As with the Predecessor model With the new Topstone Carbon, Cannondale has opted for the Kingpin suspension element on the rear triangle, which is designed to absorb light impacts off-road. Because, according to the manufacturer, the revised version is based on just one main bearing on the seat tube, the US company promises a 100 gram reduction in weight and improved durability.
Tyre clearance up to 54 millimetres
Cannondale has also kept the frame geometry to a minimum. A lower standover and bottom bracket height should make the Topstone more stable in rough terrain and on rough gravel tracks. In addition, tyres up to 45 millimetres wide now fit through the frame and fork. With 650B wheels, tyres up to 54 millimetres wide are even possible.
Let there be light!
After the Marathon road bike Synapse Cannondale has also equipped the new Topstone carbon gravel bike with lots of electronics called Smartsense. Depending on the model, the gravel bike is equipped with a permanently installed, StVZO-compliant lighting system and a distance radar. The battery sits in a holder on the down tube and can also be used as a power bank for a smartphone or bike computer.
At market launch, however, only the top model 1 RLE - the abbreviation stands for radar, light and electronic gearstick - has the full technology package. The 2 L (5,199 euros) is "only" equipped with a lighting system. All other versions are Smartsense-compatible.
Topstone Carbon: Six versions from 2,949 to 8,999 euros
Cannondale has a total of six new models on its website. There are five sizes to choose from. It starts with the Topstone Carbon 4 with mechanical Shimano GRX400 2x10 for €2,949. The high-end version 1 RLE, which costs €8,999, comes with electronic SRAM Force eTap 2x12. Two versions are also available with the distinctive, single-arm Lefty suspension fork, with the 2 Lefty (€5,199) also featuring a telescopic seatpost.
