Cannondale 700 M Topstone 4

The 2021 Cannondale 700 M Topstone 4 is a versatile gravel bike that stands out for its high-quality components and solid build quality. Priced at 1,249 EUR, it offers excellent value for money.

The bike’s frame is made from SmartForm C2 Alloy and features a 12x142 mm thru-axle, a tapered head tube and a flat-mount disc brake. The StraightShot internal cable routing, along with the numerous mounts for bottles and luggage, make the frame particularly practical and user-friendly. The fork is made from BallisTec Full Carbon and, with its 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" steerer, a 55 mm OutFront offset and internal cable routing, offers outstanding stability and control.

For the brakes, Cannondale has opted for Promax Render R mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors at the front and rear. The brake levers, like the derailleur, are from microSHIFT Advent X, with the derailleur offering 10 speeds. The shifter is also from microSHIFT Advent X and ensures precise and reliable gear selection. The crankset is a Prowheel with a 40T chainring, whilst the cassette is from microSHIFT with a 11–48T range. The drivetrain is completed by a KMC X10 chain.

The cockpit consists of a Cannondale 3 handlebar made from butted 6061 alloy with a 16-degree flare drop, Cannondale bar tape, 3.5 mm thick, and a Cannondale 3 stem made from 6061 alloy with a 31.8 mm clamp and a 7° angle. The headset is integrated and ranges from 1-1/8" to 1-1/4".

The wheelsets consist of RD 2.0 rims with 28 spokes, fitted with WTB Riddler Comp tyres in size 700 x 37c. The hubs are Formula Alloy, with a 12x100 mm thru-axle at the front and a 12x142 mm thru-axle at the rear. The spokes are made of stainless steel and have a gauge of 14g.

The saddle is the Cannondale Stage CX, mounted on a Cannondale 4 seatpost made from 6061 alloy, measuring 27.2 x 350 mm. Pedals are not included with this model.

Overall, the Cannondale 700 M Topstone 4 offers a well-thought-out combination of high-quality components and a robust design, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced gravel cyclists.