Cannondale’s gravel fun machine just got a meaningful tech upgrade. The new Topstone Carbon 2 AXS SmartSense adds the brand’s fully integrated SmartSense Gen 2 rider-awareness system to its flagship adventure gravel platform. The addition of SmartSense Gen 2 to the Topstone is a….smart move (see what I did there?) Given what riders will be using this bike for, some additional real-time safety tech will add an extra layer of safety while adventuring and exploring.
What is SmartSense?
SmartSense isn’t an add-on or aftermarket gadget; it’s built directly into the bike. The original SmartSense system debuted several years ago and was available on some earlier Topstone models. The 2nd generation of Cannondale’s SmartSense system aims to improve upon the original and includes integrated front and rear lights, rear-facing radar, sensors, and a centralized battery, all working together. The goal is to increase visibility and situational awareness without adding cockpit clutter, extra mounts, and additional gear to forget to charge.
SmartSense Meets Gravel
At the heart of SmartSense is a networked system that integrates multiple rider-awareness technologies into a single platform. The front light automatically adjusts to ambient conditions, while the rear radar monitors vehicles approaching from behind and alerts the rider through paired head units or devices.
The rear light increases brightness when traffic is detected, making the rider more visible exactly when it counts. It’s basically all the extra pieces you would bring on a ride, but tied into one system. Compared to the original SmartSense system, the Gen 2 is now better integrated into the frame and bike, and doesn’t look out of the ordinary at all.
Everything runs off a single, frame-integrated battery, so riders don’t have to juggle separate charging routines for lights, radar, or sensors. As soon as the bike starts moving, SmartSense wakes up and goes to work.
Our gravel bikes exist in unpredictable environments — quiet back roads one minute, busy highways the next, and everything in between — and SmartSense means you’ll be prepared no matter where you end up.
Topstone At Heart
SmartSense doesn’t change what the Topstone fundamentally is. This is still a Cannondale Topstone first. It’s a comfort-focused, adventure-ready gravel platform, built around the brand’s Kingpin rear suspension.
The unique suspension system takes the edge off washboard roads, embedded rocks, and long days in the saddle – you know, gravel stuff. It’s a fun bike, one that’s made even more fun with the addition of the Lefty suspension, might I add.
This update should help riders stay safe and reduce the pressure of charging anxiety on bike trips and long adventures.
Price: $4,699, Cannondale TopStone SmartSense Carbon 2 only.
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