-road creation: the Topstone. At this point, there was not enough vision to judge the terrain behind the corner, so I had to hold the brakes and reduce my speed. Suspension isnt common on gravel bikes, but its nevertheless important to explain for those looking for a smoother and more comfortable ride. Formerly Clement, this niche and adventure-oriented company made its name in the tire arena, but in 2018 decided to shift its focus to dedicated cyclocross and gravel bikes. 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. From their lineup, the RLT 9 2-Star is a solid budget-minded build: it features SRAMs Apex 1 x 11 drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, can fit up to 700c x 50mm tires, and includes mounting locations for racks and fenders (the carbon fork even has additional spots for storing extra water on those all-day rides). If youre going on a long ride, its designed for you with three tabs just in time to meet your need for spare supplies. We can adjust our position to different terrains, such as prone or upright. There are only two build kits currently offered (plus a frame-only option), but the GRX model is well-appointed with high-end 800-series components, an all-carbon frame, and off-road extras like a dropper post and meaty tires. The adjustable Stranglehold rear dropouts are gone and chain stay length increased 10mm. 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). Trek Checkpoint ALR5 review A fine all-rounder with special touches Our rating 4.5 USD $2,100.00 By Robin Wilmott Published: October 11, 2018 at 12:01 am Our review The Checkpoint is a. Why do we have the Giant Revolt Advanced 2 ranked below the Cannondale? 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. But for mountain bikers looking for a familiar, fun feel while bombing down their local forest service road or even popping off small features, Evils gravel grinder has a lot of appeal.See the Evil Bikes Chamois Hagar. Can't decide? Additionally, because carbon bikes are made with molds instead of welds, companies are able to better tune their ride characteristics, making them more compliant for comfort or stiffer for better power transfer and efficiency. Not only that, but the Topstone 1 tires are WTB Nano vacuum tires, which are lightweight and durable. I think the difference between them is also the rear derailleur: the Cannondale Topstone 2 is a Shimano GRX 400, while the Cannondale Topstone 1 is a Shimano GRX 810. 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. Where it thrives Gravel roads, out in the elements What it's built for Traction, handling, comfort Highlights Light, durable SmartForm C2 Alloy Frame w/ full carbon fork Shimano GRX 800/600 11-speed shifting The three mounting tabs on its frame were designed to make our ride very convenient. Too much pressure will result in bouncing down the path or road and feeling every little bump along the way. However, weight often correlates directly with cost: the more you spend on a bike, the less it will weigh. It has nicer wheels, crank, tires, a lot better tire clearance, and bag mounts. Just the right amount of Reach, not too long and not too short. If youre searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way to go. How much will shipping cost? Learn more: 2022 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review-Can It Take You Across The Gravel Road? The reach and front center on the second-generation Checkpoint increased by about 20mm across all sizes. Cannondale Topstone 105 Price: $1,750 Frame: Aluminum Gears: 2 x 11 Tires: 700c x 37mm What we like: Quality components and impressive versatility at a great price. Cannondale does have some respectable gravel bikes like the all new Topstone and lefty slinging Slate, but we're a bit confused as to why the Synapse Disc SE bikes are in this category. All that said, there are many benefits to purchasing a true gravel-focused bike. And with a comfortable upright seating position, wide gear range, and included front and rear racks, it makes for a solid commuting companion too. Customer service Contact us Newsletter signup Returns Further, Cannondales lifetime frame warranty is more impressive than Canyons six years. I believe that those who like mechanical style will like it more. 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. Sometimes the road in the woods is not exactly straight and clear, and I may encounter a big angle turn. Also! While gravel bikes share a lot in common with road models, pavement-oriented shoes typically have smooth and flat outsoles that make walking on gravel uncomfortable and cumbersome. 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. What we dont like aboutit: Not enough light car weight. Cannondale Topstone 1 2022: LG Cannondale Topstone 1 2022: MD If you like the site, can we ask a favor? What pushes the Straggler towards the bottom of our list? For more information, please see our All that said, we do have some general advice on how to find an appropriate psi. Tires in the 35- to 38-millimeter range are more versatile and a great choice for those who split their time evenly between pavement and gravel. For budget-oriented riders interested in exploring backroads or taking the scenic route to work, Konas Rove AL 650 is plenty of bike. At $2,799, we think there are better deals to be had in the gravel bike category. Learn more , SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12x142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts, 300 Series Alpha Aluminium, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, horizontal sliding dropouts, 142x12 mm thru-axle, BallisTec Full Carbon, 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12x100 thru axle, Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, mudguard mounts, flat-mount disc, 12x100 mm thru axle, FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom, Size: 49, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 80 mm length; Size: 52, 54, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 90 mm length; Size: 56, 58, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 100 mm length; Size: 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 110 mm length, Cannondale 3, butted 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop, Size: 49, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 38 cm width; Size: 52, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 40 cm width; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 42 cm width; Size: 58, 61, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 44 cm width, Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138 mm width, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2 mm, 8 mm offset, 330 mm length, Shimano GRX RX810, long cage, 34T max cog, Size: 49, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 165 mm length; Size: 52, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 170 mm length; Size: 54, 56, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 172.5 mm length; Size: 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 175 mm length, Shimano GRX 400, hydraulic disc, 160/160mm RT54 rotors, Bontrager Tubeless Ready, 28-hole, 17 mm width, Presta valve, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x100mm, Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, CenterLock disc, 100x12 mm thru axle, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x142mm, Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, CenterLock disc, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12 mm thru axle, Bontrager GR1 Comp, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x40 c. Love bikes? Topstone 1 Size. From the list above, youll notice that carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for gravel bike frames. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Rear decoupler does a great job of soaking up bumps while retaining efficiency.What we dont: The suspension increases cost. Experts bemoaned the Topstone's less-than-stellar climbing abilities. It braked in time to slow down and helped me complete the big turn with precision, otherwise, I would have drifted out. I heard, both have long time warrantys over their websites. Stem. Although heavier than carbon, aluminum typically is more durable, and even heftier steel and titanium rigs will stand up to years of use and abuse. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Lightweight carbon frame and Shimano GRX drivetrain at a reasonable price point.What we dont: For some, the carbon frame may not be worth the price increase over the Topstone above. Rating: (4.8/5) See the Cannondale Topstone 105 Alternatively, if comfort is your main priority or you spend almost all of your time on gravel, then a 650b tire and wheel combo makes a lot of sense. As their name suggests, gravel bikes are designed to be ridden on surfaces like gravel trails, doubletrack, and forest service roads. And the standard 50-milllimeter-wide tires are not the fastest-rolling or lightest around. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 . To be sure, the Haanjo 2 cant match the performance or low weight of pricier models on the list, but its a serviceable companion for those who do a little bit of everythingincluding commuting, cruising mellow doubletrack, and exploring forest service roads. Cannondale Bar Tape, 3.5mm . Niner may not be a familiar name to many road cyclists, but this Colorado-based company has been pushing out quality dirt-focused models for about 15 years. In the gravel realm, we especially like their Haanjo 2, which is the most affordable design to make our list at $925. Other thoughtful features include a rubber downtube protector to ward off high-speed rock impacts and a chainstay guard to help keep the chain quiet on bumpy rides. But it is equipped with mechanical brakes, and I think we would all still prefer it to be fitted with hydraulic brakes. Get free advice from a CuratedExpert. We couldn't actually find the tire clearance for these bikes on Cannondale's website, but it comes stock with just 700x30c tires, and we think it may hold . Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Topstone 1 vs Checkpoint ALR 5 ? It is a gravel bike that is well worth getting, both in terms of appearance and performance. Subscribe for updates. Thank you! The elite-level build listed here also features the crisp shifting of SRAMs electronic Force AXS drivetrain. The softail designfirst used on the companys mountain bikes in the 90sdelivers 20 millimeters of rear micro-suspension that effectively reduces the harshness of rough roads. Please select a size first. In the woods, I can confidently avoid whatever obstacles I encounter. Of course, its other bike in Mercury color is also very nice. It reliably protects our chain from accidents. 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. Its worth noting that Cannondale also offers the Topstone Carbon with a lighter frame and their minimalist Kingpin rear suspension that helps cushion harsh impacts.See the Cannondale Topstone 1. What does all this mean for you? Finally, Cervelo recently released the Apero 5 series, which is a lighter, faster, and even pricier version of the standard model here.See the Cervelo Aspero GRX 810 2x. Checkpoint ALR Frameset filter controls. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Typical Santa Cruz craftsmanship and attention to detail.What we dont: Not the best value. However, according to feedback from other riders, the heavier tires had an impact on their riding experience. Also, the lack of tire clearance affects grip in mixed terrain. The bikes share the same Shimano GRX 800/600 drivetrain and GRX 400 brakes, and weve found Cannondales aluminum builds are impressively comfortable (a common knock on aluminum is its too harsh). Why isn't the Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 ranked higher? Put another way, its the polar opposite of the Evil Chamois Hagar above, which crushes the downhills at the expense of power and efficiency when pedaling. To achieve this, the Shimano GRX 400 has a flush-mount design that provides us with better control. Cervelo has made their name in light, fast, and aerodynamic pavement racers, and theyve taken that expertise into the gravel world with their Aspero collection. Curbside Pickup Available NOW! "Thanks to the carbon fork, sumptuous WTB treads and some level of tube design, the Apex 1 . If you choose to go the online route, most bikes shipped to your home will require some assembly. Not only that, but it also has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability. Tack on off-road-ready features like protection along the chain stays and downtube and dropper post compatibility (note: a dropper is not included), and you get a nice option for road riders looking to add a gravel grinder to their quiver. Another choice youll have to make when choosing a gravel bike is whether you want hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes. Within the Niner lineup, you can get GRX components, but theyre only available in top-end 800-spec models that start at about $3,000.See the Niner RLT 9 2-Star. In recent years, gravel bikes have become very popular because they offer a lot of versatility for a wide variety of terrain and are perfect for riders who want to go on adventures. If youre looking for a capable all-rounder, however, youll likely be better served by a bike like Salsas Warbird above. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. Items expand_more. Cannondale Topstone 1s body material is SmartForm C2 Alloy. For $949, the Rove includes a quality aluminum frame, ample mounting locations for accessories, water, and gear, and a dependable Shimano Claris drivetrain. Love data? The Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. Salsas Warbird, for example, has been through many iterations over the years in search of that perfect balance. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 or Cannondale Topstone 105 Finally decided to choose between these two bikes. Released last year, the mid-range Topstone 105 features a sturdy aluminum frame A quality mountain bike shoe plays a number of important roles. It looks like a brown tree trunk blended with orange and red fallen leaves, and at the same time mixed with the reflective metallic texture of SmartForm C2 alloy, a gentle yet refined feeling. Shifting of SRAMs electronic Force AXS drivetrain that is well worth getting both. Adjustable Stranglehold rear dropouts are gone and chain stay length increased 10mm Warbird above but it is bit! You Across the gravel bike that is well worth getting, both have long time warrantys over websites... 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