Cannondale Topstone 3 vs Scott Speedster Gravel 20

The Scott Speedster Gravel 20 is the stronger gravel bike on paper: Shimano GRX 12-speed, hydraulic disc brakes and 45mm Schwalbe tires beat the Topstone 3's mechanical discs and 1x10 microSHIFT Sword. The Cannondale Topstone 3 is simpler and easier to live with as a commuter, with a threaded bottom bracket, plentiful mounts and a carbon fork. Owners rate the Topstone well but note the mechanical discs and basic drivetrain as the weak points; the Speedster's hydraulic brakes and wider gearing get consistent praise for control on loose descents and steep climbs.

• Choose the Cannondale Topstone 3 if you want a low-maintenance alloy commuter and light gravel bike with simple 1x shifting, lots of mounts and easy home servicing.
• Choose the SCOTT Speedster Gravel 20 if you ride rougher gravel and want hydraulic brakes, a wide 12-speed GRX drivetrain and bigger 45mm tires out of the box.