Cannondale Topstone 105 2020 (Review)

Cannondale Topstone Carbon 105 is a gravel bike designed to take on any off-road trail. While this is its purpose, the bike offers almost equally great experience on commutes and pavement.

The 2020 model in this review packs a ton of solid specs, as well as a few customization options (strictly in regards to color and size). The drivetrain present on the bike is a Shimano drivetrain, which has been confirmed on other gravel bikes to deliver solid performance.

Core Features

Kingpin Suspension

Equipped in Cannondale Topstone Carbon 105 bike is Kingpin, a lightweight suspension system that is engineered to enable riders to go smoothly on pavements and ride hard on off-road ways. 

From providing better control, comfort to excellent traction, Kingpin suspension system on the bike produces 30mm of travel upon saddle. This is made possible due to the thru-axle that connects the seattube, and seatstays. It also helps prevent untriggered rotation, thereby resulting in quick responses and a solid feel when charging up or down the specks of dirt.

Ballistec Carbon Frameset

The bike features a BallisTec Carbon frameset, which gives it a rugged, durable feel. While this makes a large chunk of the bike’s weight, as well as making it a tad too heavy, the bike will benefit greatly when ridden through dirt or terrain. More to this, the BallisTec carbon frameset also enables the bike to resist wearing-out greatly.

Shimano 105 Drivetrain

The Shimano drivetrain on this bike stands out in every facet, and it performs its job well enough. It makes riding through different gravel roads seamless. The 11-34t at the rear of the drivetrain also helps when charging through uphill slogs.

Additionally, the Shimano drivetrain on the bike offers clear-cut, solid shifting. Inclusive of the hydraulic disc brakes, the result is a stellar halting prowess on any terrain.

Geometry

Unlike conventional road bikes, the headtube on the Cannondale Topstone 105 is a bit loose, and the wheelbase is even longer. As a result, this provides better stability when running at high speed; riding on rough terrain will also be steady and smoother because of this, and it also makes the bike a great fit for riders carrying a heavy load.

FAQs

Is there any warranty on this bike’s Kingpin suspension?

The manual doesn’t state this, but contacting the support team could provide more clarity as to if there is a warranty on the suspension.

Can a rear track be added to this bicycle?

Unfortunately, no. It is not compatible with any rear track.

Conclusion

At a price that gives the competition a run for their money, the Cannondale Topstone Carbon 105 is a stellar bike that cannot be adulated, all thanks to its solid specs, which can go toe-to-toe with other high-priced bikes in this segment. While a tad heavy for bikers who ride in style, the bike is, nonetheless, a great buy for those who are seeking a ride through the specks of dirt without compromising speed.