Cannondale Topstone Carbon Apex (2022)

Cannondale Topstone Carbon Apex - Consistent US variant of the Topstone with Sram equipment

Born in the USA. Not only that Cannondale Gravelbikes are developed in Connecticut. Also the modern, casual Gravelstyle has spilled over from the USA to Europe. This applies all the more to the Topstone models with components from the US manufacturer Sram. Definitely a good alternative to Shimano. What makes the Topstone but really special in the gravel area, is its exceptional carbon frame. The developers have exploited here all the possibilities to improve the comfort that the material offers. The KingPin Suspension System stands out, a sophisticated interaction of the frame's sloping geometry with various flex zones. The suspension is low maintenance and requires no setup. In combination with 45 millimeter wide tires, this effectively defuses even a ride over desolate gravel roads. Another innovation: the Topstone Carbon models can be equipped in no time with the intelligent SmartSense system, a new type of light and sensor technology. It consists of front and rear lights as well as a rear-facing radar that informs you of approaching vehicles and activates the warning light. Or you can activate the brake light function. SmartSense is controlled via the Cannondale app. The Topstone Carbon is also well equipped for your bikepacking adventures: The frame offers mounting points for three water bottles as well as for a top tube bag. But that's not all: The newly developed carbon fork is equipped with threaded eyelets for lowrider front bags.

Comfortable carbon frame with innovative KingPin suspension

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 up to 30 millimeters to absorb shocks and vibrations. That means more control, more comfort, more traction. Carbon layup and tube diameter are adjusted for each frame size to provide the right amount of stiffness and flex for each rider type. Internal cable guides protect against contamination and highlight the clean design. With Sram Apex equipment, the Topstone Carbon offers excellent value for money. The drive with 1 x 11 shifting works along the lines of mountain bikes and guarantees fast gear changes at all times, without the risk of chain drop at the crank. 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. Ergonomics and performance are paramount.