Cannondale Topstone Carbon Apex AXS

Cannondale Topstone Carbon Apex AXS - State-of-the-art gravel bike with Sram electric groupset

No question, the US manufacturer Cannondale is one of the pioneers in the bicycle industry. And above all, the cult forge is still one of the true innovators. Cannondale regularly presents groundbreaking innovations that go far beyond mere design. In the Topstone Carbon models, it is the unique KingPin suspension system, which significantly improves the natural damping properties of the material carbon. An important aspect, because you want to be after all with your gravel bike often on dirt roads and maybe even on flow trails. Practical features were by no means disregarded in the development of the frame. Thus, the frame has mounting points for three water bottles and a top tube bag. But that's not all: The carbon fork is equipped with threaded eyelets for lowrider front bags. So you can start planning your bikepacking adventures right away.

In this version, the Topstone Carbon is equipped with the state-of-the-art Sram Apex AXS group, where the rear derailleur and front derailleur are moved electrically. The transmission of impulses from the ergonomic shift / brake levers to the components works wirelessly. A faster drive, which works 100 percent precise, especially in off-road conditions, there is hardly. The hydraulic Apex disc brakes are perfectly matched to the system. Other parts such as handlebars, stem and seatpost Cannondale has been developing for years in their own laboratories. The tubeless-ready DT-Swiss wheelset is covered with comfortable 45 millimeter wide WTB tires.

Carbon frame with innovative KingPin suspension system

The KingPin system as ingenious as it is simple: the rear triangle is flexibly mounted on the seat tube with the help of a thru axle. In addition, there are flexible zones on the top tube and seat tube. This allows the rear triangle to yield vertically by up to 30 millimeters to absorb shocks and vibrations. This means: more control, more comfort, more traction. Another plus: The suspension is low-maintenance and requires no setup. Carbon layup and tube diameter are adjusted for each frame size to provide the right amount of stiffness and flex for each type of rider. Internal cable guides protect against dirt and emphasize the clean design.