What Are The Tech Specifications of Cannondale Topstone 105?

 Tech Specifications Of Canoondale Topstone 105

Cannondale offers the Topstone in three different models, all of which share an alloy frame and carbon fork. Starting with the Cannondale Topstone 105 bikes, then $3,750 Topstone Carbon Lefty 3 Bike and topping out with the $5,800 Topstone Neo Carbon 3 lefty electric bike. You can take a closer look at all the models at Cannondale Collections on REI.com

The second option is the Topstone Apex 1. It is equipped with SRAM’s Apex 1 drivetrain, HRD hydraulic disc brakes, and a 50-mm travel TransX dropper seat post.

But in this review, we'll be looking at the  mid-level option that is the Topstone 105. Let us take a closer look at the various specifications this gravel bike has to offer:

FRAME
Built using Cannondale’s SmartForm C2 aluminum alloy, the frame comes with butted and shaped tubing, robust double-pass welds, as well as a traditional threaded bottom bracket shell. This is paired with a carbon front fork which further ensures that the bike remains lightweight but strong.

The Cannondale Topstone 105 weights is at about 21lbs and has internal cable routing in the mainframe that accommodates a 27.2mm dropper post. The bike also features integrated bottle racks, fenders, and accessory mounts that help to enhance its versatility on the trail.

Whether you are going on a short backpacking adventure or overnight rides, the Topstone will easily adapt to your adventure needs. When it comes to geometry, this bike derives inspiration from the Synapse. You get to enjoy an upright sitting position that keeps you comfortable while riding on flat stretches of road, as well as off-road trails.


 

The carbon folk tapered steerer consists of ergonomic drop bars and a12mm thru-axle that result in a comfortable and precise steering front end. Big tire clearance on the bike ensures that it can accommodate up to 42mm width of tires, for your riding pleasure.

Overall, the Cannondale Topstone is a joy to ride! The stiff alloy frame feels efficient under pedaling and the ride remains smooth over chunky gravel. Depending on your body size, you can choose from five different frame sizes, ranging from XS (48cm) to XL (61cm).

These all features count this bike under top gravel bikes 2021.

BRAKES
Straight from the appearance, the Topstone feels like a true 105 gravel grinder, and my suspicions were confirmed on my first test ride. The Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes operates seamlessly and stopped the bike on a dime.


 

The performance was just as good on flat roads and trails as it was on single tracks and wet gravel. This versatility provides the rider the confidence one needs to take on this diverse terrain. We all know how messy gravel grinding can be, but on this bike, the experience was a total breeze.

SHIFTERS
This bike uses Cannondale C3, 16° flare drop shifters, which shift smoothly and effortlessly, allowing you to make the most of the 22-speed gear drive train.  Acceleration is super crisp on this bike, ensuring that you easily glide over the gravel terrain.


The handling is great, with bump absorption helping to maintain control of the ride throughout the adventure. The steering feels great on flats, as well as on hoods and drops, thanks to the plenty gear range.

There is also an amazing flare on the drops which adds to the stability when cruising at speeds with your head down.

RIMS AND TIRES
The WTB ST i23 TCS, 28h, tubeless-ready wheels were built for this kind of surface. Combined with the WTB Nano 700 by 40c tires, you get a stable ride with enough traction to keep you steady on all kinds of surfaces.

This bike also provides plenty of tire clearance so that you can fit up to 42mm tires.

SUSPENSION
The most notable feature of this bike is the Kingpin suspension system. This system allows 30mm bump-smoothing suspension that improves comfort, traction, and control.

The thru-axle pivot allows the rear stays, seat tubes and the rear of the tube to flex like leaf springs to absorb road vibration without the weight and complexity of a shock or linkages.

Is Cannondale Topstone 105 a bike worth buying?

It is an exquisite adventure bike that was designed to enable you to roll over gravel trails with relative ease. It has all the features needed for you to cover those lengthy miles on the rough terrains while enjoying a fun adventure all the way.

Cannondale Topstone 105 is the best adventure gravel bikes that offers the best of both worlds! They are like a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. You get to enjoy the speed and aerodynamic build while making the most of the stability of their wide tire clearance, easier gears, and mounts for racks and fenders.

However, picking a versatile bicycle that offers everything you are looking for can be a tall order, especially for a gravel bike. There are numerous models available in the market and certainly not a lack of choices.

The Cannondale Topstone 105 is an exciting gravel grinder that packs a variety of useful features on its frame.

What We Like?

One of the standout features on the Topstone 105 is the amazing geometry, which ensures that you remain comfortable throughout the ride. A grippe handlebar and tires allow you to have a confidence-inspiring downhill ride, especially when you know you have the powerful Shimano disc brakes on your side.

The application of Cannondale’s direct line cable management on this bike allows for hassle-free changing of brake and shifter cables. This is a credit to the “tube-in-tube” design.

The frame is lightweight yet still maintains the sturdiness you need for a bike in rough terrains such as gravel. Furthermore, you get plenty of room for fenders, racks, as well as mounting options for bottles and other accessories, which is quite convenient for an adventure bike.

Cannondale Topstone 105 is best gravel bike that I've tested in 3 years. The narrow tires make it efficient as a road bike while the front fork suspension ensures that you get a smooth and comfortable ride on the roughest roads.

What We Don't Like?

The black paint on the frame of the bike gets dirty quite easily, particularly when you are riding in sandy or muddy conditions. This is not helped by the fact that this bike does not come with mudguards.

Also in going through hundreds of reviews, the rear wheel wearing down quickly was mentioned a few times.  That was probably someone using the bike mostly on road surfaces.  Some customers have reported spokes getting loose, but not statistically high compared to like-bike reviews.

By looking at all the positive and negative points, in conclusion, we would like to say that the Cannondale Topstone 105 is worth buying. And we would definitely recommend you to go for it.

And here is a bonus for you. After your bike has been shipped, there are few steps  you will need to reassemble it - It's easy! We've summarized a video from Rei's Expert Advice. 

Happy Riding!!!