Hello all! I am just getting back into biking after a very long pause.... (1993ish...lol!) I recently was given a nice 2010 Specialized Comp Stumpjumer, and am borrowing a Cannondale 2.8 as a road bike. I have come to learn that I much prefer the overall feel of the road bike to the mountain bike. So, after watching countless videos, I think gravel might be just my thing. I am looking for a bike that will handle road riding for crushing calories (I'm 50 and trying to get back in shape) as well as something that I can take off road.
I found what I think is a really great deal on a used Cannondale Topstone 1 with full GRX and hydraulic breaks. It is a 2023 model that looks brand new for $750. Putting two kids through college at the same time has me on a serious budget. lol! I have read that the Topstone 1 is a bit harsh to ride. My questions is this: Is it harsh because it is aluminum vs carbon, or is it harsh compared to other aluminum bikes? Component wise, it checks all the boxes that I'm looking for with all GRX and 2x11. I have heard that I will probably need to change the wheels at some point, but at an entry price of $750, I figured I would still come out ahead with a better bike for less than a new one. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for the help!