The Trance 1 is a hard-charging XC bike with the speed, power and suspension to land highlight-reel jumps. Its climber-friendly aluminum frame churns out power with zero pedal bob, while offering 100mm of fully active travel front and rear.
Submitted by
Holdsy
a Cross Country Rider
from South Austraila Date Reviewed: September 6, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Eagle Mountain Bike Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Private sale(second
Strengths:
Great climber (billy goat stuff), Good shock set up, great specs, Excellent bike geometry,
Weaknesses:
None that I can think of, been a little to early to judge that, I will see how long it is before I have to replace or service some of the parts.
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth Truth, Giant Alias (HD)
Bike Setup:
Stock Standard as from Giant Bikes
Bottom Line:
A fantastic Bike, really Climbs well,,No pedal bob what more could you ask for ...maybe all XT stuff but the sram seems to match the model well. I would definitely recommend this bike to any would be mountain biker, trust me it will serve you well 15 minutes on the bike told me that.
Top stuff Giant outstanding bike!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roadking1962
a Cross Country Rider
from Concord, NH - USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2009
This is a review for a 2008 Trance 1.
Lighter and betterthan my 2005 Trance. The suspension is very smooth and feels like you have more than 4 inches of travel. The bike is light and has decent components. The breakes seem iffy so far though. Amazing value for the money!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
newtranceFan
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: June 16, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sycamore Cyn Santee, CA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
friend of a friend (
Strengths:
This bike is realy nimble and fast, really comfy on downhills at higher speed and so nice to look at when waiting for slower friends. XC riders look no further this is your bike!
Weaknesses:
Like everyone says, low clearance! Gotta be proactive with pedal position on rocky uneven turns. Pedals are guaranteed to scrape when you fall asleep on it.
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr, ironhorse sinister
Bike Setup:
xt drivetrain, 80-120 'zocci bomber fork, kenda nevegals, Ti saddle
Bottom Line:
Best bike build me and my buddy have done so far, definitely worth your money when you buy the whole bike and invest on upgrades like we did. It will make you feel like a superior rider. This bike is definitely a keeper for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
presa
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami Date Reviewed: December 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
oleta
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Bells Bikes
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR, Gary Fisher Sugar, Cannondale Scalpel
Bike Setup:
2007 X1 Reba Race 100mm,Mavic crossride Wheels, fire xc tires,Race Face Evolve cranks + stem, Sram x-9 rear der.Thomson Post, WTB Devo saddle,Crank Bros Smarty pedals,
Bottom Line:
This bike is sick!
It has the ride of a Cadillac and the nimbleness of a Porche. I replaced the stock wheelset with a sturdier pair (read the WTB speed disc wheels are weak, didn't give em a chance to disappoint). Got a Thomson laidback post to give a little more arm room( felt a little cramped. I'm 5'11, frame is 18") the stock rear tire is a semi-slick, so that had to go, The Hutchinson Barracuda up front worked fine, riding panaracer fire xc now.
the Rock Shox Reba is a great fork and the Fox RP2 is smooth as butter. The Maestro suspension is the best I've had the pleasure of riding.
This bike has turned me into a loyal Giant fan!!
Kudos to Giant, they really nailed it with this one!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
xkikasskid1593x
a Racer
from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: November 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Hysro Cut (voted second best mountain biking trail in North America
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Gears and Grills
Strengths:
I do not actually compete, this bike (06) is so great, it lets you go as fast as you want to, I have had some pretty grim wipe-outs because of that(a little too FAST, airborne in the middle of a turn, landed in a tree) but the bike is good. I went past my personal limits, of vision, but the bike held its grip and its exceptional balance, and it is truly meant for DH/XC, the things I do, it is brilliant at high speeds. I had an FSR and I hated it for its lack of grip, and balance, it was REALLY hard to turn, so I trashed it on an eight foot drop off on purpose, had a little fun, and got this one. Best decision I have made about bikes.
Weaknesses:
None, except for nearly treadless stock rear tire, but I had Kenda Nevegal Stick-E s from the FSR that I destroyed.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Enduro (that did not endure me)
Bike Setup:
lock in pedals, Kenda rear Stickies, doctor prescribed gel seat
Bottom Line:
Recommended purchase, great in downhill, the 06 is hard to pedal uphill, not like in 07 or 08, but there is lots of grip, if you can get the tires turning enough to make it up the hills on the 06. Best downhill bike I have ever ridden and I have ridden a $2000 Downhill specific bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bholton@apotex.com
a Cross Country Rider
from Ancaster, ON, CDA Date Reviewed: October 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Edworthy Tracks
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Ancaster Cycle
Strengths:
Well built, super solid, decently spec'd bike. Effortless handling. Best value for the money on the market. Great bike out of the box, although I did change a few components, minor.
Weaknesses:
Spec'd grips, chain, tires. I switched to Ergon grips and don't fault Giant for not including these with the package. SRAM 951 chain. I want a chain with easy removal for cleaning. Swithced tires to my favorite Hutchinson Pythons.
I haven't had a problem with clearance as mentioned in some of the other reviews. I ride in rock gardens and pretty technical single track where clearance is an issue.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock except as noted above. Chopped the handle bars down 7cm. Now I can thread the tighter needles.
Bottom Line:
Great Bike! Awesome value! This bike handles technical climbs better than my NRS did, and the weight penalty is negligable. The bike is really fast. Pro pedal certainly enhances the speed on smooth single track. This is a fast bike, that climbs well and bombs downhill single track with confidence. The suspension system keeps the wheels in full contact with the ground so you can really lay it into the corners.
With the 2008 model frame change the rear shock no longer protrudes through a 'glory' hole. This really helps keep it clean and facilitates the cleaning process.
This bike is a solid all round performer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
seaclasper
a Weekend Warrior
from Encinitas, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Noble Canyon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Bike Warehouse
Strengths:
Takes a while to get dialed in, but the shocks are great and responsive in a lot of riding conditions. Not super light, but climbs great, and takes the downhills a hell of a lot better than my old hardtail used to! I find myself 'floating' down singletrack in a way that is very pleasing!
Weaknesses:
A lot of the stock components suck. Seriously. The tires are a joke, I would buy Kendas and put them on immediately. The saddle needs instant replacing as well. I'm not thrilled with the shifters that don't tell you what gear you're in. I thought something was really wrong with the bike for the first month until I replaced the chain and it ran smoothly. My local bike mechanic today told me I should probably replace the disc brakes! Did not come with pedals, and the grips are pretty lame. So just be aware that you'll need to spend a bit more $ to get the most out of this bike...
Bottom Line:
I can't compare this to any other full suspensions, as I just did a lot of research online and then bought this model. It's not too pricey, and great for the XC stuff I do. Handles technical climbing a lot better than my hardtail, and downhills fairly well. For a first timer like myself on full suspension, it was frustrating having so many stock components that needed replacing, and the shock setup is not all that intuitive (i.e., takes some experience before you have a clue what you're doing). Overall, I enjoy it a lot when everything has worked the way one would imagine it is supposed to for almost 2 grand, but that hasn't been often.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul0geetar
a Cross Country Rider
from BC interior Date Reviewed: August 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Crawford
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
All around performance, particularly climbing. Great spec for price. Very nimble.
Weaknesses:
As mentioned before, low clearance (this might also be a strength, it does handle nicely through corners)
Similar Products Used:
Owned XTR Stratos hardtail, old Raleigh full rigid
Tested Davinci, Opus Stakh, Trance X1, Yeti 575, some others
I've put a lot of km on this bike now, and am quite happy with it. The Nevegals that came with it work well on anything that I've tried it on except mud (they don't seem to hook up well in mud at all). It's a very stable descender for it's travel and head angle. Climbs, without a doubt, better than my hardtail. The only exception to that is when I stand and crank, and it's pretty close even then. The bb clearance is regularly a problem, my new pedals look pretty beat, but we are pretty rocky here so I suppose that's not a big surprise. Bars are pretty wide, but I haven't decided yet whether or not to cut them down. It was like a year of training for free to switch to this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ozzyguy3
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia, Victoria, Date Reviewed: June 18, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Mt Sparrow Canberra
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Strengths:
Great all round XC Full suspension bike. Plush forks and rear shock. just point and shoot at anything and it rides up the other side. Great climber, Pro pedal is awsome. SRAM Running gear is responsive, I just love it
Weaknesses:
low Ground clearance, but is traded of foor great handing with lower centre on gravity and for climbing. Hard to clean around many pivot points (But worth it for GIANT's rear linkage)
Stock with saddle change. (Standard saddle is great race saddle)
Bottom Line:
Love the bike, its light, responsive and just looks damn good with the fluid formed frame and top tube (better in real life than in pictures), test rode numerous similar products. Got on the Trance and rode it around the car park of my LBS, then took it home.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, GR Date Reviewed: June 3, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Control, comfort, climbing. Good components.
Weaknesses:
Ground Clearance. My pedals hit stones all the time that I used to pass with my HT. Rims are also on the cheap side :(
Bike Setup:
Stock!
Bottom Line:
Very comfortable and good climber! I don't get the back pains that I had with my HT. Also steep climbs are easier. Much faster in trail and downhill although in flats and uphill "feels" slower than my HT. Ground clearance is low...I have stop pedaling when there are rocks around!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, GR Date Reviewed: June 3, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Control, comfort, climbing. Good components.
Weaknesses:
Ground Clearance. My pedals hit stones all the time that I used to pass with my HT. Rims are also on the cheap side :(
Bike Setup:
Stock!
Bottom Line:
Very comfortable and good climber! I don't get the back pains that I had with my HT. Also steep climbs are easier. Much faster in trail and downhill although in flats and uphill "feels" slower than my HT. Ground clearance is low...I have stop pedaling when there are rocks around!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Young
a
from NZ Date Reviewed: May 14, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Weaknesses:
Axle crlkearance off the ground is only about 250mm so you hit a lot of stumps. Like getting knocked off the bike. I guess it keeps the centre of gravity low for better handling. THe Spec Stumpjumper clearance is about 350mm, clears a lot more obstacles.
Bottom Line:
Big trade off - clearance/ handling. Interested in any comments on this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gecko
a Weekend Warrior
from Irvine, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 1, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rock-It and Cactus
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle- Boulder, CO
Strengths:
Great, nimble handling-- does everything well from bombing down technical descents to carving tight switchbacks and singletrack; great climber with no pedal bob; very comfortable bike inspiring confidence on every ride; it's not the quickest off the line, but a superb all-rounder; build quality is excellent; love the paint job and graphics; great value for money with excellent component specs-- the product manager at Giant spec'd this bike as if it was his own ride.
Weaknesses:
Pierced downtube rear shock "cage" makes it very difficult (if not impossible) to do maintenance on the shock. One also has to install a carbon fiber shield to keep debris/dirt off the shock.
Similar Products Used:
Maverick, Cannondale, Santa Cruz, Titus, Intense
Bike Setup:
Fox F100 fork/RP3 shock; Mavic Crossmax SL wheelset; Race Face Deus XC cockpit and cranks; WTB Rocket V saddle; Shimano XTR/XT; SRAM cassette; Panaracer Fire XC Pro Tubeless tires; Hayes Nine hydraulic brakes; Race Face/ODI Lock-on grips
Bottom Line:
Great, great bike (especially for the money). I would buy the 2006 Trance 1 again in a heartbeat. It's not the best in every category, but it does everything well. You will not be disappointed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Young
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland Date Reviewed: March 13, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Macetown
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
All round great performance, Large size suits me at 189 cm tall
Weaknesses:
THe crank and shock set up attracts and holds a lot of sticky mud as there is not a lot of wheel clearance around that area
Bottom Line:
$ value for a light bike, good compromise for up and down hilling, took me to 28 of 149 on my 1st ever race at Colville
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rommel
a Cross Country Rider
from California Date Reviewed: February 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Peak, Las Llajas, Chumas, Lob Lobres, and Westridge trails
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
Local Store
Strengths:
The frame, suspension, Fork and Rear Shock, Rims/Wheels, Shifters, and hydraulic disc brakes are some of the components make the bike really great. Giant created a good combination of components for Trance 1 which makes it stand compared to other mountain bikes when comes to
Weaknesses:
Tires comes with the bike are not really good but upgrading it to Kenda make it great traction for both uphill and downhill. Saddle not really comportable but using upgraded WTB seat make it perfectly fine.
Similar Products Used:
Cannodale and Specialized
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a moutain bike either for weekend pleasure, fitness purposes, and even hardcore trail biking I recommended Giant Trance 1. This is also a best selection for beginners looking for well-deserved price all terrain bike. The price worth it and you'll enjoy each ride you make.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daemon
a
from South Africa Date Reviewed: February 12, 2008
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Makes everything easier, and gives such a smooth ride. Good for endurance racing, all mountain etc.
Weaknesses:
Climbs well but not nearly as well as my old NRS...that said on technical climbs it out preforms the NRS
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS 3
Bike Setup:
SRAM x9 shifters and rear mech, XT front mech, avid juicy 7 hydrolic brakes, thomson setback seatpost, sella italia XC saddle, raceface stem and bars, manitou minute 100-130mm shock
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike if you want a all day fun bike that can be raced. Have taken it off drops, over jumps, done north shore riding with it, lots of single day marathon races, XC lap races, and soon n 3 day stage race and the bike have yet to complain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Weekend Warrior
from Canberra, Australia Date Reviewed: September 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Mt Stromlo
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
This review is for the 2008 Trance 1. Light weight, great components for price, awesome maestro system...hardly any noticeable bob. Eats up trails, climbs brilliantly, lockout works well for home commute, SRAM running gear is smooth and direct, jumps soaked up easily. Rides noticably "lighter and faster" than specialized stumpy and '07 trance. .Paint job looks improved from older giants. Sensible cable routing.
Weaknesses:
Carbon seat a little firm for my bony butt. Not sure about the tyres yet (michelin XCR AT)seemed very slidy on wet roots (then again what isn't). Not much ground clearance for pedals especially with rear sus on "soft".
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC 2 2005
Bike Setup:
Australian stock 2008 Trance 1.
Bottom Line:
My first dually...upgraded from the lightweight but twitchy XTC after too many near misses. Fantastic bike!!! Makes XC riding a whole new level of fun!..Great value at this price (2600AUD). Looked around for 6 months including norco/specialized/BMC/GT Couldn't find a better specced or lighter XC dually for this money anywhere! Can't wait for 24hr races now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Colin Sick
a Cross Country Rider
from Crowsnest Pass, Canada Date Reviewed: August 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
the dump
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
the suspension works realy well nice and stiff the colour ( 2 tone grey ) active under braking
Weaknesses:
no quick release seat post the stock tubes were the ultralight type, I got 2 flats in my first 2 rides tough to clean the linkage
Similar Products Used:
2001 kona pahoehoe 2004 kona coiler
Bike Setup:
stock, except for the bar and stem. Race face deus with the larger clamp
Bottom Line:
I've been riding this bike for about 3 months now, and all I have to say are good things. If your not a racer, but want an efficient bike that climbs well, and rips on downhills. This is your bike. It has been realy dry this summer so this bike has seen a lot of dry rough dusty trails, and it performs realy well in these conditions. I wish it would rain out here so I could try it in the mud.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
adam
a
from fullerton Date Reviewed: June 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Bottom Line:
If you are 200 lbs plus. Do not buy this bike. Giant installs cheap bearings on the pivots. I have had over four bearing blow outs. I finally found a place that makes replacement bearing kits that are stronger. The guy over there said that the Giant Trance bearing kit is their best seller.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Tyler, TX Date Reviewed: May 26, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Great stock setup - Dual control shifters, shocks, wheel set
Weaknesses:
A little bit heavier than other options
Similar Products Used:
Trek 6700
Bike Setup:
Stock setup
Bottom Line:
I could not pass up this almost new 2006 Trance 1 on Ebay. I had test ridden a Giant Anthem and loved the setup. The dealer suggested the Trance if I wanted more of a trail bike instead of a racing bike.
I LOVE THIS BIKE! It is snappy, accelerates quickly, handles small drops, climbs like a billy goat, handles downhills with no problem, and is a blast to ride! The lock out on the front fork is great if you are using the bike for communting. There is very little pedal bob from the rear shock. I was really worried about that and it has not been a problem at all.
Bottom line - if you are looking for an excellent trail bike - look no further! You can not find a better value than a Giant!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Park City, UT Date Reviewed: May 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ridge Ride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Brothers Bikes
Strengths:
kicks butt. Having the stock shocks on the bike that allow for maximum adjustability is nice, especially when you have buddies in bike shops to help you adjust them. Without having too much knowledge about geometry and all, I'll just say that it's a sweet ride.
Weaknesses:
people mention the bottom bracket being too low. I say, adjust your pedaling style. I guess that's a weakness. The rear tire needed replacement, but that's an area specific problem.
Similar Products Used:
Tried a Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I upgraded from an LX based Raleigh hardtail I had been riding for 7 years. One might say it's hard to not improve, but I looove this bike. As much as I don't know about the fox float on back, I find hardly any bob when it's locked in and when I'm flyin down the trail with propedal off, it makes love to the turns and absorbs the bumps with sweet soulful satisfaction. This bike has made riding fun again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
justin hail
a Cross Country Rider
from fernie Date Reviewed: May 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
the muff
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
This is just a nice Mountain bike. It climbs well, it's comfortable to ride, and it's fun on the descents.
Weaknesses:
I've been dh riding for the last few years so the high seat is taking some getting used to, so a quick release seat clamp would be nice.
Similar Products Used:
none have never owned a trail bike before.
Bike Setup:
stock except for race face duece stem and bar with the larger diameter clamp.
Bottom Line:
I bought this bike because I wanted to go out into the mountains and ride up as well as down. This bike is almost weird to ride because it just works realy well. It's smooth, fast, and the handling is bang on perfect. I suggest anyone looking at this style of bike strongly consider trying a Giant, this is my first Giant product and I'm thinking already for next year buying a Glory DH for the bike park.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Riverview, FL Date Reviewed: May 14, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Abyss
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
AJ's bike and Board
Strengths:
Everything about this bike ROCKS!! The components are great all SRAM X9 or equal. The wheel are nice the cockpit is very comfortable. The suspension eats up most anything in its way. Bike just oozes confidence. Easy point and pedal interface works like a dream and the meastro suspenion with the FOX RP2 shock works well in climbs and tough decents!
Weaknesses:
Only thing weak on this bike would be the grips they are thin and hard, upgrade these and you are good to go! Don't know if I would call this a weakness but the spoke guard behind the rear casette broke after a good tumble.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized stumpy and epic. KHS Alite, and XC604
Bike Setup:
Stock with specialzed bar ends and grips and candy SL pedals/cleats
Bottom Line:
BUY ONE. All you have to do is point and pedal and the bike takes care of the rest. the suspension once tuned right will amaze you. Eats up everything from roots, small/medium rocks, sand. It works great! Should be used as a XC/Trail bike. Might be a little heavy for hardcore XC racers but for everyone else this bike will serve its purpose. Don't buy for freeriding or big jumps 6+ feet
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben P
a Weekend Warrior
from Surrey, United Kingdom Date Reviewed: May 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Telegraph Road on Holmbury hill,Peaslake, Surrey, U.K
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Nirvana Cycles, Westcott, Surrey, U.K
Strengths:
Sexy hydro formed tubes, Excellect Fox RP3 rear shock, great for all day rides
Weaknesses:
Hard to clean without a decent bike cleaning brush set as the rear shock mount has lots of tight areas for dirt to get trapped.
Similar Products Used:
n/a
Bike Setup:
hope/mavic wheels, hope mono mini brakes, easton ea50 bar,stem and post, DMR V8 pedals, WTB rocket V saddle, Manitou Splice Comp 130mm fork, Shimano LX holotech 2 chainset, Deore shifters and mechs, Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres.
Bottom Line:
A great XC bike that is nimble and easy to chuck around but can also inspires confidence.I love this bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martin Daris
a
from Québec, Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: April 21, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very Stiff lateraly, good geometry, Pedals well, good traction, minimal pedal kickback and brakejack. Comfy! Linear travel. Adustability, Heavy duty
Weaknesses:
Frame is a bit on the heavy side but I wanted something that would last me more than two seasons.
Similar Products Used:
A lot! Rocky Mountain element, Devinci Banzai, Oryx Hurricane, GT I drive, Giant NRS , etc...
Bike Setup:
Trance frameset (fox RP23), Rockshox revelation u-turn air (awesome fork!), Avid juicy 7's, Mavic Crossride (turned tubeless with a 20" bmx tube trimmed down as a rim strip), LX crankset and XT all the way...
Bottom Line:
A very fun and capable bike! I wanted a real trailbike, not a race oriented XC bike. I'm a former DH racer so I wanted a more relaxed geometry, something I would be happy on the downhills and that can go up as well. Something I could ride for hours, having fun! The Trance is what it's all about... The fox RP23 is awesome! I set it up pretty firm on the prodedal mode for long climbs and I ride it in the open mode most of the time. My set up works fine for me, yes I have to weight down the front end on the way up when the trail becomes very steep but it's well worth the effort cause my position on the flats and dh is perfect! Have fun aboard a Trance! Trance'form your ride...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Kansas City Date Reviewed: April 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bike Stop
Strengths:
Very Fast,smooth,tight handling.
Weaknesses:
The Hayes brakes are a little touchy, very powerful but gotta watch how much brake you pull. Wheels are Wtb and DT swiss but I am saving for a set of Chris Kings or Industry Nines. Also gonna change the brakes out for Codes or Juicys if I dont find a way to tame the brakes down.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Fsr xc and Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock Trance 1 but I have ordered a Race Face 50mm stem and 2"inch rise bars for it.
Bottom Line:
My buddy bought a Fsr xc and I got the Trance 1. Now after riding a month he wishes he had gotten a Trance. I dont get why people say the pedals hit cause the fsr xc has shorter cranks and lower bb height and they hit the ground when turning around. I bought this bike sight unseen because a year along I test rode one at a bike shop. So this year when it was time to buy a bike and after riding everything out there that was available locally, I ordered the Trance and I am not sorry one bit. This has to be the best bike out there in all price ranges and the sad part is most of local bike stores in town push Specialized and sorry but I think they are not half the bike the Trance is....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Miguel Chedas
a Weekend Warrior
from Sintra, Portugal Date Reviewed: April 2, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Rear suspension highly active and efficient Feels quite fast on all kinds of terrains Very stiff frame Price /quality relation Very precise/stiff and manouverable handling
Weaknesses:
Low bottom bracket, which is responsible for the fantastic handling, makes pedals hit the ground quite often in rooty or rocky terrains Gearing could be smoother
Similar Products Used:
Several
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Schwalbe Nobby Nic in front
Bottom Line:
I have purchased about 2500 for a 2006 model, which has fantastic equipment. I haven't been able to test it on descents, as i have a bad wrist at this moment, but the bike climbs very well and let's you pedal hard over every kind of terrain as you were on a flat surface. It's amazing how efficient and active it is at the same time. I think it could only get more efficient with losses on comfort. There are significant differences between the 3 ProPedal settings, besides what other people say here, and in the harder setting it almost locks (which is good for tarmac). I am enjoying very much this bike and hope to be able to descent it hard very soon... This bike is amazing for all the guys that love descent, like me, but spend 85% of the time climbing because of the area they live in. You can buy it with confidence as it won't let you down!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonnie
a
from PH Date Reviewed: March 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Best all round Mountain bike around. Climbs like a true XC Single tracks with a huge smile on your face Rides the technical stuff like a 6"
Weaknesses:
The frame is a bit heavy, but for what you can do with it sub 13KG isn't too bad.
Similar Products Used:
Trance 2
Bike Setup:
Reba Team fork, SRAM gears (better than th Shimano stock) Shortened stem (90mm), helps tighten up the steering on the single tracks and makes no difference to the cimbing abilities.
Bottom Line:
Recomended to anyone who loves comming back after a day out with a huge smile on their face....
A bit pricey, but look around for 2006 stock deals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kostas
a Cross Country Rider
from athens,greece Date Reviewed: March 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
good components,lively geometry
Weaknesses:
brakes drag but there is chance it's my fault.low bottom bracket.
Bike Setup:
reba race,rp2,hayes hfx-9,race face all around,xt front mech,sram x-9 rear.
Bottom Line:
using a full sussy for 1st time makes me the last person to have an opinion.the bike made me a better+more confident biker from day 1.didn't like the low bottom bracket,although i had a problem only when pedalling required to take place in real technical rock garden.the rp2 has a problem with the rebound knob.when i move the pro pedal the rebound knob moves.this isn't normal,right? it's a xc bike and can do almost everything other bikes with a lot more suspension do.at least at our local trails.it bobs a bit but if you focus on spinning perfect circles you forget the bob.i guess i like it.for sure i will tell after a whole year.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthony Hocking
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, VIC, Australia Date Reviewed: February 12, 2007
Favorite Trail:
You Yangs (AU) & anything Nth Shore Vancouver
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
The Freedom Machine
Strengths:
Wicked climber...best I have ridden UNBEATABLE spec'd components. Nobody beats Giant for this. Maestro suspension. Brilliant. Did I mention the component level? XO Sram rear, Race Face, Mavic X-Max, Fox RP23, RockShox Reba World Cup, Easton E70.
Weaknesses:
Juicy 5 brakes are not up to spec for a bike like this. Would be better with XT Brakes. Rear Shock is somewhat exposed underneath to debris & water Seat could be better Paint, while having the coolest 2 tone pearl paint job, is a little on the thin side. Use clear tabs to protect paint from cable rub.
Gravity Dropper seatpost with remote lever - THE best upgrade you can put on any bike. Totally changed the way I ride. Panaracer Dart tyre on front. Avid G2 2007 cleansweep rotors Time Atack pedals
Bottom Line:
This is simply one of the best "all round" bikes in the workd. Flick the ProPedal setting to Firm, and it nearly hardly bobs and feels firm. Set it to soft...and your plush all the way down the mountain. Then theres always the medium setting when your not sure. Great balance, damn sexy look, Light (20" model is 26lbs.
If you want an agressive trail/XC bike that climbs and decends without compromise...this is it.
A SRAM spec's model will give you far better gear performance than even the new Shimano XTR.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stefanos
a Weekend Warrior
from Greece Date Reviewed: February 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
zweirad-stadler.de
Strengths:
1) Great suspension 2) Great components 3) Great price
Weaknesses:
They have already been mentioned... 1) Heavy frame 2) Tires don't grip well 3) Cables rub on seat tube
Similar Products Used:
None. First FS.
Bike Setup:
Stock with 07 XTR pedals
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2006 Trance 1.
Price: I paid 2200 euros, 35% off european list price. Zweirad-stadler.de has little stock but great prices and service. Incredible value for the money.
Suspension: I'd like to add that there is SOME pedal bob. It seems to depend on the cassette chainrings rather than on the front chainrings. I don't agree that the propedal lever dosn't change that. It does. It's not supposed to be a full lockout. Anyway, I never use it and I don't lock the fork either.
Frame: Heavy, although I can't say it slows me down.
Components: Top. Don't like the XT shifters though. Seatpost up/down tilt squirks. Rear brake pads touch the rotor, still have not worn properly after 20 hours of ride. Tires suck on rocks and corners.
Ride: Great suspension offers good grip both uphill and downhill. Long stem is good and keeps the front wheel on the ground all the times.
If you are a racer, there are plenty of other bikes to consider (but I think you can still race the Trance). If you like downhills, you will want different geometry and longer suspension. But if you ride 2-3 times a week with your friends, if you enjoy going both uphill and downhill, if you ride both fire roads and singletrack and if you are looking for a comfortable and quality ride, this bike is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Stopford
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: February 1, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Chain Reaction Christchurch
Strengths:
Awesome frame and suspension. Smooth! Stock Fox RPS2 shock, Reba dual-air fork with lock-out. Set up by Chain Reaction and left as is - perfect. Ability to stiffen both ends for road ride home helps too. Juicy Five discs great.
Weaknesses:
Stock grips (too hard).Stock tyres(Hutchinson)good for dry only. Rear brake binding a little. Caliper rubs on rotor, but easily fixed. Not convinced with Sram X9, but will get used to it.
Similar Products Used:
Early GT LTS full suspension (put me off FS for a while!) Specialised FSR Giant Anthem (tested)
Bike Setup:
Stock Fox RPS2 shock, Reba fork. Set up by shop and left as is - perfect. Changed to Kenda Nevagal after one ride. Protected frame immediately with scuff film (Flat finishes always mark easily).
Bottom Line:
This bike exceeds expectations - I chose it on the strength of other reviews here, and really happy. Liked Anthem test bike as serious race bike, but Trance suits me better for long trail rides. I found it easy to get used to, and wondered why I suffered hardtail so long!
In the month I've had it, I've ridden at every opportunity! I'm able to climb better, descend better, and everything in between. The stock suspension is so plush, the only time I adjust it is for the road ride home. Sure there are a few improvements that can be made, but the basics are right on the mark.
Highly recommended to anyone wanting balanced all-round trail bike. If you are one of those die-hard hard tail riders not getting any younger, you need to ride one of these. Your body will thank you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob guerin
a Weekend Warrior
from vacaville, CA Date Reviewed: January 1, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Rockville Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
This is my first full sus bike. I had a Trek 9800 carbon fiber for 10 years. I took a 5 year break from riding. When I started riding again about 6 months ago, I realized that my old bike just wasn't good enough so it was time to upgrade to a full suspension bike. I love the Hayes disc brakes!!! Night and day from Shimano V brakes. The Fox RP3 and Rock Shox Reba work well together. The bike has no bob when peddling. It climbs very good and is great for the fast single tracks that I ride.
Weaknesses:
On my first ride, the front wheel wouldn't stay on the ground. This made it difficult to climb hills. By changing the seat angle and moving the seat forward on the rail that problem was resolved. I also had too much air pressure in the tires. This made the tire bounce off the rocks and loose traction on climbs. The Reba fork took a little bit of adjustment but not much. It took some time and help from my local bike shop to set up the bike properly for me but now it runs great!
Similar Products Used:
I was interested in the Specialized Stumpy FSR and the Trek Fuel. These were the two other bikes in my price range of about $2,000.
Bike Setup:
This bike was custom built. It has full Shimano XT compnents, Rock Shox Reba Race fork, Fox RP3 shock with Pro Pedal, Race Face Deus Crank, Hayes HFX -9 Carbon levers with 6"disc brakes and Sun DS1-xc rims with Shimano hubs.
Bottom Line:
After about 3 rides on this bike (it took that long to work out some bugs and set it up to my likeing) I am loving it! I am riding faster and with more confidence than ever before. I can't tell that the shock and fork are moving - no bobbing but I can see from the zip ties that they are moving alot. This bike rides really smoothhhhhh. I got a screaming deal from a bike dealer on Ebay. However, it is key to build a quality relationship with your local bike shop - Rays Bikes in Vacaville - Hey Mike. They were a big help when it came to setting up my bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Warren
a Cross Country Rider
from Johannesburg, South Africa Date Reviewed: December 22, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
Overall nicely set up and excellent spec for the price. Haven't had a single mechanical problem, including on a 4 day stage race. Pedals well up hills, and great control on fast technical downhills.
Weaknesses:
I've had big hassles with the paint chipping easily and plenty of cable rub through the paint in a couple of short rides. This needs early attention on a new bike. I fitted single piece outers and used plenty of zip ties, plus some rubbing strips.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS 2
Bike Setup:
Avid Juicy brakes, SRAM X0 shifters and rear derrailer, cross max wheels, Fox RP3 Rear Shock and Fox RL 100 Fork
Bottom Line:
Get one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bazy bazy
a Cross Country Rider
from leeds west yorkshire Date Reviewed: December 6, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$5000.00
Purchased At:
simpley the bike shop
Strengths:
this bike is just the best..very little bob..great for climbing..top down hill bike..just a top all round bike
Weaknesses:
none so fare
Bike Setup:
chris king headset mavic sl wheels thomson post and stem.Specialized toupe seat..full xtr brake crank rear mech fron mech..dual shifters..aztec wavey rotors 160 rear 180 fron...fsa k force carbon bars..xtr 959 pedels..all bolts Titanum..front forks 2007 rockshock reba wold cup..salsa scewers xtr rear block..lizerd skin grips
Bottom Line:
i just bought the frame....iv ony just finshed building this bike...and i think is the best there is out there for all day riding...its light...about 26 lbs..like i said its just a top allround bike..buy one..and i tel you you will not want to go home..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
evan pearce-davis
a Cross Country Rider
from hobart Date Reviewed: December 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
glenorchy mtb park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
treadlies 07 trance1
Strengths:
Seemless suspension movement,eats up the rocks and ditches whilst maintaining a super smooth ride.light and agile on the decents.Strong climber also.
Weaknesses:
stock pedals are low quality.
Similar Products Used:
trek fuel,specialized stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
The bike is stock with the 07 parts at this time except I upgraded the pedals to a set of time.
Bottom Line:
If you are a xc fan who likes to push it and even do a little downhill,then this is the bike for you.It can ride the trails and hills and decents all day and still feel comfertable.quality giant parts and engineering make this bike a real gun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn Gold
a Weekend Warrior
from PA Date Reviewed: November 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Ridge
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
Holmes
Strengths:
Solid suspension design and nice frame. Great value and as usual great Giant engineering. Suspension performs as advertised.
Weaknesses:
Cosmetic only. Giants typical lame graphics, but you don't ride the graphics.
Similar Products Used:
2001 NRS 1
Bike Setup:
I bought the Trance 4 Frame and added Manitou Minute 2 Fork, Hayes Disc Brakes, Mavic Tubeless Rims, FSA V-Drive Megaexo crank, Easton EA 50 Seatpost, XT Rear Derailer and Cassette, LX Front Derailer, Deore Shifters.
Bottom Line:
This Bike rides great both up and down the trail. Great traction from the rear suspension. You can't go wrong with this bike. No it does not have the botique appeal of the Santa Cruz Blur but I would venture to say the performace is on par or better and for alot less money. Make sure your bike comes with the carbon shock cover and make sure to grease the seatpost and seatpost clamp.
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
G Money
a Weekend Warrior
from el segundo, ca USA Date Reviewed: September 28, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Suspension concept, Fox Float RP3, Construction and Welds,
Weaknesses:
white...i don't like riding on a bathtub or toilet
Similar Products Used:
Everything under the sun
Bike Setup:
Fox f100rl XTR brakes and shifters (disc) King wheelset mavic tubless, race face dues xc, thompson throughout eggbeaters
Bottom Line:
I thought that I was happy getting my heavy Kona Bear Deelux down to 24 pounds and be able to ride it hard and climb like a god and that I would never get another bike. Put together a trance 1 for a lady client of mine and rode it for two seconds and that was it. Once I put my own bike together and tested it on the mountain I was more than sold. this thing weighs in at a hefty 27 lbs but I ride a 21 pound Kona Kula Primo and I am maybe 30 seconds slower on my favorite climb. It is hard to beat. the RP3 is amazing. At this point the way the bike rides I don't mind the white in fact it could be pink for all I care. The tracking on single track is amazing on this bike and it is so fast and sure of itself. there are some big difference in the shock placement between the older trance 1's and the 06' trance 1's and i think it might make a difference but the reviews have always been great for any of the trance lines. This bike can't be beat. and if you know how to shop on eBay maybe you too can buy a 1200.00 frame for 300.00...good luck!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Weekend Warrior
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: September 4, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Depends on the conditions
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
LBS & Internet
Strengths:
Very little pedal bob (yes there is some), progressive rear suspension makes it feel like it has 6" of travel, handling in the tight stuff, climbing, absolutely no brake jack, and most of all VALUE.
Weaknesses:
Cable rubbing on frame in a few spots, exposed rear shock (I bought the bike early enough that it didn't come with the carbon fiber shock guard).
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, Gary Fisher Cake, Santa Cruz Blur, Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Trance 1 frame w/RP3, Fox Talas RLC fork, Sram X9 shifters and rear der., XT Front der., Avid BB7 brakes w/SD7 levers, Race Face Evolve cranks/seatpost/stem/bar, Run Rhyno lite/XT wheels, Time ATAC XS pedals, Oury Grips.
Bottom Line:
I bought the frame from my LBS, bought most of the component group from Price Point, and some from Jenson. Hands down the best value for a 4.2" full suspension bike. Very little pedal bob; less than any other full suspension bike I've ridden. Absolutely no brake jack. Progressive rear suspension makes the rear end feel like it has 6" of travel. I have yet to bottom it and I have taken it off 3+ foot drops. This thing climbs like a goat (especially with the lockout on the Talas); better than any hardtail I've ridden. It also descends over rough technical stuff very well. Bike weight was 29.5 lbs complete, but I honestly don't think it feels that heavy unless I have to carry it. Gary Fisher wanted twice the price of this Trance 1 frame for thier Cake frame! IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK, THIS IS THE BIKE FOR YOU. RIDE ONE........YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ted
a Cross Country Rider
from SC Date Reviewed: August 29, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Employees purchase @ LBS
Strengths:
Great construction. Better design on shock mount than previous model, much stronger. Excellent suspension design. I got this one because of the similarities to Santa Cruz VPP. Nice Hydroformed tubing. Sealed cartridge bearings. No big flashy graphics.
Weaknesses:
White paint job. Internal headset. This may be an advantage to others, but I prefer standard headtubes and King headsets. If there is a machining problem at time of headtube construction, it can't be fixed with a simple headetube facing tool. However, I haven't had any problems with it to this point. A bit heavier than other VPP type bikes due to the extra material in the tube shapes. But this makes for a stiffer ride.
All of the Trance models use the exact same frame with the components being the only difference. An excellent bike for a great price. I purchased this as a frame only through the shop I work for as I do with most of my bikes. It's best to ride what you sell I think. Of all the bikes I've ridden, this is the next best thing to my Blur. In some cases it's better on the downhills in the "Real Mountains" of western NC due to it's beefy construction. This is an excellent bike as long as you don't want to race it in short XC races. It's probably a better 24hr or 100 mile machine. Durable, relatively light, and excellent suspension design and performance. Regarding the shock being exposed behind the rear wheel, Giant makes a little fender that mounts on the underside of the downtube via the single bolt and two indentations on the side. They cost about $60 and are made of carbon fiber. DON'T buy one. Make one yourself out of anything plastic. I used a peice of plastic from a milk jug traced and cut to fit over the opening. You should also.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pete derrick
a Cross Country Rider
from somers,mt,usa Date Reviewed: July 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
reed devide
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
great working suspension, efficiency in pedaling, ability to climb the steapest climbs and bomb the most techincal downhillsq
Weaknesses:
tires are the worst
Similar Products Used:
cannondale jekyll giant vt giant reign
Bike Setup:
stock except with maxxis ignitor 2.1 rear and 2.3 front tubeless
Bottom Line:
great bike buy it the last bike you will ever need does it all, no questions asked
i race this bike at our local tue night races and have an absolut ball aboard this bike. it does everything i would possibly need in a bike. it was a great choice. if i were going to do more racing (more than tue night local rides) than i would have gone with the anthem. i can ride this bike anywhere i rode my reign, except i'm quicker on the flats and the climbs. and i hold my own on the decents. you will not be dissapointed in this bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
phil
a Cross Country Rider
from so cal Date Reviewed: July 16, 2006
stock, but changed tire to specialized pro front, and back
Bottom Line:
this is the bike for my riding. i have an epic s-works, loved that bike, till i rode the trance 1. going up climbs, i know this is not a racer, but it sure seems more efficient pedelling than the epic. i think with no bobbing, compared to too much with the epic. i had to look down to see if i had a fourth front chain ring. i will put a dust cover on my epic. with the new tires i put on today, this machine really handels if were on rails, at any speed. I have been riding it now for a week, and i cannot get off the bike. the ride is smooth, without any effort. props to joel at agoura cycles. they are great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Giancarlo Pelosi
a Weekend Warrior
from Miramar, Florida, USA Date Reviewed: July 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Markham Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2900.00
Purchased At:
Bell's Bicycles
Strengths:
Excellent ride through technical trails and adapts really well through smooth trails. Very strong ride for us heavier riders. Can take beating and you get a bigger bang for your buck. Great high end package/parts out of the box.
Weaknesses:
Needs to be offered in more colors and in an anodized finish.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight and Cannondale Rush 1000.
Bike Setup:
Race Face Dues XC components/crankset X-Type, XTR rear der ,XT front der, Fox F100RL fork and Float RP3 rear suspension, Mavic Crossmax SL's, Hayes 9 carbon/hydro brakes, XT rotors, XT HG73 chain, WTB Rocket V Stealth saddle, Chris King headset, Kenda Navegal UST tires, SRAM 990 cassette, and ODI lock-on grips.
Bottom Line:
Excellent bike. The best I have ever ridden through hell. Great deal with great high end components. Strongly recommend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
garrette haskins
a Cross Country Rider
from brooksville,fl u.s. Date Reviewed: May 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
santos trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
joe haskins bike shop
Strengths:
no pedal bob, climbs like a goat,great componets for the price
Weaknesses:
the colorand the grips
Similar Products Used:
giant ac
Bike Setup:
stock except tires changed to mavic tubeless,our grips,and cane creek bar ends
Bottom Line:
over all best bang for the buck,this bike is ready to hit the trail right out of the box,i've put about 80 miles on the bike and no problems yet
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from Australia Date Reviewed: May 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sparrow Hill (against the arrows)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Suspension platform + RP3. Low bottom bracket. Perfect head angle. Just an awesome bike to ride gently or agrressively.
Weaknesses:
WARNING TO TRANCE OWNERS: Do not tighten black top cap on main pivot axles too tightly. It may snap off. Same for all Meastro bikes. I am not the first to snap mine. Word is Giant know this and are fixing the design. Pro-Pedal on RP3 has little variation in different settings, but I don't care. I just stick it in the middle and forget it is an option.
Similar Products Used:
My previous bike that was most similar was the awesome Norco 4x (also reviewed on MTBR).
Bike Setup:
Hayes, Maxxis Larsen TTs, 5" Marzocchi Z1s, FOX RP3. Single 32T chainring with MRP, 34T biggest cog on cluster. Without a granny ring I can't get up the steepest trails but I can walk my bike a little once a month but its is worth it as the chain never comes off.
Bottom Line:
In a word: SUPERB! I am reviewing the frame only (I got the frame from friends who put the parts on a Blur. Thank you! Their loss is my gain!). My current set-up with the Trance frame is the best bike I've had. And I've had a lot. Similar aggressive angles to the Norco 4x (which was loved to death), but the frame is noticably lighter. I was worried that Maestro didn't work as well as the FSR design on the Norco for climbing, bump absorption and braking but... wow. I mean wow. In combination with the RP3 this bike rides smooth as silk (I like to double-up roots and rocks and bumps so I run the pressure on the RP3 30lbs more than my weight in lbs). The wheels stick to the ground so grip is amazing, even on what should be chattery corners (Larsens also a big factor here, but they can't grip if they are bouncing around, can they?). Some people complain about hitting pedals/cranks but I very rarely hit mine. If I do, I am doing something wrong: i.e. be mindful of where your cranks are when you are in a rock garden, learn techniques to maintain forward travel without completely rotating your cranks, and unless your surname is Vouilloz, your inside pedal should not be down when cornering! Nice bike on simple rhythm jumps. DHers, Huckers, Weight Weenies and aggressive free-riders stay away from this bike. There are other Giant Maestro bikes out there for you. But if you only want one bike that does everything else well, this is for you. The Trance is a great all day trail bike. And it rails around corners which I love. I lend it to anyone who wants a go and they love it too. 5 chllis for value: you can't beat Giants for value for money (this is my fourth). 5 chillis for love and fun and happiness.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dirt Digler
a Cross Country Rider
from Palo Alto, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
technical and fast
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3600.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle in Boulder, CO
Strengths:
Light, no pedal bob, climbs like a champ, fast and fairly nimble on the descents, pretty, pretty in ann white- like a wedding day bride, a great deal for a sick bike.
Weaknesses:
I hate this rapid rise crap. The shock is definitely exposed to dirt and debris on the downtube. Giant sure put a long stem on this baby.
Similar Products Used:
Maverick ML7, Gary Fisher Sugar, Cannondale Jekyl
Bike Setup:
xtr, crossmax, fox front and rear- the factory stuff.
Bottom Line:
So far, so good. The bike rides as well as any 4 inch travel bike i've been on, and its a great deal if you're the kinda guy who owns an 95 toyots truck and 5 bikes, but its cheaper than many in the high end. She's a very pretty bike with all white and the chrome race face deus cranks. I'm am a bit worried about the longevity of the rear shock with all of the debris and water it is exposed too- we'll wait and see. someone should come up with something aftermarket- do you hear me lizard skins?! I'll review again when I've had more time ont the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Date Reviewed: April 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere in Colorado and Moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Westside Cycling and Fitness
Strengths:
Best Rear Suspension for a 4" Travel bike made. Even better with a rear shock mod from Push Industries.
Weaknesses:
Front Forks dive too much. Cable routing rubs rear frame and wears out paint quickly. Standard rapid rise derailier was awkward for me to use.
Similar Products Used:
Titus Motolite, Specialized Stumpjumper Anniverary addition.
Bike Setup:
Race Face Next Carbon Bars, Standard Shimano XTR rear derailier, Push suspension revalve (these guys are great). Kenda Nevegal rear tire, Kenda Blue Groove front tire
Bottom Line:
Great value in a nice XC full Suspension bike. Handles well, rear Suspension is excellent. Climbs well. Very fun to ride. Makes you want to go out to ride more.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Derek
a Cross Country Rider
from Guelph Date Reviewed: March 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Guelph lake/Hydro Cut
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Very efficient,Good parts specification, very fun to ride!
Weaknesses:
Extreme frame modification from 2005 model. Rear shock is now completely exposed behind front tire. Very bad for seals and shaft on shock.
Similar Products Used:
trek fuel ex, gary fisher cake
Bottom Line:
very nice bike but I don't think I will buy it due to the rear shock issue. I know this isn't a "real review" as I do not own the bike, but I wanted to let other mtbr's know that this might be something to consider before buying it. take a good look online...or in better yet go to a local shop where they have 2005/2006 models.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl
a Cross Country Rider
from Knoxville, TN USA Date Reviewed: January 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The one to your momma's house
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
Harper's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Efficient, agile, active suspension, cool blue color, hot wheelset and part spec, carbon fiber!
Weaknesses:
Low bottom bracket makes pedals hit ground a lot over uneven terrain. Low chain clearance causes chain suck when dropping to the granny ring if you hit any bumps while shifting. Low amount of rear tire clearance causes leaves, mud, and sticks to get stuck in the frame. Why didn't this bike come with tubeless tires? Why no carbon bar to match the seatpost?
Stock, except I put a shorter stem and a carbon handle bar, and of course tires that don't lick nuts. Currently running a Maxxis highroller 2.35 up front and a Ranchero 2.0 in rear, but looking to run an ADvantage 2.1 in the rear as soon as I can get my hands on one. Go tubeless. Tubes are stupid.
Bottom Line:
This is a very excellent cross-country racer type bike. I have enjoyed mine very much, but it has made me wanna chuck it off a cliff a few times. The chain suck issue is a major problem, but I kinda got used to clipping my pedals on rocks/roots all the time. I'm going to sell my frame and fork and build up a Yeti 575 with the leftovers. Overall: great bike, but not without its flaws.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SteppenW
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: January 25, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sparrow Hill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
2nd Hand
Strengths:
Outstanding suspension; Good mix of quality parts; Relatively light; Avid Juicy brakes.
Weaknesses:
Cable rub on frame; Fox forks blow seals; There's not a lot of clearance at the drop-outs when removing the rear wheel.
Similar Products Used:
Alloy hardtail; NRS; Tested various other FS bikes.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for pedals (Xpedo Ti)and a pair of stubby bar-ends.
Bottom Line:
A relaxed yet responsive XC recreational trail bike. Yes, you can race on it - just a little heavy for short, fast events. I use it for the added level of comfort on 24hr races. The rear doesn't stiffen under brakes. It doesn't bob and the Pro-Pedal shock is mostly unnecessary.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
larry
a
from melville NY Date Reviewed: January 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
rocky point
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
grand bike
Strengths:
travel,it smokes thru turns,the ride as a whole
Weaknesses:
the way the pedals hit rocks and such,thats it
Similar Products Used:
giant xtc, this is my first duelly
Bike Setup:
xtr here and there mixed in with some xt stuff,kenda nevagal 2.1 with stans no-tubes,fox vanilla r in the front,thompson stem and seat tube
Bottom Line:
the bike is a joy.Got it as a frame built it up with the stuff i already had.Was having some trouble with the pedals hitting ,but seems to be better since i raised the pressure in the rear.Have not noticed any pedal feedback what so ever.I'm 40 and my lower back has had it after about an hour and a half in the saddle,rode for two hours the other day and wanted to keep going but had to get to work.This bike is the real deal,buy one you will never look back.I'm paying bit of a weight penalty running the fox vanila up front,but that thing rides like butter
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pavel Borodulin
a Weekend Warrior
from Moscow, Russia Date Reviewed: December 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1180.00
Purchased At:
GIANT Russia
Strengths:
efficient constant suspension, great geometry - very nimble bike
Weaknesses:
links full open for all mood from the wheels
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher SUGAR 1 2002, NORCO Fluid 1 2003, various hardtails
Bike Setup:
20", RS Reba Team 100,Mavic CrossMax XL/CrossRoc, XT Drivetrain, WTB seatpost, Thomson 100mm stem, Easton EA70 660mm riser, Hayes Mags, TIME Attacs
Bottom Line:
Great working bike for epic/all day riders - it's no doubt for me
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Earlysville, Va. USA Date Reviewed: December 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
My farm
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Strengths:
Maestro Suspension Fox F100 fork Hayes brakes Great value
Weaknesses:
Seatpost-Carbon breaks Tires What the Hell does propedal really do?
Similar Products Used:
Test road over 15 bikes
Bike Setup:
Stock other than a Thompson Seatpost, and Velociraptor tires
Bottom Line:
I love this thing for east coast single track, tight cornering, great climbing and sucks up the rooty bumps and logs. It can take medium jumps and drops like they are nothing. Climbs like it is on a cable. It is not a down hill bike or a Moab style bike. Can you ride it that way, sure, it will take the abuse, but you won't be getting the most out of your ride. If hucking big stuff is your style, look for something else for certain. If you love technical single track with the occasional medium drop, the Trance 1 will be your dream ride in no time. Also consider a set of "training wheels" if you are gonna race this thing, I blew out a spoke on a CrossMax in the first two months while bunny hoping logs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from GA Date Reviewed: October 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Pilchers pond
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Dalton Bicycles(awesome shop)
Strengths:
efficient, light, always active, small bump compliance, no brake jack or pedal bob!
Weaknesses:
No weaknesses whatsoever
Similar Products Used:
nothing compares
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This bike rules!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug Jones
a Weekend Warrior
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: October 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dry Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Bob's
Strengths:
Great setup for the price. Descends like banshee. I have noticed the propedal RP3 get somewhat cushier as you adjust it down. Lockout on the Float RL 100 is nice for grinding climbs. The downhill, oh the descent.
Weaknesses:
I didn't even mess with the tires. Had the shop toss on some new Kendas (at no charge). Have noticed that pedal clearance can be low, banged on a rock or two half dozen times in 10 rides.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Sugar, Cake 1
Bike Setup:
Stock, save the Kenda Nevegal and Blue Groove. Time pedals.
Bottom Line:
You can't argue with the setup on Big Blue. If you are a weight watcher you may scoff at the total setup. But, I have noticed zero bob compared to the Gary Fishers I have been on. Even my buddy with the "brain" follows and watches for bob, he may be amusing me but says it is stable. Climbs well and descends like a dream. I do a majority of my rides in the dark and I feel comfortable on stuff that I would not have been on my previous bike. Happy Trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex Halliday
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Albans Great Britain Date Reviewed: October 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Skyline @ Afan a Goed
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
Addiktion Cycles
Strengths:
This bike is truely a great bike to ride. It climbs brilliantly and goes down hill faster than anything i have ever owned or tried. In singletrack it it is just point and go. You have no idea the suspension is working until you get off and see you have gone all the way through the stroke on the shock, without even noticing
Weaknesses:
If i had to find something i would say it is a tad on the heavy side, but that is being really picky as it rides better than anything i've had that is lighter
Similar Products Used:
I have had a Rocky Mountain ETSX 70 and a Giant NRS. I tested a load of bikes before i chose this.
Bike Setup:
Reba team forks, full XTR inc DC levers. DT 240 hubs/mavic rims, Race face next carbon bars and seatpost Deus stem
Bottom Line:
The best 4 inch bike i have ridden. It is fast and furious when you get it going and it is so confidence inspiring, you just know it is going to stay stuck to the ground over everything. Climbing is a breeze on it, especially over technical stuff. Singletracks just dissappear beneath you and downhills are just dam fast. You can race it xc or enduro/24 hours or just ride all day and does everything really well then this is the puppy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russ
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County Date Reviewed: September 23, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Strengths:
Fantastic climbing machine and decents are blissful.
Weaknesses:
the paint job sucks. After a hand full of rides, I'm getting signficant cable wear on the paint. The Medium frame weighs in at 7lbs! I'm a weight weenie so i verified this.
Similar Products Used:
I've owned a 04 NRS2, 03 Specialized EPIC DISC
Bike Setup:
T1 Frame set w/RP3 rr shock. XT Hollowtech II, Xt Shifters, Xt Brakes, XTR Wheelset w/XT discs, XTR RR Derailer, XT frt Der., EC 90 Seat Post, Monkeylite Riser bar. 27lbs!!
Bottom Line:
As you can see, I came from nice racing bikes ie the NRS and Epic. I now consider those bikes glorified Hardtails because the suspension is not very active.
The Trance 1 with the RP3 is just awesome. I can climb steeper sections and ride longer with less fatigue than the other two bikes. I strongly recommend this bike for fast riders who appreciate aspects of a full active suspension bike. By comparison, the NRS suspension would get stiff under braking and the EPIC brain just didn't work well in rolling spaced out bumps. The trance pedals efficiently and the suspension really soaks up the bumps!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA, USA Date Reviewed: September 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
beat-up urban trails & ocean bluffs
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
$2250
Strengths:
Very solid after one year
Weaknesses:
None other than personal preferences Oh yes, the tires do kind of suck compared with the rest of the bike
Similar Products Used:
NRS-1, Stumpjumper FSR, Trek 80
Bike Setup:
Stock, baby.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up review after going on almost a year. I LOVE IT!!! I get the feeling that this bike will last a long, long time.
I am not a technical rider, I just love to ride, ride, ride, and be comfortable, and be able to go real fast down crazy terrain, and be able to climb as though my bike is on my team. I don't go flying off of walls or jumping across rivers, if I wanted to do that I'd buy one of those new extreme pogo sticks. This bike has incredibly smooth suspension, an absolutely miraculous rear suspension -- those on a lower budget check out the Trance 2, 3, 4 which have the same frame. But I dig the Trance 1's front fork and excellent, excellent brakes -- my reason for going higher than the Trance 2 or 3.
Since one of my things is cross country camping travel, I am interested in rigging a gear rack of some kind. The carbon seat post, while very very nice, doesn't really allow for any clamp-ons so I might switch to a steel post for this kind of trekking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
erwin
a Cross Country Rider
from long beach, CA, USA Date Reviewed: September 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Performance bike
Strengths:
The whole bike except for the tires!!!!
Weaknesses:
Bulldog tires suck! Other than that, nothing else
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 98, Stumpjumper 120 expert, Santa Cruz Blur
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock except for Race Face Next carbon bar, Panaracer Fire XC tubeless, Thomson Elite seatpost, SRAM 990 Chain, and Candy SL's
Bottom Line:
This bike is awesome!! Excellent handling bike up hill or downhill. You pick the terrain and this bike will handle it. For what you pay, the stock setup is nothing to complain about. I tried numerous bikes before buying this one and I would recommend this bike to anyone looking for a 4" XC bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from West Hartford, CT, USA Date Reviewed: September 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3150.00
Strengths:
climbs excellent, decends even better, brakes are awesome... minus the tires, the whole package rocks
Weaknesses:
Stock tires are poor, turning Pro Pedal lever makes no difference in ride as far as I can tell
Similar Products Used:
Moots YBB, Kona Dawg Primo
Bike Setup:
Kenda Nevegals, Stan's No-Tubes, Sram Gripshift with regular XTR der.
Bottom Line:
Once I got the air pressures set up correctly for me in the shock and fork, the bike came alive. It absolutely rips in the technical East Coast single track...roots, rock gardens, logs, anything the trail dishes up, this bike soaks them all up and asks for more. The No-Tubes and Nevegal setup make the bike roll along and accelerate better. I have climbed and decended things that I never made on other bikes. If your looking for the ultimate cross country/all day trail ride bike, look no further!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Weekend Warrior
from Milton, DE, USA Date Reviewed: August 22, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
LBS - in Delaware
Strengths:
I like every aspect of this bike. I have not noticed any unwarrented bobbing on the uphills that i have tackled (let it be said that this only includes some minor hills in PA). Absorbs all bumbs, big and bigger. Bike came with multiple users guides that cover every component on the bike (shocks, brakes, wheels, shifters, etc...)
Weaknesses:
none yet.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension.
Bike Setup:
Stock from factory.
Bottom Line:
Would recommend this bike to anyone interested in a do-it-all full suspension bike. I bought it for my move to Oregon and hope to become much more than a weekend warrior. This bike WILL take me to the next level. Worth every dollar at $2100. I have not noticed any problems with the combination shifter / derailer as mentioned by other reviewers. The tires can hold their own but that will be the first area that I might modify.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Brock
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, WA, USA Date Reviewed: July 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Galbraith
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Bike & Hike
Strengths:
Excellent, stable tracking over nasty obstacles and drop-offs. Very fast downhill, yet it's reasonably light and climbs well for a trail/free-ride bike. The Fox 100RL fork is awesome - the best I've ever had.
Weaknesses:
The bike doesn't climb as well as I expected from reading the reviews. It feels a bit heavy and unresponsive compared to my Rocky Mtn Element Race. However, I realize that the bike is a compromise between a downhill and cross-country bike. You can't have them both in one bike, but you come close with this bike.
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Element Race, Specialized Stumpjumper XC
Bike Setup:
Standard Trance 1: XT/XTR, Mavic Crossmax wheels, Fox 100RL fork, RP3 Fox rear, WTB seat, graphite seat post, Hayes Carbon hydraulic brakes - all good stuff.
Bottom Line:
I'd recommend this bike to anyone that wants to take on knarly, technical trails that go up and down. I would not recommend this bike to a racer or a gonzo downhiller.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: July 24, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wilder Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Another Bike Shop
Strengths:
Climbing, pedaling efficiency, decents, comfort, parts spec. The Shock and Fork are really sweet. The whole drivetrain including wheels is very light and responsive, acceleration is super fast.
Weaknesses:
Tires...the Hutch Bulldogs are pretty weak in my opinion, they have a flat profile, that feels really uneasy when the bike is leaned over in turns, also they feel very sketchy on gravel. At this price point the bike should have tubeless tires since it comes with tubless rims?
Similar Products Used:
Test rode Blur and Blur LT's. Std Blur was two upright and cramped even in the XL. Blur LT felt too slack in head angle for my preference. The Trance was just right. Have owned a couple hardtails, and used to have a Specialize FSR when they first were coming out around '97. The FSR was a joke and turned me off of Full Susp. until now.
Bike Setup:
Mostly Stock except changed out the rapid rise for a standard XTR rear Der. Will def. change the tires. Rear shock 250psi, front 120psi
Bottom Line:
So I have about 50 miles on the bike. First off, the bike climbs like I didn't think possible, the front end feels light on steep climbs but stays planted. I cleaned some really steep, loose gravely sections that would have stopped me dead with my hardtail. Down hills are epic, the geometry is great if you want a just slightly relaxed cross country bike.
I'm a big guy, 220lbs, and the suspension works great in the firmest shock position, firm on the ups, and cushy on the downs.
I'm not sure I would agree with other people when they say this bike makes me a better rider. But, it definitely makes me faster.
Chris and the gang at Another Bike Shop, in Santa Cruz were really helpfull, and I highly recomend them, They have several Trances right now. They also have Santa Cruz, Kona, Turner and Specialized. Call them at 831-427-2232
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher
a
from Rapid City, SD USA Date Reviewed: July 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3200.00
Purchased At:
Two Wheeler Dealer
Strengths:
1 - Rides like a well tuned sports car. You can really tell you riding a high end machine. 2 - Fast downhill descents over rocky terrain are smooth and no problems with traction! 3 - Rear suspension soaks up the bumps well and doesn't bob. 4 - Fork works like a dream. 5 - Climbs well. 6 - Shifting is the best ever - flawless.
Weaknesses:
1 - Shimano chain not removeable for easy cleaning. 2 - Front caliper rubs against rotor even when proper adjusted. 3 - seat squeaks. 4 - rear casset creaks. 5 - Propedal adjustments make absolutely no difference in performance!
Bike Setup:
Stock except chain was replaced for servicing convenience.
Bottom Line:
This bike is absolutely addicting to ride. There are some minor flaws though not a big setback. Basically, the rear cassette and seat creaking problem were fixed with a little oil and the chain was replaced only because the SRAM chain was easier to remove and clean because of it's master link. The rear shock does perform well even though the propedal selections make absolutely no difference in performance!?!? I've tested it repeatedly over various hills and terrains and still no difference. The only real disappointment is in the front brake where the caliper housing rubs ever so slightly against the rotor. It is adjusted correctly and the rotor spins dead center between both pads. The problem is that the right piston moves moreso than the left one and flexes the rotor against the housing during use. Unfortunately, this is a common problem with the Hayes unit. I fixed it by machining more clearance into the housing slot. But as a whole, the bike is so fun to ride and performs so well that the minor things just aren't a big deal.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Richardson
a Weekend Warrior
from Tamuning,Guam,USA Date Reviewed: July 11, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Manenggon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Hornet Sporting Goods
Strengths:
Awesome Components, Bikes Geometry, Good Price
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Nrs Air
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Just go out there and Ride, Let the Bike take care of you. I'm always fun of giant bikes, they dont just produced bikes for your own specs and comfort, they do it with engineering experts. they are affordable bikes with high componentry parts. This bike is awesome cant wait whats next for giant lines. Buy this bike and you won't regret it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tommy Duvall
a Weekend Warrior
from Moore Oklahoma USA Date Reviewed: July 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Clear Bay
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Bike One, Norman, Ok
Strengths:
Everything!!!! Tracks great, climbs great, descends like a dream.
Weaknesses:
If I had to pick one I would have to say it is a little heavy, but it still outperforms most bikes that are a couple of pounds lighter. I'm not real fond of the color either but I'll have the paint knocked off in 6 months anyway!!
Similar Products Used:
I have ridden lots of fully suspended bikes because I used to own a bike shop. Out of them all this is the best.
Bike Setup:
This bike is set up stock from the factory except for a few things I added. Stans tubeless, Speedplay frog pedals, Cateye Micro wireless computer.
Bottom Line:
This bike is one bad mamma jamma! I've only had it 5 days and I already have almost 100 miles on it. In spite of what some of the other reviewers have said I like everything about this bike. It only took me a couple of rides to get used to the XTR rapid rise derailleur. It shifts crisp and smooth, even under load. The XT shifters are great. I have no problems at all with their positioning or their function. The Hayes hydraulic brakes with carbon levers are absolutely awesome. Slows quickly and stops on a dime. As for the Mavic Crossmax wheels all I can say is WOW! They have almost no rolling resistance and are tough as nails. I've already crashed the bike at speed a couple of times and everything, including the wheels, is bullet proof. There is a place to ride where I'm from that has three fairly difficult climbs. I've never made all three in the same ride until I got this bike. In spite of the weight this bike climbs like a champ. The Maestro rear suspension gives you traction like you will not beleive. As far as I'm concerned this is the best bike going for anyone who wants an XC bike. I hope that Giant can get the frame weight down in the next couple of years. I will buy another frame if they do. If you're ever in Oklahoma City or Norman check out the guys at Bike One. They are a great group of fellas and they know their bikes! This bike gets all the Flamin' Chilis I can find!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luther
a Cross Country Rider
from Canmore, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: July 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
jumpingpound ridge/cox hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
3300
Strengths:
Amazing blend of climbing and descending. Fox fork is very stiff and has infinite tunability along with light weight. (Overall) the bike is spec'ed out very nicely - the CrossMax wheels pretty much roll themselves along the trail.
Weaknesses:
Stock grips loosened up after 2 months of riding, also would have been nice to have had a carbon fiber bar to go along with the carbon seatpost.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Prophet 2000, Specialized FSR 120 Pro
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to Fox Float RLC 130, Fizik Gobi saddle, ODI lock-on grips
Bottom Line:
What I always imagined full suspension to feel like! Aside from the stock grips getting loose and staying that way despite my efforts to remedy them, I'm very stoked about my ride. I upgraded to the RLC 130 to have the option of having an extra inch of travel and more tunability while still having a tried, tested, and light fork. The extra inch of travel hasn't really affected my climbing, and is quite nice on the big singletrack downhills I usually ride. My Trance 1 is a 22" frame and weighs just a hair over 27 pounds with pedals. If you are looking for an excellent trailbike for enduro rides, there aren't many options that can better this for performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt S.
a Cross Country Rider
from Wethersfield Date Reviewed: June 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Case Mountain (all of it)
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2450.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Soaks up bumbs like a 5"-er and tracks the ground well, climbs better than my old NRS AIR, descends like a champ!
Weaknesses:
Turning took some getting used to (compared to a true X-country, NRS)... not a bad thing necessarily. A tad heavy, but makes up for it in the ride.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS AIR (3years), Tested Specialized Enduro
Bike Setup:
Fox Float RLT, '04 XTR (except crank, '04 XT), Easton carbon seatpost, Carbon bars, custom King wheelset (DAVE'S WHEELS... see the reviews!)
Bottom Line:
Bike is AWESOME! A truly revolutionary suspension design... you get ALL 4" of travel and little to no ramping (very smooth through all 4"). Tracks and climbs like a mountain goat! A little slower/heavier than my pure breed X-country bike (NRS), but it is definitely more fun to ride! And really, FUN is why we are all out there to begin with!!! Gotta go... the mountain awaits...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a
from Ham Lake,MN Date Reviewed: June 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon Hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Strengths:
Ability to eat bumps without compromise! Smoooooth! I dig the blue color too.
Weaknesses:
Weight (frame)
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS
Bike Setup:
Custom: Marathon SL, Raceface Dues XC, Laserdisc lite hubs/velocity VXC, Hayes mag brakes.
Bottom Line:
Purchased fame only. I really dig the maestro suspension. This bike takes all the goodness of the NRS and makes it more epic/trailbike friendly. The 4" of travel seem bottomless, the geometry is awesome and makes a very confident descender. It also climbs awesome. My only gripe is the weight of the frame. The linkages I think could be lightened a lot. For the money/warranty/and quality this frame rocks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric aka BigJay
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Qc, Canada Date Reviewed: June 2, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Kingdom Trails, VT
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$4300.00
Purchased At:
Primeau Velo // www.primeauvelo.com
Strengths:
I've had lots of bikes and last year i thought the VT2 would be the last bike i would buy for a while. Turns out i was wrong. The bike was too much travel and hard to balance... So i picked up the Trance 1 as i wanted a more xc oriented bike then the VT. The bike handles like a charm! The rear is pretty stiff and doesn't flex anywhere near of what the VT had! The bike is a great glimber...not a hardtail but close. The bike feels light however and is a great descender! It trully feels like you got more then 4in of travel in the rear.
Weaknesses:
The XTR low normal derailleur teamed up with the XT shifters. Also, putting non-tubeless tires on a 1000$ wheelset is a shame! Would have also appreciated a carbon bar to match the carbon seatpost!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Epic, Santa Cruz Blur, Trek Fuel EX, Kona King Kikapu
Bike Setup:
Pretty much stock. I've replaced the der. and shifters by SRAM X.9 trigger and X.9 derailleur. Also, i installed a nice pair of blue Crank Brothers Candy SL. I've swapped the tires to Michelin XCR AT 2.0 UST tires and they work great... definately a faster tire then the Hutchinson Bulldog! (altough a bit heavier!)
Bottom Line:
BUY this bike if you can find one! This bike has it all. Not only it's a kickass frame but it also comes with almost all the best parts available! Nothing much you can swap on the bike... all the best from Race Face, the best wheels on the market and the hottest fork and shock available! So BUY this bike!
DON'T buy this bike if you think it will make a bob-free urban assault bike and want to set it up with a 20mm thru-axle front wheel and fork! It's a XC epic riding bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from Sweden Date Reviewed: May 27, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
Vey subtle to both small as large bumps and the response when accelerate is impressive but not quite as a HT.
Weaknesses:
Haven't found anything yet.
Similar Products Used:
GT I-drive XC 1.0 Giant NRS 1
Bike Setup:
Let go of the XTR and put on Sram X.0 rear der as well as X.0 twist shifters but nothing else.
Bottom Line:
Very nice bike that is suitable for all day XC trail riding. Due to the Maestro rear suspension braking during going downhill is very nice and it doesn't bounce around as the NRS system does. My absoulte favourite right now!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ted
a Cross Country Rider
from bath, england, uk Date Reviewed: May 8, 2005
Favorite Trail:
the launch site
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
bath cycles
Strengths:
Terrific climber and descender.
Weaknesses:
None!
Similar Products Used:
Rocky Mountain Element Team Scandium, Santa Cruz Blur, Titus Racer X and Ellsworth Truth.
Bike Setup:
Marzocchi Marathon SL 05, Sram X0 kit, Truvativ GXP etc.
Bottom Line:
Fabulous ride for the money and for any class this frame is just too delicious in every catagory. Thank you Giant!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
B-Man
a Cross Country Rider
from Truckee Date Reviewed: May 3, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
BRO DEAL
Strengths:
Peddalig effeciency is top notch!! This thing could climb a wall of baby head rocks & loose sand and never lose traction! Comfortable cockpit and a reasonable weight make it an AWESOME bike for epic rides.
Weaknesses:
Fox Fork blew it seals in 5 rides. Fox is sending out new parts that I now need to install myself or pay a shop to do. Pretty lame. Maybe they shouldn't bring a defective product to market???? Also the super tiny Hayes brakes adjustment screw backs itself out until hit with loctite. Poor design in my opinion....
Bike Setup:
Running 25% rear sag, New more agressive trail tires.
Bottom Line:
This is a sweet bike with pedalling effeciency like I have never experienced. All the welds seem pretty buff & the parts mix is excellent. I would highly recommend this to any XC trail rider type that enjoys going long in comfort.
Five chilis since I got a SCREAMING deal. Five chilis on overall rating although the defective FOX Fork almost dropped it down to 4.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yancey
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$850.00
Purchased At:
bobs-bicycles.com
Strengths:
Bumps... what bumps? Seriously this shock/frame combo is KUSH! It eats up all terrain, keeps the rear wheel on the ground and doesn't respond to pedal inputs unless you stand up and hammer. Geometry of frame is great for my body, fits like old pair of pants.
Weaknesses:
Comes with v-brake bosses... are you kidding? Did not come with a freaking frame manual. Personally I think the graphics are chinky and the paint job, although nice and lusterious, does not give me the impression it is gonna stand up to my clumsy ass running into some bushes.
Similar Products Used:
Demo'd the blur and FSR Stumpjumper. Both are tight ass bikes and have very similar riding styles IMO. A little lighter and more racey but a good grip more expensive. Oh, and my old bike is a Kona Coiler... badass mofo but too springy and heavy for my riding style.
Bike Setup:
Marchozzi Drop Off fork, Hayes Disc brakes, LX shifters, XT F. Derailuer, XTR R. Derailer, Thomson seat post, mavic 321 rims w/Panaracer 2.1's, Race face XC cranks/BB, Koski stem and bar.
Bottom Line:
I love it, as soon as I swap my 15 degree 75mm stem for a 110 8 degree or so I will be set. I love it, it is enough bike to push my skill set and riding ability. I just hope now that I can smoke my friends.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Enrique
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: April 18, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
2250
Strengths:
Incredible rear suspension that always does the right thing Stiff and stable front end Light weight Fantastic wheelset Nice looking High end components Outstanding brakes
Weaknesses:
Shifter is a little funky on my fingers
Similar Products Used:
Specialized FSR Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
Stock (Obtained at lower price due to minor frame blemish)
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks. I am relatively new to full suspension riding, getting into it from the point of view of an old man (40's) wanting something that climbs great and flattens out the more beaten-up terrain. This bike tracks a line very well, has a great geometry for climing and descending.
I will probably mod the handlebars to tweak my personal geometric needs, but can't think of a thing I would change in this bike setup. I really lucked out getting into this bike, and you might too.
It is a high, high quality assembly all around and will give you many years of joy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: March 20, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wilder Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
This bike seems to have the quintessential combination of all of the best available components coupled with Giant's new Maestro suspension resulting in a mind blowing ride! I have never felt so in control as I do on this bike. It is a sprinter on uphill climbs and in the flats and handles incredibly well on the downhill runs. The front shock can be locked out for spot on solid hill climbing, which is very nice, and the rear shock is 3-way adjustable for the type of absorption you desire to keep your south end from getting kicked. One of the most obvious things about this bike is that you can pedal strongly & efficiently through bumpy single-track terrain without feeling like you are going to be thrown from your seat. The disc brakes are very responsive yet not so sensitive that you lock them up each time you pull the triggers. This is a tremendous performer that is also very easy on the eyes - the deep blue is absolutely gorgeous!
Weaknesses:
I have not found any yet.....
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full suspension trail bike. I was riding a late 80's Specialized hardtail StumpJumper with a straight front fork for years. What a difference!!
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
I would highly recommend this bike to anyone who truly wants to realize their full potential as a cross country/recreational mountain bike rider. It will make you a better rider and your friends will have trouble keeping up with you! It may be a bit pricey, but hey - you get what you pay for. It is most likely not suitable for big jumps or balls out steep downhill riding, but this is not what it was designed for. It is an awesome trail bike for 90% of the terrain that is out there to explore. I feel like I'm on top of the world when I'm clipped in to this bad boy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Bellingham, WA USA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Galbraith MT.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
Local Shop
Strengths:
The bike is incredible. I really like the specs. The only modification I plan to make is to replace the WTB Saddle with a Selle Italia Flight. The bike has incredible climbing abilities. There is virtually no pedal bob and is extremely efficient.
Weaknesses:
I have not found any weaknesses!!
Similar Products Used:
I've ridden a lot of bikes including a 00 GT Zaskar LE, 01 Cannondale F4000SL, 02 Giant XTC SE 1, Giant AC 1.
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is awesome. As you can see, I've been a hardtail guy for years. I just didn't feel that a full suspension bike could be as efficient until I rode the Trance. The bike decends with the best and climbs awesome. I highly recommend it to anybody looking for a quality trail bike!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vallie Atkinson
a Weekend Warrior
from Roseburg, Oregon, U.S.A. Date Reviewed: March 12, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Dread and Terror
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Employee Purchase
Strengths:
Active suspension, no pedal feedback, lively climber, feels fast!!
Changed Fox fork to Manitou Minute 1, Changing der and shifter to SRAM X9. Otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is the best balance of climbing and descending of any bike I have owned or ridden!! There is no feedback between pedal torque, and suspension. If you look down you see the suspension moving when climbing, but it is not from pedaling inputs but from the terrain only. It feels incredibly lively while climbing!! So much so that I almost always forget to switch the shock to the higher pro-pedal settings on climbs, and I just don't even notice. I think that even if this bike had a non pro-pedal coil shock, it would still climb great. You can pedal across bumps, maximizing the time you put power down, and never feel the pedals kick back. Downhill handling is neutral and there is no brake jack. I put on Minute 1, and it works great. I can have stable, long travel on long downhill sections, or lower it a little for better climbing or quicker handling through snaky trails. I just feel so fast on this bike!! It jumps forward with every pedal stroke, and yet soaks up bumps really well. Climbs better than last years Stumpjumper FSR, and is plusher. I think it is more efficient than NRS as well. NRS is harsh, but the Trance sticks to the ground, but still feels quick. Gets great traction up technical climbs as well. Don't buy this bike!!!!I am 43, and need all you young guys to ride slower bikes and give me a little edge back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX, USA Date Reviewed: February 23, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
No bobbing. Very refined suspension. Killer shock. Awesome descender and capable climber. Price, warranty.
Weaknesses:
A bit heavy, could use a half inch more travel. Howabout a manual with some information on how to set up the shock?
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn Rocket 88 (rode for 4 years), demoed SC Blur and tons of other f/s bikes.
Bike Setup:
Black Elite 100/120 TPC+, SRAM X.9 twisters & der, RF Evolve XC X-Type, eggbeaters, Sun DS-2/XT wheelset, Hayes HFX-Mag disc (custom build)
Bottom Line:
This is for Trance 1 Frameset only.
This bike has the geometry dialed perfectly. The performance of the suspension is very much like a SC Blur (which is very very good) but the rest of the geometry (half degree less head angle, longer top tube length, higher BB, can handle bigger fork) is much better for trail riding. The rear suspension is refined and there is no flex. Bike does all things right. Outclimbs 90% of f/s bikes out there, descends better than any other XC-type bike I've ridden, handles fast, comfortable. Oh yeah, and for 40% lower price than the competition.
If you ride trails without huge drops, ride long rides, value efficiency and control, and want a foolproof bike, this is for you. If you need ultralight racer or have awesome handling and descending skills, maybe this bike is too much foolproof compromise for you. If you go big, you'll maybe break it. If you ever thought about a Blur, you need to try this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Darrell
a Downhiller
from morganton,NC Date Reviewed: January 31, 2005
Favorite Trail:
greentown/raiders
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Components
Weaknesses:
heavy
Similar Products Used:
NONE, All I have owned is FR/DH
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is heavier than I expected, but its better than the big hit bikes I used to ride. I blew the right fork seal out in the first ride, but other than that I haven't had any problems. I put about 300 miles in the last month on it so far and it seems to do what it is designed for. It flexs on the rough stuff, but that is expected with an XC bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from Bedford Date Reviewed: January 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The Gauntlet at Carvin's Cove
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
Bikes Unlimited
Strengths:
This bike is very active and plush but still pedals efficiantly and it screams on the downhills. The bike comes pretty light at about 25.5 lbs. but can be made lighter will a couple of upgrades. This is my seventh full suspension ride and so far it's the only one that does everything GREAT. It handles better than any bike I've had and there is no "brake jack" with hard braking which is a problem with EVERY f/s I've had. If you race 24s or XXC or just XC you will love this bike. I only have about 50 miles on it but they are on some of the toughest trails in our parts and this bike shines.
Weaknesses:
The only weakness on this bike that I've found is the XT trigger shifters mated with the "Rapid Rise" XTR rear derailleur. If you are a fan of trigger shifters you will find it awkward to shift at first. I put X-9 shifters and rear der. on mine and they are SWEET. Also the integrated headset does not allow for a King Headset, but I've not had any problems with the stock headset.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 90, Haro XLS XC, Santa Cruz Superlight, Salsa Caballero, Klien Palomino, Gary Fisher Cake 1
Bike Setup:
I bought this as a frameset so the price is actully from a stock Trance 1 mine is built from the ground up with Fox Float RLT 100mm, Bontrager RaceXLite carbon riser OS bar with RaceXlite OS stem, Easton EC70 carbon seatpost, Sram X-9 thumb shifters(awesome) and X-9 rear derailleur, XT integrated BB and Crank with external sealed bearings, XT front derailleur, XT 9-speed cassette, Sram PC-99 chain, Bontrager Race X Lite Disc Tubeless wheels, Kenda Nevegal Tomac Series tires with Stans no-tubes solution.
Bottom Line:
The Trance is quickly becoming my favorite bike-the Klein Palomino I raced last year was by far my best bike...until now. If you want a bike that climbs great, rails turns, flattens out rocky terrain and just plain rocks! This should be your next bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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