I have the Jamis Renegade above. It's built like a tank, in a good way, and has a steel frame (but is still very lightweight). Love it. I've made quite a few upgrades and was planning to upgrade next to hydraulic brakes and 1x GRX groupset. — BUT… I now have the opportunity to pick up a lightly used Cannondale Topstone 1 (highest tier aluminum Topstone) for about the cost of my planned upgrades on the Renegade. The Topstone is also a year newer and doesn't have a ton of miles as the gears and frame show very little wear. I wouldn't have to upgrade groupset as it's already GRX groupset. 2x but that's fine.
I realize there is a huge different in their original prices, but I've already put a lot of $ into upgrades on the Jamis, all in the last few months. I'd probably move those over to the Topstone (wheelset, tubeless setup, tires, saddle, seatpost, pedals, etc.). Please don't take into consideration the fact that I can sell the Renegade or have a backup if I get the Topstone. Also, the Renegade shown here is mine. The Topstone is a sample photo, but it's the exact same bike and color.
Help me make up my mind!
by Ciarrai_IRL
9 Comments
Why do you want the topstone? It doesnt seem that differentÂ
The Jamis Renegade. The Renegade will still be going when the Capstone is in landfill. Plus you can use it for Bikepacking.
Aluminum is uncomfortable. Is your Jamis 853? Do what you want, but I would stick with a steel frame.
Renegade gang!
Cannondale all day long, don’t listen to the haters.
Why are people hating on the Cannondale?
Honest question.
Also, just fyi, the difference between a 1x and a 2x groupset is four bolts and a snip. I did this with my Norco Search two years ago using a cheap Deckas chainring just to test it out and I was immediately thrilled with it.
Edit: five bolts; I forgot about removing the FD.
I had a Jamis s3 and it was a good bike. Sold it though because I hated how heavy it was. Got a Lauf rigid instead. So much more comfortable and quicker.
Keep the bike you love unless the other bike is faster. Inside routing of tubes is meh.
The reach to the hoods looks much longer on the Cannondale than your existing Jamis. Make sure it fits before doing anything rash.