Test ride both of them and both feel comfortable to me. The Topstone 1 has better components. Height - - What's my size? 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. Added up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this price point. The frame of the Cannondale Topstone 1 is made of SmartForm C2 alloy with OutFront offset. If you plan to mix in a fair amount of extended and steep climbing and prioritize efficiency, its best to stick with a traditional, road-inspired design. 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. In terms of shoes, we recommend an option like Giros Cylinder or Shimano's XC3theyre light, affordable, stiff enough for efficient power transfer, and still very comfortable for time spent off the bike. A capable, versatile gravel road bike. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a modern alloy gravel race bike that allows you to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions. Rating: (4.8/5) See the Cannondale Topstone 105 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. 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. Gravel rigs, on the other hand, tend to be lower and longer for increased stability during fast-paced descents. 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. You can now . 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). Not only does this include a wider gear range, but the Shimano parts are a little better tuned for off-road riding with easier-to-manipulate shift levers. 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. 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. Having said that, buying online certainly has its benefits. Also, with the Shimano GRX set, I could barely feel the gravel hitting the tires. In terms of design, the Topstone features the kind of premium aluminum frame that the brand is known for, a gravel-specific Shimano GRX drivetrain complete with hydraulic disc brakes, and appropriately wide wheels for soaking up bumps. For the majority of casual cyclists, we recommend sticking with an aluminum gravel bike simply to get the best bang for your buck. Just because you can spend thousands of dollars on a race-ready carbon gravel bike doesnt necessarily mean you should. 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. 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. 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. Further, its wide 47-millimeter tires do an admirable job soaking up the kind of bumps, ruts, and rocks that you often find on forest service roads. Can't decide? 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. This allows us to choose the right speed for riding on a variety of complex terrain. 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. Cons. Today I have chosen the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 for analysis and comparison. We can adjust our position to different terrains, such as prone or upright. But if youre more interested in gravel races than mellow rides, the lighter carbon-framed Revolt Advanced 2 is a solid buy. 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. Also, its price is not an outstanding advantage over the Cannondale Topstone 1. It is not comparable to the Shimano GRX 810 of the Cannondale Topstone 1 in terms of both sensitivity and comfort. From all-out touring to weekend gravel rides and everything in between, the Straggler makes for a solid one-bike quiver. 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. 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. All that said, it can be a challenge converting your bike to tubeless. If you take care of the Straggler, it should last for many years to come.See the Surly Straggler. This is because it allows the rider to have a better long-distance experience. The lightweight Shimano GRX 400 braking system utilizes ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate heat in time under high-intensity friction. Checkpoint options? We particularly like Treks IsoSpeed on the Checkpoint SL 6, which decouples the top tube and seat tubes to create a less jarring ride. and our 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. The bigger contact patch with the ground also translates to increased traction, which can be especially helpful on soft or loose sections of road. And I live in Berlin, Germany. I heard, both have long time warrantys over their websites. This also provides me with the advantage of agile steering. Over the weekend, I met up with my friends and rode the Cannondale Topstone 1 into the woods around the city. There's just no replacement for a great local shop, the bike and trail advice that goes with it, and the ability to ride a certain model beforehand and easily get replacement parts and service. That said, we prefer 2x setups for more mountainous terrain. While experienced cyclists might balk at this method, its a great way for new riders to understand and learn to adjust pressure based on conditions, terrain, and other factors. At $2,799, we think there are better deals to be had in the gravel bike category. The Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. At well over $9,000, the Routt YBB is reserved for committed cyclists who ride often and ride hard (and have deep pockets). 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. This protects it from wear and tear during the ride, thus prolonging its service life. 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. Click now, buy soon, and we'll get a few cents. Also, the lack of tire clearance affects grip in mixed terrain. Its balanced geometry also hits a nice sweet spot of responsiveness for climbs and road riding with a relaxed and confidence-inspiring feel on the descents. Lower your tire pressure by 3 to 5 psi and repeat this process again until you barely feel the item. While the definition of these dirt-focused models still is up for debate, they share a few key design features including a more upright seating position for added comfort over long distances, high-volume tires to help smooth out rough roads, and multiple mounting points for extra water and gear. Not only that, but I was very worried about dropping the chain at first, a concern I think you usually have as well. To put this into perspective, Cannondales popular Synapse road bike includes two mounting locations, while their gravel-focused Topstone (our number one pick) features four. That said, its not an agile design and weight is decently high (REI gives it a median weight of over 23 pounds). Super many best bike reviews. This bike knows no boundaries, which makes it the ideal gateway to adventure on any . 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. Cannondale Topstone 1 Alloy Bike (26) 26 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. However, the higher specification will naturally be more expensive. Learn More: 2022 Cannondale Topstone 4 Review-Can It Give You A Fun Road Experience? 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. That said, the Warbirds additional storage spots on the frame and fork make it better-suited for all-day epics and backcountry adventures. But unlike the Trek, the Specialized bike focuses its shock absorption at the front rather than the rear. It's a high-quality build that will hold up for long, rugged miles on pavement, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel roads. 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). However, according to feedback from other riders, the heavier tires had an impact on their riding experience. The whole journey the Topstone 1 just lifted the leaves on both sides and rode the wind. Kategorier. The WTB Nano tires are proven performers, the wheels are tubeless-ready, and the bike has a sturdy feel to it in general. Have a better long-distance experience is a solid buy is a solid one-bike.! Journey the Topstone 1 in terms of both sensitivity and comfort the tires... 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