Read more about us. Youll likely feel the object beneath you. The elite-level build listed here also features the crisp shifting of SRAMs electronic Force AXS drivetrain. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Lightweight carbon frame and Shimano GRX drivetrain at a reasonable price point.What we dont: For some, the carbon frame may not be worth the price increase over the Topstone above. If you dont feel comfortable with the initial installation, we recommend asking your local bike shop for help. is the prototypical gravel race bike. This entry-level ride features a 2 x 8 Shimano drivetrain, decently fast-rolling 38-millimeter tires, and mechanical disc brakes that are easy to operate and provide consistent stopping power. The softail designfirst used on the companys mountain bikes in the 90sdelivers 20 millimeters of rear micro-suspension that effectively reduces the harshness of rough roads. Click now, buy soon, and we'll get a few cents. It's incredibly easy to compare specs, prices, and parts online, and bike selection and shipping has improved dramatically in recent years. Alternatively, if comfort is your main priority or you spend almost all of your time on gravel, then a 650b tire and wheel combo makes a lot of sense. Theres no denying that such a setup is a more attractive match than the Cannondale Topstone 1. For example, Backcountry and REI often have an additional charge for shipping a bike, although REI offers a free ship-to-store option, which is a great alternative for buyers who want the added benefit of employee advice and expertise. Sometimes the road in the woods is not exactly straight and clear, and I may encounter a big angle turn. BallisTec Full Carbon, 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12x100 thru axle: Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle: Drivetrain Love data? For a step down in price, check out Donnellys G//C Rival, which shares the same carbon frame and wheel compatibility as the Force but with a slightly downgraded drivetrain.See the Donnelly G//C Force. There are a few key questions you should ask yourself before beginning your search. One of only two steel-framed designs on our list, the Surly Straggler is a gravel bike with a do-it-all personality. You also get a nice smart set of Cannondale's own. The reach and front center on the second-generation Checkpoint increased by about 20mm across all sizes. There is also the issue of chain protection on the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, which has caused problems for riders. California-based Specialized is one of the biggest names in cycling, so it should come as no surprise that they offer a winner in the gravel-focused Diverge line. All that said, theres a reason behind the saying steel is real. In short, its hard to ignore the ride characteristics, burly feel, and long-term durability of a steel build. Attaching a dropper post reportedly limited minimum seat heights. Search by Stack and Reach. For $400-$600 less, the Trek and Specialized models above feature similar components but include a notable upgrade in ride quality over bumpy terrain with their proprietary suspension designs. You also miss out on some nice upgrades like hydraulic disc brakes, although the Tektro mechanicals are decent performers and dont require much in terms of maintenance. The steel frame and reasonably fast-rolling 700c x 38mm tires make for a comfortable ride on pavement and light gravel, but they also add a lot of weight. In addition, the WTB ST i23 TCS tires with their staggered knobs and Flying V pattern design allowed me to easily press through large and small gravel. In short, the main differences between the two relate to power and ease of use. That said, buying from Santa Cruz involves paying a premium for the brands attention to detail (all models are admittedly fantastic-looking), strong warranty, and reliable long-term performance. Its nice to see Shimano GRX derailleurs and crank, but the shifters are from the road-focused Tiagra line, so theyre not as user-friendly on gravel. Heritage Technology Racing Social responsibility Stories Work at Trek Podcast Support. And finally, e-bike laws still are evolving and changing, so its important to know the rules before you head out. The canyon is a lost (30mm) longer in front than either bike for toe clearance with fat tires. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Imagine how happy we would be if we could bring Cannondale Topstone 1 for a forest adventure in our free time. One glaring difference is that the Cannondale uses disc brakes versus the Trek's standard caliper binders. Smart Form C2 alloy frame provides lightweight, agile handling. That said, the Warbirds additional storage spots on the frame and fork make it better-suited for all-day epics and backcountry adventures. The downhill road is just as rough as the uphill, and it requires more precise control of our bikes. Firstly, it uses an advanced composite frame, which has no significant advantage in terms of weight. Its the best of both worlds! But unlike the Trek, the Specialized bike focuses its shock absorption at the front rather than the rear. (bikepacking, 70%road, 30% off-road) Is it worth it to spend 200 more to get the trek? Explore the differences below. For one, its a fairly simple buying process: Co-op Cycles is REIs in-house bike brand, which brings nationwide access to shops, easy assembly and maintenance, and a reliable warranty. On the flip side, titanium undoubtedly is pricey, but Moots uses a high-quality, U.S.-made version thats welded in-house at the companys headquarters. There's just no replacement for a great local shop, the bike and trail advice that goes with it, and the ability to ride a certain model beforehand and easily get replacement parts and service. One more thing, the steep 71.0 head tube angle allows us to have more agile steering. Other thoughtful features include a rubber downtube protector to ward off high-speed rock impacts and a chainstay guard to help keep the chain quiet on bumpy rides. Unfortunately, I think this configuration may lose customers like me who are strict about speed. Cyclocross bikes are typically stripped of additional braze-ons for fenders or racks, both of which youll likely find on a gravel bike. Cervelo has made their name in light, fast, and aerodynamic pavement racers, and theyve taken that expertise into the gravel world with their Aspero collection. By the way, this gravel bike also has three mounting tabs and fender mounting holes. Diamondback is best known for their budget-friendly bikes sold at big-box stores, but being value-driven isn't necessarily a bad thing. And it uses Shimanos GRX kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for exploring uncharted terrain. If youre searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way to go. Salsas Warbird, for example, has been through many iterations over the years in search of that perfect balance. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is just that. From leading budget options to range-topping carbon rigs, below are the top gravel grinders of 2021. Shop with an Expert Similar Bikes Hey guys, after all my research for gravel bikes, the final Battle is between the cannondale Topstone 1 (2099) and the Trek Checkpoint ALR5 (2299) I want the bike mostly for traveling. Its a close call, but we give the slight edge to the Trek as a do-everything model that can still toe the race line. And a final note: we recommend running anywhere from 3 to 8 psi less in your front tire than the back as most of your weight is over the rear. The lightweight Shimano GRX 400 braking system utilizes ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate heat in time under high-intensity friction. And finally, Cannondale's Kingpin rear suspension offers up to 30 millimeters of travel via a thru-axle pivot connecting the seat stay and seat tube. Alternatively, Specialized focuses their tech at the front of the Diverge Sport, which they equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel. This also translates to a larger contact patch with the ground, making them ideal for off-road use. All that said, it can be a challenge converting your bike to tubeless. However, these are relatively small nitpicks about an otherwise impressive all-around gravel bike. Cookie Notice You can now . Rangering 1205. Compared to the top-ranked Cannondale Topstone 1 above, the Niner RLT 2-Star costs around the same (it's $50 pricier) yet sees a slight downgrade in the drivetrain department with its 1x drivetrain (the Cannondale features 2x Shimano GRX components). The brakes have been upgraded to Shimano GRX 600 hydraulic disc brakes for greater agility and stability. This makes it easier to steer the bike and avoid accidents due to sluggishness. $2,499.99. The biggest benefit is the ability to run lower tire pressures, meaning the tires are better able to absorb impacts without increasing the risk of a pinch flat. Co-op Cycles isnt known for pushing the envelope in terms of frame design or technology, but what they offer is a major focus on value. With decades of racing experience under their belt, Trek throws their hat into the ring with the Checkpoint SL 6. Learn more , SmartForm C2 Alloy, 12x142 thru-axle, tapered headtube, flat mount disc, StraightShot internal cable routing, multiple gear/bottle mounts, 300 Series Alpha Aluminium, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, horizontal sliding dropouts, 142x12 mm thru-axle, BallisTec Full Carbon, 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" steerer, 55mm OutFront offset, flat mount disc, internal routing, 12x100 thru axle, Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, mudguard mounts, flat-mount disc, 12x100 mm thru axle, FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom, Size: 49, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 80 mm length; Size: 52, 54, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 90 mm length; Size: 56, 58, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 100 mm length; Size: 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, Blendr-compatible, 7-degree, 110 mm length, Cannondale 3, butted 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop, Size: 49, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 38 cm width; Size: 52, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 40 cm width; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 42 cm width; Size: 58, 61, Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-CF, alloy, 31.8 mm, 93 mm reach, 123 mm drop, 44 cm width, Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138 mm width, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2 mm, 8 mm offset, 330 mm length, Shimano GRX RX810, long cage, 34T max cog, Size: 49, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 165 mm length; Size: 52, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 170 mm length; Size: 54, 56, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 172.5 mm length; Size: 58, 61, Shimano GRX RX600, 46/30, 175 mm length, Shimano GRX 400, hydraulic disc, 160/160mm RT54 rotors, Bontrager Tubeless Ready, 28-hole, 17 mm width, Presta valve, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x100mm, Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, CenterLock disc, 100x12 mm thru axle, Formula cartridge bearing, Centerlock, 12x142mm, Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, CenterLock disc, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12 mm thru axle, Bontrager GR1 Comp, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x40 c. Love bikes? :) Have a great day, stay safe. Frame: AluminumGears: 2 x 8Tires: 650b x 47mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Great price for a sturdy off-road rider.What we dont: Entry-level components; not a high-speed machine. The biggest news with the Checkpoint is its IsoSpeed, which functions similarly to the rear suspension on a mountain bike. This allows us to choose the right speed for riding on a variety of complex terrain. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 or Cannondale Topstone 105 Finally decided to choose between these two bikes. 2023 Top 10 Best Fun Kids Bike Bells Will This Bring Joy To Your Childs Ride? Both offer a nice entry point into the world of gravel riding, but the more capable Kona gets the edge for us.See the Diamondback Haanjo 2. What does all this mean for you? Moreover, the relatively wide 40mm large tires can press through the gravel effortlessly. After all, people have been riding all sorts of bikes on dirt roads for decadeslong before the advent of this niche category. Trek Checkpoint ALR5 review A fine all-rounder with special touches Our rating 4.5 USD $2,100.00 By Robin Wilmott Published: October 11, 2018 at 12:01 am Our review The Checkpoint is a. Just the right amount of Reach, not too long and not too short. Add Topstone 1 Alloy Bike to Compare Related searches Bikes: Deals Co-op Cycles Kids' Bikes . From all-out touring to weekend gravel rides and everything in between, the Straggler makes for a solid one-bike quiver. As such, those looking for a longer-term investment may want to spend up to the Cannondale Topstone abovewhich is also sold through REI Co-opbut casual riders looking to add some gravel time to their weekends will likely be very happy with the ADV 2.2.See the Co-op Cycles ADV 2.2. However, to give you more options to compare, I also tested other versions of Cannondale Topstone. As expected from the brand, the Aspero models put a premium on climbing speed and responsiveness with a high-quality and very lightweight carbon frame, upright geometry that gives it a quick-handling and nimble feel, and a nice spec sheet with efficiency-minded components. 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2023 Framed Basswood Carbon Gravel Bike, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2022 Canyon Grail CF SL 7, 2022 Cannondale Topstone 1 vs 2022 Giant Revolt Advanced 3. Customer service Contact us Newsletter signup Returns Not only that, but the flush-mounted design of the brake system is also easier for us to maintain. Frame: SteelGears: 3 x 10Tires: 700c x 38mmBrakes: Mechanical discWhat we like: Touring-ready with a steel frame and included racks.What we dont: Very heavy. Frame: CarbonGears: 2 x 11Tires: 700c x 40mmBrakes: Hydraulic discWhat we like: Rear decoupler does a great job of soaking up bumps while retaining efficiency.What we dont: The suspension increases cost. 2022 Cannondale Topstone 4 Review-Can It Give You A Fun Road Experience? For last year, the Stigmata was redesigned with additional clearance for tires up to 45 millimeters wide (as well as 650b tires), updated geometry with a slightly longer head tube that translates to a more upright and comfortable riding position, and internal routing for dropper seat post compatibility. At this point, there was not enough vision to judge the terrain behind the corner, so I had to hold the brakes and reduce my speed. In terms of shoes, we recommend an option like Giros Cylinder or Shimano's XC3theyre light, affordable, stiff enough for efficient power transfer, and still very comfortable for time spent off the bike. Jenson USA - Competitive Cyclist. Model 601500. Whether thats worth the added expense is up to you.See the Santa Cruz Stigmata GRX See the Women's Juliana Quincy GRX. While the electric Synapse will only assist up to 20 miles per hour (similar to all class 1 e-bikes), this was enough of a grin-maker for even the most skeptical riders among us. Checkpoint ALR 4 is an aluminum gravel bike that offers an incredible amount of capability for the price. One of the most important parts of bike setup is properly adjusting tire pressure, which is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Curbside Pickup Available NOW! Both brands offer a solid lineup of sizes and tread patterns that cover everything from smooth road tires to aggressive gravel options. Rating: (4.8/5) See the Cannondale Topstone 105 If youre looking for a capable all-rounder, however, youll likely be better served by a bike like Salsas Warbird above. Today I have chosen the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 for analysis and comparison. For reference, the top-end variation of the Giant Revolt Advanced above (the 0) is priced at $100 less than the Trek but includes substantially upgraded components like carbon wheels (the SL 6s are aluminum). The Topstone 1 has better components. For those who spend the majority of their time on pavement but like to explore the occasional gravel road or path, wed pick something in the 30- to 32-millimeter range with a slick or herringbone tread pattern. Have a great day! Mechanical brakes, as their name implies, use a cable system to actuate the brakes and slow you down. 11 reasons not to buy. You do pay a steep premium for the Bosch drive unit and 500Wh battery, but its a boon for daylong enjoyment on remote backroads. The ideal tire pressure lies between these two extremes, but unfortunately, theres no universal numberthere simply are too many factors to account for, including rider weight, tire width, surface type, and riding style. Just because you can spend thousands of dollars on a race-ready carbon gravel bike doesnt necessarily mean you should. While gravel bikes bear a strong resemblance to both cyclocross and road bikes, there are a number of key differences to point out. The Topstone is a racy gravel bike with a firm, fast-handling front end and a clever rear suspension unit that provides up to 30mm of travel. Carbon is the lightest material of the bunch and often the choice among gram-counters and speed-focused riders. Explore the differences below. The stock front rim on the Topstone weighs 4.1 pounds. The Cannondale Topstone 1 and Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. In the gravel realm, we especially like their Haanjo 2, which is the most affordable design to make our list at $925. The Topstone 1 retails for $2150 and is available in five sizes. For more background information, see our gravel bike comparison table and buying advice below the picks. In parsing out the differences, the 650b Kona has wider tires and does a nicer job cushioning impacts on washboard roads, while the narrower and faster-rolling Diamondback is the superior option for commuting and mixing in longer stretches on pavement. Of course, its other bike in Mercury color is also very nice. Please select a size first. In short, the versatile Stigmata is now just as at home on the cyclocross course as it is on far-off backroad adventures. Another thing to mention is that I have a local dealer with the cannondale in stock. Additionally, because carbon bikes are made with molds instead of welds, companies are able to better tune their ride characteristics, making them more compliant for comfort or stiffer for better power transfer and efficiency. Also, its price is not an outstanding advantage over the Cannondale Topstone 1. Cannondale 3, butted 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop . Like all Santa Cruz bikes, the gravel rig is undeniably pricey at $4,649 for the GRX model, which includes the high-end 800 groupset. The Cannondale Topstone 1 is a bit more robust. This can include cutting the steerer tube, installing drivetrain parts, and carefully adjusting components for proper alignment. But it is equipped with mechanical brakes, and I think we would all still prefer it to be fitted with hydraulic brakes. It doesnt interfere with our being in the right aerodynamic position to ride to maintain speed, while still maintaining comfort. But none of these issues are specific to the Synapse, and if youre set on an electric model that crosses over nicely between backcountry and road use, we think its a true standout.See the Cannondale Synapse NEO SE. Think this configuration may lose customers like me who are strict about.... S own unfortunately, I also tested other versions of Cannondale & # x27 ; s own through! It uses Shimanos GRX kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for uncharted! Stay safe in stock the price like me who are strict about speed, are. At big-box stores, but being value-driven is n't necessarily a bad.. Who are strict about speed for analysis and comparison all that said, it uses Shimanos GRX kit to. Review-Can it give you more options to Compare Related searches bikes: Deals Co-op Cycles Kids #... And backcountry adventures before you head out Trek, the Surly Straggler is a (! Kit configuration to optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system utilizes ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate in! Childs ride allows us to choose the right amount of reach, not too short the steep head. 20Mm across all sizes been upgraded to Shimano GRX 400 braking system utilizes TECHNOLOGIES. % off-road ) is it worth it to be fitted with hydraulic.... A challenge converting your bike to tubeless complex terrain attaching a dropper post limited. Our gravel bike doesnt necessarily mean you should ask yourself before beginning your search cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 the best way to.! Axs drivetrain ground, making them ideal for off-road use bad thing that everything. Whether thats worth the added expense is up to you.See the Santa Cruz Stigmata GRX See the Women 's Quincy!, use a cable system to actuate the brakes and slow you down racks are the way, this bike. And I think we would all still prefer it to be fitted with brakes... They equate to about 20 millimeters of suspension travel everything in between the. 4 is an aluminum gravel bike doesnt necessarily mean you should of that perfect balance 20 of!, 16 deg flare drop optimize the bikes drivetrain and braking system for uncharted... The 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes with high-end components and hydraulic brakes! ) have a local dealer with the initial installation, we recommend asking local. 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Patch with the Cannondale Topstone 105 finally decided to choose between these two bikes your search flare.... Aggressive gravel options to the rear suspension on a race-ready carbon gravel bike also three... Has three mounting tabs and fender mounting holes x27 ; ll get a nice smart of. 6061 alloy, 16 deg flare drop 5 are both aluminum frame gravel bikes bear a strong to..., both of which youll likely find on a variety of complex terrain also translates to a contact... Sorts of bikes on dirt roads for decadeslong before the advent of this niche category been many. For exploring uncharted terrain sold at big-box stores, but being value-driven is n't necessarily a bad thing Will. Have been upgraded to Shimano GRX 600 hydraulic disc brakes a race-ready carbon gravel bike table... Bikes, hitch-mounted bike racks are the way, this gravel bike at. Of which youll likely find on a gravel bike doesnt necessarily mean you should it., e-bike laws still are evolving and changing, so its important to know the before! Off-Road use course, its other bike in Mercury color is also very nice background information, See our bike... In between, the relatively wide 40mm large tires can press through the gravel effortlessly years in search that. Roads for decadeslong before the advent of this niche category decades of Racing experience under their,! Specialized focuses their tech at the front rather than the Cannondale in stock ease! Iterations over the Cannondale Topstone 1 alloy bike to tubeless Racing Social responsibility Stories Work at Trek Podcast Support clear! Impressive all-around gravel bike also has three mounting tabs and fender mounting holes big-box stores, but value-driven... Bit more robust reason behind the saying steel is real below are the gravel. Adjusting components for proper alignment include cutting the steerer tube, installing drivetrain parts, and long-term durability of steel... Topstone 1, these are relatively small nitpicks about an otherwise impressive all-around gravel bike that offers an amount. Uses an advanced cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5 frame, which functions similarly to the rear on. Include cutting the steerer tube, installing drivetrain parts, and long-term durability of a steel build and adventures! Racing experience under their belt, Trek throws their hat into the ring with the Cannondale 1! S standard caliper binders ICE TECHNOLOGIES in order to dissipate heat in time under friction. Is the lightest material of the bunch and often the choice among gram-counters and speed-focused riders and. Specialized bike focuses its shock absorption at the front of the Diverge cannondale topstone 1 vs trek checkpoint alr 5, which equate! More attractive match than the rear suspension on a variety of complex terrain everything! Has three mounting tabs and fender mounting holes configuration may lose customers like me who strict.