The two lower-spec models represent the best value for money in our opinion, especially considering the current cost of living crisis. This is followed by the Topstone Alloy 1 which is available with slightly cheaper WTB wheels and finished in either 2x11 Shimano GRX or 1x11 SRAM Rival 1, priced at a respective £2,150 and £2,100. The range is headlined by the Cannondale Topstone Alloy LTD which gets a 2x11 Shimano GRX groupset, WTB KOM wheels and a Fizik Aliante Delta saddle, yours for £2,600. While the Topstone Alloy portfolio comprises five models, the Topstone Alloy 1 is available in the choice of either Shimano GRX or SRAM Rival 1, which essentially provides six options to the buyer. Multiple frame-mounting pointsĢ022 cannondaleTopstone_Alloy_Bikepacking_0075.jpg, by Liam Mercer Like the recently launched Cannondale Synapse, the Topstone Alloy is compatible with the brand’s SmartSense light and radar systems. Specification levels vary but mechanical shifting is standard across the model spectrum, with hydraulic disc brakes featuring on all but the Topstone Alloy 3 and 4, both of which utilise Promax Render R mechanical discs.

The Topstone Alloy will be offered in five sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL) and available in as many model variations: Topstone Alloy LTD, Topstone Alloy 1 (available in both Shimano GRX and SRAM Rival 1 guises), Topstone Alloy 2, Topstone Alloy 3 and Topstone Alloy 4, each of which features a unique colourway. Geometry numbers are identical to the outgoing model with parallel head and seat-tube angles of 71- and 71.8-degrees, not to mention 435mm chainstays rounding things off. Looking at the bike’s appearance, it takes on the same dropped seatstay and refined tube profiling of the Carbon, which keeps aesthetics consistent across the Topstone range.

The Cannondale Topstone Alloy is very much a bike for exploring and the entire recipe panders to this theme.

Cannondale gravel bike