Cannondales gravel fun machine just got a meaningful tech upgrade. The new Topstone Carbon 2 AXS SmartSense adds the brands 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 isnt an add-on or aftermarket gadget; its 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 Cannondales 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.The front light mount is cleanly integrated into the stems faceplate.SmartSense Meets GravelAt 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. Its 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 doesnt look out of the ordinary at all.No extra light mounts or handlebar clutter needed for the SmartSense system.Everything runs off a single, frame-integrated battery, so riders dont 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 youll be prepared no matter where you end up.The front light and rear light/radar both run off the frame-integrated SmartSense battery.Topstone At HeartSmartSense doesnt change what the Topstone fundamentally is. This is still a Cannondale Topstone first. Its a comfort-focused, adventure-ready gravel platform, built around the brands Kingpin rear suspension. The Topstone features Cannondales Kingpin system and the StashPort downtube storage compartment.The unique suspension system takes the edge off washboard roads, embedded rocks, and long days in the saddle you know, gravel stuff. Its a fun bike, one thats 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.Cannondale.com The post Cannondale Topstone Carbon Gets the SmartSense Treatment appeared first on Bikerumor.