u/dnmontgomery — reddlx

Duel: Cannondale vs Trek

Cannondale Topstone Carbon 2 GRX 2x <> Trek checkpoint sl5 AXS gen 3

https://www.cannondale.com/de-de/bikes/road/gravel/topstone-carbon/topstone-carbon-2-grx-2x

https://www.trekbikes.com/de/de\_DE/bikes/touren-und-bikepacking-fahrräder/checkpoint/checkpoint-sl/f/F224-1/checkpoint-sl-5-axs-gen-3/47071/5321634/

Both bikes I can order to a local store. The Cannondale is reduced to €3200 and the Trek is not reduced at €3000.

The bike won’t normally be used for gravel riding, but for city commuting along flat cycle paths and roads. I mention this as the Cannondale with its 2x drivetrain offers tighter gear ratios and may have the advantage here over the Trek. It also has a higher gear ratio: 2x 48-31T chainring and 11-34T cassette. Unlike the Trek, here I have zero concerns about cross chaining whilst crazing at speed. That said the Trek’s 1x 42T chainring and 11-44T cassette electronic shifting looks high-tech.

Is there something here that would simplify my choice but I’m overlooking?
Between these bikes, if you were in my shoes, what’d you go for and why?

Thank you.

u/dnmontgomery — 4 hours ago

▲ 3 r/cannondale+1 crossposts

So I've searched online, and am now confused..

I plan to buy a Topstone Carbon 3 GRX.

I must be able to use it with an Ortlieb Quick-Rack. As it is a carbon frame, a Thru Axle M6-Connector must be used. Problem is Ortlieb state: "The Thru Axle is not suitable for bikes with Speed Release threads (double-start threads), such as the ORBEA Terra from model year 2022 or models from BMC and BH."

My understanding is that unfortunately the Carbon 3 GRX does use speed release threads. However, this contradicts other statements on reddit that is it possible.

Has anyone had success using a Ortlieb Thru Axle on a Carbon 3 (or 2) GRX?

Thank you kindly for any feedback.

u/dnmontgomery — 16 days ago

▲ 3 r/gravelbike+1 crossposts

So… after 35+ years it’s time to retire my Peugeot rigid mountain bike with Reynolds 531 frame. Shame.

I’d like to pick your brains and I’m looking for a replacement. The new bike will be mainly used for a 12 km commute along pot-holed cycle paths and cobble streets. I want something quick, but have decided against a road bike as I’d be shaken to pieces. Plus a gravel bike will be useful at the weekends for off-road trails. I also need something that can take a pannier rack. For sure before splashing any cash I'll do a test ride and see what feels a natural fit.

I have 3 contenders:

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 AXS gen 3

https://www.trekbikes.com/de/de_DE/bikes/touren-und-bikepacking-fahrr%C3%A4der/checkpoint/checkpoint-sl/f/F224-1/checkpoint-sl-5-axs-gen-3/47071/5321640/

3k Euro with SRAM Apex XPLR AXS and 30 day money back guarantee, plus I can buy from a local Trek store. Unfortunately the colours available are not my favourite.

I’m aware the Trek only has a single crank set, yet I’ll be normally cruising at around 25km/h for most of the journey. Does this mean I’ll live in the higher gears with the chain spending most of its time twisted? Something I need to consider?

2. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 2 L Jade

https://www.das-radhaus.de/cannondale-topstone-carbon-2-l-jade-2024/

It’s brand new but an old model (2024) going for 3k Euro with Kingpin suspension. Cables messy on the front but the bike appears well reviewed.

3. Topstone Carbon 3 GRX - 2x

https://www.cannondale.com/de-de/bikes/road/gravel/topstone-carbon/topstone-carbon-3-grx-2x

The current Topstone model also with Kingpin suspension, and in orange which I love. Downside is the component spec is not as good as the 2024 model. Also 3k Euro

Any advice regarding the above? Something I may have missed when deciding between them?

Thank you kindly for any feedback.

reddit.com

u/dnmontgomery — 29 days ago