It's easy to become enthralled by the Trance 3's ride as you dance over rough terrain. The ultra-efficient feel of its suspension means that 100mm of plush front and rear travel comes into play when you need it, not when you don't.
Submitted by
Joseph K.
a Cross Country Rider
from Mechanicsburg, PA, USA Date Reviewed: August 18, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Smooth ride. Efficient pedaling. Stock Deore LX derailleurs shift fine. Pivots and shocks have yet to require maintenance.
Weaknesses:
Stock Hayes So1e brakes and Hutchinson Bulldog tires are dangerous.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Warp
Bike Setup:
Stock except Formula brakes and Panaracer FireXCPro tires (made in Japan).
Bottom Line:
Mine is a 2005 model, the first year of the Trance. After 3.5 years of medium difficulty riding with no problems except brakes and tires, I am very satisfied with this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
cyclepsycho05
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, Ohio, USA Date Reviewed: August 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Copperhead, Lake Hope State Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Path, Athens O
Strengths:
The Trance's best trait is the Maestro suspension. It feels very active and soaks up decent sized roots and rocks with ease while also feeling very stable during hard pedaling and climbing. The bike climbs exceptionally well for its weight due to the increased level of grip provided by the rear suspension....and the bike looks sweet!
Weaknesses:
Weight...I've invested in many light weight components and it still weighs in just shy of 30 lbs (with pedals).
Similar Products Used:
My first DS...rode a Kona Nunu for 10 years prior
Bike Setup:
Manitou Minute 1:00 front fork, Race Face Deuce 120mm stem, Race Face Next flat bar, Mavic Crossmax XL wheels, Avid Juicy 5 brakes, Shimano XTR rear derailleur, SRAM X0 cassette, Shimano XT Hollowtech cranks, Chris King external BB, IRC Mythos XC tires, Sette saddle with TiCr rails
Bottom Line:
Exceptional suspension and high quality frame...this is a rugged bike that you can live with and beat on daily. The engineering that went into the frame is on par with bikes that cost twice as much from more "exclusive" brands.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rhyko
a Weekend Warrior
from south wales Date Reviewed: December 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Brechfra / cwmcarn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
pauls (2007 model wi
Strengths:
awesome frame-it flies up hills much easier than most lighter bikes-i dont understand why but its not desputable it just goes. feels really well ballanced and nimble decending too, i ride this bike hard and it seems to take it in it's stride.
Weaknesses:
tyres- it came with the Kendas, they are no good for what i ride,i left the one on the back as i enjoy the slide it gives me lol but i couldnt get on with the front understeering everywhere. i put a high roller on the front and it sticks like glue now.
Tora 289's are way too soft for trail cenre rides, i weigh 78KG and find them far too spongey,i have just changed the spring for an extra firm, have not tested it yet but hopefully this will solve the problem i had. the seat is minging but cos its so light i am just going to get used to it.
bike is a little heavy (33.5 lbs) but it feels like a much lighter bike when ridden.
Similar Products Used:
my last bike (1st mtb) was a Saracen Xess (jump bike) which i used for a year on Xcountry. i am predominantly a BMXer though and ride an S&M black bike
Bike Setup:
size small
i have changed the front tyre -maxxis super tacky high roller, the Kenda front tyre was scary to ride with
the only other thing i changed was the stem, i dont like long stems, so i put a shorter stem on.
Recently changed the spring in the Tora 289 to a extra firm, although i will probably buy some Fox 130 mm forks next year
Bottom Line:
really happy with this bike so far, it flies up hills, the 1st ride was scary because the front Kenda trye kept trying to kill me and i thought the front sus was too soft, but generally the bike just felt good.
i have swapped bikes with friends during rides and they all agree it flies (in comparison to stunt jumper and commencal 55.5.1)
it decends really well, very nimble and controllable, i have thrown it over jumps and some small drops (3-5 foot) and it seems to take them in its stride as expected from a trail bike.
so in a nut shell the bike kicks arse
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Himself
a Cross Country Rider
from Kerikeri,Northland,New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Puketi Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Hunter Cycles
Strengths:
Value,Lightish, Suspension Travel
Weaknesses:
You get what you pay for,it isn't xtr but it works fine anyway
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher,San Andreas assorted other bikes
Bike Setup:
SLX it is all 09 stuff
Bottom Line:
A good relaxing bike to ride plush but not baggy. A good bike for the older rider that wants to keep up but doesn't want to trash the body.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
globalfish
a Weekend Warrior
from Hertfordshire Date Reviewed: August 22, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Still a fab frame
Weaknesses:
Little on heavy side
Bike Setup:
Fox TALAS X forks, Avid Juicy 7's, Full XT Drivetrain
Bottom Line:
Further update to my posts of July and Sept. 07
Just had full XT drivetrain fitted and still very happy with this bike in it's current spec. Fox forks still superb. Did trash a wheel in a big way but got a replacement easily enough and have a spare rear too. Still the best frame for a smooth ride with no pedal-bob. Love this bike and can't wait for the dark nights to draw in and use my Hope light again. This bike just makes me wanna ride more - that's gotta be a good advert.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rickard
a Cross Country Rider
from UK, London Date Reviewed: July 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lookout, Bracknell, Oxshott, North downs...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
PaulsCycles
Strengths:
Brilliant Frame design, sturdy, can take a beating, fox float fantastic. rebound adjust feature on forks is impressive. its a very fun bike, its not too heavy and can be thrown around pretty easily. seems to really soar down trails. brakes work well. bottoms out very rarely
Weaknesses:
Stock tyres are shabby, not great for tight corners or loose terrain. Front forks make funny noise and at times feels a bit un-responsive, only seem to absorb bigger bumps. Rims can bend quite easily. Chainset doesn't match up to some of the other components.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized fsr comp xc, Trek fuel 80, Marin rock springs
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
Still a great bike from the stock rooms - some good mid-range components. handles trails brilliantly, fast, strong and good fun. I agree, with a few upgrades this bike could be a top notch machine throughout. If you're wanting an all-mountain bike for a reasonably low/mid-range bike, i really would recommend this bike. can be taken on most types of trail, except downhill, i think for that new forks would be needed. yeh...ummm, great bike - suberb value for money. i got it for £630!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe Francis
a Weekend Warrior
from England Date Reviewed: December 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Superb suspension design No pedal bob Looks great
Weaknesses:
Heavy without upgrades Stock tyres, rear cassette and handlebars weigh a lot, but can all be changed relatively cheaply.
Similar Products Used:
Marin Wolf Ridge 1999 model.
Bike Setup:
KCNC Scandium Seatpost and handlebars SRAM PG 950 cassette IRC Mythos XC tyres and lightweight inner tubes. May change Alex wheels for a lighter set in due course
Bottom Line:
Lovely looking, plush, great fun to ride bike. Researched rear suspension designs as the Marin suffered a lot with pedal bob. Bike shops I spoke to said Giant had the best rear suspension design for the money. Designed by some Renault formula one bloke?? The Trance doesn't bob when you pedal at all. You just forget the rear suspension is there. Bike is a pleasure to ride. Trance 3 needs upgrading a bit to get the best from it but reckon it has the best frame colour (Don't like the brown on the Trance 2). Would recommend it to anyone who wants a full suspension off road bike for single track or general XC use. Go for a Giant Reign for more extreme stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jody Musgrove
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: November 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Strengths:
Great value in Australia. Very balanced spec. Very balanced handling.
Weaknesses:
Hutchinson Bulldog tyres. She's not light.
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket Pro
Bike Setup:
Maxxis Larsen (r)/Hutchinson Scorpion (f) tyres. Bontrager Race Lite Lux saddle. Club Roost bar ends. Shimano SPD M520 pedals.
Bottom Line:
Have done 1000k of mostly endurance racing over the first year of ownership and have been very happy with my purchase. Bike is pretty much standard and everything is still working well. Handles really well for a rider of my skill level (medium!) and always feels safe and stable. Not exactly light but carries the weight so much better than my old Schwinn. I have no problem with the Hayes Sole brakes, they are relatively light and very simple to adjust and therefore keep in vgc. Lighter bar/stem to come in '08 and will replace the chain and race on for another season!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
casey potts
a Weekend Warrior
from prescott Wa USA Date Reviewed: October 31, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Scotty's
Strengths:
The frame is great as is the ride. This bike is FAST. It has been an execellent bike frame to build on.
Weaknesses:
Again the Tires suck, I changed the stocks out for a set of Wilderness and it made a huge difference in my confidence with this bike. For me the front shock spring was far to weak. At over 250 I changed it out for a heavy spring and have had no problems with it. The rear shock has gone out. The bike shop says there is a recall on the shock. We shall see this weekend if it makes any difference. The brakes are so-so at best.
Similar Products Used:
Hard tails and never going back to that again.
Bike Setup:
So far I've upgraded the front shock, replaced the stock tires, chose a more padded seat, and put a Race Face bash guard on.
Bottom Line:
With the exception of some upgrades that haven't cost too much the bike still rocks! I'm not sure about your bike shop but Scotty's in the Tri Cities has taken very good care of me for the little things that have gone wrong with this bike. For the money I spent and will spent in the near future this bike has done very well. I recommend it highly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ross Ott
a Cross Country Rider
from Palmyra Mi. USA Date Reviewed: September 27, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$850.00
Strengths:
Efficient pedaling, really durable
Weaknesses:
Fork has no lockout and makes a weird clicking noise, stock tires stink
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
I am running the bike stock but changed the front tire.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike for xc and it can take a brutal beating. People complain about the brakes, but mine work fine. I took the bike downhilling at snowshoe mountain and beat the crap out of it and all I got was a bent rim from an awkward 5 foot drop, and the brakes faded. I lost the chain a lot, but thats a given when you downhill an xc bike.
I also used this bike for dirt jumping more than once and it feels great.
buy this bike if you are looking for a great xc bike and plan on using it for more abusive applications when the opportunity arises.
excellent bike for the price, great frame, ready for upgrades when stock stuff breaks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Hertfordshire, U.K. Date Reviewed: September 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Great frame
Weaknesses:
forks/tyres
Similar Products Used:
Scott G-Zero FX 2005
Bike Setup:
2007 Giant Trance 3 medium frame 2007 Fox 32 TALAS X forks Schwalbe Mountaineer II front & rear tyres pending - Avid Juicy 7's (on my Scott now)
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my post of 7/14/2007.
Clocked up a good 450+ miles now and the Fox forks along with the Schwalbe tyres I fitted have totally transformed the bike. All the handling problems which I knew were down to the Kenda rubber have disappeared and the Fox TALAS X forks have made the ride so plush. Really happy with this set-up now and think it's a vast improvement on my old Scott. Will gradually upgrade as parts wear out in the future. No more holding back on the trails now - this set-up rocks!! Only give it 4 chilli's for value (as previously) as Giant's component choice failed to let the great Maestro back end shine. A test ride could be very misleading in stock trim. 5 Chilli's now overall as my upgrades finally reveal what a really great frame this is for the money. Would recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
giles
a Cross Country Rider
from busso Date Reviewed: August 31, 2007
Favorite Trail:
secret ranges build with family and mates
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
cyclerama i think
Strengths:
pretty much everything the bike is a nice rid and can take a real beating when needed. most of all the bike handles really well
Weaknesses:
definitly the hayes sole there rubbish getting some juicys soon. for a racer is a little too heavy but i dont really care
Similar Products Used:
hmmm nothing really this bike is a one of a kind
Bike Setup:
stock but tires, as said before getting juicys soon
Bottom Line:
this bike is so sweet and is a really good bike for me. this bike has performed well and have never had an issue, the spokes are still tight and wheels are true and i do push the bike to its limits i am only 52 kiloes though. i reccomed this bike to anyone but a downhill/freeride rider or a hard race.
this bike has stolen my hart
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jag
a Cross Country Rider
from pensacola,fl Date Reviewed: August 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
alafia,tampa
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
f/u to 11/6 review. solid bike after 1 yr. after 1500 miles. brakes solid. maestro makes for efficient pedaler. still love it
Weaknesses:
had to replace cassete, rear der, frt der,had crank squeak @ 600 miles. getting xt gear.
Similar Products Used:
trek,cdale,stumpy fsr,gf cake 3
Bike Setup:
stock till i get it back. then xt thru out. panaracer fire xc tires,monkeylite,
Bottom Line:
great bike. stock comps good for intro riders but will deteriorate when stressed. w/ upgrades should b better than ever. for 2k total going to have a better setup than many more exp bikes. 4 chili's cause of comps dying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Till Neuburg
a
from Lesmo (MI), Italy Date Reviewed: August 19, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Cicli Conti, Nibionno (LC)
Strengths:
Fantastic combination of "Maestro" system + Fox Float R. Overall efficiency on every kind of terrain.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Kikapu De Luxe.
Bike Setup:
Default, with exception of stem (shorter) and handlebar (lighter).
Bottom Line:
An outstanding value for money.
The bike is an ideal all-terrain solution. Easy to ride everywhere, in every condition.
The frame is exactly the same that for Trance 2 or 1 ("Maestro"+ Fox Float R).
The Juicy 3 (with 160mm disks) handles wonderfully.
The only substantial upgrade I consider for the future is the fork: 120/130 instead of 100mm (NOT for weight reasons but just for top handling on rocky and difficult downtracks) and, maybe, some lighter rims.
In the past years I rode 4 different bikes. Now I'm shure that this one will be my evergreen.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Hertfordshire, U.K. Date Reviewed: July 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1424.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Maestro frame is really well designed
Weaknesses:
Rockshox Tora 289 Forks are really rubbish. So are the Kenda Nevegal/Blue Groove tyres - dangerous even in mildly wet UK riding conditions. Frony tyre goes where it feels like and rear slips away without warning.Paint chips very easily and can't locate source of intermittent squeaking noise.
Similar Products Used:
Scott G-Zero FX + Avid Juicy 7's
Bike Setup:
Stock UK 2007 model - LX rear mech, Avid Juicy 3's, Rockshox Tora 289, Fox Float R
Bottom Line:
If I knew before, I'd have bought the frame only which I recommend. Frame is really impressive so far but forks feel wooden compared to Manitou's on my Scott. Fox Float R fells good so far. Avid Juicy 3's are fine but l60mm front lacks stopping power - needs bigger disc up front for my favourite 32mph+ sections. Stock tyres are almost lethal - crazy for UK conditions. To be expected for the price but seriously looking at Manitou R7 Platinum Snap-valve SPV forks & some Panaracer rubber. Will also swap the Juicy 7's from my Scott.Should be happy with these upgrades. Much smoother ride - just did 75 km and still feel fresh. Very stable in comparison to my Scott when pedalling hard but I still ride the Scott MUCH harder. Until it's upgraded, I can't give it my all as the fork/tyre combo inspires no confidence - it almost scares me! Will update in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joseph Dubreuil
a Cross Country Rider
from Slave Lake Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: July 5, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anything that gets me out of town
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Sports First
Strengths:
Excellent bike to upgrade. It come with a basic setup, but really shines with a few upgrades. The cost of a full suspension seemed high but Gaint hit a home run with this one.
Weaknesses:
The rider is to blame for weakness not the bike.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension xc. Had other hardtails.
Bike Setup:
Fox Talas X Cane Creek Cloud Nine rear shock Spinergy Xyclone disc wheelset. Sram X.0 rear derrailleur / X.0 trigger shift Sram 990 11-32 rear cassette Race Face Deux crankset and Bottom bearing. Race Face Diabouls stem and bar Ergon GP1 grips. Specialized BG2 seat. Cane Creek ZS-6 headset
Bottom Line:
This bike is great out of the show room. After a few 100 miles, there was no turning back. It is a frame worth upgrading. Every upgrade put more comfort and speed in this build. Great bike to start with but only gets better the harder you push yourself. The trance 3 comes with basic stuff and great for that weekend warrior, cant say enough about the preformace of this tightly packaged suspension. Put yourself atop of one and you find yourself rocketing down the trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Casper, WY, USA Date Reviewed: May 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Lizard Cracks Rimrocks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shop Billings MT
Strengths:
This bike rocks. I was really fighting what bike to purchase when a buddy said by a giant. I test rode it and within two days I had traded mine in and purchased the Trance 3. The rear shock kicks butt. There is no bob in the pedal stroke. The frame is one of the best designs I have found. It handles great.
Weaknesses:
The tires suck they don't work when traveling on a side hill. The front Dart shock kind of stinks but will be replaced in the near future.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Reign 0, Giant DH 8, Specialized Big Hit, and GT 2.0
Bike Setup:
Factory setup
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Davie, FL USA Date Reviewed: May 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
West Broward Cycles
Strengths:
Great price point, nice balance of components, RockShox Dart fork is servicable, active rear suspension makes the Trance climb great, decends well.
Weaknesses:
Hayes MX4 brakes could be a little better, Avid break levers are brittle.
Similar Products Used:
Parking lot demo'd all bikes under $1700. Wanted disks so I ruled out the Specialized FSR XC rim; too impatient to wait for the Jamis. Could only point at the HiFi, but not touch.
Bike Setup:
16" frame, running 190 lbs. in rear shock. Almost stock... Time ATAC Alum pedals, Shimano Deore V-brake levers (snapped front break lever on Armadillo at Markham).
Bottom Line:
I love the bike. It makes me want to ride more and improve my skill level. My old Schwinn started becoming my excuse for not doing (insert obsticle here). Now I can't blame the bike. It can do anything I want, but can I?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike the animal
a Racer
from London Date Reviewed: May 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
fanshawe lake
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
2 wheels bike shop in london
Strengths:
This bike does everything the hype says. Very study bike. The suspension works well on almost all riding terrains and weather conditions. Climbs excellent. Good clearance from the ground to bb. Light enough to ride all day (I know because I ride all day).
Weaknesses:
The tires stock are not very good either. They don’t ride on wet stuff very well and slip when climbing. I have now used ware wolf mtb tired (they are wow). Some of the stock components’ are on the heavy side, cracks pedals front and rear detailer. Other than that nothing else to put here.
Similar Products Used:
Norco big foot. (I converted this nice free ride bike to Cross country). Ran nice minus the sore back from rock beds and tree roots.
Bike Setup:
Everything stock except steam and hand bars. I have also change the bb to DH as it seems to last longer. Cables are good d for about 4 to 6 months.
Bottom Line:
My fav part. The bottom line here is this bike is what excellent. I could have spent the other 900 and got the trance 1 but I am not too concerned about the weight. Over this entire bike is an excellent buy and having rode this bike now for over one year I would highly recommend this bike to any one who rides BIG hills and mountains as well as folks who ride all day (an night) it does what it is suppose to do. Can be ridden any place in the east or central or western Canada with the confidence to bring you home each an every time. This is my first Giant bike and I can say I will be getting my next bike from Giant. Priced better than Norco and better warranty and over all service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
karl weatherall
a Weekend Warrior
from coventry Date Reviewed: April 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
coed y brenin
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
holey trail-wales
Strengths:
climbs like a dream,gives you super control on downhills
Weaknesses:
tyres are great on dry tracks but could come into trouble in wet
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
standard bike shop set shocks up perfect for me 15st front 210psi rear 160psi
Bottom Line:
buy buy buy cant go wrong
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Austin Hopps
a Cross Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: March 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Harper's Bike Shop
Strengths:
very strong agressive fast bike
Weaknesses:
none really
Similar Products Used:
jamis dakar sport
Bike Setup:
wtb rocket seat crank bros quattro ti pedals fox float 130 r fork avid juicy 5 discs
Bottom Line:
great bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Casey Potts
a Weekend Warrior
from Prescott, Wa USA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Scotty's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Soild Frame, Great Ride, Very little peddle bob. Bike is fast and handles well.
Weaknesses:
Poor stock tires, Weak front shock frame for a guy my size. Brakes not the best but stop the bike on a dime.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension XC bike. Replaced my old Giant hard tail. Rode another Giant full suspension and fell in love.
Bike Setup:
22 in. Frame. Stock with the exception of the seat and front shock spring so far.
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is that this is a great starter bike and a great value for the money. The bike has some weak points that after market parts will bring up to speed. This bike rides super smooth and is fast. Mine is a 22in frame and I'm love'n it. This bike is still in its first year and the true test is yet to come this spring but so-far-so-good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: February 22, 2007
Favorite Trail:
XC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Local bike store
Strengths:
Frame is excellent, Duke fork is very good but misses L/O. Reasonable weight for full susp bike. Very fast on XC terrain. Bike feels solid and handles well.
Weaknesses:
The drivetrain components on the 05 model were of rather poor quality. I now hate Shimano's low-normal derailleurs. Replaced it with Sram X9. Brakes are OK at best.
Similar Products Used:
Trek and Gary Fisher hardtails
Bike Setup:
07 Sram X9 rear derailleur and shifters (love them!), changed out stem/bar for better fit, WTB tires, rest is stock
Bottom Line:
I've had my 05 Trance 3 now for 1.5 years and I love riding it. This is my first full suspension bike. I was concerned about pedal efficiency on a FS bike when climbing, but on this bike I can't feel a real difference with my hardtail. The components were a bit disappointing so check out the components on the current versions before deciding what version Trance to buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Roberts
a
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: December 25, 2006
Favorite Trail:
st pats forestry
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
burkes kilbirnie
Strengths:
i'm a big fulla, strong frame. good stopping power. not sure why people knock hthe factory brakes as i'm 105kg. climbs better than my gt avalanche 2.0 . gt was bike 2. prev bike was non susp, rim brake. circa 1985.
Weaknesses:
only avauialable in 1 colour.
Similar Products Used:
none- haved GT 2.0 , mate had a scott and i used that as a base for quality. this is my next step of 4. will look to upgrade in 2008 if trance 3 not any good but suspect will only upgrade components if other reviews are to go by.
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
ideal for first upgrade from hardtail to full susp. no bob.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia Date Reviewed: December 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Brandywine
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Agile, stable, pedals efficiently, inspires confidence, very smooth & plush. Corners like crotch rocket. Solid frame.
Weaknesses:
Some stock components suck (stock brakes and tires), but that's to be expected at this price. Geometry felt a bit long, and I'm 6'3".
Similar Products Used:
Trek Liquid
Bike Setup:
Stock except Juicy 5's and WTB tires
Bottom Line:
First, this bike belongs to my brother, and he let me borrow for a ride. Amazing bike, especially for the money. The components are pretty nice. This bike tempted me to push myself and the bike past it's limits. The bike is well balanced and is not twitchy or "nervous" like my hardtail. It has a very stable feeling, yet is agile and turns sharply. The suspension is just enough for hard XC riding, and climbs great. Maestro suspension rocks.
Overall, a great bike. Too bad I can't ride it all the time. I definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a great XC bike on a budget.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jody
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: November 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Woolys Wheels
Strengths:
Light, sharp and agile.
Weaknesses:
Not reached it's limits yet!
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket Pro
Bike Setup:
Club roost bar ends. Maxxis Larssen TT tyres.
Bottom Line:
Swapped the tyres based on other reviews on this site! Mind you, the Larssen on the front is a bit twitchy! Great bike: solid but light enough. Very well specced and really pushes the intermediate rider (me) to better things. SRAM gears are the business and the air shock combo is really balanced and very easy to adjust. Climbs well and descends comfortably. I look forward to a long and beautiful relationship................
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jag
a Cross Country Rider
from pensacola, fl Date Reviewed: November 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
oak mountain bham, al
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Strengths:
efficient pedaler. little to no bob. climbs great.
Weaknesses:
tires suck. haven't changed yet. cable rub bigtime...down to frame after 300 miles
Great bike. great pedaler. haven't ridden in 12 yrs got back into it with a trek 4300. geometry was spot on with trance. liked the stumpy but couldn't get a good fit. I'm in between s and med. (5'7 170 lbs)got a med trance and is great. tried as many other bikes i could find. trance was best. cousin got a prophet i tried and blew out the chain and derailleur after 60 miles and lbs says cdale won't care. paint rub is biggest pain all the way down to frame. fork makes weird click noise. suspension a little stiff sometimes but bombs well. able to go 25+ mph on downhills in the flatlands of florida with confidence. good all around bike for most users. would've got a trance 2 or waited for 2007 trance 1
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ropie
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryland Date Reviewed: November 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
L.B.S
Weaknesses:
SHOCK!!!!! CUSTOMER SUPPORT!!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain, Specialized, Yeti, Kona...
Bottom Line:
I purchased the bike because of the deal. Rode it about 5 times started to have issues with the shock. Rocks and mud were eating it up due to it being exposedt to the front wheel. I called Giant on the matter and they proceeded to tell me that I was the only one having the problem. Which is nonsence because the started installing a guard on all the new bikes from about mid year on. When I called them out on this they stood to their word and told me that I would have to pay 40.00 for the guard. WHAT!!! they expected me to pay to fix a problem that they new they had... Whatever. I sold the bike and bought a Yeti. Do yourself a favor do not buy a Giant. The company has some issues, more importantly they do not back their product. There is no room in our industry for this..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LyNx
a Cross Country Rider
from Barbados Date Reviewed: November 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Cycle World, Miami
Strengths:
Excellent pedaler, suspension is excellent and seems more than 4".
Weaknesses:
Only real flaw is the GIANT paint - it sucks sadly.Definitely be prepared to use cable rub stickers if you buy any GIANT it would seem. Other weakness was the wrong spec'd bearings for the '05 model ('06/'07 have been properly spec'd) so I had to replace the bearings with some Enduro MAX type from ENduro Fork Seals. Other weakness was the Bulldog tyres, replaced with some good tyres and no problems.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing similar, had a DB COil EX before and there's no comparison.
Well it's now been almost two years I've owned my Trance and thought it would be good to give an updated review. I've logged over 20 months and 5,000 miles on my Trance on a mix of single track, double track, rough paved roads and some paved roads. I am super happy with the bike and it's suspension design - my review still stands on pedal bob, you can get it if you don't spin properly or if you stand and mash (I've learned to spin now). Still find that it climbs like a goat, even with the REBA now set @ 115mm travel and soaks up the DHills like they weren't there - picking lines makes it faster, but seriously you don't need to.
No I don't work for GIANT I am just super happy with what was basically a crap shoot in ordering a bike unseen and untested.
Who should buy this bike - Anyone looking to get into XC on a budget, but with room and a good frame to upgrade as you get more serious when parts wear out. Straight out the showroom excellent value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Lehigh Valley PA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bear Creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shop
Strengths:
The Maestro suspension is great, it is active when you need it and firm when you don't. I feel you also get a nice parts pick from Giant for the price you pay.
Weaknesses:
The brakes and the tires. Hayes (sorry) the Sole brakes need some serious attention.
Similar Products Used:
KHS XC 304, Gary Fisher, Trek Fuel
Bottom Line:
Giant did a great job with the Trance. I think Giant really gives you a good parts pick and the suspension works like a dream compared to the others I looked at. I've used the bike for XC riding as well as for riding technical trails. The Trance really can fly on non-tech singletrack and is able to handle technical riding. On some crazy downhill sections it can feel a bit jittery due to the geometry.
Giant did a great job with this bike other than the Hayes Sole brakes and the Hutchinson tires. The tires came off immediately after the first ride and the brakes both failed in less than 4 months. The shop I bought it from (Weavers Bike Shop) stood behind it when Hayes was waffeling. The bike has since been refitted with Hayes HFX9 disc brakes and I haven't had a problem since.
If I had to do it all again I'd buy the Trance, but I'd buy the Trance 2 rather than the 3. It comes standard with the Hayes HFX9 disc brakes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtndew
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto Date Reviewed: October 14, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Weaknesses:
Paint job is not very good, cable rub appeared after a couple rides
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock Comp 04
Bike Setup:
Trance3 2006 with Avid BB7, Marzochi Marathon XC 05, Fox Float RP3 05. Panaracer Fire XC Pro.
Bottom Line:
This bike is pretty decent when coming from a hardtail. Climbs as good as the hardrock did, which is so-so. But its alot more plush. I don't really notice any pedal bob. I swapped out the Fox Float R for a RP3, but I cannot tell the difference between any of the settings. I should have stuck with the FloatR. I don't do any drops more than 2 feet so the trance was a good fit. Any more travel would be too much i think. I swapped out the stock tires at the shop before testing them since everyone complained about them. The seat is surprising decent and comfortable. Had to make a mud guard for the area right beneath the bottom bracket so dirt wouldnt get in it. I wouldn't say you can bomb hills or anything, you still have to pick a good line. Can't really comment on how durable the frame is, I weight 150 lbs and don't do big drops and am pretty gentle with components. I got this end of season so the price was alright, plus, trances are hard to find end of season.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hai
a Cross Country Rider
from Canberra, ACT, Australia Date Reviewed: October 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Bike Shed
Strengths:
Climbs like a hardtail, no pedal bobbing. Feels like a hardtail, except the rear suspension makes it comfy to ride all day, ride uphill on the seat without your butt getting sore from tree roots. The dual suspension makes riding rocky firetrails quite smooth.
Weaknesses:
Giant went cheap on the disc brakes by putting the Hayes Soles. No lockout on the rear suspension however, the bike doesn't bob anyway.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Alias
Bike Setup:
Hayes Mag XC, Maxxis Crossmark with Stans no tubes, Rocksox Reba Team, SRAM X.0 triggers and rear deraileur, Race Face Deus steam, Race Face Next carbon bar. Everything else is standard.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for XC trail riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Abel Flores
a Cross Country Rider
from Tijeras, NM USA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
342 Elena Gallegos
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Bike World Albuquerque
Strengths:
Pedaling efficiency! Coming from a Mongoose I thought was just heavy but when I rode a friend's Giant NRS I realized there was more than just weight. I read the reviews and settled for a Trance 3 with upgrades to shifter Sram X-7 and derailler Sram X-9 and wow, what a difference. Pedal and the bike moves, even uphill!
Weaknesses:
Tires. Just waiting for the Hutchinsons to wear a little to justify new ones. Other than the switch to SRAM, can't really say much about what was stock (XT)and Deore.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose, Giant NRS
Bike Setup:
Stock with Duke fork, Fox float rear shock, Crank Brothers Cranks, SPD's
Bottom Line:
Even after gaining weight and having a total hip this bike has given me the motivation to get out and ride. It takes the grind out and puts the fun back. You have to get used to the thing (had my first endo on my second ride) brakes, shifters etc. but once you have it down, watch out hills, here we come. Newbies to experienced riders will love the Trance 3 and I can't wait till the 07 model comes out. Just saw a sneak preview and it looks killer!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Taylor
a Cross Country Rider
from Emery, South Dakota Date Reviewed: September 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sugarbottom
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Hub Coop Twin Cities
Strengths:
Rides fantastic when switching from a hardtail. Easy to accelerate, wheels stay on the ground and when you dial the suspension in it is plush. The frame and suspension are big strengths. I like the Recon fork.
Weaknesses:
Like M Crawford, I agree the front end gets light on in saddle climbs, but for me out of saddle climbs lighten the rear up too much. From that standpoint it is worse than my Stumpjumper. Tires do wash out on corners. Get new ones. I went to Mythos -- not sure they are best all around tire, but better than the Bulldogs. I don't like the rapid rise rear deraillueur. Too many years of the standard rear shifting -- half a year of riding and I still find my self shifting the wrong direction now and then -- maybe I just am not that smart.
Similar Products Used:
No other full suspension
Bike Setup:
Recon fork, Fox Float rear shock, IRC Mythos tires, WTB Rocket seat, Crank Bros Mallet C pedals, Deore and LX with Rapid Rise rear LX
Bottom Line:
Great bike. I was looking at this or SC Blur XC. The price was the final deciding factor. Swap out a few components if you want, but the frame and suspension are great. I ride Midwest trails and this is a great all "mountain" bike for the Midwest and a decent price. For a first timer in the dual suspension realm this is a fantastic deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Newcastle Australia Date Reviewed: August 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
cycology
Strengths:
Frame and Maestro design is superb. Pedals great. I came from hardtail race bike to dual sus market and this was a great bike to do that with
Weaknesses:
Paint work easy to scratch and the cable housing on the underside of toptube no good for transport. (i believe this is being rectified)
Similar Products Used:
A friend owns the Reign 2 and it is also great
Bike Setup:
Only the frame and headseat are stock. LX dual control shifters and Hydro brakes, Race face Dues Cranks, Reba Team fork 85-115 wl'out, XTR Rear D, Thompson Masterpiec seatpost, Thomson Stem, Race Face evolve Bar, XT Casette,
Bottom Line:
Had a bunch of great componentry from my hardtail so this was a frame building exercise for me. Having built it the way i wanted it the weight is reduced and the Rebq Fork is outstanding. The bike is now unreal, i love it, pedals like my hardtail did and soaks up everything it didnt. My back is less sore and my riding has improved out of sight and i believ that is mostly the extra confidence it gives. To rectify the paint issues i have put clear plastic protection on the main areas and the cable situation on the top tube in can live with. Buy the bike if you want a dually that is comfortable, fast, well built and backed by Giant (lifetime warranty). You caould easily race this bike and many in Australia do cause we cant all afford the Santa Cruz
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip gray
a
from belmont Date Reviewed: July 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
waterdog
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
it is a great bike from comming from a downhillers point of view. it is great for hills and is made for trails like waterdog. it is great for going up hills and it goes down trails like no other
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz superlight but i like the giant more
Bottom Line:
a great bike for any rider and is a great bike for waterdog park in belmont
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Crawford
a Racer
from Reading, Berkshire. ENGLAND Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Afan - The Wall
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$910.00
Purchased At:
MountainTrax - WOKINGHAM
Strengths:
Stability at speed and impressive braking due to controlled "dive" characteristics. For the £'s it is remarkably a good package, only upgrade would be wheels to consider for weight saving and bars/stem. I weighed the bike the other day and was surprised as a calibrated device measured it at 28.8lbs!! I would like to see it at sub 27lbs to race more testing circuits on..
Weaknesses:
The frame top tube looks a bit like a "girls" bike. Tyres (Hutchinson Bulldog) can wash out easily when pushed on hardpack cornering at speed when inflated 35-45psi. When climbing steep rugged ascents it can be very light at front & the bike will follow terrain too easily or pull side to side when accelerating in the saddle, to counter this will have to stand out of saddle and balance body weight for traction.
Similar Products Used:
Previous 6700 Trek with Hope Mono minis
Bike Setup:
medium frame.Saddle to top 1 height, all ahead spacers in. Standard otherwise with exception of Sigma BC1200 RDS which is swapped from other bikes.
Bottom Line:
Obviously not the weight weenies out there should buy this bike because it is built for a purpose at a specific price. The package represents great value, it is ideal for allday enduro, more demanding circuit racing and recreational/freeride action. I'd recommend it to anyone that has owned a hardtail and would benefit from a more compliant ride where they are the more heavily built/powerful rider.I find it instills confidence every ride!. Well done Giant.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Helena Montana, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Helena Ridge Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1250.00
Purchased At:
Big Sky Cyclery
Strengths:
Fabulous full suspension set-up, great parts mix, quick handling geometry, climbs well. Value for the money!
Weaknesses:
Sole Brakes are touchy to adjust, but stop and modulate well. Seems heavy, but I came of a 23 lb. Hardtail!
Similar Products Used:
'02 Specialized FSR XC.
Bike Setup:
Rockshox Duke, switched out the LX shifters/derailure for Shram X-7 gripshift
Bottom Line:
The Maestro rear suspension exceeds all expectations! Far superior to the lightly used XTR laden Specialized FSR XC I test road for 3 days. Very plush in comparison, virtually no bob in the saddle, and controlable out. I also tested the Trance 1&2, and was ready to spend the extra dough, but could not justify it. This bike has the same frame and shocks, less the unneeded lock outs. The weight savings from the higher end parts is too minimal for the price. It even came with SPD pedals! I am a former (and fatter!) racer, and ride single track mountain trails agressivley 2-5 times per week.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Vacura
a Weekend Warrior
from Castle Rock, CO, USA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Country Pedler
Weaknesses:
The fork locked up after only 25 miles. Manufacturer returned it unfixed the first try. Going on week three...
Similar Products Used:
None. Newbie.
Bottom Line:
I was really happy with the bike in every way and I'm sure it is more bike than I'll need for a long time. I think I got a great one-of-a-kind deal from a great local dealer.
I'm brand new to biking and this is a great way to kill the excitement. Thanks Rock Shox.
A friend at work had the same thing happen to Rock Shox fork and the factory gave him and upgraded fork. Here's hopin...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kristina
a Weekend Warrior
from Townsville, QLD, Australia Date Reviewed: May 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Centre Townsville
Strengths:
Sram, Tora Fork with Lockout, Fox Shock is great. It's just a really great duallie. Everything is simple and easy to adjust!
Weaknesses:
Bulldog Tyres? Theyre ok, but I've used better. WTB Saddle - It's pretty good, fine for the dirt but not entirely female friendly on the long road / commute type rides. I'll give it a few more weeks before I decide wether to get a female specific saddle instead. Soles _ I had a bit of an issue trying to get the front adjusted to get it right. Once that problem was overcome I've so far found these to be a great and pretty easily adjustable brake that functions well. No squealing, shuddering or any significant problems to date.
Similar Products Used:
My first duallie, owned a 01 Specialized Hardrock Comp other bikes I test rode were: '05 Specialized FSR XC, '05 Trek Fuel 70
Bike Setup:
Truvativ Husslefelt DH Stem & Riser Bar Candy C Pedals Panaracer Fire XC on the front, Bulldog on the Rear Cateye Micro Wireless Computer
Bottom Line:
This is my first duallie, weighs about the same as my Specialized Hardrock Comp did, and I'm really stoked. At 30lb (13.5kg) it's probably on the heavy side, but I reckon it's right on the money. More importantly it feels real light to ride. Suspension performance is fantastic, I'm still learning to dial it in to be just right for me & my style of riding. Today I rode up a mountain, on the tarmack (bitumen road) the whole way. Just locked out the fork (Tora 318SL) and absolutely all the power went straight to the wheels, however come a few small bumps or rough patches on the road & the ride felt smooth. Now if you ask me that is a great suspension design. I didn't do any climbing out of the seat as I didn't need to but I imagine you would get "bob" if you had to mush up a hill out of the saddle. The stock stem & bar seemed to feel a bit stretched for me and slow to steer and respond. The husslefelt set up instantly felt alot more comfortable and responsive, but it does make the front end a bit lighter on the hills, but it's a worthy trade off for me and something I can easily compensate for by body shifting. I'm riding the 16" size.
This bike feels equally home on the road as it does on the dirt especially with the fork lockout. If you want a bike for xc, a bit of all mountain, and throw in a tad of commuting too then I'd say this is a great bike for you. I'm just into trail riding, trying out new things and exploring on the dirt, don't mind a bit of commuting from time to time either, but I'm not into racing or anything like that.
I'm very happy with my new all round bike and plan to keep it for quite a while.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick Buzz
a Weekend Warrior
from Quebec Date Reviewed: May 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Ste-Anne
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
shop
Strengths:
Suspension maestro, traction from the rear.
Weaknesses:
Bob, no lock out for the front suspension.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
trance 3 setup
Bottom Line:
Good bike , but it bob. And really need a lock for the front suspension.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Tainan, Taiwan (currently residing) Date Reviewed: April 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Cowboys Bike Shop
Strengths:
It's got a great feel to it. I swapped out stems for a bit shorter one (I'm short) and immediately felt right at home on it.
Weaknesses:
It's on the heavy side - 30+lbs. A water bottle cage mount barely accomodates a a cage with a small water bottle (on the small frame). It takes a bit of wiggle to get it out. A second mount is beneath the down tube - an awkward spot. Maestro suspension does not appear to be bob-free. Running the bike with sag as suggested makes for a squishy, bobby bike.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Mavic D3.1 rims, Maxxis High Roller R tires
Bottom Line:
Trance 3 is a great affordable dual suspension bike. The suspension soaks up bumps and I don't even notice. It feels efficient like a hardtale. Long rides are no problem. Giant's claim of a "no compramise" suspension I believe is overrated. It is however a nice design that inspires confidence on the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Arthur Wong
a Weekend Warrior
from Dural, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: March 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Oaks Trail, Blue Mountains
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1425.00
Purchased At:
Hornsby Cycles
Strengths:
The frame! Fantastic rear suspension, came from an NRS and had my doubts about the Maestro system but noticed the difference immediately! I descend rock gardens with much more confidence and climb technical tracks with ease when I used to struggle with the NRS. I still feel that the NRS accelerates quicker on the flats.
Weaknesses:
Low end hydros, entry level SRAM shifters and rear Mech. Crappy Easton EA30 seatpost that won't hold the seat angle properly until you tighten the bolt to within an inch of it shearing off. The hutchison bulldog tyres that are shipped with the bike, will be replacing them with Maxxis Laresen TTs at the first opportunity. The bike also seems a bit heavier than the NRS but the weight penalty is more than compensated for by the great suspension system.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS 3
Bike Setup:
Fox Vanilla RLC forks, Avid Juicy 5s, SRAM X9 shifters and rear mech
Bottom Line:
The Trance 3 is pretty good value, I would have been happy just buying the frame but that wasn't an option here. The maestro system works well and has improved my climbs and descents, it must be due to the bike because it's the same hill and rider! It seems to be able to provide more traction at the rear than I'm used to with my NRS. When kitted with better front forks and brakes, the Trance becomes a XC weapon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
craig
a Cross Country Rider
from mount maunganui , New Zealand Date Reviewed: February 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
summerhill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
bike n pack mt maunganui
Strengths:
excellent riding both up and down hill
Weaknesses:
have changed most of the bike so not many, should watch the pivot bearings tho, have replaced 1's in the top swing arm were totally flogged, rest are ok for now but will replace soon. also watch the shim? in the top of the rear shock mount can check for play by lifting seat lightly, should have no play.
Similar Products Used:
came off a hard tail
Bike Setup:
reba team fork hfx9 brakes hope hubs single track front rim mavic 717 rear rim sram 990 cassette xtr chain x9 rear( and shifters) xt front mech, geax tyres titec bar and stem
Bottom Line:
great bike would have bought just frame if available but now have dream bike. watch original wheels buckled both pretty badly and hubs were pretty ruff after 6months. not a light bike but really fun and i still race it, may look at the rp3 rear shock in the future but no probs yet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig J
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: February 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sabie Forests
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Cagees
Strengths:
Plush very plush. soaks up the small bumps with out you knowing and still lets you feel the trail. Handles thick mud like a dream. Climbs as if you are cruising. Loves down hills, sticks to the trail.
Weaknesses:
Tyres, changed mine to Larsens Maxis TT. Handle bars need to be cut about a cm either side.
Similar Products Used:
GT & Kona
Bike Setup:
Ergo bar ends for ultra distance. Larsens tyres.
Bottom Line:
Took me a while to go for a full suspension. Tried a mates on a trail and could not believe how it felt. It soaked up grass track so well you couldnt feel it. After triming the handle bars I feel at home. Bike is really fast and you dont feel the extra weight. Components are not bad would have like SRAM though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Warren
a Racer
from St. Paul, MN Date Reviewed: January 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon Hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
Even reading all the great reviews about Giant's maestro suspension doesn't give prepare you for how great this this bike preforms. I've ridden a few full suspension bikes and swore that I would never buy a full suspension bike because of pedal bob and how slow a response most every full suspension bike ssemed to have. Well I now own a Trance and my other bike is collecting dust.
Weaknesses:
Hayes Sole Brakes. Bulldog Tires. Handle bars are a bit to wide to the point I felt like I was trying to drive a semi, not a race car like this bike is.
Similar Products Used:
Sugar 2+, Specialized Epic
Bike Setup:
Flat bar handlebars, Avid Juicy 5 disk brakes, Panracer FireX tires, stock everything else.
Bottom Line:
I wouldn't trade this bike for the world.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Alvarez
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, Texas Date Reviewed: January 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Clear Creek in the Sierras
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Ride Away Bicycles
Strengths:
Great Value. Suspension is plush and beefy. Feels fast.
Weaknesses:
Hayes Sole Brakes. Bulldog Tires.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Continental Tires.
Bottom Line:
This is my follow-up review of the Trance 3. -The creaky seat was taken care of by taking the seat off... then re-seating it correctly. It just needed to be set on the little seatpost teeth correctly. -Hayes Sole Brakes, still not the stopping power I would expect from these discs. Constant adjustment of the lever travel is necessary (look for that tiny little hex nut that is under the lever, and going into the hydraulic piston). -Tires, not used anymore.
Overall this bike has been great to me. I hit the derailur in a nice little spill and thought it was toast, but just took a quick cable adjustment. Fox Float is doing great. RS Duke is just as good (I think all air shocks are a bit noisy). New brakes are in the works... newer tires are to come later. FINAL THOUGHT: Buy this bike if you are looking for a ggreat entry to mid-level XC bike. You might have to spend some money on tires, and brakes (eventually) but if you get some sort of warrantly plan like I did, you can just upgrade all that and pay the difference.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from NYC Date Reviewed: December 27, 2005
Favorite Trail:
BlueMountain--"my favorite trail"
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Strengths:
Bike feels good. LX rear derailer works well once you get used to it being backwards.
Weaknesses:
The biggest problem I am having has not been brought up in prior reviews--so it is either a manufacturing defect or something is not set up correctly. I have an extreme vibration in the frame when I locked the rear brakes on a downhill. The other thing I noticed is that when I get air the bike tends to lean to one side in some sort of centrifugal force. If anyone has any idea what might be wrong, please let me know. If I didn't have these last two problem I'm sure I'd be as happy as all the other reviewers with this bike!!
Similar Products Used:
NRS2
Bike Setup:
factory
Bottom Line:
My previous bike was NRS2 and was very happy with that. The Trance 3 feels a bit heavier as I can't get the same air.
I hope I find a solution to the vibration and the leaning.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jamie
a Cross Country Rider
from Canberra Australia Date Reviewed: December 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sparrow hill (best single track in the world)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shed
Strengths:
Rockshok tora fork feels great for the money the poplock is a great idea. the maestro suspension is incredible in fast bermed corners the bike feels like its on rails.
Weaknesses:
sole brakes are crap and bulldog tires are not that great both will be replaced when finance allows.
Similar Products Used:
FSR XC, Trek fuel 70 & 80 and nrs 2 & 3
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
Quit simply you will not find a better full suspension bike for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Mullins
a Weekend Warrior
from Blountville Date Reviewed: December 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dupont State Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Norris Bikes
Strengths:
Value, Value, Value did I mention value.
Weaknesses:
Tires, Tires, Tires did I mention tires
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche
Bike Setup:
Marzook MX Pro w/ETA, Hayes 9 brakes
Bottom Line:
I'm somewhat new to bicycles. I came from the motorcycle ranks, and my bike experience is somewhat limited. BUUUUUT some of my motorcycle experience does transfer.
For instance, I know good, progressive suspension when I feel it and the Trance rear end has it. I do 90% of my pedaling from the seat and I have had no issue with pedal bob, none. I'm still experimenting between the Duke fork(stock) and the Marzook. The Zook has the lockout, but the Duke does REAL well and is very light.
I also know what a bad tire feels like and the Bulldogs are very slick. They are easily the weakest link here.
The Sole brakes seem to be getting slammed, but I was ok with them. I just got a deal on the upgrade.
I ride single track, up and downhill, technical rocky sections, and this bike easily made me 30% better. I can now ride switchbacks and climbs I didn't have a prayer of making before. This is truly a case where technology helped make the rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Cross Country Rider
from charlottesville virginia Date Reviewed: December 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
O-HILL
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
The bike is AMAZING! If you want a XC bike, buy this. The rear end is great. The feel of the bike is excellent(with panaracer fire xc pro)It is just a great bike, best FS XC bike for the price.
Weaknesses:
The hayes soles=BLAH!..switch them out as soon as you get the bike, I have not but I plan on buying the Avids. I've had the brakes bled 2 times in under 3 months, also make alot of noise when wet. The cables rub on the rear swing arm and the front,seat makes alot of noise but is comfortable...sometimes. Only thing that really needs to be changed is the brakes.
Similar Products Used:
NRS, Cake
Bike Setup:
Soon to have Avid brakes, Panaracer Fire XC Pro tires
Bottom Line:
If you ride XC all the time and want FS buy this bike..can't go wrong..but the brakes and tires.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Ellis
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: November 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Godley Head
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Chain reaction Cycles
Strengths:
Best value for money! Lots of Easton kit compared to many others on the market for around the same price.
Weaknesses:
Breaks have very little feel. Tires are bad on anything loose. Little on the heavy side for xc.
Similar Products Used:
Jamis Dakar Sport, K2 V1000. A GT i-drive and 2006 Jamis bikes.
Bike Setup:
Havent changed much. Just swapped the tires to specialized and removed reflectors etc.
Bottom Line:
After lots of research for bikes at about the NZD$2500 level, the Trance 3 was by a long shot the best option. I've only had it for about a month, but I'm very impressed by the whole kit except tires and brakes. After having a full suss Jamis for 6 months, the pivots and bearings were well worn after only weekend cross country riding, so I am cautious of how many pivots on the Trance. They seem a lot bigger/stronger though. The breaks and front Rocksox Tora 318 have taken a number or rides to preform well, but the lock out is great on the front shock. Some cable rubbing off the paint in a number of places, so have used clear "impact" tape to protect the frame. I have been having a little trouble getting the Hayes Sole brakes running well, with a lot of adjustment needed with the pad distance to rotor, but will see if this problem is solved after a few more rides. The bike climbs amazingly well, and downhill is more of a joy than ever!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan
a Cross Country Rider
from Provo UT, US Date Reviewed: November 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Taylors Bike shop
Strengths:
This bike is great no noticeable pedal bob. Climbs the hills like a hardtail and takes rocks and river beds that I would never be able to take on a hardtail. Fast on road and off. 40+ mph on hills.
Weaknesses:
replaced the pedals for platforms for convenience. The seat creaks a bit but no biggie. Hayes sole brakes are a bit noisy and don't have as much stopping power as my old vee's. cables rub the paint. was a little wary of the fox Float R at first but haven't had any problems yet.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized RockHopper.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for some Drive magnesium platforms
Bottom Line:
An awesome bike. Great for those that ride the streets and the trails. Go for something with a little more suspension if you are all mountain maybe the Reign.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Alvarez
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, Texas Date Reviewed: November 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Clear Creek in the Sierras
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Ride Away Bicycles
Strengths:
Great ride all around. Feels like it wants to take off and rip up the trails. This bike never feels like it is bobbing and soaks up drop offs like my hardtail never dreamed of. Great bike for the money.
Weaknesses:
Seat creaked from the start, but easily remedied. No known problems other than my sore body from riding so much now.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Overall great bike. I purchased this one over the 2 because of the price difference but have been happy with the results. Who needs shift indicators anyways? Hmmm...
If you want a solid full suspension bike, this could very well be it. I will post back after another month or so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil
a Weekend Warrior
from Sicamous, BC, Canada Date Reviewed: November 13, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Adams River
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Skookum Cycle
Strengths:
nimble, feels light, no bob, great cross country bike but great fun on downhills too
Weaknesses:
none yet, just love it!
Similar Products Used:
Haro extreme 2, KHS Fxt Team have been my 2 prior bikes
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Have fallen in love with this bike. Very tight feel and super responsive, the suspension is amazing! Feels great to be riding down the twisties on the Trance and it is a great climber. Not a race bike but certainly a super fun ride for all around riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tyson Zwicker
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: October 19, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Thickwood
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
SportsWise
Strengths:
The rear suspension is incredible- It feels more like a 6" or 7" travel bike than a 4". Yet somehow it pedals as well as a hardtail and climbs hills with zero pedal bob. A real incredible machine.
Weaknesses:
None yet! The right shifter is "backwards", but after a few days you get used to it and it becomes natural.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS, Norco BigFoot, Devinci Wilson
Bike Setup:
Per Factory Specifications. (Plus I added a gravity dropper seatpost - www.gravitydropper.com)
Bottom Line:
This bike is so much fun!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from LaGrande, OR Date Reviewed: October 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Umatilla Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Cyclesports
Strengths:
Handles like a Ferrari. Climbs like a goat.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
VT1, NRS Air, Klein Mantra
Bike Setup:
Rockshox Reba SL fork, Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Sram XO twisters & rear derailleur, XT front derailleur, Crossmax wheels, FSA Carbon Pro cranks, Eggbeater pedals, Kenda Nevagal tires.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike for the frame. (Trance framesets were not available at the time). I've never had a bike that pedals and handles as efficiently as this one. It has made me a better rider. I'm able to clean trails that I never could before. The Maestro suspension works flawlessly. I can't speak as to the factory set-up, sounds as if the Hayes Sole brakes may be a weak spot. If that's the case, change 'em out for some Juiceys and go ride. You'll absolutely love this bike. It delivers maximum fun! Isn't that what it's supposed to be all about?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seth
a Cross Country Rider
from Bozeman, MT Date Reviewed: October 3, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
1300
Strengths:
Climbs very well, descends even better. Nice parts spec for the price. Very little bob even under heavy pedaling. Excellent for XC riding.
Weaknesses:
Hayes Sole brakes are worthless - no power or modulation, lever reach adjustment screws work themselves out while riding (a little locktite helps but shouldn't be necessary) Not thrilled with the WTB saddle but that's just my butt.
Similar Products Used:
GF Cake 3, Stumpy, Kona Kikapu, GT IDXC
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock with Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
With the exception of the brakes, I've been extremely happy with this bike. So far it has done everything that I've asked it to and has helped me ride more confidently in all conditions
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chad mtb hero
a Weekend Warrior
from winnipeg Date Reviewed: September 22, 2005
Favorite Trail:
whittier park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
bikes and beyond
Strengths:
This thing is SEXY! If I want to do something, it complies with my wishes. The most nimble thing I have ever owned, its like a race car without the headaches. Climbs, and does wheelies like an expensive hardtail, but handles bumps like a Cadillac. No regrets.
Weaknesses:
The XT derailler is a little slow to respond sometimes. Other than that, no real issues.
Similar Products Used:
You name it, I've tried it. Nothing else even came close (for what I like to do on a bike).
Bike Setup:
Stock, with BMX pedals.
Bottom Line:
I wanted a bike that had a high fun factor. I used to ride BMX about 20 years ago and wanted to regain my title as the wheelie king. Sounds sorta stupid but that's my lifes goal. Anyhow, on my test drive of this remarkable little unit I was able to do 100 feet on the back wheel, little kids were awe inspired by my bicycle prowess. That's all it took for me because these endeavors are usually kinda tough on a full suspension bike. The thing just blows me away, it does everything I want and then some.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Barry
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlottesville VA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Douthat State Park/Walnut Creek...Any trail!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Smooth ride. Soaks up big and small hits alike. Climbs almost as well as my hardtail with little bob. Actually I can't feel the rear sus bob at all, the only bob I can detect is in the front (no more than what I would expect from a hardtail). Took about three or four rides to get the bike dialed in. Factory recommendations were very close and a great starting point. Hayes discs work great. I've read several complaints about the rapid rise, low normal rear der. It took about two or three rides to get used to it, but I love it now. If you keep the drivetrain clean, it is trouble free. If you neglect it, it will not shift correctly. Also seen some complaints about the pedals but mine are working great.
Weaknesses:
TIRES. As in all other reviews, the Bulldogs are terrible. I ride rocky rooty terrain alot and these tire took me down with absolutely no warning many times. They also made the bikes steering respond SLOWLY. I have no idea what terrain these tires would work best on. The barrel screws on the brake levers kept moving...Performance fixed as a warr issue at no cost (this is also a common prob). The rear der cable rubs the seat tube...three rides and the paint is gone. More rides than that, you start wearing a hole in the alum. If you get any version of the Trance just zip tie the housing to the rear arm...this will prevent it from rubbing.
Similar Products Used:
First Dual susp. bike I've owned. My prev. bike was A Stumpjumper A1 FS circa 1998
Bike Setup:
Stock except switched out the Bulldogs for Panaracer Dart & Smoke.
Bottom Line:
I love my Trance. It's heavier than my old Stumpy but the downhill capability is worth it. This bike begs to be riden FAST down hills. Climbs as well as my hardtail, in fact I was able to clean a real rooty rocky climb I had never cleared on my other bike. I can also ride longer with more comfort. Only four chilis overall cause of the crappy tires! Buy this if you want a dually on a budget and your not a weight weenie!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a
from Brighton MI USA Date Reviewed: August 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1450.00
Purchased At:
D&D Bicycle service
Strengths:
meistro suspension soaks up the bumps on the trails and is invisible on the flats and the big climbs(you have to set the shock up quite stiff for the hills for you not to notice it)
Weaknesses:
i set up the fork and the shock to maunfacturers reccomended specs and i still bottomed em' both out and the rear derailleur and pedals suck, tires werent agressive enough for me but thats no biggie
Similar Products Used:
specialized hardrock
Bike Setup:
stock except maxxis high rollers and egg beaters
Bottom Line:
an unbelieveable bike at an un believeable price. makes u ever wonder u rode a hardtail. duallie 4 life!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul Reed
a Cross Country Rider
from UK Date Reviewed: June 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Afan (The Wall)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Fantastic rear end, with very little bob, and a silky smooth ride. Very comfortable, and confidence inspiring.
Weaknesses:
The fork comes nowhere close to the rear shock on the T3, but some corners had to be cut at this price.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Epic
Bike Setup:
Standard
Bottom Line:
This is a great machine, if you can afford it go for the T2 for a more capable fork. This is a great platform to build on, all the components are more than capable, but the frame just needs to be showered with upgrades (my wife isnt gonna like that)
If you want a capable full-sus XC machine at a price that wont break the bank, this is it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
LyNx
a
from Barbados Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Bath Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Cycle World Miami
Strengths:
I just posted this in response to the question "does the Trance have pedal-bob?" and I think it's an honest straight forward type review answer of the Trance.
Personally I love my Trance3 and have over 1,100 miles on it and am super pleased with how it rides! This being said I don't quite know how others discribe pedal bob, but in all honesty I would have to say that yes it does bob BUT it depends on how you set up your shock. Basically with the FloatR you have to decide what type of ride you want - plush or a little harder - and then depending on how plush you like it you may experience some noticeable bob.
Personally I can't wait to get my FloatR serviced at PUSH or get an RP3/MC3 as I find that with the type of riding I do I could really use 3 distinct settings - super plush, for those rough trails, plushish for those smooth type trails and hard for road/hill/super smooth trails climbing.
Now if you're asking if it bobs, should you get one, the only thing I can tell you is YES. It's only my 2nd bike but I will have to say that to me and all those lucky other individuals who have the pleasure of owning 1 it really is a superb bike with a great suspension design. Most of the time while pedalling you have to look down to see that the rear suspension is "bobing" and when you're REALLY cranking the crap out of it you can feel it a bit, but with an RP3/pushed FloatR I think this bike takes the cake hands down
Weaknesses:
None that I can find, but it all depends on which model you buy. Only thing I like to have is lock-out for the fork and shock since I do a lot of road to get to the trails and for training. Got a REBA SL for my T3 and made a world of difference.
Bike Setup:
Trance3 stock except for the REBA SL I replaced the DUKE XC with.
Bottom Line:
Absolutely a [b]Superb Bike[/b] with the excellent Maestro suspension design making it all happen. I think for the money the Trance3 is hands down a winner, as would the Trance2 be if they had had it in my size when I was buying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Serg Koch
a Weekend Warrior
from Kiev,Ukraine,Eastern Europe Date Reviewed: May 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
descent,uphill,....yeah-trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
local GIANT dealer
Strengths:
Awesome bike with monstruo-stout frame and unbelieveable geometry .The rear suspension Maestro with his fox float playing the trail music by variety of notes.For a trail(enduro)bike ,he has very good acceleration power, he has no bob (thanks to fox float).
Weaknesses:
I think it could be Hayes Sole(not good modulation)and Hutchinson Bulldog(my front tyre is ripped from right side)
Similar Products Used:
This is my first Full suspension bike.
Bike Setup:
Giant trance 3!
Bottom Line:
Overall-powerfull trail bike with xc-speed characteristics and rough routes!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada Date Reviewed: May 7, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Incline Sports, Miramichi
Strengths:
Solid ride - you get the best of both worlds. The rear suspension is absolutely the best part of the bike. On the flats, you don't know it's there - when it gets technical you wonder why the h*ll anyone would want a hardtail.
Weaknesses:
Well if I was forced to chose something I would say no lockout on the fork.
Similar Products Used:
none - first full suspension bike. Previous ride was a KHS Crest. Demo'd a GT I-drive but it doesn't come close to this...
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
If you're a hardtail rider thinking of getting a full suspension bike, get this one! It inspires confidence in every aspect of your riding. Bumps? They're not there anymore. Uphill, don't even think about the roots, just keep pedaling and the maestro suspension will take care of the rest. Absolutely no noticable bobbing of the rear suspension while pedaling hard but it's still active when you hit a bump - just as every review and the manufacturer says. You will ride faster with this bike, and have more fun doing it. I have been riding full out for about 3 weeks since I purchased this bike and every ride I am still amazed at how good this bike works. If you're worried about the weight - don't. Just try it out and you'll see.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
craig
a Cross Country Rider
from mount maunganui NZ Date Reviewed: April 27, 2005
Favorite Trail:
red woods
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Purchased At:
bike and pack mount maunganui
Strengths:
awsome rear end. VVV comfortable yet stable.
Weaknesses:
none yet but changed the fork straight away for a skareb, as i wanted the lockout for gravel road climbes etc.
Similar Products Used:
not really tried alot else, i came off a hard tail
Bike Setup:
changed the brakes for hayes 9's, and the fork, this came with sram gears and x type cranks(the best!) also changed the stem and bar (didnt like the flex in the stem)
Bottom Line:
a really great bike, my first ride was the xtera race in rotorua and it was aweinspiring, very comfortable and fast! takes nothing to feel at home on this bike. The hookup is excellent although i will change the tyres in summer to faster rolling ones, the bulldogs grip really well but are a little slow on fast trails. This is a keeper, will upgrade as i need but really it works and i will never go back to shimano gears! I would recomend this to any trail rider who does the odd race and likes long xc type rides( rated down for the fork- is just too bouncy)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John White
a Downhiller
from San Diego, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Lake Hodges North and South
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Black Mountain Bicycles
Strengths:
This product is a wicked awesome thrill ride. I have ridden this product hard and it asks for more. The rear end is like a cadillac and the great combo of componets make this ride a great deal.
Weaknesses:
Needs a more aggressive tire for us trail riders right out the shop.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Hayes hydraulic brakes, Shimano Deore derailers and gearing system, Werewolf Tires( 26x2.1 ), clipless pedals with shoes
Bottom Line:
This is a awesome bike for anyone new or old to the trails, very effiecnt ride. Enjoy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wilder
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Trip (has several in stock)
Strengths:
Incredible rear end. Plush-a-rama but RESPONSIVE. Unbelievable.
Weaknesses:
The Trance 3 is a bit weak in the front end -- I think the front end is probably OK but not a match for the rear performance, and that kind of threw me off.
If you want a bike you can ride all day that climbs almost as though it has a motor -- this is it. I demo'd this bike and am going to wait for the Trance 2 to come into the shop, to try that one out, but honestly for the price you can't beat it. The $2400 Specialized FSR 120 Expert is more of a racing bike but that means it's also a bit stiffer and needs to be dialed in for specific terrain. This is a set and forget bike, very forgiving, and with great performance.
My local shop is getting the Trance 2 in a couple of weeks and I plan to wait for that one, since I think I'd like a front end of the same caliber as the Trance 3's rear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
doobie
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: February 20, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1599.00
Purchased At:
University Cyclery
Strengths:
Rock-solid frame with incredibly efficient power transfer, good rear shock, hydraulic disc brakes, excellent rear derailleur, comfy seat, decent fork. The silver paint looks great - better than the 1, 2, or 4 models IMHO. Could have picked up a FS bike with a better component spec for the price, but after riding this frame I knew I had to have it and these components will do for a while.
Weaknesses:
None yet. If I had to pick SOMETHING it would be the generic hubs, even though they're fine for now.
Similar Products Used:
Element 30, Stumpjumper FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock as of now. Will add RP3 shock, Vanilla RLC or Marathon SL fork, Hone or Evolve X-type crankset, and upgrade the wheelset a bit later.
Bottom Line:
Actual MSRP is $1600 according to my LBS & Giant's site. MTBR lists it at $1450 above, but it's probably just a typo.
The Trance frame is simply amazing. Almost rides like a hardtail on the flats, but the suspension really soaks up the bumps on the rocky stuff. Power transfer is better than any other FS bike I've ridden, and I think it will only get better once I add a crankset with integrated bottom bracket. Being a noob, I'm still freaked out by rock-strewn downhills but the Trance has already boosted my confidence with how well it tracks. This bike is definitely going to help me become a better rider.
Of course I wanted the Trance 1, but not for $3400! Thought about the 2 at $2000, but saved $400 by going with the 3 and will put that money towards future upgrades. The stock setup isn't bad at all, but what you're getting with the 3 is an outstanding frame with very decent components that will work reliably until (if) you decide to upgrade.
The new low-normal LX derailleur is a real peach, and shifts better than any of the XT-equipped bikes I've tried. It takes a little getting used to the way right-handed shifting is now reversed, but it's a small price to pay for shifting this precise.
Do yourself a favor and check out the Trance if you're looking at FS bikes. This frame recently won 2005 MTB of the year (Trance 2) and the award is well-deserved.
I hate to review something that I just bought, but somebody had to get in here and say something about this bike! I'll do a follow-up in a few months after I've really had time to put her through the ringer.
Good job, Giant. You really outdid yourself with the Trance.
5 chiles all around. Started to give 4 for value because of the modest component spec, but with the frame and excellent shifting I just had to make it a 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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