Cannondale Topstone 3 (2022)

Cannondale Topstone 3 - Attractive entry into the Topstone Gravel series

Gravel biking is more than just a fashion trend. This cycling variant receives influx from almost all other cycling segments, from racers to travel cyclists. That's because the versatility of a gravel bike is simply unmatched. Cannondale has now significantly upgraded the Topstone series even in the entry-level range. The biggest update has been to the frame, where the rear triangle now sits lower on the seat tube. This design improves the vertical damping characteristics of the frame triangle. An important factor, because in the gravel bike mainly the frame and the tires decide on the comfort. Ideal: the rear triangle and fork accept tires up to 45 millimeters wide. Another secret of a good gravel bike is its geometry. On the Topstone you sit upright enough for sovereign control, and sporty enough to also sometimes really make speed. With the new Topstone 3 you are ready for any bikepacking adventure. So the frame offers mounting points for three water bottles and for a top tube bag. But that's not all: the newly developed carbon fork is equipped with threaded eyelets for lowrider front bags.

Cannnondale - aluminum frame construction with a long tradition

Already at the founding of the manufacture in the 1970s, Cannondale was one of the first manufacturers in the world to use aluminum in frame construction. A unique know-how, on which until today numerous pro teams trust, both in road and MTB racing. Even with a budget-friendly gravel bike like the Topstone 3 you get a superbly crafted frame with many features of the top series. Internal train guides protect against dirt and emphasize the tidy design. In version 3, the Topstone comes with the indestructible Sora GS 2 x 9 shifting group from the market leader Shimano, combined with a lightweight FSA crank. Other components such as handlebars, stem and seatpost Cannondale already develops for years in their own laboratories. The Promax disc brakes are controlled via smooth-running cables. Tip: An upgrade to hydraulic brakes is possible in principle later, but goes hand in hand with an exchange of the shift brake lever. Or you can look at the model Topstone 2 with Shimano GRX 400 group.