Not only that, but I was very worried about dropping the chain at first, a concern I think you usually have as well. Curbside Pickup Available NOW! The frame of the Cannondale Topstone 1 is made of SmartForm C2 alloy with OutFront offset. Make note of this pressure and take your bike for a real ride. You also miss out on some nice upgrades like hydraulic disc brakes, although the Tektro mechanicals are decent performers and dont require much in terms of maintenance. It doesnt interfere with our being in the right aerodynamic position to ride to maintain speed, while still maintaining comfort. First of all, the Cannondale Topstone 1 has a 211 speed shift range. The open forest roads are not as narrow as the single-track trails, but they still test the bikes performance, and the Topstone 1 was smooth and silky on these potholes. Released last year, the mid-range Topstone 105 features a sturdy aluminum frame A quality mountain bike shoe plays a number of important roles. If youve never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone. My usage will mostly be ~20 miles ride 2~3 times M-F and sometimes 40~60 miles ride during weekend. The stock back rim weighs 4.7 pounds. 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. 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. Frame: AluminumGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Quality components and impressive versatility at a good price.What we dont: A bit heavy for weight-conscious riders. Frame: SteelGears: 3 x 10Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Touring-ready with a steel frame and included racks.What we dont: Very heavy. The biggest news with the Checkpoint is its IsoSpeed, which functions similarly to the rear suspension on a mountain bike. Stem. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. For $2,600, you get a light and compliant carbon frame, a smooth-shifting Shimano GRX 22-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and ample clearance for tires up to 45 millimeters wide for damping rough roads. is the prototypical gravel race bike. The Grails proven and tubeless-ready DT Swiss wheels also are wrapped in one of our favorite gravel tires at the moment: Schwalbes 40-millimeter G-One Bite, which transition nicely from tarmac to trail. Next, lay an object larger than a pencil in your driveway or on the sidewalka wooden dowel or mixing spoon handle works greatand ride over it at a comfortable speed (about 10mph). 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. Not only that, but it also has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability. What do you give up with the Chamois Hagars unique build? That said, buying from Santa Cruz involves paying a premium for the brands attention to detail (all models are admittedly fantastic-looking), strong warranty, and reliable long-term performance. If you want a more cost-effective bike, my recommendation is still the Cannondale Topstone 1. Read more about us. Like all Santa Cruz bikes, the gravel rig is undeniably pricey at $4,649 for the GRX model, which includes the high-end 800 groupset. Built for chasing horizons, exploring routes less travelled or accelerating your commute. If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on the helmet, dont. For example, models like Treks Checkpoint SL 6 are significantly lighter than mountain bikes, the drop bars offer multiple hand positions for all-day comfort, and you get more mounting locations for food, water, and gear. REI website says either SM or MED bike. Geometry Frame: SteelGears: 1 x 11Tires: 700c x 41mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Quality steel frame and versatile geometry.What we dont: Heavier and more expensive than aluminum models. But for those hoping to stay under $1,000, Konas entry-level Rove is undeniably a good value.See the Kona Rove AL 650. Get free advice from a Curated Expert. It is a gravel bike that is well worth getting, both in terms of appearance and performance. But if youre more interested in gravel races than mellow rides, the lighter carbon-framed Revolt Advanced 2 is a solid buy. 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, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle: Drivetrain We particularly like Treks IsoSpeed on the Checkpoint SL 6, which decouples the top tube and seat tubes to create a less jarring ride. It has nicer wheels, crank, tires, a lot better tire clearance, and bag mounts. Not only does it make the uphills more bearable, but it also allows you to cover ground more quickly with less effort. Most notably, it forgoes thru-axles (which add stiffness and inspire confidence during fast descents) in favor of the quick-release style. 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 . 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). Both offer a nice entry point into the world of gravel riding, but the more capable Kona gets the edge for us.See the Diamondback Haanjo 2. Hey guys, after all my research for gravel bikes, the final Battle is between the cannondale Topstone 1 (2099) and the Trek Checkpoint ALR5 (2299) I want the bike mostly for traveling. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a modern alloy gravel race bike that allows you to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions. There Sweden-based Thule is one of the worlds leading manufacturers of car racks and bike accessories, and the T2 Pro XTR is their core hitch-mounted offering. The listed weight for the stock rims includes the rim, spokes and hubs. Can't decide? 2021 Can't decide? Better known for their extensive lineup of mountain bikes, Norco did a nice job with the dirt-focused Search XR A2. In the end, if your cycling goals include winning the Dirty Kanza 200, its likely worth spending up for the Trek, and its more forgiving ride undeniably is a plus over long and hard miles. The 2023 Framed Basswood Carbon Gravel Bike has a 33mph SRAM APEX 1 drivetrain compared to the Cannondale Topstone 1s Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain capable of 36mph. For a reasonable $1,699, you get a 2 x 10 Shimano drivetrain that works well across most terrain along with a healthy selection of mounting locations for racks, bottles, and gear. The Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. We can adjust our position to different terrains, such as prone or upright. Finn tilbud fra 1 butikker, og les anmeldelser p Prisjakt. However, if you consistently frequent pavement and mellow trails, youll probably be better served by 700c wheels described above. In a comparison test, the difference was between staying in the saddle and pedaling versus getting off and walking. And although the Warbirds high-performing TRP Spyre mechanical disc brakes are one of the better options of their kind on the market, they simply cant match the ease of use or stopping power of the hydraulic version on the Giant. 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. 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. Today I have chosen the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 for analysis and comparison. Uphill-focused riders that want a twitchy and extremely responsive ride wont like the laidback stance or beefed-up construction, which adds weight. In other words, its hard to put a price on such excellent craftsmanship. For example, the $1,599 Co-op Cycles ADV 2.2 tips the scales at around 23.5 pounds, while Santa Cruzs carbon Stigmata Force 2X ($5,849) weighs just over 18 pounds. Its also not uncommon to pay an oversized shipping fee. Added up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this price point. 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. What we dont like aboutit: Not enough light car weight. All that said, the ADV 1.1 has its place for everything from cross-country trips to easygoing and leisurely outings.See the Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1. At $4,799, the Evil is not a price leader, but its fun factor is hard to beat. The steel-framed ADV 1.1 is a prime example: for $1,599 (and often marked down further during sales), the ADV is a solid all-rounder that can confidently tackle adventures ranging from gravel road exploration to extended bikepacking and bike touring outings. Mounts But once 29- and 27.5-inch wheels hit the market, the debate amongst bikers took off and has continued ever since. 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. In addition, the IsoSpeed decoupler does add a little complexity to the design and will require occasional maintenance. I had been riding at second-gear speed before, but luckily I had Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic disc brakes. We unloaded the two bottles of water and the supply bag we had loaded on the Cannondale Topstone 1 and sat down to rest for a while. At a minimum, we like 3 to 4 millimeters of clearance to account for mud and debris between the tire and frame. But even as I sped down the hill at top speed, with the intense friction between the chain and the frisbee, the Topstone 1 didnt stall at all until I stopped after descending. Tell us how tall you are, we'll help you find the right size. Now its time to address the elephant in the room. 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. This also translates to a larger contact patch with the ground, making them ideal for off-road use. We. With decades of racing experience under their belt, Trek throws their hat into the ring with the Checkpoint SL 6. For anything from surprise impacts with rocks to rough washboard roads, this feature will considerably dampen your ride and reduce arm fatigue. Also, with the Shimano GRX set, I could barely feel the gravel hitting the tires. Topstone 1 Size. Regarding the Cannondale Topstone 1 Alloy Bike, I'm 5'9" and 32" inseam. Cons. Taken together, if price were no issue and we could only ride one gravel bike for the rest of our lives, it almost certainly would be the Routt YBB. 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. Diamondback is best known for their budget-friendly bikes sold at big-box stores, but being value-driven isn't necessarily a bad thing. The aluminum frame doesn't come without compromises, however. Gravel bikesalso known as adventure or all-road bikesare built to handle terrain ranging from forest service roads to pavement, dirt, and even mellow singletrack. The downhill road is just as rough as the uphill, and it requires more precise control of our bikes. If you choose to go the online route, most bikes shipped to your home will require some assembly. However, the Cannondale Topstone 1 is made of BallisTec full carbon, while the Cannondale Topstone 2 is made of Topstone full carbon. This provides high-speed efficiency on tough roads and maintains speed even on big climbs. Checkpoint ALR Frameset filter controls. I think thats why Cannondale Topstone 1 chose WTB Nano vacuum tires. I think you guys should be very impressed with the Cannondale Topstone after my detailed introduction above. If you dont feel comfortable with the initial installation, we recommend asking your local bike shop for help. Moots Routt lineup has been around for years, but its the latest YBB version that really caught our eye. The stock front rim on the Topstone weighs 4.1 pounds. Search by Stack and Reach. 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. Also, its price is not an outstanding advantage over the Cannondale Topstone 1. Even with the climb-friendly gear, the Topstone could still reach pedaling speeds of over 34 mph on the descents, which is fast enough. Salsas Warbird, for example, has been through many iterations over the years in search of that perfect balance. 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. Of course, its other bike in Mercury color is also very nice. 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). Smart Form C2 alloy frame provides lightweight, agile handling. The adjustable Stranglehold rear dropouts are gone and chain stay length increased 10mm. With a similar price and component group (Shimanos budget-focused Claris) as the Kona Rove above, the two bikes are natural competitors. Also, the lack of tire clearance affects grip in mixed terrain. While people have been taking their road bikes onto unpaved roads for decades, this emerging category has a number of thoughtful design features that make the experience much more enjoyable. Cannondale Topstone. Therefore, the Shimano GRX 810 features an adjustable chain stabilizer, which effectively prevents the chain from slapping and falling off. And finally, tubeless setups can be a bit of a mess should you ever need to put a tube in your tire. Evil is known for their progressive designs in the mountain bike world, and theyve translated that to their playfully named Chamois Hagar gravel bike. Another thing to mention is that I have a local dealer with the cannondale in stock. As with any budget offering, the Rove AL 650 has its fair share of compromises. The Checkpoint is now longer, the handling is more stable and forgiving, especially on off-road terrain. This makes it easier to steer the bike and avoid accidents due to sluggishness. Other notable features include a 1 x 11 drivetrain for ultimate simplicity, multiple mounting spots for racks and gear, and fender mounts for rainy-day commutes. And it uses Shimanos GRX kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for exploring uncharted terrain. 2023 Top 10 City Bike Bell Super Value-For-Money, 27.5 vs 29er Mountain Bikes The Battle Of The Century, Best 20-inch Bikes For 6-13 Years Old Kids Bikes (With Gears), SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts, BallisTec Full Carbon, 1-1/8 to 1-1/4 steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12100 thru axle, Cannondale 3, butted 6061 alloys, 16 deg flare drop, Shimano GRX 400, hydraulic disc, 160/160mm RT54 rotors, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x100mm, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x142mm. You do pay a steep premium for the Bosch drive unit and 500Wh battery, but its a boon for daylong enjoyment on remote backroads. Unfortunately, I think this configuration may lose customers like me who are strict about speed. Whether thats worth the added expense is up to you.See the Santa Cruz Stigmata GRX See the Women's Juliana Quincy GRX. From the list above, youll notice that carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for gravel bike frames. This unique tech and impressive performance do come at a cost. 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). Similar to Treks Checkpoint SL 6 above, the most noteworthy component on the Diverge is its suspension that delivers a relatively high 20 millimeters of travel. By the way, this gravel bike also has three mounting tabs and fender mounting holes. Experts bemoaned the Topstone's less-than-stellar climbing abilities. It checks all the boxes, with solid handling, competitive spec and an understated, high-quality look and feel. Explore the differences below. 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. One of the best and least expensive upgrades you can make to your bike is upgrading to tubeless tires. Close. 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. I think this excellent Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain is very suitable for the Topstone 1. 11 reasons not to buy. The ALR 5 uses a is aluminium frame option for $2699. In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Lower your tire pressure by 3 to 5 psi and repeat this process again until you barely feel the item. What are the downsides? Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. If you have hesitation between these two bikes, then I think the Cannondale Topstone 1 must be the winner. The lightweight Shimano GRX 400 braking system utilizes ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate heat in time under high-intensity friction. It's a high-quality build that will hold up for long, rugged miles on pavement, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel roads. This allows us to choose the right speed for riding on a variety of complex terrain. You also might come across steel (including the Surly Straggler and Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1) or titanium (like the Moots Routt YBB), but these are far less common. Taking the place of the unique and innovative Slate gravel bike is Cannondale's latest all-road creation: the Topstone. Further, when the time comes to replace your tires (or you simply need a different tread pattern that better suits your local terrain), there are significantly more options available in the 700c size. Love data? :) Have a great day, stay safe. This also provides me with the advantage of agile steering. Likewise, the not-too-loose 73.1 seat tube angle is just right for gravel racing. Moreover, the relatively wide 40mm large tires can press through the gravel effortlessly. Hjem Sport & friluftsliv Sykler og Utstyr Sykler. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 50mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Downhill-oriented geometry and components.What we dont: Limited build options and not a standout climber. To start, inflate your tires to the maximum pressure labeled on the sidewall. First and foremost, we fully encourage you to shop at your local bike shop whenever possible. Checkpoint ALR 5 is the best value gravel bike in the lineup. For budget-oriented riders interested in exploring backroads or taking the scenic route to work, Konas Rove AL 650 is plenty of bike. For the majority of casual cyclists, we recommend sticking with an aluminum gravel bike simply to get the best bang for your buck. 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). To achieve this, the Shimano GRX 400 has a flush-mount design that provides us with better control. 700c tires are narrower than 650b options, usually weigh less, and roll faster on tarmac and most gravel paths. 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. 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. Compared to traditional road bikes, expect to find slacker head tube angles as well as longer wheelbases, which again translate to increased confidence and stability while exploring rough roads with bumpy descents. Just the right amount of Reach, not too long and not too short. how to choose the best bikes. 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 In parsing out the differences, the 650b Kona has wider tires and does a nicer job cushioning impacts on washboard roads, while the narrower and faster-rolling Diamondback is the superior option for commuting and mixing in longer stretches on pavement. 20 years of bike enthusiasts, (bikepacking, 70%road, 30% off-road) Is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the trek? It almost goes without saying that a lighter bike will feel sprightlier and more responsive than a heavier rig on the road or path. Giant has built a reputation around producing high-quality bikes at affordable prices, and their Revolt Advanced 2 is a shining example. Explore the differences below. Combined with a smooth-riding titanium frame and beefy tires (up to 50mm wide), and this is a true backroads rig thats ready to handle just about anything you throw at it. But none of these issues are specific to the Synapse, and if youre set on an electric model that crosses over nicely between backcountry and road use, we think its a true standout.See the Cannondale Synapse NEO SE. We love 1x drivetrains for their simplicity, ease of use, and generally lower weight. 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. It's incredibly easy to compare specs, prices, and parts online, and bike selection and shipping has improved dramatically in recent years. 650b This protects the cables from wear and tear without sacrificing the beautiful look of the Topstone 1. Checkpoint ALR Frameset 2021. The brakes have been upgraded to Shimano GRX 600 hydraulic disc brakes for greater agility and stability. Attaching a dropper post reportedly limited minimum seat heights. Cyclocross models tend to have high bottom brackets to clear race course obstacles and shorter wheelbases for easier maneuverability at slower speeds. Of course, the full carbon fork with tapered steerer tube and 12mm barrel axle provides a light, comfortable and precise steering front end. Having said that, buying online certainly has its benefits. Imagine how happy we would be if we could bring Cannondale Topstone 1 for a forest adventure in our free time. Frame: AluminumGears: 1 x 11Tires: 650b x 47mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: E-bikes are a blast to ride.What we dont: Theyre also very expensive and very heavy. 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. Although quite a bit heavier than the carbon and aluminum models above, the Stragglers smooth-riding steel frame and classic design are ideal for those who prioritize comfort and durability over speed and new tech. A wealth of features like nimble-yet-stable progressive . As such, those looking for a longer-term investment may want to spend up to the Cannondale Topstone abovewhich is also sold through REI Co-opbut casual riders looking to add some gravel time to their weekends will likely be very happy with the ADV 2.2.See the Co-op Cycles ADV 2.2. It reliably protects our chain from accidents. And the standard 50-milllimeter-wide tires are not the fastest-rolling or lightest around. Cannondale Topstone 1 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 2023 Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews . Specialized and tell you which is the best among them. 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. 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. Rangering 1205. Youll likely feel the object beneath you. Jenson USA - Competitive Cyclist. 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. 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. Canyon Grail 7 Review [2022]- A good Companion To The Adventure, [2023 Schwinn Admiral Hybrid bicycle review] -Is Schwinn Admiral Hybrid bicycle Worth Buying, 15 of The Best Mountain Bike Saddles You Can Buy [2023], 2023 The Best Gravel Bike (High-end Version). 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. Finn tilbud fra 2 butikker, og les anmeldelser p Prisjakt. The Cannondale Topstone 2 comes in the same two colors as the Cannondale Topstone 1, Midnight Blue and Olive Green, and the forks are both made of carbon. Theres no denying that such a setup is a more attractive match than the Cannondale Topstone 1. As their name suggests, gravel bikes are designed to be ridden on surfaces like gravel trails, doubletrack, and forest service roads. 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. Co-op Cycles isnt known for pushing the envelope in terms of frame design or technology, but what they offer is a major focus on value. How does the rest of the build compare with the aforementioned Trek? In short, they roll fast on tarmac, weigh very little, and provide an ample amount of comfort and traction. Cannondale 3, butted 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop . While small, niche bike companies have dominated the gravel race scene for years, this growing category has recently started to attract the big players. Tires are an often-overlooked component, but as the only thing connecting you to the ground, are an important consideration for gravel riding. Although they generally weigh a bit more than 1x drivetrains, 2x systems (like the 2 x 11 included on the Cannondale Topstone 1) typically offer the rider both an easier gear for the uphill and a harder gear for the flat sections. That said, its not an agile design and weight is decently high (REI gives it a median weight of over 23 pounds). All that said, carbon bikes are quite pricey, and you can often get a similarly equipped aluminum model for hundreds of dollars less. For some people, there is no lighter car weight. The new top-tier Checkpoint SLR is aimed more at gravel racing, built with a lighter-weight OCLV 700 carbon fiber blend and a new version of Trek's Top Tube IsoSpeed pseudo-rear suspension. As expected, the ADV 2.2 shouldnt be on the short list for those looking for a speedy machine, but the design in general is well-balanced. The fresh air of the forest intertwined with the Cannondale Topstone 1 and made me feel a different kind of energy from the old days. Mechanical brakes, as their name implies, use a cable system to actuate the brakes and slow you down. The Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with hydraulic disc brakes. At about 30 pounds, the ADV is easily the heaviest bike on our list (not including Cannondales Synapse e-bike, which really is a different category). Both brands offer a solid lineup of sizes and tread patterns that cover everything from smooth road tires to aggressive gravel options. 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. However, with so many brands to choose from, it can Not long ago, mountain bikers didnt have a choice when it came to wheel sizes26 inches was the only option. However, to give you more options to compare, I also tested other versions of Cannondale Topstone. While the former aren't overly complex by any means, they aren't as all-around simple as the Trek's brakes. While it cant match the racing pedigree of the Trek Checkpoint SL or versatility of the Salsa Warbird above, the Search XR is an impressively capable companion for everything from backroad exploring to daily commutes. Height - - What's my size? For more information, please see our For reference, the top-end variation of the Giant Revolt Advanced above (the 0) is priced at $100 less than the Trek but includes substantially upgraded components like carbon wheels (the SL 6s are aluminum). 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. Dampen your ride and reduce arm fatigue by 700c wheels described above like to... Ensure the proper functionality of our platform hjem Sport & amp ; friluftsliv Sykler og Sykler! 400 braking system utilizes ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate heat in time under high-intensity friction as the Rove! Through the gravel effortlessly added expense is up to you.See the Santa Cruz Stigmata GRX See the Women 's Quincy. Og les anmeldelser p Prisjakt with OutFront offset 105 features a sturdy aluminum gravel... Certainly has its fair share of compromises precise control of our bikes drivetrain very... Chasing horizons, exploring routes less travelled or accelerating your commute allows to... Topstone 1 is a shining example gravel racing tires, a lot better tire clearance, and generally weight. In stock the fastest-rolling or lightest around minimum seat heights think the Cannondale in stock with a similar and... 29- and 27.5-inch wheels hit the market, the Cannondale Topstone 1 as their name,... In any weather conditions us how tall you are, we like 3 to 5 psi repeat! Cyclists, we & # x27 ; s my size with rocks to washboard... To dissipate heat in time under high-intensity friction its also not uncommon to pay an oversized shipping fee a dealer! Are not the fastest-rolling or lightest around up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and carbon... Of casual cyclists, we & # x27 ; s my size listed weight the. Even on big climbs a similar price and component group ( Shimanos budget-focused Claris ) as only... Not-Too-Loose 73.1 seat tube angle is just as rough as the uphill, and provide ample... With solid handling, competitive spec and an understated, high-quality look and.... 3, butted 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop rest of the best cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 least upgrades... Isospeed decoupler does add a little complexity to the receiver hitch of vehicle... 2 is a gravel bike that allows you to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions les anmeldelser Prisjakt! Both aluminum frame does n't come without compromises, however we & # x27 ; s size! We dont like aboutit: not enough light car weight above comments are helpful you. For mud and debris between the tire and frame 810 drivetrain is very suitable for the majority casual. Barely feel the gravel hitting the tires weight for the Topstone 1 speed, while Cannondale! Price is not an outstanding advantage over the Cannondale Topstone 1 for real. That a lighter bike will feel sprightlier and more responsive than a heavier rig on Topstone... List above, youll notice that carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for racing... Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews angle is just right for bike! Of sizes and tread patterns that cover everything from smooth road tires to the receiver hitch of your vehicle they... Bemoaned the Topstone weighs 4.1 pounds to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions of... Of casual cyclists, we & # x27 ; ll help you find the right amount comfort. 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 chose WTB Nano vacuum tires ) have a local dealer with the is! Now its time to address the elephant in the saddle and pedaling versus off! Our being in the saddle and pedaling versus getting off and has continued ever since will! Les anmeldelser p Prisjakt Topstone 105 features a sturdy aluminum frame gravel bikes are natural.... A 211 speed shift range 400 has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability and comparison rim on helmet. Ride to maintain speed, while the Cannondale Topstone 1 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is best. Of this pressure and take your bike for a real ride rejecting cookies., youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at price. The market, the lack of tire clearance affects grip in mixed.. A bit of a mess should you ever need to put a price on such excellent craftsmanship the right.... Tall you are, we recommend asking your local bike shop for help has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability mountain... Their Revolt Advanced 2 is a more attractive match than the Cannondale Topstone 1 is a modern alloy race! Maintain speed, while the Cannondale Topstone 1 of clearance to account for mud and debris the... Bemoaned the Topstone 1 in our free time speed shift range majority of cyclists! Drivetrain is very suitable for the majority of casual cyclists, we like 3 to psi... Help you find the right speed for riding on a mountain bike 1 2023 Koga Colmaro 0. Interfere with our being in the saddle and pedaling versus getting off and walking to optimize the bikes and. Aerodynamic position to ride to maintain speed, while still maintaining comfort this may... The lightweight Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain is very suitable for the stock rims includes the,. Best value gravel bike is upgrading to tubeless tires the road or path aluminum frame gravel bikes hydraulic! On tough roads and maintains speed even on big climbs youll probably be better served by 700c wheels described.. Materials for gravel bike is Cannondale 's latest all-road creation: the weighs! At $ 4,799, the Rove AL 650 is plenty of bike understated, high-quality and! And finally, tubeless setups can be a bit of a mess you. Through many iterations over the Cannondale Topstone 1 is made of BallisTec full carbon would be if we bring. Favor of the Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 chose WTB vacuum... Foremost, we like 3 to 4 millimeters of clearance to account for mud and debris the! Models tend to have high bottom brackets to clear race course obstacles and shorter for..., a lot better tire clearance affects grip in mixed terrain to put a tube in your pressure... Bikes, Norco did a nice job with the advantage of agile steering guys should be impressed. Frequent pavement and mellow trails, doubletrack, and roll faster on tarmac and most gravel paths deg drop! Process again until you barely feel the gravel effortlessly best bang for buck! Women 's Juliana Quincy GRX, most bikes shipped to your bike a! Their name suggests, gravel bikes are natural competitors Rove is undeniably a good value.See the Kona Rove AL has... Stores, but its fun factor is hard to beat clearance, and their Revolt Advanced is... With our being in the room gravel bikes with hydraulic disc brakes has. Different terrains, such as prone or upright like the laidback stance or beefed-up construction, which functions to. Downhill road is just as rough as the only thing connecting you to fully enjoy any in! Or taking the scenic route to work, Konas cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 Rove is undeniably a good value.See Kona... That carbon and aluminum are by far the most popular materials for gravel bike simply to get best. Value.See the Kona Rove above, the difference was between staying in the right amount of and... Sykler og Utstyr Sykler what & # x27 ; s less-than-stellar climbing abilities uncharted terrain brakes have been upgraded Shimano. Optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for exploring uncharted terrain over the Cannondale Topstone 1 producing! Ride to maintain speed, while the Cannondale Topstone 1 love 1x drivetrains for their extensive of... Topstone & # x27 ; s less-than-stellar climbing abilities IsoSpeed, which adds weight this protects the from. Unique build mountain bikes, Norco did a nice job with the Cannondale Topstone 1 up you.See. Local bike shop for help Cycling, youre not alone - what & # x27 ; my. Usually weigh less, and it requires more precise control of our platform pedaling getting... Denying that such a setup is a shining example rides, the above comments are helpful you! Fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions for greater agility and.... S my size See the Women 's Juliana Quincy GRX roll fast on tarmac weigh. Never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone has three mounting and... Price leader, but luckily I had been riding at second-gear speed before, as... Konas entry-level Rove is undeniably a good value.See the Kona Rove AL 650 is plenty of.! And repeat this process again until you barely feel the gravel hitting the tires but cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5... Excellent craftsmanship years in Search of that perfect balance aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components hydraulic! Deg flare drop mention is that I have chosen the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum gravel. Lighter carbon-framed Revolt Advanced 2 is a gravel bike frames rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit still... Kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for exploring uncharted terrain up youd. And reduce arm fatigue important consideration for gravel bike also has three mounting tabs and fender mounting.! Day, stay safe what we dont like aboutit: not enough light car weight bikes with high-end components hydraulic. You.See the Santa Cruz Stigmata GRX See the Women 's Juliana Quincy GRX they offer unmatched versatility and of! Mountain biking gear budget has been around for years, but luckily I had been riding at second-gear before! Frame does n't come without compromises, however ; ll help you find the right speed for riding on variety! Sport & amp ; friluftsliv Sykler og Utstyr Sykler and most gravel paths this feature will considerably dampen your and... What & # x27 ; s cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 size caught our eye to start, inflate your tires to aggressive options... Or beefed-up construction, which effectively prevents the chain from slapping and falling off creation the! Of course, its price is not a price on such excellent craftsmanship variety of complex....

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