timacn

I am trying to decide between a Cannondale Topstone and a Specialized Diverge. I thought I wanted a steel frame (I weigh about 240) and considered a Kona Rove Steel, a Specialized Sequoia, and a Fairdale Weekender Drop.

The more I read, the more I realized that I will not be doing hard core "off road" things, mostly gravel rail trails, fire roads, canal paths, etc. A Topstone or Diverge seemed to make more sense for my plans, though I have not ridden either.

Anybody have any recommendations or insights about the Topstone or Diverge? Any other recommendations?

Thanks for your help!

shoota 

There's quite a bit of discussion here already on both. I think they both have their own dedicated threads in fact. Do you have a hard and fast budget?

Lava

I recently decided on the Topstone, but for a while the Diverge was in the running because of it's fit. It felt great on a test ride, but I ultimately ruled it out for a number of reasons:

1. Proprietary Future Shock (FS). There was recently a recall for recent FS parts, which in and of itself isn't a dealbreaker, but I didn't want to be faced with needing to replace a part 10 years down the line and not be able to because X shop I went to didn't have any FS parts available.
2. Lack of standard fender/rack mounts. It has some, though I think they're targeted towards Specialized's own "plug and play" fenders, and I've read competing things about how well setup it is for standard rack/fender capability.
3. The cost. The equivalent component level on the Diverge compared to the Topstone is $200 more, without hydro brakes, and you have to jump up $1,200+ to get 105 with a hydro setup. You get the carbon frame at that level, but the Topstone certainly wins at value.

I've been enjoying the Topstone, and can try to answer any questions you have about it! The only downsides I've found so far are the stock wheelsets are pretty heavy (easy to remedy with a wheelset upgrade considering the price of the bike), and when using a rear rack the rear axle lever runs into interference issues, which is less than ideal.

shoota 

Can confirm. I'm shopping for a new set for my Topstone. Likely Hunt.

mstateglfr 

How goes the topstone so far? I mean how is it, now that you have a working crank on the bike? The geometry still too upright and relaxed or is it feeling good with some miles under your belt?

shoota 

It's feeling way better. I think a new set of wheels and tires would set it off. Ultegra Hydro 8000 is a dream.

timacn

Thanks for your help!