Exceptionally capable and versatile gravel bike

It was a brave move for Cannondale to revise the original Topstone Alloy, as it was their most successful ever range of bikes.  But they succeeded in taking the original and adding some tweaks that add to its off-road capabilities and adventure credentials, while taking nothing away from what makes the Cannondale Topstone Alloy such a great bike – it is super versatile, great value and loads fun.

While the changes to the latest Topstone Alloy make it even more capable as a bike for those with a taste for adventure, it is more of a subtle evolution of the original than a complete replacement or redesign.  It retains the outstanding versatility that means you can load it up for the long haul, run it light and free over mixed terrain, or simply set it up for back lane road riding and ultra reliable commuting.

So what has changed?  Well, not the rider geometry thankfully, as that was nailed in the original – instead, Cannondale have tweaked the frameset and fork to add more luggage carrying options, slightly increased tyre width capacity, and tuned the rear triangle and fork to offer greater stability over rough terrain or when carrying a load.

Tyre clearance has been increased slightly, from 42mm to 45mm, allowing you to push further into the rough stuff, and enjoy more grip and comfort on every ride.

Everything on the Topstone is designed for simplicity, ease of use and compatibility. Whether you’re setting out on a big ride or taking the long way to work – less down time, more ride time.  With plentiful gear and bottle mounts on both the frame and fork, the Topstone is ready to load up and go long.

The Topstone’s ‘OutFront Steering Geometry’ combines stability with nimble agility. An extra long fork offset paired with a slack head angle keeps the steering light and lively, and delivers confidence at speed and in the rough stuff.

The all-new carbon fork is light, comfortable and precise, and  features three mount bosses on each leg for maximizing cargo capacity, plus an easy mounting point for fenders – letting you ride any adventure in any condition.  The Topstone is also built to accept an internally-routed 27.2 dropper seatpost, which shouldn’t really be a surprise on a bike that’s this off-road capable.

With its higher-volume tyres, super confident rider position and sporty handling, the Topstone is ready to smash out big miles on the back-roads, explore routes less travelled, or smooth out the potholes on your morning commute. It really is a versatile but thoroughly engaging bike – there are no compromises in terms of how you can rip up the trails if that’s your thing.  It just happens that what makes it so good at fast off-road riding also makes it a great option for so many other things.