Cannondale Topstone Apex 1

Cannondale Topstone Apex 1 - Versatile gravel bike with aluminium frame and Sram equipment

The US manufacturer Cannondale is one of the pioneers in the construction of mountain bikes. Fact: In the beginning, the wild machines were more cyclocrossers than mountain bikes - and thus basically pretty close to today's gravel bikes. In a way, the Topstone returns to this original way of cycling. Sporty riding on mixed terrain, from asphalt to forest paths and gravel tracks. Of course, the Topstone was designed according to the latest aspects and is equipped with the most modern components. With a Topstone you can cruise along your favourite trail today and set off on an exciting bikepacking adventure tomorrow. The frame offers numerous mounting points for accessories, both in the aluminium and in the Apex Carbon series.

In this equipment variant, the Topstone comes with the proven Sram Apex component group, consisting of the Apex XPLR 1 x 12 drive and the corresponding hydraulic disc brakes. Cannondale has been developing other parts such as handlebars, stem and seatpost in its own laboratories for years. The robust wheelset with Formula hubs and GXD rims is prepared for tubeless riding.

Cannondale - Aluminium frame construction with a long tradition

When the company was founded in the 1970s, Cannondale was one of the first manufacturers in the world to use aluminium in frame construction. A unique know-how that numerous pro teams still rely on today, both in road and MTB racing. The Topstone impresses with an outstandingly crafted frame with numerous sensible detail solutions. For example, on the rear triangle, where the seat stays are positioned low on the seat tube. This construction improves the vertical damping properties of the frame triangle. An important factor, because on a gravel bike it is mainly the frame and the tyres that determine comfort. Ideal: The rear triangle and fork accept tyres with a width of up to 45 millimetres. Cannondale has also continued to work on improving the riding characteristics. The OutFront steering geometry combines an increased fork offset with a flat steering angle. This results in smooth steering behaviour that still conveys safety at high speeds. The Topstone is optimally prepared for bikepacking tours: You will find mounting points on the frame for three drinks bottles and a top tube bag. And the carbon fork is equipped with threaded eyelets for lowrider front panniers.