Still breaking this bike in, but it is riding really well. This is my third proper MTB, and would recomend it to anyone riding semi-technical XC. This bike has something for everyone from the first-time warrior to the serious MTBer. For many riders, this bike has value-for-money upgrades over the Trance X3 and Anthem X2, so spend the extra cash if possible.
I found the X2 surprisingly fast going XC - close to equivalent hard-tails (even my Felt). The Maestro system works very well. It's obviously not as firm as a hardtail, but it's much better than most dual suspension bikes. The Elixir 5s are great brakes. The Kenda tyres (Nevegals) offer great grip, but on hard stuff the noise and rolling resistance are quite high. I'll put other tyres on when these wear out. I particularly like the bars - nice and wide for lots of control, but the grips are too small diameter, even for my medium-sized hands. Will change for Giant ergo grips (dirt cheap at $15).
The weight is excellent for a dual suspension bike at this price point.
My only real gripe is that after just 3 days the bottom bracket started creaking. Too loose?? It's good that Giant provide one free service.
Overall, the Trance X2 is a fabulous bike for trail riding and gives the rider great confidence when dealing with moderate technical sections.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ryroobrown
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington Beach, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2010
Favorite Trail:
Hazard County to UPS to LPS to Porc Rim
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Hutches Bikes, Bend
Strengths:
Maestro suspension is among the best designs out there. Great component spec for the price. Climbs any hill, goes down any hill and does it well.
Weaknesses:
The stock Smarty pedals died on the first rock they hit. Replaced them with Candys, which are far superior. The grips sucked, and are replaced with ODI Rouges.
Mysterious clicks and creaks happen every once and a while. Especially after things get wet. Can get annoying at times. Doesn't effect the performance of the bike however.
Sometimes, I wish the fork (which is awesome) had 140mm of travel.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduros and Stumpys.
Bike Setup:
XL Frame with stock componets except for ODI Grips, Candy Pedals, and a Thomson seat post.
Bottom Line:
For the money, a better bike doesn't exist. This bike can handle pretty much anything the average trail rider would attempt to do. It even handles the occasional jump or drop without any problems.
Overall I'm incredibly happy with my purchase, and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great bike at a relatively low price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NWcanuck
a Cross Country Rider
from seattle Date Reviewed: January 10, 2010
Favorite Trail:
Tolt Mac
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Pac Bicycle
Strengths:
When I purchased this bike I was new to the sport and have have had my shares of fall and crashes and bike has held up flawlessly. The Maestro suspension is great and unlike others I have had no problems with the brakes. The bike climbs well with minimal peddle bob.
Weaknesses:
This is not a nimble bike and it doesn't handle well during some of the single track trails in the Pacific Northwest. Its manner improve at higher speeds. The Nevegal tires weren't a good match for the terrain I ride.
Bike Setup:
stock except added XT shadow derailleur and peddles. Replaced Kenda Nevegal tires with specialized The captain
Bottom Line:
This is a great starter bike and great value for the money. Having recently ridden some more expensive stumpjumpers has made me realize some of the limitations of this bike with respect maneuverability most noteably at lower speeds or in tight turns. However, for under $2K you would be hard pressed to find anything better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
formulaone33
a Weekend Warrior
from Tampa, FL, USA Date Reviewed: November 29, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Santos in Bellview
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
AJ's Bike and Boards
Strengths:
Value, handling, suspension performance, overall parts spec.
Weaknesses:
This is really nit picking but the grips are bulbous at the ends. I wish there were a constant diameter. Thats about it!
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Super V1000, GT LTS-1, Specialized FSR Pro, Specialized Hardrock.
Bike Setup:
Bone stock except convert the wheels to ghetto tubless. I am 210lbs and I ride with 205psi in the rear and 95psi in the front.
Bottom Line:
I looked at this bike and the Anthem X2 for a full year. Both had excellent reviews and both would be great for my local trails. I make up my mind when I was talking to the owner of my local show and he made me a great deal on a closeout 2009 Trance X2. I am very happy I went with the Trance as it suits my riding more than the Anthem. I am an all day trail rider and I really love the plush longer travel at the end of the day.
The handling is more stable than my hardtail on all the steep down and ups but certainly quick enough for all my twistly, tree slalom local trails.
It climbs as well or better than my hardtail with the propedal off. I have ridden my favoride trails with the propedal on and off and I feel no diffrenece in efficiency just a harsher ride with the PP on.
I love this bike. It weighed 28lbs even the day I got it before going tubless. I do plan on getting lighter rims (ZTR Crests), an Easton Monkeylite XC bar, and Eggbeter SL pedals. That should put be right at 27lbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DaRickster
a Weekend Warrior
from Kingston, Ontario Date Reviewed: November 13, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sangers Farm
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Sporting Life BIkes
Strengths:
This bike was highly rated by MBA and many others for being a great all around trail bike and they were right! The suspension does its job without bobbing and was reasonably easy to set up. All the parts on the bike are great quality so I don't see myself needing to upgrade anything. Great all around mountain bike that can do cross country as well as some gnarlier stuff.
Weaknesses:
I did bend the WTB Trail LaserDisc rim on the first ride. Don't know how; perhaps just a bad one got through quality control. The brakes sometimes make an unsettling sound though they work fine. I have read that the pads are the culprits. The bike does feel tall but I am coming from a cross-country hardtail so the transition is steep for me.
Similar Products Used:
Looked at the Specialized Stumpjumper but I preferred the Trance X2 parts choice and the the Trance X2 was rated a little higher. I also wanted to check out the Rocky Mountain Altitude but none were around to throw a leg over.
Bike Setup:
Stock bits & pieces. I juggled the stem spacers to have just one under the stem to lower the handlebar height. I find I can run lower tire pressures than I am used to doing on a skinnier-tired cross country hardtail.
Bottom Line:
One of the best all around bikes available and it is very nicely spec'd so you don't have to make compromises.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve L
a Weekend Warrior
from UK Date Reviewed: November 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Coed Y Brenin - Dragons Back
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Cytek Cycles Stroud
Strengths:
Value. Mine is a 2008 model bought at the end of 2008 with 33% off as new lines were arriving. Frame is same as X0, finishing kit is very good. Fox, RaceFace, XT etc.
Weaknesses:
Bit of a steep head angle, can be a bit nervous at high speed down hill sections.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Trek Fuel EX8.
Bike Setup:
Factory Stock - except Gusset Slim Jim Magnesium pedals, MRP XTG Chain ring protector and Crud catcher. Kenda Small Block 8's in the summer.
Bottom Line:
I have owned this bike for a year now and I struggle to fault it. Steep head angle does make it a bit nervous at high speed but thats it. Its all a trade off because on twisty technical trails the turn in is superb.
In tne value for money catagory I challenge anyone to find a better bike. Out of the box its a great bike, Mine is a medium and accordinng to my bathroom scales has a weight of just under 29lbs ride ready.Good for a 5" travel bike at this price.
The Fox forks and rear shock are faultless and the Meastro rear end is great on climbs and even better on the decents.
Upgrade the wheels at some point and I think the bike is a class leader.
Go buy one. You will not be dissapointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
imcodefour
a Weekend Warrior
from imcodefour@gmail.com Date Reviewed: October 14, 2009
2000 Cannondale Super V F/S, 1996 Gary Fisher Opie H/T
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I purchased this bike as a 2008 closeout... I was trying to decide between this bike and a 2008 Trek Fuel EX 5.5 and I am very happy with my choice... This bike eats up speed!!! It seems to handle better and the suspension seems to eat of the trail the faster I go... I have used this bike mostly on cross country trails, but have dabbled on some downhill trails with this bike with no negative effects as of yet... It appears to be durable so far... The most I've had to do it 3-4 months is adjust the rear derailleur... The bike feels very solid underneath you and makes your confidence shine through... If you can catch one of these for a good deal on closeout or used I suggest the purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
secretrsl
a Cross Country Rider
from England Date Reviewed: August 29, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2250.00
Purchased At:
Pedal On
Strengths:
Infectious ride, rides lighter than its 27lbs weight, great with bike,
Weaknesses:
Crap paint job, grips,
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS cuctom built, Specialized S works hardtail custom built, Merlin Ti
Bike Setup:
Standard but lowered front end to suit my riding style buy juggling spacers and fitting a 0 degree stem
Bottom Line:
Firstly... i am an XC rider but like going fast up or down on trails. I wanted a bike to meet in the middle ofr trail and XC use. I have never bought off the peg bikes and was dubious about Giant. Nor have i ever had over 80mm of travel and believed that anything over that was for devil downhillers only. Whilst looking for a bike i saw an ad where the 2009 X2 was being sold with a £600($960) discount. I went for a test ride. Was shocked at how responsinve and quick this bike was. So bought one. And now the more i ride the more infectious it is becoming. I have lowered the front end to suit my style but can always raise it again shoulf i need too. I am also thinking about doing a 2 hour enduro race on it instead of my hardtail. In the UK it is XT/XTR Shadow equipped. Bought separatelt the fram and forks would have cost more than i paid for tho whole bike.
It rides a lot lighter. More like a 23/24lb bike. The pro predal stiffens the back for a hard tail feel.
My only issue is with the cheap paint job. It would have been better to annodise this frame of leave the lower parts brushed and bare rather than a cheap, brittle paint job. That said i bought it for the ride and technology and it certainly does ride well. I have noticed a very XC feel when on fairly flat terrain or climbing and a totally fast, mad bike when going down on hilly trails. The best of both worlds. I would have also like bottle cage mounts on the underside like the Anthem so a fram guard can be fixed. It seems strange the XC Anthem has some but not this trail bike.
I also find the RP2 shock works best on the maestro system 20lbs under inflated.
Overall i believe it definately the best value bike bike and best riding for the money in the Fast Trail/Marathon category.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J_Hopper
a Weekend Warrior
from Sumner, WA, USA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Any
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Geometry, components
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
only hardtails
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
I only have about 3 hours of riding on this bike. Let me say it is amazing how much better (faster, easier, etc.) I can ride compared to my trusty hardtail (2005 Kona Caldera).
Suspension: the Fox suspension does exactly what it's supposed to do: keep the wheels in contact with the ground. It also does an excellent job smoothing out the rough. I can rail the corners and the brakes work fantastic. It works so well, I can't see the need for the RP3. Lockout? Why would I need that? I stay seated going up hills, as I should, and notice absolutely no pedal bob or braking problems. The Maestro design does exactly what it's supposed to do and integrates perfectly with the suspension. The extra heavy duty front axel (15mm?) makes for a nice, stiff front which, when coupled with the suspension, means I hit my lines more consistently. This translates to a more enjoyable/less frustrating ride.
Brakes: This was a concern of mine since other reviewers have complained about the noise. They work fantastic, but they are a tad noisier than my Hayes HFX 9's. However, this is not a complaint, just an observation since the noise is minimal.
Geometry: again, the Maestro design is amazing! No pedal bob, no braking/suspension interaction problems, nada! With the nearly 5" of travel upfront, coupled with the headtube angle, I feel comfortable in the saddle and feel like I could spend extended periods sitting and pedaling. That being said, I haven't noticed the front end lighten when climbing. It's really the best of both worlds.
A comment about Shimano (it has the XT RD, XT shifters, and SLX FD). For a variety of reasons, I've always like SRAM. Among them, in my experience SRAM shifts more crisply, the hardware is more durable, and I like the push of each shifter lever rather than a push pull. Apparently Shimano has been listening: the XT shifters can be either push pull (like Shimano has traditionally been) or push push (like SRAM). Additionally, the XT RD has a direct cable mount, as opposed to the loop leading into the derailler as has been in the past. This should translate to cleaner, more precise shifting. I haven't ridden it enough to know for sure, nor can I comment on it's durability.
Finally, I considered and test rode a Specialized Stumpjumper Comp. I loved the way the Stumpy felt, but I chose the Trance X2 because: 1) the hubs are superior 2) the rims are better for me (stock Stumpy rims, according to reviews on this site, wouldn't hold up well with me - 200 lbs) 3) the RP2 shock is superior to the Triad.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
winsail
a Cross Country Rider
from Soquel, CA, USA Date Reviewed: July 30, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Enchanted Forest Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Craigslist
Strengths:
Rides Great uphill, very little wasted energy, ear to ear grin on the downhills
For our conditions this bike is perfect for all the riding I do. The price for features cannot be beat. I weigh 170lbs and for my weight I feel like I cannot break this bike or it's components. If you're looking for a downhill bike, Trance X2 is not that. It is a great beefy cross country, medium duty all mountain bike that will not kill you riding uphill. Since the frame is same weight, materials Trance X2 to Trance X0 you can upgrade to your desire and pocketbook to get your perfect set-up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bma18
a Cross Country Rider
from Oklahoma Date Reviewed: July 4, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
I love everything about this bike. The Fox suspension is my favorite part. It soaks up roots and climbs like a champ. The stroker brakes feel great. They have awesome power without locking up the wheel.
Weaknesses:
Had no problems yet. There is some pedal bob when really pumping on it. Doesn't seem to be enough to feel like it is causing me to loose power. Upgrading to a rear shock with pro pedal would solve this.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension. Have a Giant Rincon and a Treck 4300.
Bike Setup:
Stock with shimano clip-less.
Bottom Line:
This bike is great for the money. I could not find another bike that has Fox suspension for the price of this bike. The shimano shifters are quick and accurate with shifting. Brakes feel great. Definitely way better than cable brakes. Haven't bottomed it out yet. Just gotta make sure that your suspension's pressures are up high enough before jumping anything. If you are looking for a full suspension and this is one that you are considering, go get it! This bike has made me way faster than I was on my hardtail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
laxman2001
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX Date Reviewed: June 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Memorial Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1620.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle World and Fi
Strengths:
Maestro Rules, The awesome Black Frame, acceptable components for the price.
Weaknesses:
Heavy AM Wheels, long stem, no lockout on front fork, proprietary rear shock length, Nevegals are SLOW
Similar Products Used:
Tested Trek Fuel EX 8, Specialized Stuntjumper FSR, Gary Fisher HiFi, a few hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock, but I'm about to get lighter wheels and possibly a shorter stem. (and a lighter cassette)
Bottom Line:
I got the 2008 model on discount.
I love this bike. It just plain works. Whether Its rooty, rocky terrain, climbing, or XC, it rises to the challenge. I got one only after trying out a bunch of bikes; this one just fit me best. For my uses I don't need the Laserdisc Trails, so lighter wheels and tires are first. My bike is a bit of a pig right now at 30lbs for a Medium, but it'll get better as I slowly replace parts. It's the same frame as the $5700 Trance X0, and should last me for years. I've already lost 10lbs since riding this bike, I love it so much!
The biggest weaknesses with this bike are purely its components, but I have heard (here) that it has a really low Bottom Bracket, but i have yet to have a problem with that.
I would highly recommend this bike, or any of the trance Xs, to anyone looking at a "trail" bike. Obviously choose what fits you best, but definitely give this bike a look.
No, it's not a super-light race bike. Nor is it an AM machine designed to go everywhere on the mountain. It sits right in between that, which is fine because that's where most people ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ronbo613
a Cross Country Rider
from Snowden, WA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Old Man Pass
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Discover Bikes
Strengths:
Great suspension. The Maestro rear suspension sucks up bumps large and small. The faster you go, the better it works. The Fox fork may not be the top of the line model, but it gets the job done and is well matched to the rear suspension.
The bike geometry is very well thought out. The bike floats over rough terrain and sails through corners. The real surprise is how well the bike climbs. No suspension "bob", the front end stays glued to the ground; feels like a hardtail.
For the price, this bike has a quality set of components. Shimano XT, Race Face, WTB hubs and wheels, Fox shocks front and rear, a real deal.
Weaknesses:
The Hayes Stroker brakes make a lot of noise. They seem to stop OK, but at times it sounds like they are going to fall off the bike and take the wheels with them. If the brakes are precisely adjusted, the noise is reduced somewhat.
Similar Products Used:
Titus Motolite
I checked out the Yeti 575, Santa Cruz Blur LT and Ibis Mojo while bike shopping.
Bike Setup:
Stock so far except for a little bit more comfy WTB seat.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. Rides like a dream. I've been riding for many years, this bike makes me want to go ride every day. For the price, I don't think there is a better bike.
Not really a full-on DH bike(can't believe I'm saying that about a 5" travel bike) or lightweight XC racer, but for anything in between, you can't go wrong with the Trance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
husabergrider
a Weekend Warrior
from Spokane, WA, USA Date Reviewed: May 12, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Spokane Falls
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Butler
Strengths:
Alright, I am new to cross country riding, but I am a dirtbiker and consider myself a decent rider and ride hard. I did a lot of research on the best spec'd bikes for the money and this bike ranks right up there. If you haven't ridden anything with the maestro suspension you really should try it out. I am 6'3" and 250 and have done a number of 3' drops and have not felt it bottom yet.
Weaknesses:
I broke the cheap Shimano chain in the first 70 miles, so far thats the only weakness I have found.
Similar Products Used:
This was actually the first bike that I test rode, and it felt so natural I was really impressed. I tested every other bike brand I could find in this price range including the Canondale Rize 2, several Specialized bikes, Treks and the like, but this bike just had the best fit for me.
Bike Setup:
Stock all except for a better Sram chain
Bottom Line:
If you need a solid and smooth ride that has good components for the price pick one of these up! Plus the anodized black frame is sweet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
greasemonkey
a Weekend Warrior
from Rogers, AR US Date Reviewed: March 15, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Slaughter Pen Hollow
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Lewis and Clark Outf
Strengths:
Maestro suspension, tires, brakes, looks.
Weaknesses:
None that I have found
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Awesome Bike!!!! This bike is my intro into full suspension. I rode a Raligh hardtail for about 2 years before, and thought it was great. But this bike doesn't even compare. I had it narrowed down to this bike and the next one up, (trance X1). Wasn't sure if I would need lockout on the rear shock or not, I didn't want any pedal bob. But I couldn't really see spending that much more on the trance x1. Well I'm glad I didn't spend the extra $. YOU DON'T NEED LOCK OUT WITH THE MAESTRO SUSPENSION. It works flawlessly. If ur a buyer like I was and not sure if you want a full suspension or not from a hardtail, this bike makes ur descion a lot easier. GET THIS BIKE!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
zeeman
a Weekend Warrior
from Leeds/Budapest Date Reviewed: March 5, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
geometry
Weaknesses:
brakes
Similar Products Used:
trek fuel
Bike Setup:
2008 giant trance x2, stock
Bottom Line:
Absolutely amazing suspension, the meastro suspension is great under any circumstances. Geometry is xc friendly, steep head/seat tube angle, which means lifting the front end is almost impossible, doing manuals/drop offs is quite hard. Components are good generally, front suspension -fox 32rl- is great, well matched to the rear. The hayes stroker brakes are rubbish compared to brakes like the avid juicy 5-s. Having problems using all 9 gears in the back from the middle chain ring on the front, sram shifters generally would have been a better choice than shimano's deore. I would recommend this bike. Compared to 2008 trek fuel ex9 the trek is more laid back, more all mountain/freeride friendly. Bottom line: would recommend this bike, but replace the brakes, and get a shorter stem (50mm). Got mine from ebay for 60% of retail price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Hoveland
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland Date Reviewed: February 11, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Browns Camp
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1575.00
Purchased At:
Fat Tire Farm
Strengths:
GREAT suspension action, almost zero pedal bob even without any lockout. Handles great, climbs great, descends great, corners great. Relatively light. No other bike compares for the price.
Weaknesses:
The stock cranks supposedly suck, but I replaced them with XT's before I rode it.
Similar Products Used:
My first full suspension bike.
Dean Colonel Titanium
Bike Setup:
Xt cranks, Conti Speed King tires, Easton Carbon Bar, Speedplay Frog Pedals
Bottom Line:
For the money I couldnt find anything that compares. Both bike shops I went to reccomended Giant bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
socks92109@yahoo.com
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, California, USA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anderson Truck Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Cal Coastal LBS
Strengths:
Geometry-handles great on the trail
Maestro Suspension-climbs great, I can even stand up a climb without losing much efficiency. The bike does great on down hills.
Price Point-I tested and reviewed several bikes and for the price, this bike seemed to be the best bang for the buck.
Weaknesses:
Hayes 3 stroker brakes-makes some noise when applied.
Similar Products Used:
Motobecane FLY357
Trek Fuel EX 7
Bike Setup:
Standard stock set up.
Bottom Line:
This bike is a blast to ride, Handles great on single track down hills. Doing a parking lot ride will probably deceive you as you won't notice anything great about how the bikes feels or handles. But, once you get it on the trails the bike handles great. I was really paranoid about losing efficiency after riding a hard tail. The Maestro Suspension was very efficient and there was no need to spend the extra $ on a platform rear shock.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zebdog
a Weekend Warrior
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: February 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sticky Forest, Wanaka
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
Chain reaction in Ch
Strengths:
Please note the stock specs on my 2008 X2 are different to tose found in the US/UK.
Great suspension, great for going down the hill :) and climbs beautifully with little if anything lost after coming from a hardtail. Reliable, great brakes, weight, the colour in black looks super stealth
Weaknesses:
The seat was too skinny for me so I replaced that with a WTB Laser saddle. Michelin Tires too skiny for me at 2.0". Stem is a bit long at 110mm. Some trouble with my rear derailer not wanting to stay in in the lowest gear when I need it to, keeps shifting back up 1 (and I have had it serviced twice!). Perhaps the head angle could be a touch slacker?
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full sus bike.
Prior to this a 2006 Trek 4300 Disc hardtail
Bike Setup:
2008 Giant Trance X2
Stock: Shifters Shimano Deore LX, Front D/R Deore, Rear D/R Deore LX, Crank Deore LX, Brakes Shimano levers, XT calipers, Race Face Ride seat post, stem, bar, Fork Fox F120 32 R, Shock Fox Float R
Changes: Seat to a WTB Laser, Front tire Maxxis Ardent 2.25, Rear Maxxis Crossmark 2.1. Might change to a 90mm stem now
Bottom Line:
A great value trail bike for those not wanting to go huge but want a bike that will get them out of trouble when your over your head. Mine has taken all the hits and never failed me. Good components, Great fun downhill and the Maestro system is great for climbing. Just a few niggles with my rear derailleur.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
onatrance
a Cross Country Rider
from uk Date Reviewed: February 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Quantocks hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Purchased At:
pauls cycles
Strengths:
Forks, frame, rear shock are all 5star. Tyres the kenda nevgal are top notch too. Have upgraded stem as it was to long, and the handle bars too.
Weaknesses:
Brakes not as sharp as id like so may upgrade these to
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full susser and im very pleased.
Bike Setup:
Fox 120rl fork. Fox rp2 rear shock with pro pedal. Hayes stroker brakes. Raceface cranks. Shimano xt rear derailier.
Bottom Line:
Buy it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
snajo
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT USA Date Reviewed: January 31, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
The frame and suspension setup is great. The fork is good, but watch out on low speed technical stuff. It will sooner suck up and stick rather than roll over things. Not a problem, just a cheap oem-only version of a great fork.
Weaknesses:
As far as components, you get what you pay for. The brakes seem to be either on/off. Full speed ahead or skid marks, may be mitigated by different tires, but I imagine the tire quality is equal to the brakes. The brakes, even though the rotor is straight, reminds me of my bent rim huffy with v-brakes. I'm changing the brakes asap. Shifters seem reliable, but clunky. May be a matter of setup.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Trance 2 (2005) - Great bike... I ran all stock except upgraded rear derailleur , avid juicy 7's instead of hayes, and maxis tires.
Bike Setup:
Stock, XT Rear Derailleur
Bottom Line:
Great bike, undesirable components. This is the bottom of the line for the 2008 model, so no surprise. Black is a great frame color.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tinstar
a Cross Country Rider
from Stillwater Oklahoma Date Reviewed: December 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lake McMurtry, NW trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
Cooper Bicycles, Sti
Strengths:
Super smooth suspension that soaks up big bumps and trail chatter. No pedale bob!!!!
Adjustibility of the shocks!
Price Point!
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
94 Specialized Rockhopper.
07 Giant Rincon
This is my first full squish.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks with the Maestro suspension, tunability and awesome paint at an untouchable price!!!
We have a lot of rocks and roots here that this bike soaks up. I've found climbing rock ledges (and stair cases) much easier since the rear suspension is active and does not let the rear tire bounce off on impact.
A pro rider may need more bike but everyone else is covered.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tonyplanet
a Weekend Warrior
from SoCal Date Reviewed: November 27, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Coates
Strengths:
- Maestro Suspension
- Geometry (low stand over height)
- Anodized frame
- Climbs and decends well; spot on w/ 5-inch travel
Weaknesses:
Headset bearings. Lower headset bearings got destroyed when front end first on a two foot drop.
Wish Giant would get away from the internal/integrated headsets.
The $2K I paid was out the door from my LBS with the upgraded Shimano XT drivetrain (XT cassette, XT chain, XT shadow rear deraileur, and wtb rocket v saddle).
The bike exceeded my expectations. Blows my old Giant VT1 out of the water. In my own opinion, the 08 X2 is the best looking, the black anodized stealth with ghost Giant logo is just cool looking.
The Fox Float R is all you need, for Maestro Suspension you don't need a platform air shock. The suspension is designed not to rely on a platform. From what I hear, the propedal really robs the suspensions performance.
Bike pedals extremely well, climbs like a mountain goat, decends very well down the mountain.
My set up: Medium Frame, and I'm about 5'9". Fits me perfectly. 28 pounds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MG
a Cross Country Rider
from Jersey City, NJ USA Date Reviewed: November 26, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Sleeping Bear, Waywaywanda
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Diamond Cycle
Strengths:
Climbs Well, light, excellant downhill handler, excellant all around bike, takes heavy abuse
Weaknesses:
Raceface XC crank set is heavy, cheap rims set and hub (WTB Lazer Disc and unkown hubs) Hayes brakes to touchy
This bike is a great upgrade from my Trek 6000 Hardtail which fell apart in less than one year(new rims, fork,and brakes destroyed) Although I am a moderate to aggressive east- coast cross country rider and this bike delivers. I would recommend this bike any serious cross country rider. I would also recommend Diamond Cycle in Montclair NJ as the best bike shop in NJ.(no I do not work there) . Enough said go out and buy one it beats any comparable Trek, Specialized or Cannondale based on value and ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Elfman
a Cross Country Rider
from stillwater ok usa Date Reviewed: November 25, 2008
Favorite Trail:
lake mccarthy south east trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
cooper's bicycle Cen
Strengths:
it supplies a push ride.
if adjusted properly
the frame is lite but strong. the fork is very good so far.
Weaknesses:
the rear shock is hard to adjusted.
the valves are difficult to put slime in.
Similar Products Used:
gaint rencon
and gaint boulder sx
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
it is a great xc county bike.
this bike is the price break in the gaint line up.
I enjoy the traiks on this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lonefrontranger
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: November 24, 2008
Favorite Trail:
buffalo creek
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
niwot cycles
Strengths:
all-day comfort, flow, sucks up everything, gives me confidence I never had
Weaknesses:
lowend parts, heavy wheels, not really bad tho
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro, Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
bone stock except switched the saddle & pedals
Bottom Line:
Phenomenal bike. At first I didn't know what to expect because I've never ridden dual. I tested a lot of bikes but this one fit my price range and needs. Coming from a strictly XC/hardtail/roadie racer world so it took some time to get the position dialled and of course it climbs slower than my hardtail. Once I got over that it became more and more fun. Riding this bike has given me confidence and taught me how to ride stuff such that now I get on my hardtail and rip through things I'd never even have considered. Like, I rode my hardtail on the Hogback (Morrison, CO) and if anyone's ever seen that it's NUTS technical. The X2 is a great value point, you really dont get much for the upgrade in price parts-wise. Love the brakes, haven't had any issues so far. The wheels gotta go, they're pigs and this 125-lb girl isn't about to break 'em.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bullriver
a Weekend Warrior
from Lehi, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: November 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Wasatch Crest Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Epic Biking
Strengths:
Great mix of frame/components at a reasonable price. I have had no problems with this bike. Black anodized frame is second to none in looks.
Weaknesses:
Brakes had to be broken in a little bit but now work great. No pro-pedal lockout on fork or shock (not a big deal in my opinion).
Bike Setup:
Stock components: Deraulliers are Deore on Front and Deore LX on rear; Deore Rapidfire shifters; Race Face Ride XC handlebars, stem, seatpost, BB, and cranks; Hayes Stroker Ryde hydraulic disc brakes; Fox Float R shock; Fox 32 F120R forks;
Bottom Line:
Overall, this bike is an excellent value for the components you get for the money. The difference in price to move up to higher end components is significant compared to the marginal return you would get in quality. I would highly recommend this bike to anyone who is looking for a high quality frame with mid-level components. I am a moderately aggresive rider and this bike more than meets my needs. Lockout not really needed on rear shock due to Maestro suspension, but would be a nice touch on the front fork (however, not worth the significant price increase in my opinion).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Flowery Branch, Ga., Date Reviewed: October 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Bear Creek, South Fork
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Habersham Bicycles
Strengths:
Product strengths for the bike include: Frame and suspension
Weaknesses:
Hayes Hydraulics
Similar Products Used:
Bianchi, Nishiki
Bike Setup:
Fox suspension - Shimano Deore - Hayes brakes - RaceFace crank, bar, and seat post - Kenda Nevagal tires - WTB wheels and seat
Bottom Line:
This is my first dual suspension bike, and I am totally satisfied. The frame is great, and the bike climbs and descends well. However, the brakes are lacking. I have had the bike four weeks, and have had the brakes bled twice. My first upgrade will be a switch to Magura Hydraulics. Bottom line, I would recommend the bike to anyone. You can not beat it for the price. With the frame, you have a great foundation to build upon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Kelowna, B.C. Canada Date Reviewed: October 1, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Climbs like a goat without any pettle bob what so ever
Weaknesses:
The stock seat sucks if you plan to spend any time on it. Brakes start to make a lot of noise when they get dusty.
Similar Products Used:
Trek fuel ex 8
Bike Setup:
Stock except for new seat
Bottom Line:
It took me about a month of demo's to finally narrow it down to two choices; In the end it came down to the Trek fuel Ex 8 and the Trance X2. Both great bikes but it breaks down like this: The Trek is a little more downhill than the X2, more streched out feel to it and has a step up on the Giant for components. The pro pedal works nice but it`s a bit of a pain to reach down and switch it everytime you come to a different section of trail.
If you plan to do any climbing (which you must if your buying a xc bike) the Trance X2`s maestro suspension works amazing because it makes the climbs feel like your on a hardtail. As for descents this bike really comes though on the tough sections, and it will probably never be worked to it`s full potention by the average rider.
The deciding factor for me was the price, at $2500CDN for the Trek and only $1600 for the Giant the extra cash could be spent on any upgrades that you think you need later on down the line...Like a new seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cullen bay
a Cross Country Rider
from Scotland Date Reviewed: September 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
puffer
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Squarewheels
Strengths:
maestro, descending ability, lively feel, kit.
Weaknesses:
maybe a bit sluggish on uphills? i dont really know, because i came from hardtails and i didnt know what to expect
Similar Products Used:
x1, trek fuel ex 8, marin mount vision
Bike Setup:
Giant trance x3 stock
Bottom Line:
got this bike on friday, and took it out for a night ride that nigt. i went 20% faster than i go in the daylight overall.. it isnt a xc bike... it doesnt climb as well as a hardtail. but it descends on rails and is the best bike ive ever owned... ive never owned a full suss bike but i could get used to this...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tzp_musicman
a Cross Country Rider
from Missoula, Montana, USA Date Reviewed: September 7, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Big Sky Cyclery
Strengths:
Fox fork and shock work great, have not desired more adjustments than the one(rebound) given. Plenty of travel front and rear for bombing back down that hill that was so hard to get up. Deore great for the price. Kenda Nevegal tires have great climbing and cornering grip. Slack head angle for increased stability.
Weaknesses:
Hayes Stroker Ryde haudralic disc brakes do not have the great feel and power I had hoped for, but are great for the money. Wish both front and back tires were Kenda Nevegal Duel Tread Compounds, Stick-E compound not needed on crown knobs(the bumps in the very center of the tire).
Similar Products Used:
Giant Rainier
Bike Setup:
Stock except for shorter stem and more comfortable, but heavier, saddle.
Bottom Line:
One of the best full suspension bikes out there for less than $2000, maybe even the best. My only complaints were about parts that would have raised the price of the bike if they were upgraded.
I weighed mine in at 31lbs, which is great for a full suspension mtn. bike(keep in mind, I own an XL, so your bike would be lighter if you purchased a smaller size).
The slack head angle is also very nice, being it keeps you from doing endos when your front wheel stops short on a big rock or log.
This would be a great bike for anybody wanting to spend less than $2000 on a full suspension mountain bike. It also has plenty of travel for a cross-country rider who likes to get to the top of the hill, turn around, and bomb back down. It is plenty sturdy for any such endeavors.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slap
a Cross Country Rider
from Mirabel Date Reviewed: August 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
anything dry
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
LeYeti
Strengths:
Good value for the price.
Weaknesses:
Race Face BB and crank set, The chain broke 3 times after 100km.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg Dee Lux, Rocky Mountain Element.
Bike Setup:
Stock except LX shifters, Race Face Bash Guard and sun Ringlé Charger wheelset.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price. Climbs great, goes down very well.I had chain suck problems, had to grind the pins on the middle chainring to solve this, it shift even better now. The BB has a lot of friction. Race face use to make very good parts...
Lost a chili for crapy Race Face parts
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slap
a Cross Country Rider
from Mirabel Date Reviewed: August 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
anything dry
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
LeYeti
Strengths:
Good value for the price.
Weaknesses:
Race Face BB and crank set, The chain broke 3 times after 100km.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Dawg Dee Lux, Rocky Mountain Element.
Bike Setup:
Stock except LX shifters, Race Face Bash Guard and sun Ringlé Charger wheelset.
Bottom Line:
Great bike for the price. Climbs great, goes down very well.I had chain suck problems, had to grind the pins on the middle chainring to solve this, it shift even better now. The BB has a lot of friction. Race face use to make very good parts...
Lost a chili for crapy Race Face parts
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aurivera
a Cross Country Rider
from Philippines Date Reviewed: August 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Maarat
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Recreational Outdoor
Strengths:
* 5" of travel is more than enough for aggressive XC
* Keeps your rear end connected to the ground
* Maneuverable in tight single tracks
* Stable pedal platform
* Value for money
Weaknesses:
* Can be a bit noisy when barreling downhill
* Takes a lot of trail to get the most of its travel
* Limits you to its almost proprietary headset (good thing its a Cane Creek)
This bike is one excellent bike. Too bad it hides its real capabilities. It's such an unassuming bike that it doesn't attract attention. So if you're after bling-blings for your ride, this bike, although sexy in its own right, won't attract a lot of attention. But wait until you ride it though an feel how the bike can carve through tight single tracks. Then you're talking. This bike is such a capable bike that it feels like it has more than the 5 inches of travel that it carries. If you must upgrade something about it though, just upgrade the rear shock to an RP23 to get added plushness and feel. Otherwise, this is an extremely good buy. Highly recommended.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dreal_805
a Weekend Warrior
from Simi Valley Date Reviewed: August 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Space Mountain, Hummingbird-chumash
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Simi Valley Cycles-
Strengths:
Light yet very responsive, Maestro suspension eats up drops, Fox shocks front and back, Looks great, and climbs like no other.
Weaknesses:
Wheel build, Brakes
Similar Products Used:
Numerous f/s set ups around the same price rance
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Bike is Awesome straight out of the box. Brakes squeal after light feathering on descents but will do the job till they need replacing. It climbs real well and overall the frame feels well balanced looks great and can hold its own on downhill runs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gabe925
a Racer
from Concord,CA,CCC Date Reviewed: July 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mach 1, Lime Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Hanks and Franks
Strengths:
The brakes how strong they are , and i love the anodized black and then it goes to the flat black and i love that it has fox suspension.
Weaknesses:
The amount of travel it 4.7' to be exact not 5
and the road bike style seat.
Similar Products Used:
Giant vt3
GT i drive 2.0
Specialized XC pro, expert, or comp
Bike Setup:
I have red Alex DM24 rims on red line hubs
stock suspension
truvativ stem and DH riser bars
alligator 8in rotor
Michelin DH24 2.5 tire for the front and a Michelin all terrain 2.2
Bottom Line:
THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST FULL SUSPENSION BIKE I HAVE EVER RIDDEN. IT HAS GREAT COMPONENTS FOR THE UNDER $2000 AND I 100% RECOMMEND THIS BIKE IF YOU WANT TO GET IT.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
anthemania
a Cross Country Rider
from KL, Malaysia Date Reviewed: June 23, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$980.00
Strengths:
lightweight and nimble, definitely the best 5 inch allrounder bike with reasonable price
this bike is really great. I bought it frame only and put the same setup in my previous Blur XC. the weight of the frame is only 2590 gr !! it's amazingly light for 5 inch full susp bike.
In climbing, both perform about the same, but in descent trail, Trance X way much better.
Luckily you pay also much less money for its quality and performance. definitely will recommend this bike for everybody.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Longreach
a Weekend Warrior
from melb, Australia Date Reviewed: June 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
you yangs , various trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
a bike shop?
Strengths:
good value.
light but strong.
dark finish gives it an nice evil look.
amazing suspension performance.
Weaknesses:
aussie spec wheels......not that strong....should come with better , more robust wheels.
Brakes (shimano) are only satisfactory.....but do work fine.
Bike Setup:
stock.
Bottom Line:
By far the best bike i have owned. I use to only like hardtails..........until now. Maestro susp. seems like a hardtail when pedalling, but takes the hard hits when you need it.
I can climb up hills like a kangaroo on steroids on this thing.
I can't explain how much i love my trance x2...... it will take quite a while to get sick of this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Aussie the dingo
a
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: June 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Manly Dam
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
The Australian spec of X2 has some very solid components on this 5" Maestro frame. Frame geometry is very good - the slacker and taller head-tube angle gives this bike a very stable feel. It is suprisingly ligth for a 5" all rounder.
Weaknesses:
Assies spec wheelset. The wheelset is not that flashy and is probably its weakest point. They do work ok, so do the brakes but they're not that great.
Bike Setup:
Australian spec, but changed the tyres, grips, saddle and the stem
Bottom Line:
Excellent ride for the money. THE SPEC: The australian spec has some very nice componentry hanging on the frame (better than the US spec). The X2 is the bottom of the TranceX range here but it is actually a very good setup (LX shifters, LX cranks, Raceface stem+bars+seatpost) that will please those on the budget. The LX gearing is simply excellent - feels close to top of the range but costs 1/4... The only real weakness this bike has is the wheelset which may not last that long. A suprise for me were the brakes: on the aussie spec they're the bottom of the range Shimano hydros (BR-485 I think) but they actually do work! I was planning on upgrading these but now I'll just wait till they're well used. THE RIDE: one word: GREAT. This is a very balanced frame that is not too twitchy and not too lazy. It climbs well because it has a steep seat tube but it also descends well because of its slacker and slightly taller (by XC standards) head-tube. The fact that it has 5" of travel on both ends simply makes this a great all-rounder, especially here around Sydney where just about any trail is boud to have some rocky decends. I was not really after a 5" (4" would be enough for me) but the geometry, frame angles + just that bit longer wheelbase sealed the deal for me. The extra inch of travel simply adds a bit of extra security; I ride relaxed knowing that the bike can be pushed just a little bit harder on those odd downhill runs... THE BOB: Not much from the rear end. In fact, the rear end outperforms the front end by a mile. Is Maestro too good!? Propedal or whatever is not needed for most of the rides as the rear end is really excellent and there's not much bob at all. It simply works. The front end is just as any other XC bike with a proper fork - the Fox F120 solid and nicely tunable. I climb seated 90% of the time so I don't even need the lockout on the fork, but if you're a strong monster that climbs standing then the you might think of upgrading the fork and get the F120-RLC instead. Even better - get TranceX1 if you need the lockout as there are other upgrades on X1 (oh well, except the asusie-spec crankset on X1, which is a DOWNgrade!!). Overall, I am very pleased. The ride is great and the price is right!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a
from Toronto Date Reviewed: May 28, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Kelso
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction
Strengths:
Pretty light, overall decent components. Very durable. Sure-footed over tricky areas thanks to the Nevegals Climbs a lot better than I expected and downhill runs are a piece of cake.
Weaknesses:
The seat. Didn't have bike shorts and my ass paid the price. The seat is actually not that bad, but a 4 hour ride with rests in between will begin to take its toll. Shorts eliminated the soreness.
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC Alliance, Giant Anthem 2
Bike Setup:
Everything is stock although I see myself replacing the Hayes brakes within the next few seasons.
Bottom Line:
I'll be the first to admit that I am not the most advanced rider, but the bike helps to make up for my lack of technical ability. It's definitely a confidence-builder being able to easily tackle dangerous terrain. Nimble and durable is the way to go and the Trance X2 is that and a heck of a lot more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Patana
a Cross Country Rider
from Houghton, MI USA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Maasto Hiito
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Down Wind Sports
Strengths:
Lightweight, responsive
Weaknesses:
None found as of yet
Similar Products Used:
Giant Ranier, hardtail
Bike Setup:
stock except beefed up front Fox shock
Bottom Line:
Phenomenal!, very lightweight, 5.5 inches of rear travel, keeps my butt on the seat. Great Bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dean
a Racer
from Kennewick, Washington Date Reviewed: May 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Scott's Cycle and Sports
Strengths:
Value, cornering, and climbing efficiency. Powerful brakes.
Weaknesses:
WTB saddle kills. Wheelset and Shimano Deore groupo not suitable for serious racing.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized stumpjumper fsr, Ellworth epiphany, and Trek fuel ex.
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to Sram X.0, and Dues Crankset, Crossmax st wheelset, WTB prowler mx 2.1 tires, and crank bros eggbeater sl. (26.5 lbs with pedals and cage.)
Bottom Line:
I love this bike for tough technical climbs and decents. The Fox front and rear have saved my neck on more than one occasion.
You can flick it into corners and bomb down trails like a freerider, and hammer it up lungbuster climb like a xc'r.
If you're a serious rider, the componentry will let you down. Save your money and buy the x1 or x0. I liked the black frame so I just upgraded the x2.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: May 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Levis/Trow Mound
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1550.00
Purchased At:
Michael's Cycles-Janesville
Strengths:
Frame design, weight, good minimum component level quality, good value for the $. Pedals as well as most 4" travel bikes. Very comfortable on long rides. Excellent technical climber. Giant warranty history--they stand behind their bikes and Michael's Cycles makes sure they do every time.
Weaknesses:
Poor initial wheel build, wheels hard to convert to Stan's (not Giant's fault but they picked these wheels this year). Only one frame mount for water bottle, even on larger sizes.
Similar Products Used:
Numerous other famous maker 4" single pivot and four bar designs.
Bike Setup:
Bone stock--may have rear shock PUSHED though see no need for it yet. Stock seat more painful than barbed wire (personal preference) replaced with WTB Rocket V
Bottom Line:
This bike is a great value. I wanted a 5" travel bike for longer rides and out of town excursions. The basic component mix should last a season or two except for the wheels. The suspension is very smooth and efficient even w/o platform tech. Size L w/ pedals and bottle cage= 29lbs. 14 oz. which I think is impressive for the money and low dollar components (my scale does not lie). The wheels needed retensioning after a few rides (normal) and WTB rims are not very Stan's conversion friendly. This entire bike costs less than numerous other famous maker framesets and it is backed by Giant's warranty which means a great deal to me since I tend to destroy things. Overall pretty smart spec for the $$ (Fox fr. and rr., OS bar stem combo, 7" rotor on front, folding stick-E Nevegals, Shimano and Race Face stuff behaves well together and quality sealed bearings on all pivots). I feel it's the little things that make it a great deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
TommyCrash
a Weekend Warrior
from Monmouth Junction, NJ Date Reviewed: April 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
6 Mile Run, My Backyard
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Halters Best Shop in Central NJ
Strengths:
Are you kidding me!? 5 inches of Fox adjustable air travel, sub 29 pound bike for under $2000.00. Why are you reading this, when you should be at your LBS buying this bike! No brainer and you won't be disappointed. It's so light that you want to keep on petaling and ripping your favorite trail. Money in my pocket!
Weaknesses:
None so far!
Similar Products Used:
IronHorse Ginsu, Haro Mary SS, Santa Cruz Heckler, Giant Trance 2, Cannondale F600
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Ergon Grips and Candy Petals. I didn't even have to change the seat from my old bike which was extremely comfortable for me. The Devo is sweet.
Bottom Line:
If you have a budget, which most of us do, and want a competent 5 inch cross country, favorite trail happy, light, hydo brake, comfy seat, sweet flat black, race face handlebar, crank, stem, seatpost, shimano quick shifting, Kenda Nevegal tires front and rear, Fox air front and rear suspension bike, that will do every thing you ask of it, this bike is for you. The frame is the same as the X1 and X0 without the huge price difference. If you can afford either of the others, spend the money. If you can't at the moment and wait to replace or upgrade componets as they wear for this bike, then you are already ahead. Between the X2 and the X0, (granted there are a lot of component upgrades), but tell me if you can really feel the sub 2 pound difference. You can feel an $1800 difference in your pocket! It's HUGE. Or you can buy this bike and ride the snot out of it and lose the weight from your own fat ass! It's cheaper that $1800. I was 210 and now I'm 185. Eat less, ride more!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Elliot
a Weekend Warrior
from W, Sussex Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Surrey hills
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Nirvana
Strengths:
Fast, responsive, the suspension is plush and very efficient, the kit all works brilliantly and it’s very reliable.
Weaknesses:
Kind of hard to wash after a ride in the mud and the US kit sucks. Apart from that it has no weaknesses.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Slayer Specialized Stumpjumper And I tested every other bike you can imagine.
A really great bike that’s one of the best you can buy but make sure you get the sizing right and my value rating is based purely on the UK spec cos the US really does suck by comparison.
Amazingly good ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
allister
a Weekend Warrior
from atlanta Date Reviewed: April 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
bear creek, chicopee, blue diamond
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1720.00
Purchased At:
Roswell Bikes
Strengths:
This is a follow up Review after my trip out West to Vegas & Utah
Weaknesses:
Haynes Stroker Ryde Brake Levers; the set pin that holds the brake lever in place fell out before I hit the Single Track.
Fox F120 Fork Hayes Style Brake Tabs; The top one stipped out during an awesome descent at Blue Diamond trails in Vegas. Me and my buddy were cooking down the trail. At the end I notice the post bolt dangling. Stripped during decent from side to side tork. I have experienced this with avids, but b/c Avid uses spherical caliper bolts the caliper can move under extream load and thus not over tork and strip your brake posts. Back to Roswell bikes to have then tap the post ans insert a helicoil for a fix. This type of damage sucks b/c you cannot fix it while on a trip. Oh Well.
Similar Products Used:
many full suspensions over the last 10 years
Bike Setup:
stock X2 - sachs chain, specialized bg saddle
Bottom Line:
I still love the bike. Crappy luck with the Hayes Brake system. Taking one star off b/c I only got 2 days of hard riding before the brakes & fork messed up. Thankfully all the probs are fixable if you have a week or so to wait. On a trip you dont, so I rode Gooseberry Mesa on a beater Cannondale Rush instead. I would've liked to have been on my X2. It does ride great, I just had crap luck on mechanicals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua
a Cross Country Rider
from Greenville Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Sunshine
Strengths:
Overall value.
Weaknesses:
Seats hard as a rock. Kendas wheel set, hard to seat a tire, no mini pump will do. Pedals are cheap and heavy.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Reign, Trek hardtail
Bike Setup:
Stock, just changed flyweight tubes and crank brother SL pedals.
Bottom Line:
I love this bike. For the money you cannot beat it. Very light and nimble. Quick on the corners and the Nevagal tires are just damn good. The bike can handle some really knarly stuff. And can stand up to some abuse. I ride hard and push this bike to its limits. Nice on the climbs and fast on the downhill. I would recommend this bike to anyone, beginner or seasoned.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Speed
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN Date Reviewed: April 2, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
The list of strengths for this bike could easily be a mile long. Some great points i want discuss are the suspension components and overall suspension design. The bike is fitted with easy to use Fox shoxs that are easy to set up and create the perfect set it and forget it balance. These great components also help to create a fairly light package. It climbs extremely well and can easily be flicked through the switchbacks.
Weaknesses:
The only 2 weaknesses i have are purely personal. I had issues with the Devo seat and recently replaced it with a Flite saddle. I have also replaced the stock Shimano LX rear derailleur for SRAM X9.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Specialized, Motobecane, Cannondale
Bottom Line:
Bottom line, you can't find a better deal for a well balanced do-it-all 5" travel bike. Fast, light and tuff as nails. Go get one immediately.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
allister
a Weekend Warrior
from atlanta ga Date Reviewed: March 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
chicopee woods/bear creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1733.00
Purchased At:
Roswell Bikes
Strengths:
Suspension design, parts spec,
Weaknesses:
none yet, I'm going out West in April with this bike so I'll let you know if any pop up
Similar Products Used:
SC Superlight, Giant VT 1, Various Kona, Various Specialized, Giant NRS, etc.
Bike Setup:
Stock excepy for Specialized BG Saddle & Sachs Chain
Bottom Line:
Good Bike, pedals extreamly well (not as good as my SC Superlight) and decends better.
It solves the one big problem I had with my VT1, weight & pedaling effciency. Too easy for a fat man such as myself to overwhelm the pedaling platform on the VT1. Trance X is lighter weight and excellent pedaling compared to the VT1. I will ride this bike for a long time. Anyone want a great deal on a VT1 in excellent condition?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noah
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: March 19, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
KLM
Strengths:
Light! Fox Shox 5 inches of travel Good Components for the money
Weaknesses:
Hayes stroker brakes. (More of a complaint for Hayes than anything)
Similar Products Used:
Giant anthem 2
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the seat
Bottom Line:
I love this bike!! Have put about 700 miles on it and except to tighten a few things due to break-in, this bike is solid. Climbs great, descends well and is quite comfortable on long rides. My only complaint is the Hayes brakes lever adjustment design. The levers move all over when your riding. The brakes work great but, it sucks when you have to pull off the trail and dig out your multi-tool to adjust the levers. I'm only giving 4 chilis for value due to the levers driving me nuts on longer rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Quentin
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney Date Reviewed: March 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Lane Cove NP
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
St Ives Cycles
Strengths:
Almost everything, its light, has Fox fork and shock, black anodized 007 inspired frame and raceface components.
Weaknesses:
Seat is hard as a rock. Shimano Deore Hydraulic Discs are not great.
Similar Products Used:
Mongoose Teocali Elite
Bike Setup:
Stock standard
Bottom Line:
This bike is the perfect introduction to dual suspension for anyone who cant decide if they want an XC or All Mountain bike. I am 75kg and have not bottomed out yet even on some decent size drops and yet its under 28lb and feels like an XC bike. I am in love.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal Date Reviewed: February 22, 2008
Favorite Trail:
sycamore/cheesboro
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
This bike is a perfect blend of bob free climber and rocketship decender. I have put over 500 miles on it and I can't find anything loose or squeaking on it and I have been abusing it pretty hard. The Meastro suspention works perfect and now with 5 inches of travel, Perfection.
Weaknesses:
Hayes Stroker Brakes. I have to adjust them before every ride and sometimes during long decents. Plan to upgrade to Shimano XT's
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, 07 Giant Trance, Gary Fisher Cake 3, DEMOed Santa Cruz Nomad.
Bike Setup:
XTR Rear, XTR crank, Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
This bike is light and nimble enough to be the perfect all round trail bike. Granted it is not a down hill monster machine, and it doesn't climb as good as my old hardtail, but it does each of those well enough to fool the average weekend warrior and it won't break the bank.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from phoenix Date Reviewed: February 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Strengths:
a five inch bike that weighs less than 30 pounds. maestro suspension is effecient and bob free, anodized paint, does everything well.
Weaknesses:
if you buy it you will want to ride it all the time at the cost of your job, education, relationships etc
Similar Products Used:
giant nrs, hardtails
Bike Setup:
all stock
Bottom Line:
the bike rocks. It descends super fast, stable, not quite a point and shoot, you still have to pick a line but it is very forgiving. pedaling efficiency is not as good as the nrs but it doesn't bob. It climbs over the gnarly stuff with ease. I've already put over 100 miles on it in less than 2 weeks. If you want a good trail bike that you can pedal nearly as well as xc but still scream downhill highly recommended. forget it if all you do is downhill. get it if you like to go fast up and down and can only have one bike
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Overall Rating:
