Giant Revolt vs Cannondale Topstone 2025: Which Gravel Bike Should You Get?

Updated: 12th August 2025

The big brand gravel bike battle continues! Cannondale vs Giant! The big kids on the block who have been around forever. Which gravel bike is best? We are going to compare these two iconic gravel bike lineups side by side and see what the difference is between each.

Here at Cycle Travel Overload, we are all about adventure by bike. So this article will be focusing on the criteria of each bike that makes one hopefully better suited for adventures.

Quick Verdict Summary Table

Feature	Best Option
Commuting	Topstone (Better value options)
Touring / Bikepacking	Revolt (Longer chainstay, more stable)
Off-road Versatility	Revolt (53mm tire clearance)
Tire Clearance	Revolt (53mm vs 45-47mm)
Climbing Gear	Topstone (2x options available)
Best Value	Topstone ($1,599-$9,499 vs $1,400-$7,000)
Comfort	Revolt (More upright geometry)
Suspension Options	Topstone (Kingpin + Lefty options)

Our Verdict

The 2025 model year brings exciting updates to both lineups. The Giant Revolt continues to excel as the adventure-focused option with its stable geometry, superior tire clearance (53mm), and more upright riding position – making it ideal for bikepacking and loaded touring.

The Cannondale Topstone lineup has expanded significantly, offering everything from budget-friendly aluminum models to high-end carbon bikes with innovative Kingpin suspension and Lefty fork options.

For pure adventure cycling and bikepacking, the Revolt’s geometry and tire clearance give it the edge. For riders wanting more versatility, better climbing gears, and innovative suspension technology, the Topstone lineup offers more options across different price points.

Introducing the Cannondale Topstone

Just looking at this bike it could be the better option if you want something that you can take on adventures. Yes, it is the more expensive bike out of the two in the premium categories. You do get the choice to buy much more affordable models. The 2025 lineup offers an impressive range from the $1,599 Topstone 3 to the $9,499 Carbon LTD Lefty AXS.

The main feature worth mentioning is the bike’s Kingpin suspension system. Delivering a smooth ride without the added weight and complexity of a shock and links. Whether you need more comfort to go long, or more traction to push beyond. This intuitive suspension design has you covered, offering that little extra comfort for those grueling gravel-grinding adventures.

You also get the SmartSense’s system of intelligent lights (and optional rear-facing radar) which increases your visibility out on the open road and makes it easy to ride smart.

Dropper compatible across the carbon lineup, and you get all the mounting options you could need for your next bikepacking trip. This bike is a no-brainer if you want your next all-rounder adventure gravel bike with innovative technology.

Introducing the Giant Revolt

The all-new 2025 model Giant Revolt is available in seven different build options, ranging from the entry-level aluminum Revolt 2 at $1,400 to the top-tier Advanced Pro 0 at $7,000.

A decade ago, gravel riding was a relatively unknown category, and those who wanted to ride on mixed terrain had to modify cyclocross or road bikes.

Giant changed the game with the introduction of the Revolt in 2013. With its unique design, including a sloping top tube, dropped seat stays, disc brakes, and slim carbon seatpost, the Revolt revolutionized the gravel biking experience.

Giant’s pro gravel racers now rely on their Revolt race bikes, including the all-new Revolt Advanced Pro, Revolt Advanced, and Revolt.

These bikes offer lightweight efficiency, smooth compliance, and adaptability to make the most of any adventure.

The new Revolt models feature updated geometry for improved efficiency and performance, including a shorter wheelbase, reduced fork trail, longer reach, and steeper head angle.

The bottom bracket has also been lowered by 10mm. These are the lightest Revolt models ever, making them ideal for speed, agility, and a wide range of terrain.

Smooth compliance is achieved through a lower seat stay junction with thinner diameter tubes, as well as the latest D-Fuse seatpost and handlebar technology.

The seatpost reduces shocks and vibrations on rough roads, while the handlebar adds compliance at two key contact points.

A flip chip on the rear dropout lets riders adjust the wheelbase by 10mm, providing a quicker, more agile feel or greater stability on rougher roads. The frame has six water bottle mounts and adaptors for racks or fenders, with dropper post capability available on the Advanced 1 model.

2025 Model Lineup Overview

Giant Revolt 2025 Models (7 Total)

• Revolt 2 – $1,400 (Aluminum, 2×9, Entry-level)
• Revolt Advanced 3 – $2,500 (Carbon, 2×10, Mid-range)
• Revolt Advanced 2 – $2,800 (Carbon, 2×12, Upper mid-range)
• Revolt Advanced 1 – $3,500 (Carbon, 1×12, Performance)
• Revolt Advanced 0 – $4,500 (Carbon, 2×12, High-performance)
• Revolt Advanced Pro 1 – $5,000 (Carbon, 2×12, Race-ready)
• Revolt Advanced Pro 0 – $7,000 (Carbon, 2×12, Top-tier)

Cannondale Topstone 2025 Models (9 Total)

• Topstone 3 – $1,599 (Aluminum, 1×10, Entry-level)
• Topstone 2 GRX (2x) – $2,199 (Aluminum, 2×10, Budget)
• Topstone 2 CUES (1x) – $2,199 (Aluminum, 1×11, Budget)
• Topstone Carbon 3 GRX – $3,799 (Carbon, 1×12, Mid-range)
• Topstone Carbon 2 GRX (2x) – $4,399 (Carbon, 2×12, Performance)
• Topstone Carbon 2 AXS (1x) – $4,799 (Carbon, 1×12, Electronic)
• Topstone Carbon 1 AXS – $6,399 (Carbon, 1×13, High-performance)
• Topstone Carbon 1 Lefty AXS – $6,999 (Carbon, 1×12, Suspension)
• Topstone Carbon LTD Lefty AXS – $9,499 (Carbon, 1×12, Premium)
• Topstone Carbon LTD Di2 – $7,999 (Carbon, 2×12, Premium)

Detailed Spec Comparison Overview

Price Range Comparison

Category	Giant Revolt	Cannondale Topstone
Entry Level	$1,400 – $2,500	$1,599 – $2,199
Mid Range	$2,800 – $3,500	$3,799 – $4,799
High End	$4,500 – $7,000	$6,399 – $9,499
Total Range	$1,400 – $7,000	$1,599 – $9,499

Key Specifications by Range

Spec	Giant Revolt Range	Cannondale Topstone Range
Frame Materials	Aluminum (1 model) / Carbon (6 models)	Aluminum (3 models) / Carbon (6 models)
Weight	18.6 – 19.3 lbs (carbon models)	Varies by model and build
Wheel Size	700c (all models)	700c (all models)
Tire Clearance	53mm (all models)	45-47mm
Drivetrain Options	2×9 to 2×12 + 1×12	1×10 to 2×12 + 1×13
Brake Types	Mechanical to Hydraulic Disc	Mechanical to Hydraulic Disc
Suspension Options	Rigid only	Rigid + Kingpin + Lefty (40mm)
Seatpost Options	Rigid + 1 Dropper model	Rigid only

Ride Feel + Geometry Breakdown

Giant Revolt Geometry (All Models – Medium Size)

• Stack: 602mm (consistent across lineup)
• Reach: 391mm (consistent across lineup)
• Stack/Reach Ratio: 1.54 (more upright, comfortable)
• Chainstay Length: 425-430mm (longer = more stable)
• Wheelbase: 1,031-1,035mm (stable and planted)
• Trail: 65mm (stable steering, great for loaded touring)
• Head Tube Angle: 72.0° (relaxed, comfortable)
• Seat Tube Angle: 73.0° (standard)

Cannondale Topstone Geometry Analysis
Note: Specific 2025 geometry data not provided in source material, but based on previous generation:

• Stack/Reach Ratio: ~1.5 (slightly more aggressive than Revolt)
• Chainstay Length: ~420mm (shorter = more nimble)
• Wheelbase: ~1,029mm (slightly shorter than Revolt)
• Trail: ~62mm (quicker handling)

The Revolt’s longer chainstay (425-430mm vs ~420mm) and wheelbase make it more stable when loaded with gear, while the higher trail (65mm vs ~62mm) provides predictable, stable steering – better for adventure cycling and bikepacking.

Gearing Analysis by Model Range

Climbing Gear Comparison (Gear Inches)

Model Category	Giant Revolt	Cannondale Topstone
Entry Level	38″ (Revolt 2)	31″ (Topstone 3)
Mid Range	36-38″ (Advanced 2-3)	35-38″ (Carbon models)
High End	37-38″ (Pro models)	35-36″ (Premium models)

Drivetrain Options

Giant Revolt:

• 2×9 (entry): Sora components
• 2×10: GRX 400 setup
• 2×12: GRX 800 (mid-range) to Force eTap (top-end)
• 1×12: Apex XPLR to Rival AXS options

Cannondale Topstone:

• 1×10: microSHIFT Sword (entry)
• 2×10: GRX 400 (aluminum models)
• 1×11: CUES system
• 1×12/2×12: GRX 600/800, Rival AXS, Force systems
• 1×13: Rival XPLR AXS (premium model)

Key Insight: The Topstone offers better climbing gears overall due to more 2x drivetrain options, making it superior for steep terrain and varied riding conditions.

Mounting Options + Cargo Capability

Giant Revolt

• Bottle Mounts: 6 water bottle mounts across the frame
• Rack Compatibility: Adaptors available for front and rear racks
• Fender Mounts: Yes, with flip chip dropout system
• Dropper Post: Available on Advanced 1 model only
• Special Features: Down tube storage on carbon models, flip chip for wheelbase adjustment

Cannondale Topstone

• Bottle Mounts: Multiple bottle/gear mounts (varies by model)
• Rack Compatibility: Yes, with mounting points
• Fender Mounts: Available with removable fender bridge on carbon models
• Dropper Post: 27.2mm dropper compatible across carbon lineup
• Special Features: Stashport downtube storage, UDH derailleur hanger

Use Case Comparison

Commuting
Winner: Topstone – Better value entry-level options, more sizes available, good fender compatibility.

Touring/Bikepacking
Winner: Revolt – Longer chainstay (better heel clearance), more stable geometry, superior tire clearance (53mm), 6 bottle mounts, flip chip adjustability.

Off-Road Adventure
Winner: Revolt – 53mm tire clearance allows for larger, more capable tires compared to Topstone’s 45-47mm limit.

Speed/Road Riding
Winner: Topstone – Slightly more aggressive geometry, lighter weight options, better climbing gears with 2x setups.

Technical Terrain
Winner: Topstone (Lefty models) – 40mm front suspension available on Lefty models, plus Kingpin rear compliance system.

Pros and Cons

Giant Revolt

Cannondale Topstone

FAQ Section

Q: Which has better tire clearance?
A: Giant Revolt wins with 53mm clearance across all models vs Topstone’s 45-47mm.

Q: Can I use either bike for commuting?
A: Yes, both work well. Topstone offers better entry-level value, while Revolt provides more comfort for longer rides.

Q: Which is better for steep climbs?
A: Topstone generally offers better climbing gears due to more 2x drivetrain options.

Q: Can these bikes handle front racks and panniers?
A: Yes, both support front and rear racks. Revolt’s longer chainstay and more stable geometry make it better suited for heavy loads.

Q: Which offers better suspension options?
A: Topstone wins with Kingpin rear compliance system and Lefty 40mm front fork options. Revolt only offers one model with a dropper seatpost.

Price Comparison: 2025 Revolt vs Topstone

When it comes to price, both lineups offer extensive options. The Revolt ranges from $1,400 to $7,000 across 7 models, while the Topstone offers 9 models ranging from $1,599 to $9,499.

Entry Level Comparison ($1,400-$2,500)

• Giant Revolt 2 ($1,400): Aluminum frame, 2×9 Sora, mechanical disc brakes
• Cannondale Topstone 3 ($1,599): Aluminum frame, 1×10 microSHIFT, mechanical disc brakes
  The Revolt 2 offers better value at the entry level, saving $199 while providing a 2x drivetrain for better gear range.

Mid-Range Comparison ($2,500-$4,000)

• Giant Revolt Advanced 3 ($2,500): Carbon frame, 2×10 GRX 400
• Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 ($3,799): Carbon frame, 1×12 GRX 600/800
  The Revolt Advanced 3 provides exceptional value, offering carbon construction for $1,299 less than the comparable Topstone.

Premium Comparison ($4,000+)
Both lineups offer high-end carbon models with electronic shifting, premium wheels, and top-tier components. The Topstone extends higher with suspension options up to $9,499. But when taking a look at these two, mid to high-end range models, there is a significant difference when it comes to price and value proposition across the ranges.

Weight Comparison: Revolt vs Topstone

The Cannondale Topstone weights vary significantly across the 2025 lineup depending on frame material and build specification. The Giant Revolt carbon models weigh between 18.6–19.3 pounds (8.44–8.75 kg), with the Advanced 1 being the lightest at 18.6 lbs (8.44 kg) and the Advanced 3 at 18.7 lbs (8.48 kg). Lighter gravel bikes can be found here.

Weight data for specific Topstone models wasn’t provided in the source material, but aluminum models will generally be heavier than their carbon counterparts, while the premium carbon models with high-end components will be lighter.

Tire Clearance: Revolt vs Topstone

When it comes to tire clearance, this is where the Giant Revolt truly shines. The Revolt fits up to 53mm wide tires across the entire 2025 lineup. The Topstone has room for 45-47mm depending on the model, with most carbon models offering 47mm clearance.

The Revolt comes stock with tire sizes ranging from 700x38c (Revolt 2) to 700x45c (most carbon models). The Topstone models come with various stock tire sizes from 700x37c to 700x45c depending on the specific model and intended use.

This tire clearance advantage makes the Revolt significantly more capable on rough terrain and allows for wider, more comfortable tires for adventure cycling and bikepacking.

This comprehensive comparison should help you make an informed decision between these two excellent gravel bike lineups for 2025. Whether you choose the adventure-focused Giant Revolt or the technology-packed Cannondale Topstone, both offer exceptional options for your gravel cycling adventures.

If you want to go deeper and make sure you choose the perfect bike for your needs, join our Wheels of Discovery Community — you’ll get access to the exclusive 2-hour Bike Buyers Masterclass course, packed with everything you need to confidently find your dream adventure bike.

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