Cannondale Topstone LTD

The Cannondale Topstone LTD model from 2024 is a versatile gravel bike that is known for its high performance and sophisticated equipment. With a price tag of EUR 2699, it offers an attractive price-performance ratio for ambitious riders.

The frame of the Topstone LTD is made of lightweight SmartForm C2 aluminium, which is complemented by a 12x142 mm thru-axle, a tapered head tube and a BSA threaded bottom bracket. The flat-mount disc mounts and StraightShot internal cable routing ensure a clean look and easy maintenance.

Braking performance is provided by the Shimano GRX 800 hydraulic disc brake system with 160 mm RT54 brake discs front and rear. The brake levers are also part of the GRX 800 system, which guarantees consistent and reliable braking performance.

The drivetrain consists of a Shimano GRX 810 Shadow RD+ rear derailleur and a GRX 800 front derailleur, which together with the GRX 800 shift levers enable precise and smooth gear changes. The drivetrain offers a total of 22 gears, supported by a Shimano 105 cassette with a gradation of 11-34 teeth and a KMC X11 chain. The crankset varies depending on the region: in Europe and the United Kingdom, the FSA Gossamer Pro Modular AGX+ crankset with 46/30 teeth is used, while in other regions the Shimano GRX 600 crankset is used.

The fork of the Topstone LTD is made of carbon and has a 1-1/8" to 1.5" head tube diameter, a 55 mm OutFront offset and a 12x100 mm thru axle. It is also equipped with internal cable routing and mounts for mudguards or luggage.

The bike is equipped with WTB KOM Light i23 TCS rims, which are tubeless ready and are combined with WTB Riddler TCS Light tyres in size 700x37c. In Europe and the United Kingdom, Vittoria Terreno Dry tyres in size 700x35c are used instead. The hubs are from Formula and are equipped with centre lock brake mounts.

The cockpit consists of a Cannondale 3 handlebar made from 6061 aluminium with a 16 degree flare drop, Cannondale bar tape (3.5 mm) and a Cannondale 3 stem made from the same alloy with a 7 degree angle. The headset is integrated and ranges from 1-1/8" to 1.5".

The Fizik Aliante Delta saddle with S-Alloy rails provides comfort on long rides, while the Cannondale 3 seatpost made of 6061 aluminium (27.2x350 mm) offers additional stability.

The geometry of the Topstone LTD is designed for comfort and stability. With a seat tube length of 553 mm, a top tube length of 579 mm and a head tube angle of 71 degrees, the bike offers a balanced riding position. The seat tube angle is 73 degrees, the chainstay length is 435 mm and the wheelbase totals 1065 mm. The standover height is 824 mm, the reach is 394 mm and the stack is 610 mm.

With a gross weight of around 32,000 g, the Topstone LTD is a robust and reliable bike that cuts a fine figure on both tarmac roads and dirt tracks.