Cannondale Topstone
Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Cannondale Topstone. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
14 reasons to buy
- Comfort from suspension and a balanced seating position was undeniable.
- Every model of Topstone is equipped with a full carbon fork.
- This rig is renowned for nimble, confident handling on sketchy surfaces.
- Some reviewers described Apex models as ‘relatively inexpensive’.
- It’s a cycling factotum; serving as a gravel, road, commuting and winter ride.
- The Kingpin active suspension system is a breakthrough in the gravel world.
- SRAM and Shimano hydraulic brakes were welcomed (on high-end models).
- WTB Riddler tires came tubeless-ready.
- The 2x12 drivetrain on the Carbon Force saw riders spoilt for a gear range.
- Subtle color schemes and discreet welds made for an appealing package.
- One expert felt this bike accelerated well, compared to the competition.
- Components were seen to be decent as specced. On 105 models, the groupset is lauded.
- Hollowgram wheels have wide, light, shallow rims strong enough for singletrack.
- Mounts are provided for three bottle cages, frame bags, spares, a rear rack, full mudguards and a top tube storage pouch.
11 reasons not to buy
- Experts bemoaned the Topstone’s less-than-stellar climbing abilities.
- Attaching a dropper post reportedly limited minimum seat heights.
- On-road, the Topstone rode well but wasn’t a 'road bike'.
- A long-term review said rims were heavy and didn’t stay true.
- Gear ratios and ranges were great off-road but not so fast on-road.
- One expert felt that internal cable routing was noisy.
- Carbon models were somewhat expensive, compared to the competition.
- One expert really would have preferred a threaded bottom bracket.
- The Force eTap AXS shifters were sometimes too bulky for smaller hands.
- A long-term reviewer felt that Cannondale could have provided more greases and lubes.
- On technical and rough terrain, small tire volumes and a high centre of gravity caused problems.
Bottom line
Testers enjoyed the Topstone’s ride, feel and fun-factor over uneven surfaces. As is understood, this rig performed better off-road than on. But that didn’t stop enthusiastic owners happily using the Topstone as their do-everything bike. The innovative Kingpin suspension system uses pivot points and apparently has the effect of running a 9mm wider tire. It wasn’t just a gimmick, as experts noted that it genuinely contributed to comfort on longer rides. Due to wide-ish tires and a moderate weight, alloy models felt a little sludgy on climbs. Conversely, the Carbon Force comes equipped with a 2x12 drivetrain, featuring 46/33 cranks and 10–33 cassette, which meant no struggling on ascents. Riders were happy to use the Topstone for short bikepacking trips, gravel, cross and winter road applications. A seemingly impressive bike with performance reflected in the price.Expert Reviews
90/100 based on 3 expert reviewsCannondale Topstone Carbon Ultegra RX
Cannondale Topstone Apex Review
Cannondale Topstone Carbon Force eTap AXS [German]
The New Cannondale Topstone Carbon Gravelbike Review.
Cannondale Topstone vs GT Grade | ‘Suspension’-Equipped Gravel Bike Shootout
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