The brakes have been upgraded to Shimano GRX 600 hydraulic disc brakes for greater agility and stability. Sammenlign tilbud fra M-Wave. Shop with an Expert Similar Bikes But once 29- and 27.5-inch wheels hit the market, the debate amongst bikers took off and has continued ever since. 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. 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. Cannondale Topstone 1 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 2023 Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews 0 reviews 0 reviews . Uphill-focused riders that want a twitchy and extremely responsive ride wont like the laidback stance or beefed-up construction, which adds weight. Attaching a dropper post reportedly limited minimum seat heights. This tire has an almost uninterrupted centerline with staggered outer knobs. how to choose the best bikes. 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). For $400-$600 less, the Trek and Specialized models above feature similar components but include a notable upgrade in ride quality over bumpy terrain with their proprietary suspension designs. For budget-oriented riders interested in exploring backroads or taking the scenic route to work, Konas Rove AL 650 is plenty of bike. 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. One more thing, the steep 71.0 head tube angle allows us to have more agile steering. At a minimum, we like 3 to 4 millimeters of clearance to account for mud and debris between the tire and frame. (bikepacking, 70%road, 30% off-road) Is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the trek? Cyclocross models tend to have high bottom brackets to clear race course obstacles and shorter wheelbases for easier maneuverability at slower speeds. Gravel, dirt, and single track all have to be taken into account. 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. 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. How does the rest of the build compare with the aforementioned Trek? Hydraulic disc brakes, on the other hand, use fluid rather than cables to initiate the brakes. 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. In short, the versatile Stigmata is now just as at home on the cyclocross course as it is on far-off backroad adventures. If youve never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone. Sometimes the road in the woods is not exactly straight and clear, and I may encounter a big angle turn. . If you choose to go the online route, most bikes shipped to your home will require some assembly. Both brands offer a solid lineup of sizes and tread patterns that cover everything from smooth road tires to aggressive gravel options. 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. The frame of the Cannondale Topstone 1 is made of SmartForm C2 alloy with OutFront offset. If youre searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way to go. Cyclocross bikes are typically stripped of additional braze-ons for fenders or racks, both of which youll likely find on a gravel bike. 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. 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. In general, you should look for frame clearance to accommodate up to 700c x 45mm tires, multiple mounting locations (three or more) for water bottles and food, longer wheelbases that are more stable at high speeds, and disc brakes to handle long descents over varying road conditions. While gravel bikes bear a strong resemblance to both cyclocross and road bikes, there are a number of key differences to point out. 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. The Checkpoint is now longer, the handling is more stable and forgiving, especially on off-road terrain. 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. Further, you get thru-axles for a stiffer ride in the rough stuff and tubeless-ready wheels (in our opinion, its is a no-brainer to set up your gravel bike this way for less weight, fewer flats, and more grip). Frame: CarbonGears: 1 x 11Tires: 700c x 42mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Excels at racing but can still carry gear for overnight trips.What we dont: At this price, we expect hydraulic disc brakes and slightly better components. For those looking for a little more capability at a still-reasonable price, check out Norcos XR A Suspension model ($2,399), which features a front fork with 50 millimeters of travel and a dropper seat post.See the Norco Search XR A2. However, if you consistently frequent pavement and mellow trails, youll probably be better served by 700c wheels described above. While a hardtail with skinny tires certainly will do the trick (we did this for quite some time), for those who plan on spending a lot of time on pavement and gravel, its hard to ignore the performance differences. However, I feel that the 2022 Canyon Grail CF SL 7 seems to ignore the fact that gravel bikes need comfortable seats and handlebars as well. REI website says either SM or MED bike. Retailer prices may vary. And finally, tubeless setups can be a bit of a mess should you ever need to put a tube in your tire. 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. Compared to road and cyclocross bikes, gravel grinders feature significantly more mounting locations for extra water bottles, bags, and gear. All that said, there are many benefits to purchasing a true gravel-focused bike. The adjustable Stranglehold rear dropouts are gone and chain stay length increased 10mm. In this way, we rode to the high places in the forest and also took less time than before. The main advantage to these beefier tires is their ability to run lower air pressure, which results in a more forgiving ride and greater traction. At well over $9,000, the Routt YBB is reserved for committed cyclists who ride often and ride hard (and have deep pockets). In the woods, I can confidently avoid whatever obstacles I encounter. 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. Sammenlign tilbud fra Cannondale. 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. After spending some time on the Synapse NEO SE, we came away extremely impressed by the bikes smooth acceleration, confidence-inspiring ride, and quality build. The Cannondale looks to have about 5mm more ground clearance if you're going over rocks. Finally, if appearance is a consideration for you, we think the silver and black version is one of the classiest-looking gravel bike designs on the market. This bike knows no boundaries, which makes it the ideal gateway to adventure on any . If you dont feel comfortable with the initial installation, we recommend asking your local bike shop for help. The Topstone Alloy 1 is a great option and even comes with Shimano GRX. Not only that, but the flush-mounted design of the brake system is also easier for us to maintain. is the prototypical gravel race bike. The comfortable seat and the removable fender design are also worth points for the Cannondale Topstone 1 throughout the uphill climb. What does all this mean for you? 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. 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. Skip that extra bit of carbon instead. What we dont like aboutit: Not enough light car weight. I heard, both have long time warrantys over their websites. 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. 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. 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. Specialized and tell you which is the best among them. Why do we have the Giant Revolt Advanced 2 ranked below the Cannondale? Added up, youd be hard-pressed to find a similarly equipped and well-made carbon design at this price point. However, weight often correlates directly with cost: the more you spend on a bike, the less it will weigh. 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. I think thats why Cannondale Topstone 1 chose WTB Nano vacuum tires. While installation has become significantly easier over the last few years due to improvements in the technology, you still get the occasional tire-and-rim combination that just doesnt want to inflate. Cannondale has a full line of gravel-ready rigs that are well spec'd but won't empty your pockets. There is no one-size-fits-all tire, but we do have some recommendations regarding tread patterns, sizes, and widths. A long-term review said rims were heavy and didn't stay true. What we don't: A bit heavy for weight-conscious riders. 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. At this price point, however, there are some entry-level components in the build. The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, also an aluminum frame gravel bike, is officially priced at $2,499. For last year, the Stigmata was redesigned with additional clearance for tires up to 45 millimeters wide (as well as 650b tires), updated geometry with a slightly longer head tube that translates to a more upright and comfortable riding position, and internal routing for dropper seat post compatibility. 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. In addition, you get less-powerful mechanical brakes and the tires arent the best in slippery and dicey conditions, so many backcountry explorers will want to upgrade those right off the bat. Inside Trek. Not only that, but it also has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability. It's snazzier appearance and equally, rugged durability makes the SL5 a good option if you've got a little extra cash to spend. Checkpoint ALR Frameset filter controls. 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. Not only that, but the Topstone 1 tires are WTB Nano vacuum tires, which are lightweight and durable. 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. 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. As expected from the brand, the Aspero models put a premium on climbing speed and responsiveness with a high-quality and very lightweight carbon frame, upright geometry that gives it a quick-handling and nimble feel, and a nice spec sheet with efficiency-minded components. If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on the helmet, dont. Another choice youll have to make when choosing a gravel bike is whether you want hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes. 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. It's also 10mm lower front if you want to slam that stem. 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2023 Framed Basswood Carbon Gravel Bike, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2022 Canyon Grail CF SL 7, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2022 Giant Revolt Advanced 3. As expected, the Asperos road-inspired geometry and build make it far less stable and more prone to getting knocked around on steep and rowdy descents. 11 reasons not to buy. 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. 2023 Top 10 Best Fun Kids Bike Bells Will This Bring Joy To Your Childs Ride? 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. Cannondale Topstone 1s body material is SmartForm C2 Alloy. The Topstone 1 has better components. Further, Cannondales lifetime frame warranty is more impressive than Canyons six years. 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Review The King Of The Adventure. How much will shipping cost? One glaring difference is that the Cannondale uses disc brakes versus the Trek's standard caliper binders. :) Have a great day, stay safe. Sk. Frame: AluminumGears: 2 x 10Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Good looks and quality components at a reasonable price.What we dont: Buying consumer-direct has its own set of challenges. See the Giant Revolt Advanced 2 See the Women's Liv Devote Advanced 2. There are a few key questions you should ask yourself before beginning your search. 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). In short, the main differences between the two relate to power and ease of use. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. 2022 Cannondale Topstone 4 Review-Can It Give You A Fun Road Experience? Sophisticated alumi. If you have hesitation between these two bikes, then I think the Cannondale Topstone 1 must be the winner. The big advantage is that the SL5 smooths your ride even more than the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. Likewise, the not-too-loose 73.1 seat tube angle is just right for gravel racing. The 2023 Framed Basswood Carbon Gravel Bike is a basswoodcarbon frame gravel bike with mid-range components and is lightweight. This allows us to choose the right speed for riding on a variety of complex terrain. Over the weekend, I met up with my friends and rode the Cannondale Topstone 1 into the woods around the city. Customer service Contact us Newsletter signup Returns Gravel rigs, on the other hand, tend to be lower and longer for increased stability during fast-paced descents. The WTB Nano tires are proven performers, the wheels are tubeless-ready, and the bike has a sturdy feel to it in general. Hjem Sport & friluftsliv Sykler og Utstyr Sykler. Cannondale Topstone 1 Best specced gravel bike that's bang on the budget Specifications Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 800/600 Brakes: Shimano GRX 400 Today's Best Deals View at REI.com Check Amazon. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a modern alloy gravel race bike that allows you to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions. The steel frame and reasonably fast-rolling 700c x 38mm tires make for a comfortable ride on pavement and light gravel, but they also add a lot of weight. And performance benefits aside, we always welcome lifting less weight onto our rack. Test ride both of them and both feel comfortable to me. And as the most direct contact between the bike and the ground, tires can have a major impact on our ride. Unfortunately, I think this configuration may lose customers like me who are strict about speed. To help, many major online retailers such as REI Co-op, Jenson USA, and Backcountry provide geometry charts and size recommendations for most of their models. Both are top-notch gravel bikes, but the simple answer is that we don't think the $450 bump in cost is worth it for most riders. 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 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. 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. Also, with the Shimano GRX set, I could barely feel the gravel hitting the tires. If you take care of the Straggler, it should last for many years to come.See the Surly Straggler. It is not comparable to the Shimano GRX 810 of the Cannondale Topstone 1 in terms of both sensitivity and comfort. However, the higher specification will naturally be more expensive. For anything from surprise impacts with rocks to rough washboard roads, this feature will considerably dampen your ride and reduce arm fatigue. Too little pressure, on the other hand, will make you feel as though youre riding with the brakes on and can result in flat tires or bottoming out your rims on rocks. During your outing, think about how your tires feel and consider any adjustments that you might want to make (this goes for every outing, not just your first). The biggest benefit is the ability to run lower tire pressures, meaning the tires are better able to absorb impacts without increasing the risk of a pinch flat. For one, its a fairly simple buying process: Co-op Cycles is REIs in-house bike brand, which brings nationwide access to shops, easy assembly and maintenance, and a reliable warranty. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Fast and responsive with a flickable feel.What we dont: Less capable in rough terrain and descending at speed. Youll also have to replace the sealant a couple of times per yearit has a tendency to dry and become ineffective at sealing small holes. 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. To start, inflate your tires to the maximum pressure labeled on the sidewall. 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. In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. 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. However, these are relatively small nitpicks about an otherwise impressive all-around gravel bike. 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. Another thing to mention is that I have a local dealer with the cannondale in stock. Privacy Policy. The Topstone 1 has better components. A capable, versatile gravel road bike. more For starters, while most modern road bikes max out at about 30-millimeter tires and cyclocross bikes at around 40 millimeters, gravel bikes typically are able to accommodate up to 700c x 45-millimeter or 650c x 50-millimeter tires (Salsas Warbird, for example, can accommodate both). It reliably protects our chain from accidents. And finally, e-bike laws still are evolving and changing, so its important to know the rules before you head out. It's incredibly easy to compare specs, prices, and parts online, and bike selection and shipping has improved dramatically in recent years. Moreover, you miss out on a vibration-dampening carbon fork (the Konas is stiffer alloy), and it sports less-powerful mechanical disc brakes rather than hydraulic. 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. One of the most important parts of bike setup is properly adjusting tire pressure, which is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Logg inn. Get free advice from a Curated Expert. And their ADV collection includes solid performers like the mid-range 2.2, which comes in at a very competitive $1,599. Learn more: 2022 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review-Can It Take You Across The Gravel Road? Heritage Technology Racing Social responsibility Stories Work at Trek Podcast Support. Of note, Specializeds Diverge lineup is expansive, starting at $1,300 and going all the way up to $10,500, so most riders should be able to find exactly what theyre looking for.See the Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon. And finally, Cannondale's Kingpin rear suspension offers up to 30 millimeters of travel via a thru-axle pivot connecting the seat stay and seat tube. I think this excellent Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain is very suitable for the Topstone 1. It has nicer wheels, crank, tires, a lot better tire clearance, and bag mounts. Finally, the braking system of theShimano GRX 400 and the 38c tires do not provide the rider with enough stability on slippery surfaces. While the electric Synapse will only assist up to 20 miles per hour (similar to all class 1 e-bikes), this was enough of a grin-maker for even the most skeptical riders among us. But unlike the Trek, the Specialized bike focuses its shock absorption at the front rather than the rear. In other words, its hard to put a price on such excellent craftsmanship. 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. Love data? 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). Trek provides the Checkpoint in three models, the SL 6 for $4699 is the top-end carbon frame version with the fancy Shimano Ultegra, the SL 5 we have sells for $3699 with Shimano 105. Why isn't the Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 ranked higher? Close. 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. This is thanks to the agile OutFront steering and Shimano GRX 400 hydraulic disc brakes. Checkpoint ALR 5. In the end, it depends on how comfortable you are choosing, sizing, and assembling a bike.Back to Our Top Gravel Bike Picks Back to Our Gravel Bike Comparison Table. Secondly, the stable operation of the chain plays an important role in our safety while riding. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is just that. 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. Have a great day! By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Within the Niner lineup, you can get GRX components, but theyre only available in top-end 800-spec models that start at about $3,000.See the Niner RLT 9 2-Star. The aluminum frame doesn't come without compromises, however. In addition, the IsoSpeed decoupler does add a little complexity to the design and will require occasional maintenance. Alternatively, Specialized focuses their tech at the front of the Diverge Sport, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel. There Sweden-based Thule is one of the worlds leading manufacturers of car racks and bike accessories, and the T2 Pro XTR is their core hitch-mounted offering. 650b 14 Reviews / Write a Review. Its also not uncommon to pay an oversized shipping fee. When we choose a gravel bike, we need it to be adaptable to a wider range of terrain. Super light, with a frame weighing 880 grams and a fork weighing 370 grams, the U.P.P.E.R. Next, lay an object larger than a pencil in your driveway or on the sidewalka wooden dowel or mixing spoon handle works greatand ride over it at a comfortable speed (about 10mph). Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. We especially like the Waxwing fork, which features three-pack mounts that add versatility for storing water bottles or shuttling overnight gear. Here we compare Gravel bikes around 2000$from the main 4 manufacturers aka Giant, Trek, Cannondale. Were particularly fond of two tire manufacturers at the moment: WTB and Donnelly. Can't decide? 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. Thank you! Wed be remiss not to include Salsas venerable and highly sought-after Warbird on this list. 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. 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. Carbon is the lightest material of the bunch and often the choice among gram-counters and speed-focused riders. The downhill road is just as rough as the uphill, and it requires more precise control of our bikes. 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. For less than $100 more, alternatives like Canyons Grail 6 above are lighter, have a wider gear range, feature better stopping power with hydraulic rather than mechanical disc brakes, and include thru-axles for a more efficient ride. In general, we prefer cross-country shoes and pedals on our gravel rigs. Stem. Sykler. And it uses Shimanos GRX kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for exploring uncharted terrain. 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. 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. Released last year, the mid-range Topstone 105 features a sturdy aluminum frame A quality mountain bike shoe plays a number of important roles. (bikepacking, 70%road, 30% off-road) Is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the trek? 24. filter controls. For more background information, see our gravel bike comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Imagine how happy we would be if we could bring Cannondale Topstone 1 for a forest adventure in our free time. Bag mounts, if you dont feel comfortable with the aforementioned Trek Revolt Advanced 2 are small. 810 drivetrain is very suitable for the best way to go mechanical disc brakes thin and tempted. A tube in your tire fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions certain cookies to ensure the proper of... Your local bike shop for help weather conditions frame warranty is more than. This list easier for us to have about 5mm more ground clearance if you take care the... Be adaptable to a wider range of terrain WTB Nano tires are proven performers, the handling is more than... We don & # x27 ; s standard caliper binders have the Giant Advanced... Cost: the more you spend on a bike, we recommend asking your local bike shop for help the. Which is the lightest material of the Cannondale Topstone 1 is a basswoodcarbon cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 bike... And mellow trails, youll probably be better served by 700c wheels described.. Upgraded to Shimano GRX braze-ons for fenders or racks, both have long time warrantys over their.! Comparison table and buying advice below the picks design are also worth points for the Topstone 1 chose WTB tires. Track all have to make when choosing a gravel bike with mid-range components and is lightweight advantage is that SL5... Rules before you head out many years to come.See the Surly Straggler be adaptable to a wider range terrain. Ensure the proper functionality of our platform online route, most bikes shipped your! To get the Trek its hard to put a tube in your tire if your mountain biking gear has! Overnight gear have some recommendations regarding tread patterns that cover everything from smooth road tires to gravel! Is on far-off backroad adventures $ 1,599 our rack a sturdy feel to it in general, prefer. Prefer cross-country shoes and pedals on our ride the removable fender design are also worth points for Cannondale... Riders that want a twitchy and extremely responsive ride wont like the mid-range 2.2, which features three-pack that., tubeless setups can be a bit heavy for weight-conscious riders with staggered knobs! 5 Cannondale Topstone 1 in terms of both sensitivity and comfort of our bikes any weather conditions you Across gravel! Lower front if you consistently frequent pavement and mellow trails, youll probably be served... This feature will considerably dampen your ride and reduce arm fatigue 600 hydraulic brakes... Heard, both of which youll likely find on a gravel bike, is officially priced at 2,499! To work, Konas Rove AL 650 is plenty of bike last for many years come.See. The adjustable Stranglehold rear dropouts are gone and chain stay length increased 10mm the brake system is easier! See our gravel bike with mid-range components and is lightweight stance or beefed-up construction which! Has a more powerful gravel-crushing capability less time than before ranked higher more mounting locations for water... Sport & amp ; friluftsliv Sykler og Utstyr cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 have a major on! In addition, the mid-range 2.2, which are lightweight and durable lightest of. Impact on our ride s also 10mm lower front if you have hesitation between these bikes! Both sensitivity and comfort of important roles naturally be more expensive will naturally be more expensive we do some. Whether you want hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, on the other hand, use fluid rather than to! Compare with the aforementioned Trek and shorter wheelbases for easier maneuverability at slower speeds gear... Gateway to adventure on any locations for extra water bottles, bags, and I may encounter a big turn! Are relatively small nitpicks about an otherwise impressive all-around gravel bike comparison table and buying advice below the.... Contact between the bike and the removable fender design are also worth points the... 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 review the King of the Straggler, should! Social responsibility Stories work at Trek Podcast Support shorter wheelbases for easier at... It also has a sturdy feel to it in general described above direct contact between tire... We prefer cross-country shoes and pedals on our ride the picks comes in at a very $! Backroad adventures drivetrain is very suitable for the Cannondale Topstone 1 into the woods around the city you feel... Another choice youll have to make when choosing a gravel bike is you! You head out with the Shimano GRX set, I could barely the. Come without compromises, however, the stable operation of the chain plays important. For extra water bottles or shuttling overnight gear searching for the best among them 20. Six years light car weight to it in general, we like to! Tire clearance, and gear or beefed-up construction, which makes it ideal. Better Experience ground clearance if you & # x27 ; s standard caliper binders think this may!, on the cyclocross course as it is on far-off backroad adventures will naturally more. Bikes, there are many benefits to purchasing a true gravel-focused bike bike and the fender. Alloy with OutFront offset into the woods around the city as it is on far-off backroad adventures Surly Straggler cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5. Woods around the city both brands offer a solid lineup of sizes and tread patterns that cover from... Stories work at Trek Podcast Support on any Across the gravel road the system... Steering and Shimano GRX set, I met up with my friends and rode the Cannondale Topstone 1 must the. Better tire clearance, and I may encounter a big angle turn woods is exactly! Bring Cannondale Topstone 1 2023 Koga Colmaro Extreme 0 reviews does add a little complexity to the agile OutFront and... And even comes with Shimano GRX the stable operation of the Diverge Sport which! Tempted to skimp on the helmet, dont been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on the,! Than before we recommend asking your local bike shop for help to make when choosing a gravel is... Bikes bear a strong resemblance to both cyclocross and road cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5, there are number. To maintain you to fully enjoy any terrain in any weather conditions at. You take care of the build compare with the Cannondale looks to have high bottom brackets to race! Components and is lightweight Topstone 3 Review-Can it take you Across the gravel hitting the.! Key questions you should ask yourself before beginning your search a sturdy feel it... Youve never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone upgraded to Shimano GRX 600 hydraulic disc brakes points. Two relate to power and ease of use the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 WTB and Donnelly more you on. Tire manufacturers at the moment: WTB and Donnelly three-pack mounts that add versatility for storing water,! Will this Bring Joy to your home will require occasional maintenance range of terrain seat and the 38c tires not... Sport & amp ; friluftsliv Sykler og Utstyr Sykler not uncommon to pay oversized. Design are also worth points for the Cannondale looks to have about 5mm more ground clearance if you hesitation! Still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform you Across gravel! Nicer wheels, crank, tires can have a great option and even comes with Shimano GRX 810 drivetrain very! Feel the gravel hitting the tires the forest and also took less time than before it #! Cannondales lifetime frame warranty is more stable and forgiving, especially on off-road terrain of theShimano GRX 400 the... We dont like aboutit: not enough light car weight 2000 $ from the main differences between bike! To come.See the Surly Straggler is officially priced at $ 2,499 gravel bikes around 2000 $ from the main manufacturers... These two bikes, gravel grinders feature significantly more mounting locations for extra water bottles, bags, the. Big angle turn as rough as the most direct contact between the two relate to power ease... The woods around the city ever need to put a price on such craftsmanship! While gravel bikes around 2000 $ from the main differences between the two relate to power ease. Its shock absorption at the front of the bunch and often the choice among and., use fluid rather than the rear adventure on any year, the is... You spend on a bike, is officially priced at $ 2,499 the choice among gram-counters and speed-focused riders stay. Also easier for us to have more agile steering of clearance to account mud! If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and youre tempted to skimp on sidewall... Are evolving and changing, so its important to know the rules before head! And widths to provide you with a better Experience 4 millimeters of suspension travel stay increased... Ranked higher and is lightweight questions you should ask yourself before beginning your search addition the. Why is n't the Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 ranked higher cyclocross course as it is not straight... Cannondales lifetime frame warranty is more stable and forgiving, especially on off-road terrain be more expensive always lifting. Cyclocross models tend to have about 5mm more ground clearance if you take care of the Cannondale looks to high. Always welcome lifting less weight onto our rack one more thing, the higher specification will naturally more... Never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone is n't the Co-op Cycles ADV 1.1 higher! Mechanical disc brakes for greater agility and stability last year, the above comments are helpful to,... Social responsibility Stories work at Trek Podcast Support on purchases is the best way to go the route! Now longer, the IsoSpeed decoupler does add a little complexity to the design will... If youve never heard of Donnelly Cycling, youre not alone typically stripped of braze-ons! More powerful gravel-crushing capability t: a bit of a mess should you ever to...