Cannondale gravel bike

Cannondale gravel bike - everything you need for bikepacking

The Cannondale story began over 50 years ago in 1971 in Wilton, USA, where the company is still based today. They aimed to get bikes out of traditional and conventional tracks, and the founders approached the development of new parts and frames with a fresh perspective, reflected in innovations like the Lefty suspension fork. In addition to gravel bikes, Cannondale offers a range of road bikes, including racing bikes, endurance bikes, cyclocross bikes, and e-bikes. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Cannondale features cross-country bikes, trail bikes, and E-MTBs. Among their gravel offerings, you can find the ultra-fast Cannondale Super Evo Six and a variety of exciting models like the Cannondale Topstone series, which includes the Topstone 4, Topstone Carbon 1 Lefty, Topstone Carbon 1 RLE, Topstone Carbon Lefty 3, Topstone 0, Topstone Carbon 5, Topstone Carbon 2 Lefty, and Topstone Carbon 3. These bikes are available in both Topstone Alloy or Topstone Carbon variants, along with the lightweight SuperSix EVO carbon models. Carbon frames are known for their lightness, achieved through lower material density, superior strength, and increased stiffness, which enhance agility and control. Due to reduced fatigue, carbon frames often have a longer lifespan and can be repaired if damaged. Additionally, they are designed to be more aerodynamic, improving efficiency on the track and requiring less maintenance due to their corrosion-resistant properties.

On the other hand, the Topstone Alloy gravel bike is priced more appealingly for beginners and is also more environmentally friendly, as aluminum bikes are more recyclable. Cannondale’s SmartForm frames can withstand higher impacts without cracking, offering greater safety over time. The Cannondale Lefty gravel bike features a unique suspension system attached only to the left side, which enhances handling, rigidity, and reduces weight. This system performs exceptionally well, thanks to needle and plain bearings located within the suspension fork. One significant benefit of the Lefty design is the ease of tire changes without removing the wheel, although some special tools are required for maintenance, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. Cannondale gravel bikes come in various frame sizes and can be equipped with state-of-the-art SmartSense technology, which increases rider visibility and monitors surroundings, relaying this information to an associated screen. This technology allows you to detect approaching vehicles, providing relaxed riding and maintaining focus. SmartSense also adjusts brightness according to light conditions, functioning as brake lights and improving visibility to oncoming traffic.

All of the Cannondale gravel bikes are equipped with the best possible components

When not outfitted with components from industry leaders like Shimano, SRAM, WTB, or DT Swiss, Cannondale gravel bikes feature their own innovative developments that may deviate from the norm but still offer exceptional performance.

Derailleur groups & brakes

Groupsets from Shimano, SRAM, microSHIFT, or FSA are utilized in Cannondale gravel bikes, available as complete units or individually, such as the FSA Omega AGX+ Alloy crank and Shimano GRX or Shimano 105 products. The Shimano GRX is offered both as a complete shifting group and as individual components, allowing combinations with Shimano 105 and FSA products, including the Shimano GRX 400 or Shimano GRX 800 Shadow RD rear derailleur. Cannondale’s new gravel bike models come equipped with modern, efficient disc brakes, providing superior braking performance compared to rim brakes, especially in muddy or wet conditions.

Shock

The Cannondale Topstone series features both hardtail and full suspension options, with the latter utilizing Cannondale’s signature KingPin system instead of traditional rear shocks. This innovative suspension combines uniquely shaped tubes for the top tube, seat tube, and chainstay connected to a thru axle, allowing for 30mm of travel and functioning like a leaf spring, offering flex under impact. Paired with the Save Seatpost, which also bends under load, this system provides a comfortable ride. The Lefty Oliver Carbon serves as the suspension fork for the Topstone Carbon and the SuperSix EVO CX Carbon models.

Saddle / seatpost and handlebars / wheels

The ideal riding position is achieved through the right saddle, perfectly adjusted seatpost, handlebars, and stem. Cannondale typically uses WTB rims, such as the WTB ST i23 TCS, which are tubeless-ready and can be paired with top-quality WTB tires like the WTB Riddler TCS Light, 700 x 37c, also tubeless-ready. The Cannondale gravel bike provides ample tire clearance, accommodating wider tires.

Additional equipment

For bikepacking enthusiasts, Cannondale offers additional equipment such as mudguards, bags, bottles, helmets, and more, which can easily be added to your shopping cart.

Alloy or carbon - which Cannondale gravel bike is right for me?

If you are exploring options beyond Cannondale gravel bikes, the brand has an excellent selection of road bikes for speed enthusiasts and endurance bikes for long tours. Cyclocross bikes are great for all-weather use, while mountain bikes such as cross-country or trail bikes offer fantastic riding experiences on a variety of terrains. For those focused on fitness, the Active range includes fitness and urban bikes designed for commuting and daily use. The e-bike category features E-Road, E-Mountain, E-Urban, E-Touring, and E-Fitness models. Young riders are also catered for with Cannondale's range of kids' bikes, available in four different age groups. For personalized advice, consider contacting a specialist dealer to help you make an informed decision.