Submitted by
secretrsl
a Cross Country Rider
from Essex,England Date Reviewed: August 22, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Afan
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Pedal On
Strengths:
Just purchased this bike and had my first long ride today.
I was very dubious about purchasing a mass produced bike as i have always bought or had a frame made and built it up myself. But i have to say this bike rides will incredible balance and poise. I changed the Kenda Nevegal tires with Maxis Ignitor 1.95 and it flies. Was looking to get the Anthem as this is more tuned to me style but am happy with my choice as it fires up hill and rockets down.
I only paid £1400 ($2240).
Weaknesses:
Paint job. As expected on a stock frame. Not built up by myself so does not come with feeling you get from riding a project bike.
Not all wiyll like such an up right position. I removed the spacers and intalled a 0 degree stem.
Similar Products Used:
GT LTS 100 XC with XTR
Specialised M4 S works hardtail, Independant Fabrication, 'Roberts' Dogs Bollox
Bike Setup:
Stock but exchanged tyres with Maxis Ignitor and Stem( flatter with 0 degree rise) and Post with my Thomson
Bottom Line:
Great bike off the peg but dont expect a work of art in the frame. Remember is is mass produced. But the suspension and ride are all sorted which is the main reason for riding.
At this stage i have rated highly but will re-review after a few months.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aeric_7734
a Weekend Warrior
from Bothell, Washington USA Date Reviewed: July 25, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Paradise Valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Centres
Strengths:
Maestro Suspension is awesome, frame geometry packs a ton of bike into a small package, Raceface bars and stem are burly and take a beating, the stock Hayes mechanical disc brakes are scary good and stop on a dime, shifting is smooth with the stock Deores and almost unnoticeable on flat stretches.
Weaknesses:
The Marzocchi fork is the only obvious entry level component on the bike. I was a bit skeptical due to my weight, but it rides suitably enough. I have no doubt that I'll eventually destroy it, though, at which point I will likely swap it out for a Revelation
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Rush, Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock except I took off the Wellgo platforms and threw on my trusty set of Azonic magnesium platforms.
Bottom Line:
This is my first foray into full suspension mountain bikes. I've always ridden hardtails in the past and still currently own a sweet GT Avalanche with some modest upgrades. While pure XC is probably my most preferred style of riding, but when it comes to anything even remotely technical my hardtail whimpers and my self confidence shrivels. I took so many falls the last time I went out with it that I nearly threw it down a hill in frustration.
After some easy rides and not going that out of my way to test the Trance 2's capabilities, I took it out to my favorite network of trails which has a lot of stuff for mountain bikers with all sorts of varied preferences. Unlike my hardtail, the Giant Trance 2 handles calmly and smooth, instilling a ton of confidence and allowing me to spend more time in the saddle through the technical bits than out and pushing the bike. It's nimble and tracks most terrain perfectly, keeping it's font-end right where you want it and the back-end tracks just as well.
It also bears mention that one of the detractors in going full suspension previously was the threat of pedal-bob due to the rear shock working in conjunction with the fork. Not so with Giant's Maestro rear suspension. So long as the bike is in the correct gear for the terrain you're on, the bike rides steady and consistently.
This is a bike that I will be babying for some time to come, and even once I've burned through the stock components will upgrade as necessary. Buying this bike is one example of not feeling bad about buying the hype. So many people talked this bike up that prior to testing it thought it wasn't likely to be fully justified, but after having the shop show me a similarly priced Cannondale Rush and the current run Specialized Stumpjumpers (sweet frame and fork, but shoddy rear suspension and components for the price) I'm thrilled I held out for the Giant! Anyone with an interest in trail riding, whether technical single-track, all mountain or open-air XC riding looking for a supreme value would do well to look into this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Norris_Hanna
a Cross Country Rider
from Las Vegas NV USA Date Reviewed: April 25, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
JT's Bike Shop
Strengths:
Overall a great bike for the money. Virtually all XT components, decent wheels, 15mm thru-axle, decent hydro-brakes, and Fox shock/ fork, all for next to $2000... can't beat that. The suspension design is very plush and efficient peddaling, climbing is superb, frame is very stiff, bike is comfortable and handles great overall.
Weaknesses:
Devo seat is an "el cheapo" model as are the Crankbrothers Smarty pedals and grips. They all work but do not compliment an otherwise great machine.
Bike Setup:
Ive changed the grips to Lizardskinz, seat to WTB Rocket V, pedals to SPD's and tires to Maxxis' now the bike suits me better.
Bottom Line:
I am reviewing a 2009 Trance X2:
For the price this is an industry leader in the trail bike category. I shopped around and no other manufacture offered such high end components in this price range, and many had lower end parts on more expensive bikes. The Maestro suspension works really well and pedals very efficiently. The bike climbs and descends great, it does everything pretty darned good. I feel that this is a very comfortable bike for long rides and is still very nimble on technical singletrack.
The only issue I have with this bike is that the bottom bracket seems kind of low, but it is as high or higher than other similar bikes in it's class. Also, without the low BB the bikes handling would suffer, but for the extremely tight and rocky trails that I ride I find myself striking my pedals on rocks quite frequently. This is just something that I have to be aware of and adjust my riding style for.
Overall I dont think you can find a better trail bike for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rich H.
a Cross Country Rider
from Granite Bay, CA, USA Date Reviewed: April 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Anything with dirt, bumps and hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Awesome all around full suspension bike. WIth the 5" front suspension it works well for decending but is incredibly adept at climbing as well.
Weaknesses:
Only component I am considering changing is the Hayes Brakes, not so much because I dislike them but just used to the feel of Shimano disc brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Specialized Stumpjumper, Santa Cruz Blur
Bottom Line:
This is the most impressive cross country bike I have ridden. It performs well in all conditions and in the 3 months I have owned the bike I have put over 400 pretty hard miles on the trail and don't have any real complaints and this is a first for me and bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grum27
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne Australia Date Reviewed: March 14, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1200.00
Strengths:
This review is for the 2008 model Trance 2.
To put it simply this bike feels like the most comfortable ride straight out of the box, it feels familiar and inspires great amounts of confidence. This bike handles so well it eats all the bumps on the track for lunch and takes corners like it is on rails.
For what you get the price is fantastic! I was looking at a SC Nomad frame for the same price as the comlete trance.
Also a small point to mention is that the sadle which came on the bike SDG Bel-Air I find quite comfortable, but that is my personal oppinion only, everybody is built different and what is good for me might be terrible for another.
Weaknesses:
The first thing I noticed is that it is a weighty bike for something listed as an XC bike, I would place it more under the All Mountain category. However with a few component changes all should be a bit lighter!
The component group isn't all that great but I will be replacing it all with mostly XO stuff and lighter bars etc. The shifters are not as responsive or ergonomic as I like, linked with the stock LX and Deore derailures I find shifting a little sloppy, however that is in comparison to the snappy XO stuff and I'm sure most people out there will find shifting ok. I don't have a lot of faith in the plastic shifter levers either, they flex slightly and are made to be used as "Dual control" to use as either trigger/thumb of thumb/thumb shifters. Shimano would have been better off concentrating on making one style working better than trying to make them more versatile.
The biggest disapointment was on my first ride, I hit my local trail network and was attempting to bed in the brakes, however they got weaker and weaker the more I attempted to use them, after an hour of riding I noticed the discs were covered in mineral oil from a set of leaky calipers. Took it back to the shop to have them replaced although they would only "repair" them, so we'll see how long it is before they fail again!
As i mentioned weight, the wheelset is quite heavy Mavic X117, and uses cenerlock rotors for the brakes, not bolt on rotors which will limit your choice to upgrade easily. The tires supplied for the Australian model (Michelin AT) aren't great for dusty conditions as they do break traction in cornering (Not in a good Sam Hill way) but would make great wet condition soft soil tire.
Similar Products Used:
This is my first full susser, I usually ride a small frame hardtail Fuji SL which is an awesome bike to point and shoot and throw around, however riding a hardtail with a fairly short wheelbase is taxing on you rear end if the track gets a bit bumpy or rutted and can be harder to get over some obstacles smoothly.
Bike Setup:
At the moment it is stock. Rock Shox Recon, Fox Float R, Deore and LX derailures, lower quality Shimano brakes and cranks, Race Face bars/stems and SDG sadle, heavy mavic wheels. Most of which will be changed over with parts off my hardtail.
Bottom Line:
For the price you can't go wrong, I bought the trance 2, which is fairly entry level as far as component specs are concerned but you get what you pay for. I was not sure weather I made the right decission purchasing this bike over the Nomad, but after feeling the confidence inspiring handling am glad I did.
I plan on replacing the Cranks and wheelset to something a lttle less heavy and more durable to lighten the load.
As far as handling is concerned the Trance will take anything you throw at it it corners like the devil and takes all the bumps like a full susser should, without making any sacrifice for pedal bob. The 4.2 inches of travel is plenty for general trail riding and cross country, thumbs up to the Maestro for smooth performance.
The stock Recon forks aren't great, they are only solo air and offer little adjustment except for rebound, my preference is for a dual air fork for adjustablity. They do their job ok but they dont quite feel very plush, I think the'll get better with a few more uses. The equivelant 09 trance comes stock with Fox Shocks.
Overall this is a fantastic bike and this can be proven by looking at the amount of them you see out on the trails, if you are in the position where you can change over some of the componentry I highly reccomend it, especially if you ride more than 3 times a week and expect your bike to perform every ride. Just be aware of the brakes on this model for fluid loss and failure.
5 chili's for the price value! Only 4 for overall as the component specs let it down in the performance area.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bbordie
a Cross Country Rider
from Faro Date Reviewed: January 7, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Sintra
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Bike climbs great and descends even better...
Maestro suspension is great! You dont feel the small bumps and when climbing it doesnt bounces up and down...
Great, great bike!!
Weaknesses:
Hated the saddle and the stock stem is too long.
The transmission is nice but if you put it XT like I did its more durable!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock sport with rockshox tora and all Xt transmission, GT I-drive 1999
Bike Setup:
2008 Giant trance 2 stock except for raceface evolve 90mm stem, Lx gear shifters, front and rear shimano xt derailleurs, lx cassete, sram 991 crossstep chain, specialized saddle, fast tightener for saddle post,
Bottom Line:
When I first got the bike I wasnt sure if the bike was nice for my type of riding... I dont like to climb much as I am a heavy rider but I love to bomb downhill... I have tested this bike in all type of riding from pure Xc, to downhill tracks, to some small dirt jumps , wallrides, long distances, rocks, roots, you name it!
The bike is much more of expected... Maybe if it had a little more travel it will be more nicer to jump and other stuff but it wouldnt climb this great. This is the price you have to pay for such a fenomenal all around bike! I had a great deal online and initially I wanted to sell it for more 500 euros but I tried it and I never thought of selling it again. I came from Specialized but after this I am sticking with Giant bikes. They rule!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
seanster
a Weekend Warrior
from Shrewsbury Date Reviewed: January 4, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Llandegla/Cannock Chase
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1275.00
Purchased At:
http://www.paulscycl
Strengths:
Fantastic Climer, fast on the flat little or no peddal bob, Great for sprinting (which I dont do much of!) great spec for the money spent. Rock Shox REba SL forks inc lock out-can increase travel to 115mm however requires taking apart!
Weaknesses:
Seat does not suit me, tires,bars too narrow (why o Why do mfrs do this, eay to cut down impossible to make wider!), stem too long, seat post too short. Bit heavy but rides much lighter than the nos suggest. Loses a chilli on these points. Would not have bought at full price but saving made well worth as a £150-200 spend on upgardes makes the bike spot on!
Similar Products Used:
Also own a 05 Specialized Enduro Expert, Giant Reign.
Bike Setup:
Stock exept Tioga 80mm stem (off ebay), 8" front brake disc because I had it spare, SDG Ibeam Post with Formula FX Saddle, Joes no flats tubeless conversion (great upgrade)Specialized The Captain 2bliss SWorks Tires,
Bottom Line:
1st to point out this is a US spec 06 Model bought new November 08 from Paulscycles in Uk @ £850, £831 in stock in medium at time of writing! differs from UK spec in that is burnt Orange color not Black, has Sram x.9 shifters and rear mech and better spec Fox RP23 rear shock, retail was £1750! The 05 and 06 Trance 2 are roughly equivalent spec to the 07 and 08 Trance 1!
Framset retailed £799 so to get with £900 (retail) of parts is incredible value in my opinion. Rides so much quicker on the flat and up the hills, noticably slower down hill however on many trails this is better than a plush 6" bike as have to ride it. Forks are great particulary over smaller bumps, Much better than the Fox 36Rs on the Enduro in this respect.
Gears shift nicely, handles well, suspension superb,brakes plenty powerful(no reliability issues yet!) frame nice and stiff.
Im not a latest greatest type and would recommend to anyone on a budget. If your a fussy type like me budget £100-£150 to get the bars, seat tires right for you but I guess this is always the case unless you go gor a custom build! Recon I saved at least £750-850 going the off the shelf route!
Who should buy it! Anyone doing anything without too much air or serious down hillers! If you want to have 1 bike to do XC/Marathon, weekend rides with your mates, If like me some of your mates are much fittter so u can keep up on the climbs, DONT buy if your a serious jumper downhiller etc
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chrisdude
a Racer
from Brighton Date Reviewed: January 2, 2009
Favorite Trail:
south downs!!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
blazing saddles rust
Strengths:
GIANT TRANCE 2 2008
Amzing price for the parts and frame, full retail price not far off what the parts would go for at retail and thats not including adding the cost of the frame. so you are practicly getting the frame free! work it out for yourselves ; )
very little/no pedal bob even in granny ring.
climbs extremly well.
decends like it is a 5inch bike. takes in the bumps which need taking in without losing any speed.
Weaknesses:
There is no fault with this bike, personally for me though the stem is too long and to get technical the bike is in the wrong price range (marketing problem!!) its too good for the prce range, other bikes simular in spec go for £1600+
Similar Products Used:
kona dudu (custom geomatry), gt zaskar, kona stuff, gt lopes, santa cruz superlite, giant trance 1,
Bike Setup:
uk stock with shimano pedals cleats one size flat the other. purchased at www.blazingsaddlescycles.co.uk
Bottom Line:
I read lots of reviews and tested lots of bikes before i got this, so i thought i would give a review back to help others!!
sizing - im 5.7-8 ish and about 140 pounds (63kg) and im using the medium frame.a shorter stem is needed for a perfect fit for me.
Its pretty much a do it all bike. Mine the trance 2 2008 weight is 31.39 (14.2kgish) (with a cycle computer on it!!) which is a tad heavy for an xc bike but when your riding it feels more like a 25-28 pound bike which is very responsive and feels nippy. nippy due to light rims and stiff frame i think.
Its very quick up the hills, more like a hardtail but with a tiny bit of give to save your arse! the gearing range is really good for the bike, im tempted to put a 36 tooth middle ring on it as it really is quick up hills you can stay seated for so long.
Downhill and windey trails it really is fun, i wouldnt be scarred in taking this on a light downhill track at all, the bottom braket for me is a great height for giving a good centre of gravity i have had no problems with cranks hitting things any more than any other bike. its very easy to flick round and easy to jump and launch on. it feels steady in the air and solid on landings. cornering is great very racey.
One minor problem i have found when really thrasing it is that the front forks cant cope that well when taking jump after jump after bern. i cant really critise as this only happens on trails where more than 100mm is needed, the rear suspension just encourages so much more which the front cant handle. so if you are a cross country rider with downhill routes (or just likes the hammer downhills and do jumps/drops) i would suggest running 120 on the front. One fork which is great for this bike is the pike 454 air 110-140 which is really good on this bike, sort of turns it into a short travel freeride bike with xc race capabilities (new market here??!!) however this is my xc bike so i will be sticking with the stock forks which are more than capable 99% of the time.
Too save some weight, the best ways for this bike are changing the tyres and changing the forks, cranks and maybe turning the seatpost to ibeam, nothing else is worth changing, the rims are light along with the other componets. i will be leaving mine as it is as it feels lighter then it is and everything works great. i will be replace parts when they are worn as there really is no need imho.
Two points i noticed when reading other reviews before buying which i disagree with.
TYRES are crap apprrently. dont listen to this, these tyres are really good and the wider versions are commonly seen on dh tracks. I find they have lots of grip and good rolling resitence, one hint, the quicker you go the more grip you have ;) really confidence inspriing for long off camber corners, i find they are best in lose damp surfaces to dry soil and lose stones. not perfect in muddy slippery goo but what is that is quick rolling??!! leave them on!!
However i do realise because of the price range of this bike lower skilled new riders will be buying this and these tyres maybe not suitable for anyone of lesser skill/balance therefore imho i would recommned high roller xc for those riders.
SADDLE - this is a £70 xc saddle, it is hard yes, but its very light. its also fairly wide so basically leave it on and let your bum get used to a new pressure point.
If you continue to have problems, check you have the right frame size, saddle height and riding position etc.
I would mostly recommend this bike to those wanting a xc bike that is quick but also very capable of being thrown around. if you come from a downhill background or just like to pull of the odd trick and like to thrash a bike this is the bike for you. also very good for those that want a full sus that acts like a hardtail but takes away the big bumps for longer rides and for staying seated where its not possible on a hardtail. the spec is perfect you dont need anything more than this. but everyone is different, ride before you buy!!
in my opinion this is the best trail/xc/endurance bike on the market. the nearest competition to this bike is the santa cruz superlight and coming in a late second is the trek fuel. all of which are more expensive and have softer rear suspension systems.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Boris_159
a Cross Country Rider
from Titusville, NJ, USA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Pro
Strengths:
Great for a first FS Bike. Same frame as high end Giant Bikes. Good seat and mechanical brakes.
Weaknesses:
Great for the price range
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse Hardtail
Bike Setup:
Answer Pro-Taper Handlebars, replaced grips, XT rear derailleur. Other than that... stock.
Bottom Line:
GREAT BIKE FOR THE PRICE!!! I've made the switch to a FS and have not looked back. A lot of people will tell you that you need to spend a lot more to get a decent FS. The Maestro suspension with the "Giant" brand rear suspension works wonderful, and if you feel the need, this bike is very upgradeable.
I've rode the hell out of this thing and have not had any real issues other than parts that are going to break no matter what bike your riding (rear derailleur etc.).
In short, if it's in your price range and your debating a hardtail... BUY THIS BIKE! I was thinking 29er hardtail and I'm really glad I chose to go FS. I plan on riding this frame for a good number of years to come! Also you can't beat the Giant customer service, there are definate perks to buying from a huge company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
slyder327
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 15, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Albion Hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Cyclepath
Strengths:
Great frame, excellent brakes, fantastic rear shock for house brand
Weaknesses:
Canadian version came with terrable Marzochi front fork...MX Supercomp. This fork was useless for anyone with a manly frame (207lbs)
Similar Products Used:
Schwinn, GT
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock except my beautiful new front fork.....quiet...quiet, let the heavens sing down on us......Rock Shox Reba Race.....Yeah Baby...what a fork !
Bottom Line:
Great bike to start into the full suspension XC field with. It has a fantastic frame, swing arm, and decent crank, for the money. I have been impressed with it's ability to charge up and down trails I would have shied away from with other bikes. Long road runs are a no brainer, no fatigue or cramping....just pure power to the ground. This bike inspires so much confidence you'll look like a super star on your first ride. Just watch the front fork, it has a mind of it's own if you are over 180lbs. Limited ...very limited....it will get you into trouble in a hurry. I found mine making painful noises when pushed past 80%, back off your pace and it was butter.
Do yourself a favor if you do purchase this machine....change the fork to a Rock Shox Reba Race. I did and it is amazing....works great with the stock rear and will handle anything you can throw at it.....it might even laugh, and ask if that's all you have got!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pockets21
a Cross Country Rider
from u.s. Date Reviewed: August 3, 2008
Favorite Trail:
?
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
northstar bikes
Strengths:
Handels very well, maestro suspension, low climbing gears, all around great bike
Weaknesses:
the seat, the tires
Similar Products Used:
no full suspension, Trek 4300
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
A very soild bike. I test rode a few other full suspension bikes from kona and cannondale, none of them felt nearly as smoth as this bike. I just took it on two 4 hour rides through all kinds of terrain and i have no complaints about the bike, except fot the seat. The tires are ok. But overall, its a lot of bike for a little cash
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Racer
from Mt Tamalpais Date Reviewed: July 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
hard to say too many great singletracks
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
BikeNut
Strengths:
This bike has no stock parts on it anymore. Everything has been replaced, most of all the stock parts broke after about a year of thrashing this bike. I replaced bar and stem right away and figured out this bike is really capable and reliable and burly as hell. It likes the singletracks as well really technicle descents.
Weaknesses:
Hayes brakes suck big time. Although I ran them front and rear with 7 inch rotors with goodridge lines and they were reliable for a little while. Pistons are crap, seals are crap. Get rid of those after the first time they brake. Don't spend money on those, I've had to get my rear caliper rebuilt 3 times. O, dropped $500.00 dollars on a handmade wheelset with dtswiss 5.1 and killed those rims real quick. Stay away from those rims because its real easy to put dings, dents and flatspots into them. Had to rebuild my rear wheel after I destroyed the 5.1 and front one I still have the original wheel but boy is it wobbly.
Similar Products Used:
Everything.
Bike Setup:
Anywho, stuck a pike u turn on it with a E 13 LG1 chainguide and put a dh cassette and a four pound tire on the front along with a oldschool xt 4 piston with the new xt lever. I've been kinda lazy about replacing the hayes brake, the four piston just performs so well in the front with 8 inch rotor.
Bottom Line:
This frame one tough cookie. So far have not managed to brake it after a couple thousand miles, blew out all the bearings in the pivots and blew the seals on the shox 3 or 4 times. Those rockshox forks perform well, the pike u turn is big winner. Perfect match for a trance. The chainguide is a big plus, and this bike really rides down anything really fast. The pike and the 20mm are the best to do to the trance. Along with getting a 10mm bolt on rear axle. Makes that rear end even more predictable at high speeds. Have fun with this bike, you won't regret shelling out 2K. O and that frame is pretty beefy, I don't know about the new one, haven't ridden that one. I have a 2006 model with the shock tucked into the downtube, that thing is basically one big brick of aluminum and giant uses the really tough hydro formed tubes. The swingarm is bad ass, never had a problem with that frame, real stiff rear end that tracks great on all surfaces.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luis
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami FL USA Date Reviewed: July 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
anything not paved
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1089.00
Purchased At:
Cycle World Miami
Strengths:
Rigid frame, excellent climbing with the Maestro 4.2 suspension, smooth and precise shifting, quick steering and good bump absorption with the marzzochi bomber fork, Hayes mech. brakes are strong and don't fade.
Weaknesses:
The seat is a bit hard.
Similar Products Used:
Crappy Mongoose with soft suspension, the Trance is my first good full suspension bike
Bottom Line:
I see a lot of reviews for different years and models of Trance bikes here. Mine is a '08 Trance 2.
I was almost sold on buying a Yukon FX but I could not get any in any LBS around (why get good ratings on a product on mags and internet if you can't buy it?). They told me the '09 Yukons were being released early and when I went to the LBS to check them out I saw an '08 Trance 2. My budget wasn't that much but I'm glad I spent the extra 300 bucks on the Trance 2. No way I was looking back at the Yukon after test riding the Trance 2, it was love at first ride. I liked the Trance X2 but that one was $500 more so I could not justify the expense.
The bike steers well, feels extremely rigid and the suspension really absorbs the bumps when it needs to, it doesn't waste motion on little bumps so it's more like a hardtail until you need it. The first thing I did when I got it home was to put it on a scale (32 lb. not bad for a FS bike) and to adjust it perfectly to suit me. The bike feels great and it took nearly no time to get used to it. Even if it's not that lightweight the weight is down low so it can be flicked easily. I love the brushed aluminum / black finish, but seems like the clear coat can get scratched a bit easy so take care when strapping it down on your car rack or leaning it against something.
The bike shifts clean, smooth and precisely, I have been able to tackle hills and mounds that I would never had done on my previous bike (right now I'm training on a golf course that is being bulldozered and remodeled), and I am using the middle ring, not even low gear! feels like it climbs by itself. There is no suspension bob and only once has a tire slipped while climbing steeply on power (could be the tire's fault on dry grass). I love the FSA crank, feels smooth and super rigid (I'm so glad I didn't buy the Yukon with the Truvativ Isoflow!). I'm in love with the bike and taking good care of it, I don't see any upgrades for now, probably later I'll change the seat and put some Crank Bros. eggbeater SLs. because the pedals are kinda big. The Kenda Komodos have been ok so far, not outstanding but good so I'll probably change them for something else (maybe go back to velociraptors?) when they wear out. They get a bit packed on soft damp dirt and mud causing a bit of sliding around but self clean easily once they roll on grass or pavement. I like a lot the Raceface O/S handlebar and stem, seems very stout and makes the handling feel very direct.
I checked several other bikes and I am happy with my decision. Not very many bikes out there could give me so much bang for the buck right out of the box.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
aadidasone
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: July 29, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Price, components and handling
Weaknesses:
SEAT, SEAT, SEAT and Tires (Seat is hard as a rock and the Barracuda tires didn't make me feel secure)
Similar Products Used:
08' Trance X0, Santa Cruz Superlight, Spec. FSRxc
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Unity seat, raceface handlebars and Hemisphere tires
Bottom Line:
I demoed the 08' Trance X0 for almost 2 weeks before it settling on the 07' Trance 2. Love the geometry of the Giants and am a HUGE fan of Maestro suspension setup they have. With more than 4' of clearance I'm able to tackle most 90% of the trains in the area. Handling is pretty good and the components are legit. Would change the seat unless you like the feel of something hard and uncomfortable and would change the Juicy 3 brakes. Went with Hayes since I didn't like the way the Juicy's responded.
The Trance's are pretty popular, couldn't get the 08' because none of the LBS had it in stock and it seems they are sold out. 07' is just as nice.
If you can get one go out and buy a Giant, pretty sure you won't be disappointed.
Personal thanks to Cannondale for screwing me on my 08' Cannondale F3 and taking forever to fix a blown headshock, only to return it to me with more issues than when I left it with you. Without you this never would have been possible.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wbamiduro
a Weekend Warrior
from Washington, DC Date Reviewed: July 29, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Price, components and handling
Weaknesses:
SEAT, SEAT, SEAT and Tires (Seat is hard as a rock and the Barracuda tires didn't make me feel secure)
Similar Products Used:
08' Trance X0, Santa Cruz Superlight, Spec. FSRxc
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Unity seat, raceface handlebars and Hemisphere tires
Bottom Line:
I demoed the 08' Trance X0 for almost 2 weeks before it settling on the 07' Trance 2. Love the geometry of the Giants and am a HUGE fan of Maestro suspension setup they have. With more than 4' of clearance I'm able to tackle most 90% of the trains in the area. Handling is pretty good and the components are legit. Would change the seat unless you like the feel of something hard and uncomfortable and would change the Juicy 3 brakes. Went with Hayes since I didn't like the way the Juicy's responded.
The Trance's are pretty popular, couldn't get the 08' because none of the LBS had it in stock and it seems they are sold out. 07' is just as nice.
If you can get one go out and buy a Giant, pretty sure you won't be disappointed.
Personal thanks to Cannondale for screwing me on my 08' Cannondale F3 and taking forever to fix a blown headshock, only to return it to me with more issues than when I left it with you. Without you this never would have been possible.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ajmprovidence
a Cross Country Rider
from providence Date Reviewed: July 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Arcadia
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Action Sports of CT
Strengths:
Solid bike over all. Nice suspension set-up, maestro is sick and the Marzzochi forks are way under rated. Not the best components, but good ones (deore, and hayes cable discs), especially for this price range. You can't get a better bike in this price range.
Weaknesses:
no suspension lock-outs. The rear isn't bad at all but the front forks get squishy when trying to gain speed. the stock seat will destroy your butthole, change it unless your into that kinda thing.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized fsr xc pro 07
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for my seat, which is a nice big gel grandma-style seat from walmart. 12 bucks baby.
Bottom Line:
This bike kicks ass. Do yourself a favor and get this bike instead of the 800 buck Yukon or a 1600 dollar specialized fsr with junk components. The frame design is great. not super light but light enough. Very solid. The harder i ride this bike the more it likes it. Lifetime warranty on the frame and rear shock by the way. and there are giant dealers everywhere.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mr.Dustin
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: July 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
S'all good!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Western Cycle
Strengths:
Alright, first off I must say that I've been very happy with my purchase of the 08 Giant Trance 2. I've now put several hundred kilometers on it, and figured I'd share my experience.
First of all, the frame has been excellent. The maestro geometry is superb, everything feels solid, and even the the bomber m2 forks work nicely. I'm riding the extra large frame being 6'4' and nearly 190lbs and it couldn't be any more comfortable. The rear air shock has been excellent as the adjustability is easy and it has held the psi I put it in since day one. Also, this bike has made climbing fantastic. With zero peddle bob and climbing gears like you wouldn't believe, you can pretty much scale walls.
Weaknesses:
Although the bike has been good overall, I do have a few minor complaints about a few of the components...
The first thing I changed on the bike was the saddle. The stock WTB seat was about as comfortable as a jagged rock. Also, the Kenda Komodo tires are marginal at best. There isn't a really specific reason I'm against them, they just feel like the weak link in an otherwise very solid set up. I currently have panaracer XC fire pros on order and am hoping that they'll keep things a little more balanced on the wet condtions and dirt.
Finally, the stock Hayes MX-4 brakes are acceptable, but not outstanding. They've given me no troubles in dry situations, but once wet you certainly lose your some of your stopping power and they can be heard for about a mile radius.I'm considering upgrading to Avid BB7s.
Similar Products Used:
None aside from my CCM soft tail affectionately know as 'The Bus'.
Bike Setup:
08 Giant Trance 2
pretty much stock at the moment
Panaracer fire XC pro tires soon to come
Avid BB7's with 203mm rotors likely to come
Bottom Line:
Certainly a good jumping off point for someone looking to get into a solid jack of all trades soft tail. Good components for the most part, and a frame set up that feels good in any situation. Can't complain about what you get for the price. Like I've said, there are some upgrades on my list, but isn't that half the fun anyway?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sluicide
a Weekend Warrior
from Durango, CO Date Reviewed: July 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Telegraph
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Mountain Bike Specia
Strengths:
Incredibly responsive off the showroom floor. Great braking action from the fancy-schmancy hydraulic disc brakes. Responsive suspension and tight frame. Just feels like a very solid bike that says "Take me home because I'll be your best friend forever."
Weaknesses:
Avid Juicy 3's started acting very erratic after four months. The front brake lever suddenly went to the bar on a very steep decent once. Then it was fine, then it was soft, then it was both, depending on the ambient temperature, day of the week and various astrological signs, apparently. I replaced the Juicy's with Avid BB7's for the same price as a bleed kit; no problems since. The pedals bang a lot on the rocks, so the bottom bracket is too low or maybe my legs are too long. It's also really annoying when the gears shift by themselves while pounding the bike up a bumpy hill, even after a tuneup; particularly when I'm trying to stave off a heart attack and show the college kids passing me the other way that yes, I really do know how to ride a bicycle and I'm not an escapee from the local special-ed class. The rear tire wore out quickly, but it was a minor issue.
Similar Products Used:
None, this is my first "serious" full-suspension mountain bike.
Bike Setup:
Not really sure. I just rode it out of the store and yelled "EXTREEME!" every four seconds, like in the movie, Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle. Maybe I should have told the sales staff I'm just some schmo' riding for fun, but can get very competitive and little psychotic at times (not in a "I'm going to kill you," psychotic way, but a "Hey, if I hang my butt off the back of the bike I can go down these really steep descents, but then I crash" kind of way). So maybe I needed better components.
Bottom Line:
Maybe my expectations were too high, maybe it was just a really good build by the store mechanics, but for $1,600, I thought the bike would be able to stand a pretty good beating. Didn't really work out that way. I ride about 4-6 days a week in the summer; an hour or two each time. Plus I use it for my short commute to and from work. The bike was a dream for the first few months, but after the break-in things started going a bit loosey-goosey ("loosey-goosey" is a bike mechanic term, I'm told, along with "You get what you pay for, you big dummy."). I'm 6'3" and 207 pounds, so to be faire the bike has been getting some pretty decent use. And there have been few crashes here and there. Ooops. But really, how much do I have to spend for a bike that will take the punishment? $3,000? $4,000? More? My wife already doesn't understand how I spent $1,600. For now, I'll chalk up the experience to "Wow, I just must be a totally latent awesome rider who didn't realize his incredible awesomeness and beat a Giant Trance 2 senseless. I'm so awesomely awesome."
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bryn Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Gold Coast Date Reviewed: May 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Nerang State Forest
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Strengths:
Awesome Frame! That is the single best reason to buy a bike. Everything else u can change. Awesome feel on single track going up or down. Light when and where it needs to be but heavy enough for going downhill
Weaknesses:
SDG saddle, which got replaced. Easton EA30 seatpost is absolute s**t! Only juicy 3's which could be better
Recon Forks, Fox R rear Shock, Mavic wheels, Sram Components, Selle italia saddle, race face seatpost, easton cockpit.
Bottom Line:
Good Bike, Good Frame, Good Price, Good Componengts. GOOD RIDE! This is an awesome XC bike, no doubt. But if you want a bike to use for XC and dirt jumps, get a reign. If you're not going off road, don't get an off road bike. This is a XC bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lior T
a Weekend Warrior
from Kazir, Israel Date Reviewed: April 18, 2008
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2750.00
Purchased At:
SingleTrack, Haifa
Strengths:
Great frame for XC and light to medium trails. Maestro suspension rocks! descends amazing for a 100mm frame.
Weaknesses:
Trance-2 setup from 2006 is a bit heavy. 100mm is abit short IMO.
Similar Products Used:
SantaCruz heckler (not THAT similar...)
Bike Setup:
As it came from the shop... standard 2006 trance-2
Bottom Line:
I sold my trance a couple of months ago after owning them for 2 years. I can definitely say this is an amazing bike! Although I am told that the 2007 is less well equipped, the frame is solid gold! if i was able to afford it, i'd had kept them as XC frame! I was able to ascend along with the best of them, and not trail back too much behind the big-hitters with 150 and more mm of suspension (I also know of a guy doing more then 1 meter jumps with them). No bobbing, good power translation, almost no maintenance. The Reba 100mm is awsome!!! (even compared to the talas36 and lyrik).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a
from California Date Reviewed: March 19, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Coyote
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
My Dad
Strengths:
great bike especially since my dad rode it once and decided mountin biking wasn't for him, so here i am with a free bike, hooray: good components, suspension works nice on the faster paced stuff, brakes have pretty good power, NO BOBBING
Weaknesses:
seats a little stiff, brakes could be better
Similar Products Used:
weyless xp
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
great bike, does really well on all single track, and can take 2-3 ft unexpected drops real well for only 4 in. of travel, rwlly like the orange paint and gold pinstriping
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon BonJovie
a Racer
from Bay Area Date Reviewed: January 31, 2008
Favorite Trail:
windy ridge, china camp
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
bikenut
Strengths:
Super strong frame, really stiff, rip off of oldschool dw link. Feels like more than 4 inches, and boy its fast. The brakes it comes with are junk, your lucky if you get a year out of them before you have to rebuild them. The wheels are real solid for 28 spokes, and i cannot complain about the hubs either. Those bearings are still spinning on my buddy's bike, i gave him my old wheels. But i found the stock wheels to be pretty damn flexy so i upgraded to 32 spokes.
Weaknesses:
The rear shock it comes with sucks stock. You have to get it pushed to really appreciate it. Made the bike faster, plusher, and way more reliable. Only got about a years worth of riding out the the stock pivot bearings, and the rear shox seals, and the race face bearings too. The cranks lasted 2 years, which is pretty impressive for how cheap they are. Upgraded to xt outbore cranks and they are superior with phil wood bearings. The new trance frame comes with enduro bearings and i have replaced the stock bearings with these and they have really stiffened up the rear end on my bike and made it much more plusher.
Similar Products Used:
All sorts.
Bike Setup:
Trance 2 frame, rock shox pike coil u turn, pushed rp3, shimano four piston, hope stainless braided lines, x7 rear mech, x9 shifters, hope pro 2 hubs and dt 5.1s.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike, but get rid of the reba. its a good fork, but i found it left the bottem bracket a little too low for fun descents and i kept smacking my 44 tooth chainring into rocks and roots. Now that i got the pike on it, i can still run a 44 and not smash it into stuff. I was running a bashguard with a 36 tooth chainring before witht the reba and that was a good setup. But boy is it fast. Right now it weighs 35 pounds and you wouldn't know it because its so fast and efficient. The rear suspension is litterally old school dw link and its super stiff. Frame is real solid too, beat the hell out of it and crashed a lot and still haven't dented it. Its tough. Just get a pike on it and get the rear shock pushed and you'll have a lot of fun. But make sure you get rid of those hayes brakes, do not put any money into them. Not worth it. I have a four piston the front with a hayes x9 in the rear and this is the second time i have had to get the rear caliper rebuilt. A cheap alternative to these are the shimano saints, which are great brakes with great reliability and not such a terrible price. Just make sure you go stainless on the cables.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Lee
a Racer
from RPV, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 7, 2008
Favorite Trail:
JPL Strawberry Farms
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
Bikeology, Torrance CA
Strengths:
Very light, excellent balance....Hayes brakes are too good, awesome stock parts. Fox, maestro suspension keeps the wheel on the ground(always)...no lock-out needed, dampening gauges are right on
Weaknesses:
Hmmm...the suspension bearings are starting to creak, have to wait and see, but I also flipped it a dozen times, so it's prob. my fault. Stawberry will be the end of my life one day...
Similar Products Used:
2006 Stumpjumper demo, gt avalance 2.0hardtail
Bike Setup:
stock, new easton platforms...need to bail too often
Bottom Line:
The 2008 trance x2 is the best bike, the geometry with the maestro suspension is no joke. Ellsworth claims to lose only 3% effeciency, than this bike's supension is rated second. All the rest like specialized are projected to lose 30%-60% wheel to ground and dampening effeciency when riding. The clean black is mystical b/c the decals glister in the sun only when you pass other riders, TIGHT...giant maestro loyal 4 life unitl my bankroll can afford an ellsworth
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rey Orara
a Cross Country Rider
from Chula Vista, California Date Reviewed: November 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Luv to Ride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1399.00
Purchased At:
Zumwalts
Strengths:
Don't confuse my 06 Giant Trance 2 with 2007. Super all around bike Components, Suspension and Frame Design. And if you choose to do so it's Definitely worth up grading.
Weaknesses:
Plastic Pedels?
Similar Products Used:
Been Riding for over 15 years. This is my first FS. I was also considering: Specialized Enduro; MK III Comp; ironhorse Azure Comp. All are nice bikes. All Different. But if I had to do this all over again. TRANCE X1...No Doubt!!!! If you have the cash...get the Trance X0.
Bike Setup:
Stock - with no reason to upgrade...But then again FOX makes some nice forks.
Bottom Line:
Test Ride as many bikes as you can. Buy new, buy smart. Not unless its a steal...then it probably is. Let your bodies geometry and pocket book decide. Oh -here's a good one. Be underdstanding with your wife when you tell her you just Finance a bike!!! One more thing. After you buy, Don't forget to Ride it.
Time for me to shut up and RIDE!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ytc100
a Cross Country Rider
from denville, nj USA Date Reviewed: October 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Blue Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
cycle works
Strengths:
Suspension design. Climbing ability. Good value. Lifetime frame warranty.
Weaknesses:
'05 pivot bearings. Raceface chaingrings. Kind of heavy frame. Paint chips easily, graphics are ugly.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Reba Team Fork, PUSHED Float R shock, WTB LDL hubs/Stans ztr355 rims/WS dbl. butt. spokes/alum. nips, easton monkey lite bar, fsa chainrings, stock everything else.
Bottom Line:
The pivot bearings in the '05 models were poorly spec'd and needed replacing after one season. Hayes nine brakes work great but are susceptible to master cylinder failures and can be tricky to setup/bleed. Raceface evolve xc chainrings are awful with a lot of chainsuck and poor shifting. The bike is a very fun ride. Climbs and accelerates very well with almost no pedal feedback through technical sections. The PUSHED shock made this bike really plush for my light weight without feeling harsh or inadequate. Handles most decents without complaint and feels pretty stiff in the corners.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SP
a Cross Country Rider
from San Mateo, CA Date Reviewed: October 26, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2050.00
Strengths:
Other reviewer's comments.
Weaknesses:
How it was built.
Similar Products Used:
Titus.
Bottom Line:
Finally, the truth get's spoken here at MTBR. I agree with Fred and Marc, this bike is a total piece of S. When I bought it all I could find were good reviews about it. But when I took it out on the trail, it was a different story. I don't know much about politics, but I do know that there must be plenty of it going around the mountain bike scence if this bike won "bike of the year". Who's blowin' who?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Fred
a
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
lol...NONE
Weaknesses:
you name it
Similar Products Used:
Similar to this? Nothing compares.
Bike Setup:
stock....with almost everything replaced.
Bottom Line:
Wow Jim you're sarcsam isn't appreciated. This worthless bike has something wrong with it contantly, and only TODAY did I finally throw it, after a YEAR of trouble. I certainly am allowed to post my opinion about the bike, regardless of what others have shared. I don't make it my policy to follow the herd like you evidently do. And as far as your opinion goes: feel free to express it if you're going to review a bike or another product online, but once you point it in the direction of someone else, YOU become the A hole. Perhaps you should lube up the top tube and stick you know what in there if you love it so much. Happy friggin' triails, douchebag.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1750.00
Bottom Line:
Gee, Marc. Bad day on the trail? Maybe the reason it sounds like a mariachi band is because you're throwing it around? Check out the other reviews below yours. Most list it at 4 or 5 rating. So maybe this one is human error. You ever think of that?
If you're really willing to sell it for a dollar, I'll buy it. I'll even pay for shipping (I'm outside San Diego).
Anyway, I bought this bike about 6 months ago and it's treating me fine. Worth every penny saved.
Hope it gets better for you.
See you on the trails!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marc
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles Date Reviewed: October 25, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
everything
Similar Products Used:
Turner Burner
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
The bottom line is I H.A.T.E. this bike. It's constantly in the shop. If it's not one thing, it's another. Week, after week, after week something goes wrong. I've had it for a year and I've had to replace the front derailer; replace the entire swingarm because the bearings were shot and they welded themselves to the frame; dissemble the bottom bracket to clean so it wouldn't make noise; replace the cables; replaces the cable housing which was shredded; etc. etc. etc. When I ride, my friend says I sound like a Mariachi band. It's lots of "clink" "clank" and "clunking", and I'm embarrassed when I ride past hikers. Not to mention the fact that I'm only 6' tall, but in order to accomodate that fact I had to raise the seat to what looks like an abnormally high level in relation to the top tube. The geometry of the bike blows. The bike blows. I dismounted twice this afternoon, and threw it into the bushes once, and then launched it onto the fireroad so it would land drivetrain-side down. I did this because for the last month I haven't been able to pinpoint an obnoxious "clanking" noise, AND because every time I shift it skips (even after a tune up at my LBS). I'm tired of this piece of ___ bike. I H.A.T.E. it. Anyone want to buy it from me? You can have it for a dollar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy S
a Weekend Warrior
from Luzerne, PA, US Date Reviewed: September 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Francis Slocum
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1050.00
Purchased At:
Around Town Bikes
Strengths:
Excellent parts and blows the new Trance 2 at the local bike shop out of the water. Pricing is extremely competative especially for a bike that begs to be taken to the edge and makes you feel like a kid again. Very fast down hill, next to no pedal bob, and climbs with the best of them. Once you swap out the stock tires, holds corners very well. Bike feels like it has more then 4 inces of suspension; very tunable.
Weaknesses:
Mounting tabs for brake lines are weak but can be replaced easily with a zip tie w/o affecting fit and finish. Paint is not the most durable as it wears off with a little rubbing. Stock Hutchinson tires are may pops that offer no traction - change these ASAP. Could also use a quick release seat clamp and easier adjustment for brake leavers.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Prophet, various DiamondBack
Bike Setup:
'06 model? -- purchased "used" from Around Town Bikes -- Rock Shox front, Fox shock rear, SRAM gears, Haynes hydraulic discs.
Bottom Line:
Great value for the price and then some; would recommend to a friend. So far very durable especially considering it's low weight and my high weight --220lbs. 5 chili peppers to a bike put together with great parts and does everything well without the big price tag.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruno Reis
a Cross Country Rider
from Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil Date Reviewed: September 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Perdidas
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Strengths:
- Riding position - A real warrior on trails - Little or no bob at all
Weaknesses:
None so far, but this is not a trail bike for the weight weenies!!!
Similar Products Used:
This is my fifth Mountain Bike, but my first full suspension
Bike Setup:
Sram X9 triggers and rear derailleur, XTR front derailleur, XT crankset, Industry Nine All Mountain wheelset, monkey lite sl low rise, reba race, juicy five.
Bottom Line:
This bike is incredible! Outstanding performance on extreme trails. It descends like heaven. Very comfortable in long trails (50Km to 80Km). Now, I don´t choose the easiest path, but the one that pleases me more!
I miss my 21lbs stumpy to climb, but this one is very good too.
My friends that ride in Epic's and other XC racing full suspensions see only my dust!!!
Perfect, perfect
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CELLA PAUL
a Cross Country Rider
from MIDDLE VILLAGE, NEW YORK Date Reviewed: August 28, 2007
Favorite Trail:
CUNNINGHAM PARK
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
ARC D'TRIOMPHE
Strengths:
EVERYTHING!!
Weaknesses:
CAN'T FIND ONE YET
Bike Setup:
FOX RP REAR, ROCKSHOX RECON FRONT, JUICY 3 HYRAULIC DISC BRAKES, EASTON BARS, STEM, SEATPOST; WTB RIMS, HUTCHISON TIRES(26")
Bottom Line:
THIS BIKE IS AWESOME! LIGHT FOR A F/S. IT REALLY ACCELERATES UP HILL NICELY. HANDLES WELL DOWNHILL AND GIVES AMPLE RESPONSIVENESS IN THE CORNERS. HANDLED SOME MID RANGE DROPS VERY NICELY AND DIDN'T BUCK ME OFF IN SOME DH MOGULS. I JUST GOT IT, AND AS OF YET HAVE FAILED TO FIND A NEGATIVE. LET ME BASH IT AROUND SOME MORE AND IF I FIND ONE....I'LL REPORT BACK
GOOD BANG FOR THE BUCK AND A GREAT RIDE.
THIS IS A GOOD BIKE FOR THE INTERMEDIATE CROSS COUNTRY RIDER, IT HAS 4.5" REAR TRAVEL, SO IT'S NOT MEANT FOR THE BIG DROPS. THIS IS ONE FOR THE ALLROUNDER ON A MODERATE BUDGET.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cam
a Weekend Warrior
from Seaford Vic, Australia Date Reviewed: August 17, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Dnandenong Bicycle Superstore
Strengths:
Spec is great for the price, seems better spec'ed than some other countries but less than others. Oz spec included Avid Juicy 3's SRAM X-7, Recon front fork. I love having hydra' brakes now and dual cush. Handles singeltrack and climbs wonderfully. Didn't think I would at first, but I use the pop-lock on the fork quite a bit.
Weaknesses:
May still be bedding in but raceface front cranks drop from middle to small chainring often if in a low gear up the back. Am wondering if the bottom bracket could have been a tiny bit higher. Hutchinson tires suck in the wet. Will swap to the Larsen TT's of my old hardtail.
Similar Products Used:
Old bike was a 96 Giant ATX 860 with upgraded front forks. Have tried a Kona but didn't like it that much.
Bottom Line:
Very happy, can't wait till the Forrest enduro in December. Looked at all sorts of other brands, most cooler than a common Giant, byt none as good looking, well spec'ed or with such a low standover and balanced feel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Woodford
a Weekend Warrior
from Nr Bournemouth, UK Date Reviewed: August 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2203.00
Purchased At:
GONE BIKING MAD, NEW MILTON
Strengths:
2007 Trance 2. Reduced priced bargain.
So far i've only owned it for just under a week, but like the best relationships in life, you find love at first site.
She rides like a dream and bounces in all the right places. Soaking up everything i've thrown at her so far. Can't wait until this tuesday, as it's my first real day off to put her through her paces. Will report again next weekend.
Weaknesses:
The stock saddle really is a chaffer. Any suggestions as a decent replacement? Not to sure at the mo about the tyre combo. Feels a bit slick. and slippy. took it out on a long gravel ride, felt at times like i was on ice.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
So far top dog. Can't get enough of it. Just a suggestion to others, looked at this item from J.E. James cycles UK. Told them where to stick it after 14 days, and 3 phone calls to chase it. No help given by them. Buy local. The people know what they are talking about, you'll always get great customer service and trouble free riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jarrad
a Cross Country Rider
from North Western NSW - Australia Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great base spec, beauty of a frame, SRAM drivetrain is a real sweety, quite light weight considering it's pricepoint and in comparison to other bikes.
Weaknesses:
Stock Easton EA30 seatpost is JUNK! I'm quite a big guy (240lbs), but this thing creakings like it's about to break. Definately in the market for a twin bolt clamp upgrade in the next few weeks.
Juicy Three Hydrualics leave a little to be desired in terms of outright braking strength and required lever effort and travel. However, I think this is more to do with my weight than anything else. Stock Hutchinson Piranhas are too light duty for any serious offroading. Impressive weight wise, though!
Upgrade to the Larsen TT's really improved the handling of the bike! I'm still dialing in the rebound settings on the forks and shock, but I really enjoy riding this bike and overall I'm quite pleased with my purchase - Once I upgrade the seatpost and perhaps the brakes, I think I'll be very very happy.
Also the fact that it's the same frame as the Trance 1 and 0 will be quite a big bonus for those who like to upgrade - a very good modifiers base.
Nice one, Giant.
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
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Perth, WA, Australia Date Reviewed: June 22, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Bottom Line:
Very nice bike once you wear it in, usually takes a few long rides with any new bike.
To fully appreciate this bike you need to setup the suspension and get new tires (like Continental Explorers) if you ride in Australian gravel. I weight 78kg so I have put 90psi at the front and 200psi on the back.
I payed $2500 AUS from TBE in Perth.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Payne
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: June 15, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
Westside Cyclery, Denver, CO
Strengths:
Stability and good handling inspires confidence. Nice rider position. Very little bobbing when climbing. Smooth shifting.
Weaknesses:
Often feels a bit heavy. Front Juicy 3 disc brake shudders when going downhill at slow speeds. The Juicy 3 model requires the owner to remove the brakes to adjust which is completely ridicules. Cable wear is excessive. Rear Hutchinson tire has poor traction.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
After investigating my bike's componenets in more detail, I came to a discouraging realization. The 2007 Trance 2 has mostly downgraded 2006 Trance 3 componentry. This causes it to weigh in about 1 lb more than the 2006 Trance 2 model. To lighten my bike to the 2006 model, I am looking at having to invest another $500. It looks as though Giant cut some corners in 2007 to improve their profit margin. Giant has lost my trust with this move. I now sorely wish I bought the 2006 model.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Edgar Bautista
a Weekend Warrior
from Antioch,Ca USA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
china camp
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Bicycles Pleasanton
Strengths:
climbing, component spec for the price
Weaknesses:
still haven't found any
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS, hardtails from steel to ti and carbon
Bike Setup:
still stock
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up for my original June 2005 review. I still haven't worn any components out. Will upgrade anything I do though. I am close to having to replace brake pads, and having them bled with new fluid. Replace the stock tires and ride and enjoy. This is absolutely the best bike for the money.Only now thinking of picking up a Reign for a long travel trail bike for Downieville and Tahoe.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jack mowatt
a Cross Country Rider
from lantzville Date Reviewed: May 20, 2007
Favorite Trail:
monkeys
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
used 5 times got a smoking deal
Strengths:
cheap, great spec by giant (of course)
Weaknesses:
sole brakes could be stronger ( ordered new kool-stop pads) cable routing is crap
Similar Products Used:
other bike is a reign 1
Bike Setup:
stock.. Had to pull out 30mm bumper out of Left leg of the recon fork to get 5" travel should have come that way from rockshox . rerouted cables to down tube, changed stem to 90mm nuch better
Bottom Line:
great bike light, cheap, and good components........ brakes could be better but I'm working on that
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Harris
a Cross Country Rider
from Georgetown, ON, CA Date Reviewed: May 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Ziggy's
Strengths:
Light, durable, climbs like a goat.
Weaknesses:
Not to seem silly, I haven't really found too many. A little more travel would be nice, but if that's your taste, you want the Reign anyways.
Bottom Line:
I am in love with this bike. It's the first FS I've owned, but I rode a lot of my friends' in the past. The Maestro technology is great. The price is great and I haven't had a single problem with this bike yet. I don't take great care of my bikes either. I just ride them and typically put them away dirty. I know that will make some of you cringe, but it's a sign of this bike's durability overall. Great components and a sweet frame make for a bang-on purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from Bethpage, NY, US Date Reviewed: May 3, 2007
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Brands Cycle and Fitness, Wantagh, NY
Strengths:
Amazing ride! Quick, nimble and a whole lot of fun! Bike just feels right!!!
Weaknesses:
Rear suspension tends to stop working well on descents. It tends to ride kind of high in the travel. However to cure this you can run the psi in the rear shock a bit lower to combat this so that you sag 1/4 of the travel. I have the fox float without the rp3 lever so I have no idea if that would help.
Similar Products Used:
06 trek fuel 06 marin full suspension 94 specialized fsr s-works full suspension
Bike Setup:
I'm 6'1" and I picked up the medium frame on sale. Felt a bit cramped until I threw on a 1" longer stem with a few more degrees of rise... now it's my dream ride.... aside from that Ellesworth Truth... but that's a lot lot more money. Also: Thompson post, kenda nevegal tires
Bottom Line:
The Marin and Trek Fuel bikes I rode (on trails) felt like they threatened to wash out from underneath me all the time in comparison. Just didn;t feel connected like this one. Perhaps the bottom bracket on this bike rides a bit lower so at first you bash a pedal into a rock here and there, but aside from that it's a dream ride for the price. If you're still riding hardtail or some older version of full susp, upgrade to this bike... it'll make your season.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott van Gerrisheim
a Cross Country Rider
from Maryborough, QLD, Australia Date Reviewed: April 27, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Takura
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Witney's Cycle World
Strengths:
Great specs, light weight frame.
Weaknesses:
Don't like the grips.
Similar Products Used:
Specialised Stumpjumper, Mongoose Wingsuper
Bike Setup:
Factory Spec.
Bottom Line:
I just love my bike. I've ridden it very hard and it just wants more. I'm doing things on this bike that I would never attempt on my old 'Goose. Was worried about the tires (normally use Maxxis Ignitors)but they handled the trail well.. even our favourite track "Death by Crumbly Rock". This bike is siply awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon BonJovie
a Racer
from Marin Date Reviewed: April 11, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Coastal Trail Descent, Windy Ridge, China Camps
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2070.00
Purchased At:
Bike Nut
Strengths:
Great frame, Hard Aluminum, Hydroformed tubes looks great and provides one stiff frame. Links are real stiff the swingarm is real stiff too. Don't really notice any flex, other than the stock wheels flexing out. Apparently I got hand built 317xm with those Cerit Hubs but I don't know about that for sure.
Weaknesses:
I wore out the stock free wheel on the hub, beat the crap out of those 317xm rims that were ok rims in about a year and 1 month. I wore out the stock chain rings, stock cassette, and stock linkage bearings, stock race face evolve xc outbore bearings, and rear fox rp3 shox seals in a year. It sucked, they blew out after a great ride down Mt Tam. Total for getting bearings replaced and rear shox rebuilt with new seals = 150.00. Kinda pricey. New rings were about 95 or so.
Similar Products Used:
Used to have a specialized s works with full xtr and mavic crossmax wheelset. Had a Schwinn Moab 1 for a long time. Great bike.
Bike Setup:
Trance 2 with Reba SL 115mm, Shimano XT Four Piston front brake, Hayes 9xc brake rear, Hope Stainless Brake lines, Hayes 7 inch rotors front and rear. Stock Shifters Sram x9 with x9 rear deraileur and xt front. Phil Wood Outbore Bearings in Race face evolve xc cranks with 36 chain and e 13 bashguard. Hope pro 2 hubs with 10mm bolt on rear hub, DT Swiss 5.1 Rims with fat tires. Time Carbon Atac pedals, and Thomson 70mm stem, race face dues seatpost and dkg quick release. Pushed Rp3 with the carbon guard thingy, which doesnt help that much if you have a fox shox. Those things have bad seals.
Bottom Line:
Get four piston brakes. At least one in front, could not trust that 2 piston, even with seven inch rotor not enough power for my kind of riding. New wheelset sweet, bike handles way better and corners so smooth. Got my RP3 pushed care of brother. Bike pedals way better. The hope lines are awesome and reliable, crashed plenty of times and no problem. The bike is awesome and a lot of fun. You just gotta fine tune the suspension to get everything out of it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael
a Cross Country Rider
from redwood city,ca Date Reviewed: March 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Russian Perserve Skyline Loop
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Passion Trail bikes
Strengths:
Feels Solid, Good componets
Weaknesses:
Cheap Paint Job, tires
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to Fox Vanilla RCL, Speedball R post, Dirty dog 8" rotors, Specialized Pro Tires
Bottom Line:
Being new to mt. biking the bike feels solid to me except when decending over 15mpg seems wiggley. I think next time I would buy a maverick
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan MacInnis
a Cross Country Rider
from Ch'town Date Reviewed: March 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
CTO
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Smooth Cycle
Strengths:
Great Components. I love the Reba fork and Hayes Brakes. This bike is a pleasure to ride. The T2 climbs very well, descends with equal ease and corners nicely too. I find the handling is excellent through even the most technical xc riding. The total weight is also quite low. The suspension works very well; I'll never ride a hard tail again.
Weaknesses:
Bottom Bracket bearing wore out very early. My Frame is different than the current design, and mud gets thrown into the rear shock, so I made a custom fender that sits in the rear triangle (in front of the rear tire) out of clear lexan plastic and velcro'd it in place. The Fender is light, hidden, and keeps my RP3 clean!
I had some issues with the bearings in my rear suspension linkage (2 failed) but Giant sent replacement parts very quickly for free! Thank you Giant!
Similar Products Used:
2006 Trance 1
Bike Setup:
2005 Model, 22" Frame, Egg Beaters, XTR Rear Der., New big chain ring (darn log), Cane Creek Bar Ends, Foam Axiom grips.
Bottom Line:
I've owned this since April 05 and ridden roughly 1500km on it. I am 6'3" (200lbs) I like the sloped tope tube frame design. I ride the 22" (biggest frame) and have more clearance than on my old 21" Rocky hard tail. I ride technical xc single track with lots of roots, quick climbs and quick descents. I love this bike so much and am planning on buying this year's Trance 0. It's a great bike, you won't regret buying it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Julius
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse
Strengths:
2006 Trance 2 Burnt Orange- Very little pedal bob on climbs and straightaway speed, Maestro suspension, above average components, XC/Trail hybrid, and VALUE!
Weaknesses:
Cable rubbing on frame, rear shock exposed to rocks (but corrected with carbon fiber guard later), and oh boy get rid of the Hutchinson tires ASAP!
Similar Products Used:
2003 Giant XTc NRS 3
Bike Setup:
Everything stock except Specialized BG2 Sport saddle and 07 Fox Float RL fork
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks uphill as equally downhill when suspension is setup properly. The Fox Float RP3 is a solid rear shock even for my weight (+220lbs). Propedal & Maestro suspension kicks butt! The stock fork Rock Shox Reba SL is ok but wanted more travel. The cable rubbing is suspect. The tires are terrible, replace them. Great bike with good components and solid value. Buy this bike or someone else will!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Downhiller
from yorkshire Date Reviewed: December 30, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$1.00
Strengths:
everything
Weaknesses:
nothing
Similar Products Used:
kona, gt raleigh mongoose fox
Bike Setup:
never you mind
Bottom Line:
great bike nothing wrong with it 10/10
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eric
a Cross Country Rider
from WeHo Ca. USofA Date Reviewed: November 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
whatever is under my tires
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
store
Strengths:
plush with very little bob, tracks well, reasonably light, good componet spec and its all black!
Weaknesses:
poor paint job and cable routing, reba fork sucks! had it rebuilt twice and could never get more the 3.25" of travel. low bottom bracket makes me smack pedals often
stock except for nevegals, sram chain and cog, oury lock ons, and fox float rlc
Bottom Line:
some minor problems, but overall sweet machine for the money. looks good and rides even better. gives you good confidence and does what you want it to do. a frame this good deserves a better stock fork. as my first full suspension rig there was no learning curve coming from a hardtail. it climbs as well if not better and is obviously way better on the downhill. i never thought i would buy a giant but i certainly glad i did. live to ride, ride to live!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kajun
a Weekend Warrior
from NC Date Reviewed: November 8, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Strengths:
comfy, stable, fast - lbs owner carried both santa cruz and Giant - owner believes the trance handles better than a similar santa cruz
Weaknesses:
didn't really like the tires like many other reviewers - i knocked off most of the cable clips w/n 3 rides - replaced them all with zip ties - my friends don't have this problem with their trances - probably just my riding style
Bike Setup:
22" frame, stock components - big frame fits my 6'4" body and long legs quite well
Bottom Line:
this is my first full suspension mtn bike - i really like it is about all i can say - i have had good support from my lbs as i wreck a least once every long ride - lbs was able to sweet talk a free carbon cover for the shock from mfr - if you don't want to pay for the cover and can't get one for free consider making your own with a milk carton
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
Popeye
a Racer
from South Africa Date Reviewed: October 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Real joy to ride. Did the Cape epic, what a nice smooth ride. I'm not a real mtb'r, but more a roadie, but was invited to do the Cape Epic. I love the bike, soft on the body..but
Weaknesses:
Cable "route" design is weak, very weak It scratch the top tube, its acctually now busy grinding into the allum of the frame t the back just before the back brakes. I'm waiting for the day that the cable go through the allm. and then going to send it back to Giant. A lot of "pivots", a big noise everytime I step on my left pedal. Replace the Race face BB now for the thirt time. Baught the bike in Feb 06, rode about 3000 kilometres now, on my 3rd BB, big noise and cable scratched frame. My bike is (today) at the Giant agents to look at the issues.
As said, I'm not a mtb guru, I love the ride on the bike. If giant can sort out the little problems , it will be great.
Value for money. The bike is not expensive and you don't have to worry about doing very hard and extreme mtb races.
It handles the cape-epic very well.
Hoppefully giant will sort out the problems
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeremy Hatch
a Cross Country Rider
from Martinez, CA Date Reviewed: September 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Joaquin Miller
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Mike's Pleasant Hill
Strengths:
Great fork (REBA), Shock (RP3)and OEM components. Light for 4in. full suspension.
Weaknesses:
Bad Rubber. The Hutchinson tires were off after first ride.
Bike Setup:
Eggbeaters, WTB ti Saddle, Folding Motoraptors. Carbon Bar coming soon.....
Bottom Line:
After riding only hardtails (for 15 years), it was finally time to make the switch. I looked all over for about 2 months and could only find a few bikes at this price point and higher that I could actually test ride. After riding the FSR Comp and a $4000 Blur, I stopped into Mike's in Pleasant Hill. I was never a fan of Giant but was very pleased with the OEM components and quality for the price. I first rode the Anthem, which I thought for my style of riding was the best choice, but after riding the Trance the comfort factor and suspension won me over. I have been riding 3 to 4 times a week from 10 to 25 miles per ride. From long fire road climbs to technical singletrack. I have never been disappointed with this bikes handling, suspension and breaking on the downhills. On my last ride I left the RP3 fully active and found climbing to be as good as in the most locked position, you just need to sit a little forward on the seat and spin. I am very pleased with my Trance and glad that I gave Giant a shot.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: September 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycle
Strengths:
Great Descender--very stable and plush, no flex--confidence inspiring. Plush rear shock, feels like it has 6" of travel, Incredible climber, NO BOB, just keep turning the pedals and it goes. Perfect trail bike
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, Specialized FSR, Gary Fisher Cake
Bike Setup:
Stock--wore through the tires and put on some Maxxis Highrollers (nice!)
Bottom Line:
This bike is perfect for Colorado trails, where you can climb for a long time, then bomb some single track, then maneuver through tight trees--the Trance does it all. I looked at every bike in town and found that none could climb as well or descend as well as the Trance. I've been riding for 15 years, and I can really say I did not know a bike could be this good. It's my 7th mountain bike and my 4th full suspension, so I know what I'm talking about when I say Giant nailed it on this one. The spec on the Trance 2 is spot on, Fork, rear shock, brakes and wheels won't need upgrading. The folks at Full Cycle treated me right too, they rock. If you are a trail rider mostly who does an occasional 24 hour race, occasional downhill session, but most of the time just rides trails and want to beat your buddies to the top and bottom of the trail--this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
E Borud
a Weekend Warrior
from Minnesota Date Reviewed: September 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Paul Bunyan Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Very little pedal bob (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
Grabmits
a Cross Country Rider
from Vienna Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
race-worx.de
Strengths:
youre getting a really for your money
Weaknesses:
Tires, Tires and Tires again. the Houtschinson-sucks in all Terrains exept mud. I can't understand why the putting a tire spez. for mud on it? Allready kissed the gravel (it is breaking out without notice)
Similar Products Used:
Corratech, GT
Bike Setup:
pretty much standard >> getting right now new tires!!
Bottom Line:
It is a great allrounder, very fast uphill (yes finally it is fun to go uphill) and just fun downhill. Even with so bad tires the bike gets 5 chilis
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Cheldelin
a Weekend Warrior
from Castle Rock, CO Date Reviewed: August 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Arapahoe Cyclery
Strengths:
This bike has good geometry and trail manners. Point it in a direction and it goes there. Good components for the $$. Smooth ride once you get the shocks dialed in. I'm 6' 4" and 230 and it soaks up the bumps. Climbs as good as my old hardtail and actually weighs less!
Weaknesses:
Tires are pretty poor. Put my used Velociraptors on and it feels alot better. I don't know why they didn't use the same cabling style on the rear brake cable as they did on the derailers. The rear brake cable is just tie-wrapped to 2 mounting points along the top tube and this has allowd it to rub against the frame as you ride the bumps. I ended up polishing the area up with a little polishing compound and put some of the stick on plastic wear guards on to fixed that. The tie wraps to hold the cables in place are marginal. I've replaced 3 of them already. Put a few in your pack because they seem to break at the most in-opportune time.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel EX 7 was my closest contender, the Trance geometry just fit me better. Looked at Specialized, Ironhorse and Gary Fisher.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for: Tires Replaced the 10 deg neck with a 40 deg neck.
Bottom Line:
Good bike for the money. Took me a serveral rides to get the rear Fox RP3 shock dialed in. I would have prefered the RockShox MC3 rear shock on the Trek Fuel EX 7 (has a full lock-out where as the RP3 only has 3 "settings", none of which is a full lock-out) but the Fuel EX 7 geometry just didn't feel as good as the Trance 2 to me (pure personal preference here). Loving the Hayes brakes, one finger stopping and haven't locked them up to flip me over the handle bars yet (knock on wood). Still learning the SRAM shifting style. I've been riding Rapid fire for over 10 years and it's just a hard habit to break. But the SRAMs have been providing good, solid, crisp shifts in both directions. My first rides on it other than around the block in the neighborhood were Porcupine Rim and Baby Steps in Moab. Those 2 rides pretty much chewed up the stock tires. Other than that, it made the downhills on them plush rides. No more sore arms and legs from the pounding on the downhills. I had a pair of Velociraptors on my old bike that I put on when I got back and feel much better with these on. I give it only 4 Flamin' Chilis on the Overall rating because it's not quite perfect (see comments above), but it's pretty close... not regretting my purchase.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BigT
a Cross Country Rider
from ACT Australia Date Reviewed: August 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Bobsled, Sparrow Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Overall great bike. The suspension works well, compliant without being overly soft, with very little rear bob. The pop-lock is great for climbing.
Weaknesses:
The Bulldog tyres have great upright grip, but are lacking in cornering grip - the tread is just not wide anough. Not impressed with the Juicy 5 brakes. They make a shuddering noise as soon as they warm up. It is not a squeel or a grind (due to dirt), you actually feel the shudder through the bike, resulting in loss of modulation and probably premature lockup. When returned to the shop, they said they deglazed the pads, though it made no difference. Considering swapping over my totally shagged shimano disk system from previous bike, they worked fine.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, Kona, Cannondale, Scott (can never remember the models..)
Bike Setup:
Stock, though am considering swapping brakes and replacing tyres.
Bottom Line:
An overall great bike. I was tossing up between the 4 inch Trance and the 6 inch Reign. Coming from a hardtail (Avanti Barracuda) with a very solid front fork (Rockshock Judy XC), I was uncertain how much travel I'd want for the riding I do. I'm glad I picked the Trance. 4 inches is plush anough to handle all the trails I generally ride (lots of root and rock strewn single track), with the exception of one or two larger drops and jumps. The bike is let down by the tires and the brakes, though my brake problems may be a one off, I've got to talk to someone about them who know what they are talking about.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Quebec, Canada Date Reviewed: August 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
- Bike very well designed and built. Maestro virtual suspension is an aewsome system, no bob. Comfortable, a good bike for long rides. Agressive in climbing. Nice burnt orange color also.
Weaknesses:
Hutchinson tires are, speaking for me, the worst tires I've tried. Changed for IRC's instead. Shock is exposed, but, the shop installed a nice carbon fiber protection piece no charge (made by Giant). Low Bottom bracket, a disadvantage in rocks, but not a mojor one.
Stock except tires and I got the handlebars trimmed.
Bottom Line:
This is, with th Stumpjumper FSR xc Comp, the best bike at this price. It is way more compfortable than my hardtail and surpise, it climbs better. Don't keep the stock tires, it's as good as crap. SRAM-X9 is as good as XT, but not that better as certain people says. No bobing, which is a major point. REBA fork is to my surprise, a very well designed fork that is perfecftly suitable for XC riding, I love it! Easy for maintenance also, so it's a major advantage over the fox float. Avid Juicy 5 brakes would have been better than hayes 9. This bike is awesome for its xc qualites, but a litte more on tires and brakes would give an extra edge to this superbly desined bike. Best choice for good riders that love technical singletracks and that are not in racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Go
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: July 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Maestro suspension, value for $, handling
Weaknesses:
Slightly heavy, but that's whinging
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS2, Specialized Epic
Bike Setup:
Stock Aussie spec, Avid Juicy 5's, Mavic XM 317 disc, Reba Race fork, Fox Float R shock, XT drivetrain, Easton EA 50 finishing kit
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Comming from a hardtail background this thing was a revelation. Dial in the suspension settings to your tastes and let her fly. Mountains of traction climbing, plush as all hell on the way down, very little pedal bob (it nearly pedals as well as my GT Avalanche HT). Combine all this with a great low slung geometry and awesome handling, you just chuck it around and hit apexes - fanstastic. The only gripe (and this is a small one) is that it could weigh a little less at nearly 13kgs or 29lbs, 1/2 kgs saving would be right on. Go get one, you'll love it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Williams
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, Arizona USA Date Reviewed: July 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Cathedral Rock Loop
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
All around bike for XC, and Trail riding. The suspension is able to be dialed into the riders style, and Maestro is really that good. Shifters, deraileurs and brakes are good, pedals, cranks and rims good, bars and saddle also works.
Weaknesses:
Tires, factory handle bar length may need to be trimmed down. Bigger riders, 6"+ >200 lbs may find the suspension in the rear a little lacking. Cable wear is insane and down to aluminum inside of the first 500 miles of trail use.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Raliegh
Bike Setup:
Stock except for tubes and tires. Went to Panaracer Dart and Smoke which neither are great. Slimed the tubes and put on a wireless Cat eye computer. Forte bar ends and water cage, the rest is stock.
Bottom Line:
I fell in love with this bike. This review is now 9 months after my first review, and the bikes held up to every expectation I've had. I would like to go a little lighter, but only if I could be assured that the "upgrade" would act and feel just like this bike. I've become obsessed with getting my rides in, bought a light and get out whenever there's a free moment. I don't think many changes are planned for 2006 version, but I'd put this bike up against any on the market for $2000 and the rider tests and write ups keep singing it's praises.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Prescott, Arizona, USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Good looking frame, great suspension and easy setup
Weaknesses:
hard to reach areas for cleaning and shock is exposed.
I thought my KHS xc504 was great but when I finished building the Giant Trance my riding skills have increase to a higher level. I can climb hills that beat me on other bikes and laugh at rock gardens now. The handling on tight single tracks is great I am much faster going through the thick brush now and the braking is superior to my last bike. Just can't wait to ride it in Moab.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lucas Conner
a Weekend Warrior
from Augusta, Georgia Date Reviewed: July 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
FATS, SC
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Andy Jordan's
Strengths:
2006 Model
GREAT VALUE. RP3 Fox. Great braking. Overall component compatibility. The "burnt orange" color is original.
Weaknesses:
Replace the Hutchison tires ASAP. They are the only part of the bike that holds it back.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale F700. Cannondale Jekyll. Many testrides on other bikes... Trek, Specialized etc...
I Love this bike! GIANT is a great value and a great product. All of the components work well for their intended audience. I'm constantly rcv'ing compliments on the color of the bike. 100% recommended. DO IT!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sherri
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: June 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Poto, Highland, Pontiac Lk.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE 2006 MODEL.
component pkg., RP3, SRAM derailler, good value for the money.
Weaknesses:
cable rubs off paint after just 1 ride, continues to damage paint. Not real impressed w/ the Hayes disc brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Kahuna Deluxe
Bike Setup:
Stock, except swapped out the shifters to SRAM X9 twisters, changed seat to Terry Liberator, Speedplay frog pedals.
Bottom Line:
Great bike! Every review on the 2006 is right on. I ordered this bike w/out even test riding (shop was out) and am not disappointed. Had it a little over a month,got about 125 miles on it so far, took about that long to get dialed in, but once you do, oh boy is it a plush, fast, comfy ride! The shock manuals help a lot w/ getting dialed in, then make micro-adjustments. You'll know you're dialed in just from the feel. The bike is much lighter than my old Kona. It bombs on the downhills, climbs great, and overall is the best value for the money. No bob on the suspension. The only bummer is the cable rub that Giant really needs to change. Had other bikes that never rubbed off the paint afte years of use. The bulldog tires aren't as bad as others have said. I'll ride them till they wear out, then replace w/ WTB's. The Reba is ok, but wish they had a Fox on the front of the #2 instead. The color "burnt orange" is nasty, looks more like chocolate brown. If you're thinking of buying this bike, do not hesitate. You'll be so happy and feel like a little kid again!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Brooksville, Fl. U.S. Date Reviewed: June 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Santos
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
San Antonio Cyclery
Strengths:
Plushest ride ever. NOsuspention bob!
Weaknesses:
Front brake seems finiky
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
The best bike I've ever riden. I am 285 lbs, and suspension bob is a big issue for me. There is NONE on theis bike when suspension is set correctly. The recommended suspension settings were dead on for my weight and riding style. This bike has caused me to ride harder and farther than before.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
epi hany
a Racer
from san fran Date Reviewed: June 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
zig zag
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
bike nut
Strengths:
all round great trail bike, dependable, reliable, beefy and bad ass. came with x9 rear derailer and xt front derailer with hayes 9 xc brakes. Rp3 is plush and if you tune the rockshox reba sl right, it can be a hella smooth ride.
Weaknesses:
The brakes faded on me and felt really crappy, I replaced the line with hope steel braided cables and gone bonz cnc two finger levars and they feel like new brake. Changed out front rotor in favor for an 8 inch hayes rotor. Stops on a dime.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized fsr, intense 5.5, ironhorse, marin.
Bike Setup:
Trance 2 with race face evolve xc cranks, which are pretty questionable if you ask me. They have the out bore bottem brackets and they really don't spin too well. I don't think the oversized bearings spin as well, forged and somewhat beefy, they feel pretty stiff. Hayes 9 xc with bonz levars and hope steel braided cables. Sram x9 rear and shimano xt front, reliable shifting and 1:1 ratio is nice and precise. Not to mention, its beefy as hell. The wheelset is mavic 317 disc. With dt swiss hubs. Hand built wheel set. race face seat post, and thomson stem with pro taper bars.
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike, you will not regret it. Handles great on single tracks, can jump it to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamin
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: June 19, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Canadian Dollars (Cyclepath)
Strengths:
Nearly no movemente on rear suspension provided you don't stand up.
Weaknesses:
Tough to clean in some places. Snapped chain after 1 month. Cable to back disc keeps snapping off its clip. Even with tie-wrap, it doesn't sit right. Needs a few more clips along frame.
Bottom Line:
I love this 2006 bike. 4 inches of travel for some reason looks less than other 4 inch travel bikes, but it has no problem in mountains. Chain snapped after month or so for no particular reason. Brakes are great. Had no problems with deraillers (although I still can't get into my extreme rear gears in middle ring in front without some rubbing on front derailler, but I suppose this is normal. Had a few 0km/h wipeouts! :) Bent brake lever on one, which seems pretty cheap, but I bent it back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matthew
a Cross Country Rider
from Michigan Date Reviewed: June 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Poto
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
D&D Bicycles, Clawson
Strengths:
Value! Great components, suspension works great, fun to ride. SRAM derailer and shifters work really well.
Weaknesses:
The stock tires are horrible. My only other complaint is the rear Hayes disk brake locked up on me and had to be replaced. Hayes was just ok to deal with (bike shop took good care of me, though).
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension -- was riding a Specialized Stumpjumper. Looked at Epic and Fuels. I won't go back to a hardtail now!
Bike Setup:
New tires...otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
This bike is really an amazing ride. If you have been riding a hardtail forever (like me) and are thinking about a full suspension bike but are skeptical, check this out. You won't be dissapointed. I set out to buy a Specialized Epic, but was not impressed with the ride (I suggest buying a nice hardtail instead of an Epic). I've got about 3 months of riding in on this bike and still love it. If you want a fun cross country bike with full suspension -- this is your bike. Climbs well, descends incredibly, and your body will thank you after the ride. The SRAM derailer and shifters work really well. I definately like the thumb shifters -- more than Shimano's rapid fire. The derailler is as good or better than Shimanos, IMO. I have not complaints with the Reba fork except that I seem to tinker with it a bit. The rear fork is awesome -- set it and forget it. Easy to tune in. Very plush ride, you won't notice any significant pedal bob, you'll ride faster and happier. Buy this bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BS
a
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: June 16, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Hub Bike Co-op
Strengths:
Climbing, rear suspension
Weaknesses:
Stock Hutchinson tires, cable routing that eats paint.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Epic Base, Trek Fuel EX-7
Bike Setup:
Stock, replaced tires with Kenda Nevegals
Bottom Line:
My first full suspension bike. The Reba fork is pretty good. The rear suspension seems complicated, but works really well. I've had no problems with the Shimano XT derailleurs, but have had a hard time getting used to the Low-Normal rear setup. A great all-arounder.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mtnbiker45
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada, Miramichi, NB Date Reviewed: June 9, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
This bike is so well balanced. Very easy to change lines with minimal effort. The suspension works excellent as the bike always feels hooked up to the trail.
Weaknesses:
I had some clearance issues with the pedals, but found it to be a problem with the Fox RP3. It had developed "STUCK DOWN" Lost most of it's travel. Sent it to fox had it back in 1 week and it works excellent now. To the reviewer who was having problems with pedal clearance, check to see if its STUCK DOWN. That will cause it to loose travel and next to impossible to set your sag. Very common with the Fox shocks.
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper elite, Giant AC1, Haro Sonic 120.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for Kenda Nevagals, Thomson seat post Race Face Deus 90mm Stem and Easton Carbon fiber bar.
Bottom Line:
Bottom line. This is the best trail bike I have owned. I have tried many and for me this was the best of the bunch. Excellent value and excellent suspension design that really works as advertized. The perfect trail bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shane
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle Date Reviewed: June 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tiger Mtn.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
BikeSport in Ballard (thnx!)
Strengths:
Out of the box, for the price, the Trance 2 has everything I wanted.
Weaknesses:
Need to change tires 2005 model.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Rush 600
Bike Setup:
Medium 18' Stock
Bottom Line:
After a month she molded to my body perfectly. This bike now feels like a part of me. Up hill is a breeze, I actually enjoy the climb now. This is the perfect weekend warrior bike, light, solid and reliable. The stock shocks are perfect for my 6ft 190ib's. Her control and single-track is a joy to the senses. This bike is fast and not too mention, an eye catcher on the trail. For me the Trance 2 is all I ever wanted in a mountain bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom Milan
a
from North Las Vegas, NV Date Reviewed: June 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Gooseberry Mesa, UT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1900.00
Purchased At:
Sun City Bicycles; Sun City, CA
Strengths:
Well balanced; very "flickable" on smooth trails
Weaknesses:
Harsh forks until Rockshox rebuilt. Pedal ground clearance kills this bike.
Similar Products Used:
Giant VT1; GT I-Drive
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This bike is decent, at BEST, on smooth trails. It is atrocious and confidence crushing on technical trails where pedal clearance is a factor. I moved toNorth Las Vegas about a year ago and thoroughly enjoyed riding my VT-1 at both Bootleg Canyon and Red Rock. I weigh about 215 with full equipment and have run the shock to maximum pressure on my pump and still can't get recommended sag. The forks were harsh until they were rebuilt by Rockshox. I guess that I was spoiled by the VT-1 but as far as I am concerned, this bike is lousy except for street use and light trail riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
michael
a Weekend Warrior
from redwood shoes,ca Date Reviewed: June 1, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2350.00
Purchased At:
Passionj Trail bikes
Strengths:
excelerates fast cool looking very comfortable fit can ride all day
Weaknesses:
poor paint job rear shock gets alot of mud from the rear tire
Bike Setup:
I upgraded to a fox vanilla r, not by chioce i wanted a fox rl 100 but the bike shop misunderstood me seems to work well
Bottom Line:
I would compair this with a trek fuel 8 see which is more comfortable. If your new to the sport shop shop shop.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Seekay
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: May 22, 2006
Stock Australian spec. Dark Cherry colour... whole drivetrain & shifters Shimano XT, Easton EA50 tubes, disc brakes, Reba Air RoxShox, Fox Float R rear shock.
Bottom Line:
This is one really cool bike. Nothing, I repeat, nothing comes close to the value & features on the Australian market today. I'm a cross country rider, and light weight is extremely important for me. None of the Trek bikes, Garry Fisher, Specialized comes close to the light weight and value for money.
For the people who thinks this bike is heavy... gimme whatever substance you're on. I can't believe that at this price point I have a 12 kg bike. For a top bike weighing 10.5-11 kg you have to fork out an extra 1 or 2 grand. Not much of a weight saving for the money. Most bikes in this price bracket are much heavier - even the Fuel Ex8.
Because of the air suspension & light weight, I can now climb rocks & inclines that my Fuji sunfire hardtail had trouble with. This bike definitely helps the rider.
This bike is perfect for the serious weekend warrior who does cross country trails. If you're not too fussed about climbing ability, this may be a little expensive. Also if you're a hard core racer, it may not be considered good enough at the elite levels (though I'd definitely feel confident racing with it at beginner to amateur levels).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Edinburgh, Scotland Date Reviewed: May 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere off the beaten track.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
J E James
Strengths:
Incredible suspension performance. Smooth, taut and efficient in the extreme. Zero pedal bob. Climbs as if on sky hooks and absorbs bumps effortlessly. Puts a smile on my face everytime the trail gets gnarly! So much more comfortable than my previous steel-framed hard tail. No more numb ass / sore lower back syndrome. I was afraid that I would lose out on climbing ability compared to the hard tail, but that is absolutely not the case. With no bob and excellent impact absorption, you can stay seated and concentrate on spinning the pedals. Fantastic. Incredible value - great, branded components from top to bottom.
Weaknesses:
Slightly heavier than I had anticipated. Paint finish not as resiliant as some (not helped by dubious cable routing around the head tube). Hutchinson Bulldog tyres only average.
Standard except for: Thomson 110mm stem, WTB Lazer V Ti saddle, Easton carbon XC low-riser bars, conventional XTR rear mech (not a fan of rapid rise), Rohloff chain.
Bottom Line:
Stupendous value for money in standard form, but equally a great frame for further kit upgrades to give true "killer" status - just be careful with the paint!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bart asikuul
a Cross Country Rider
from Breda, Holland Date Reviewed: May 10, 2006
Favorite Trail:
drunense duinen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
great suspension, stiff frame, handling & steering and looks...
Weaknesses:
I really don't know...maybe the fact that you cannot buy the frameset in the Netherlands so i had to get it from overseas... The US version has a much nicer colors/paintjob do...
Similar Products Used:
NRS, Epic, and others
Bike Setup:
Fox RLT 100, Thomson stem and seatpost, race face bar, XT hollowtech cranckset, XT front- Sram X.O rear and gripshift, XT disc-brakes, Mavic 717 disc-rims with XT centerlock hubs and a ( rear) racing ralph and ( front) Nobby Nic tire, shimano 959 pedals and a Flite saddle Maybe i'll change the wheels for Crossmax if I run in to them for a fair price...
Bottom Line:
The Maestro suspension makes for a f*cking great ride! It's fast, stable, corners like on rails, steers like a knife, and handles like a dream. I used to ride an NRS, and tought it was a great bike until i build up this one. The frame is a little bit heavier, but the bike feels faster! Downhill the NRS suspension locks up under breaking and becomes very harsh, even feels like having no suspension at all, The Trance does not lock up so you have much more feeling, comfort and control and you will go faster and faster... It will take hits like it's nothing, so smooth... It even climbs much better than the NRS, because the suspension gives you more traction, and the geometry is spot on so with the proper set up you feel one with your bike. Also they eliminated the pedal-kickback on the chain, it's just gone.... Compare the price you pay for a Giant Trance to the ride you get, you just know there's almost no bettter deal out there! you just have to buy the Trance 1 or 2 ( not even availIble in Europe)or build your own Trance frame (theyre all the same with fox shocks), you just have to build it with the components it deserves and at the end you will have a top bike!(a Fox fork in the front makes a great match) If you are an agressive XC, or a trail king, or do marathons, or just want to have fun and ride hard, this is the one for you!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bogdan
a Weekend Warrior
from Burlington, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: April 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
too many just to pick one
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Gears & Grills, Cambridge, ON
Strengths:
This review is for the 2005 Trance 1 frame I have built up myself: Strong frame. Very efficient climber. Your back, knees and joints will love you again.
Weaknesses:
BB hight may be too low for the really rough stuff (pedals hit more often than I remember on my hardtail).
The decision to purchase a dual suspension frame came after noticing that my back and knees could no longer take the abuse of a hardtail. I definitely did not want to compromise efficiency for the sake of comfort, so after a lot of research it came down to the Trance and the Blur XC. I decided on the Trance for two main reasons: a $700 price difference and because you can still mount rim brakes (once you stop laughing ... the Avid Arch-rivals IMHO are just as good or better than a lot of disk brakes out there especially if you don't ride in really wet, muddy conditions). Anyway ... my type of riding is very aggressive XC and I weigh 185 lbs.
GOOD STUFF: This bike climbs better than my old hardtail especially over technical terrain. It takes 3 to 4 foot drops without bottoming out. It is very forgiving on back, knees and joints after 3hr rides.
BAD STUFF: The pedals tend to hit more often than on my hardtail.
OTHER STUFF: I don't really consider these weaknesses, but the frame is somewhat heavier than expected (+1.5Lb), and the pro-pedal on the fox shock does not really seem to do a lot (possibly because it is masked in part by the awesome VPP suspension design). Having said that, this bike really makes you want to go out and ride more. It inspires confidence and expands the range of things you can do. When set up correctly, the bike feels like part of the rider, is very well balanced and a blast to ride!!! Because this is my first dual suspension bike it's difficult to comment on suspension bob, but the only time I have felt a slight pedal feedback was when hammering uphill, out of the saddle, in granny gear.
Unless you are a XC racer or downhiller, you will probably be very happy with the Trance. It is definitely worth more than 4 flamin' chilis, but I must hold off on the 5 since it would mean perfection.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
robmanic1
a Weekend Warrior
from Lincolnshire,UK Date Reviewed: April 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
somewhere hot+dusty!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
WADES CYCLES UK
Strengths:
PLUSH RIDE.STEALTH BLACK FINISH.UPGRADEABLE!
Weaknesses:
SORRY BUT.......TYRES'N'TUBES.QUALITY OF PAINT JOB.
Similar Products Used:
'DALE FS800
Bike Setup:
BASICALLY STOCK.PANARACER TRAILBLASTER 1.8 BOOTS, SLIME TUBES AND A FEW BLINGY BITS OF X-LITE.
Bottom Line:
LOVE THIS BIKE,JUST CAN'T RIDE IT ENOUGH! CLIMBS LIKE A GOAT WITH CRAMPONS! DESCENDS BETTER THAN ME,I'M STILL LOOKING FOR THE BIKE'S LIMITS LONG AFTER MINE.3 MONTHS IN STRUGGLING TO TUNE THE SHOCKS,AS ALL THE SETTINGS FEEL GOOD TO ME, COMING FROM A HARDTAIL WITH 'DALE'S HEADSHOCK, CULTURE-SHOCK OR WHAT!! NEVER KNEW RIDING COULD BE THIS COMFORTABLE. JUST FRUSTRATED THERE IS NO MAGIC FORMULA FOR SUS SET-UP. BIKE DOESN'T FEEL WEIGHTY, TIPS 28lbs ON BATHROOM SCALES FULLY RIGGED,CANT COMPLAIN AT THAT.STIL PLENTY OF OPTIONS FOR ADDING LITENESS AS SOON AS I HAVE ENOUGH BEANS IN MY ACCOUNT. TAPE-UP THAT FRAME ASAP, CABLE RUB IS A REAL PROBLEM, EVERYWHERE CABLES TOUCH FRAME HAS WORN THROUGH WITHIN 3 MONTHS, BAD BAD FINISH IF YOU ASK ME,SPOILS AN OTHERWISE PERFECT MACHINE. STOCK TUBES ARE WAY TOO LIGHTWEIGHT AND SHOULD BE PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK AS SPARES, TYRES ARE OK BUT ONLY OK,CHANGED MINE FOR PANARACER TRAILBLASTERS,SKINNY 1.8'S AS NOT TOO MANY ROCKY DESCENTS AMONG THE LINCOLNSHIRE ALPS! MAINLY EDGE-OF-FIELD STUFF FOR ME.EARLY DAYS STILL,LOOKING FORWARD TO GIVING IT A REAL TEST IN THE YORKSHIRE DAILES, OR GLENTRESS OR SUMMINK, LOOKING GOOD SO-FAR.OVERALL, PLEASED WITH MY CHOICE THOUGH.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
lazy_whippet
a Cross Country Rider
from Canberra, ACT, Australia Date Reviewed: April 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Sparrow Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2900.00
Purchased At:
Moruya Bicycles
Strengths:
Smooth, usable, efficient rear suspension. Comfortable trail geometry. Forks are stiff and plush with remote lockout. Excellent components for the $.
Weaknesses:
Stock tyres. Not super light.
Similar Products Used:
None - this is my first dually.
Bike Setup:
Stock Australian 06, Larsen TTs & carbon riser bar.
Bottom Line:
Just wanted to add my vote for this bike. It's a blast. I ride singletrack ranging from fast, open hardpack to tight, rocky ascents and descents; this bike eats it all up.
The rear suspension is as good as everyone says: it tracks small bumps and provides excellent traction on technical climbs. On choppy downhills and small drops it uses the whole 100mm, but never obviously bottoms out. On the flat it soaks up small stuff and lets you keep the power down. The Reba forks deserve some credit here too. The geometry is neutral and comfy - like the whole bike it just works without fuss.
After hearing people complain about the weight I was concerned... turns out that stock, it weighed exactly the same as my old Kona Explosif. It would be pretty easy to shave 500g (ligher pedals, bar and NoTubes) but for the moment the weight's not a problem. Like everyone says the stock Hutchinson tyres are the only weak link. I put on some Larsen TTs - amazing, super fast and predictable in hardpack.
Bottom line is: this bike makes me faster and happier. In XC races I used to place near the tail of the field in Veterans; now I'm mid-field, and at the end I don't feel like I've been beaten up. I can't compare with other dual suspension bikes but my 2 cents is five and five:
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Hartsville, SC Date Reviewed: March 23, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Left Loop at Tsali
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Summit Cycles Columbia, SC
Strengths:
Excellent component setup for the money. Fantastic suspension design. No pedal bob.
Weaknesses:
Hutchison Bulldog tires washed out on me the first hard corner I took.
If you ride singletrack, buy this bike. The Maestro Suspension from Giant is incredible. Its absolutely smooth, has no pedal bob even in the lower gears. This bike accelerates fluidly and flies on the downhill sections. Even after not riding much over the winter, I gained a full 1/2 mph on my average speed over my best times from last year.
Tires are the only thing I can say as a drawback. I had the front tire wash-out on the first hard corner. Switched out the front with WTB Velociraptor from old bike. Left stock tire on as rear. So far I am happy with this combination.
Overall, this bike is the bomb for XC or aggressive XC. If you need something for more than a drop of a couple of feet, try the Giant Reign. same suspension with two inches more travel.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Weekend Warrior
from Brisbane Qld Australia Date Reviewed: March 16, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Daisy Hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Cycle City Cleveland
Strengths:
Light, good components. Climbs well with no bob.Juicy 5's are great but a little noisy. Plush ride after hard tail. My prostate hasn,t stopped thanking me.
Weaknesses:
Bulldog tyres are light with very low rolling resistance but shred very easily. Shredded front and ate rocks bigtime. Bottom pedals on obstacles often. Very low clearence.
Similar Products Used:
Scorpion Hard tail, Norco fluid 3
Bike Setup:
All standard except for 50mm Stiffy stem and more comphy chair.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike with great componentry and if you want to do XC then this bike is the one. My problem is that since I have had this bike I have pushed harder and faster and now I want to go over bigger logs and do some more adventureous stuff. I now kind of wish I had gone with the Reign 2 which was my first choice but there was a 3 month wait. If you think you might want to do some rougher terrain and bigger drop offs then go the Reign or the Faith.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam F
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal Date Reviewed: March 2, 2006
Schwinn Rocket 88, Kona Stinky Deluxe, Intense Uzzi SLX
Bike Setup:
Stock, except for the tires and pedals. Threw on some Intense 2.25's and Shimano M545's.
Bottom Line:
Awesome bike, Actually excellerates when you pedal. After riding an Uzzi SLX for 2 years I wasn't sure if 4" would be enough travel. Wrong! Feels like more than 4". Climbing is almost fun now. The Reba fork was complicated to set up at first, but once I figured it out I couldn't be happier with it. Components are all top notch,Race Face,XT,Mavic,WTB. Smooth and well balanced ride and it just looks sweet. Ditch the stock tires and ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
victor gouzvaris
a Cross Country Rider
from queanbeyan,nsw,australia Date Reviewed: February 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
sparrow hill
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2287.00
Purchased At:
Hammer 'N' Cycle
Strengths:
Full XT Componentry Reba Forks Avid Juicy 5's Brakes
Weaknesses:
Bulldog Tyres
Similar Products Used:
NRS
Bike Setup:
Full XTR running gear Reba Race Forks Avid Juicy 5's Fox Float R
Bottom Line:
Giant gives you value for money on the Trance 2. The Trance rides a lot better than the outdated NRS system. Perfect for long rides on single tracks.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony K
a Cross Country Rider
from Scottsdale AZ Date Reviewed: January 27, 2006
Favorite Trail:
McDowell Mtn Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Sweet Ride! Nice Components
Weaknesses:
Tires Blow! Ate dirt!, could be a little lighter, but no complaints!
Similar Products Used:
My old fugi Diamond Lite, Jamis dakar
Bike Setup:
Just added Continentel Pro front and a Kenda rear. Much better!
Bottom Line:
This bike is sweet. If you are thinking about buying this bike just do it! I got a killer deal on Ebay, a 2005 model in early 2006 saved me about $600. The bike gos. Fast on the downhills and defanitely knows how to climb. The black paint also looks great! I am a great believer in the mastro system. Take care!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tomi Kulcsar
a Cross Country Rider
from Cape Town, South Africa Date Reviewed: January 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Tokai Forest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Purchased At:
Action Cycling - City Bowl
Strengths:
Weight, Components, Quality
Weaknesses:
Nothing major, but hard to clean inbetween all the pivots. Tyres won't last too long on gravel...
Similar Products Used:
Azonic Propulsion and a few hardtails
Bike Setup:
Stock standard - as specced above
Bottom Line:
I thought I'd have to sacrifice some climbing speed, but now I just go faster on the ups and downs than on my old Kona hardtail. The rear sticks on the ups thanks to great suspension design - no lockout needed! Very comfy and tracks well on fast sketchy downhills - inspires confidence and this with new brakes that haven't bedded in yet!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
al
a Cross Country Rider
from the LBC Date Reviewed: December 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
montana de oro
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
jones bike shop
Strengths:
The way it climbs. The quick-up shifter setup. Comfortable. The adjustable shocks
Weaknesses:
Hard seat. Brakes rub. Some driveline noise.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized hardrock
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I am very happy with this bike. I know that the bike does not make the rider but it sure can help and this one does. I ride mostly single track, gravel, shale, rocky, sandy, hardpack, so cal mountain trails and this bike has proven to be an agile climber and a good descender. It is a good combinatin between a more specific downhill bike and a hardtail. The bike climbs so well I actually enjoy the uphill and find myself cursing gravity with less frequency. It is not the best downhill bike but the suspension is good and I feel comfortable going fast. I have also ridden my friends Kona Coiler Primo which gives a much more solid feel and for me inspires more confidence on the descents. This confidence is not free and is paid for on the way up. I have taken the Trance off some small(3') drops and it is obvious that this bike was not made for that type of riding. If you are looking for a bike to ride off stairs and big drops this is not the bike for you. If, on the other hand, you are looking for a bike that is great on the single track, great on the uphill, and good on the downhill than this is your bike. Oh, and did I mention how well this bike climbs?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake, UT, USA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Minnewaska State Park, NY
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Contender Cycles
Strengths:
Solid. Comfy (no back/shoulder pain) Steers and Handles well. Basically a no thought bike; just ride the trails, bike just works.
Weaknesses:
Tires pack up w mud. Also there are spots on the frame where mud can accumulate. Discs tend to rub slightly.
Similar Products Used:
Long time steel Hardtail rider, Independent Deluxe last 8 years. Test rode a Blur, BMC and others. Can't touch the dollar value.
Bike Setup:
20" size. I'm 6'1. Cut Bars 1" ea side, moved levers inward. Upgraded brake levers to carbon.Replaced Post w Thompson Elite so saddle could move forward. Replaced pedals w Candys. Shortened Stem to 100, moved 2 shims to top of steerer.
Bottom Line:
Haven't worked on shock/fork settings yet. But w fit dialed in this bike lets me ride longer, faster and clear more spots. Much heavier than old hardtail but not really noticable until crazy pitches - in fact it is faster on most uphills and of course the flats and down. And here in Salt Lake it's ALL up and down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob
a Cross Country Rider
from cincinnati, oh Date Reviewed: October 18, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Ceasars Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1999.00
Purchased At:
BMG bikes
Strengths:
Rear suspension, bullitproof frame.
Weaknesses:
weight, stock tires, Reba shock
Similar Products Used:
santa cruz blur
Bike Setup:
stock from factory
Bottom Line:
I went from a front suspension to the Trance. Wow!!! what a difference. Riding has become much more enjoyable. The rear suspension works as promised. Some bob in the granny gear, but cant complain. The bike is a little on the heavy side, but I feal I could use this bike almost anywherea and it would fit in. The Reba fork doesn't absorb washboard bumps like is should. The stock tires tend to wash out if you take corners fast. Brakes work great. The crank applies instant power when you pedal. No flex whatsoever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff King
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Queen Charlotte Track
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Papanui Cycles, Christchurch
Strengths:
Strong frame, excellent suspension, good component mix, value for money
Weaknesses:
None to date...
Similar Products Used:
Demoed a Specialised Epic, Kona Kikapu
Bike Setup:
Stock with Campag K2 rims laced to Hope XC rear hub, Hayes/Huegi front, Maxxis mofo front, high roller rear tyres, Hope skewers. Australia/NZ spec has Easton EA 50 stem, riser bar and seatpost, Avid Juicy 5 brakes. Switched XT shifters and rear mech and replaced with SRAM X7 shifters, X9 mech. Added stumpy ergo bar ends for climbing, Race Race good n evil grips.
Bottom Line:
I started riding mountain bikes in the 1980s, and have graduated from a Shogun Trailbreaker to a succession of hardtails, with my last steed being a Kona Caldera equipped with a Thudbuster post. A test-ride on an Epic provided by my LBS last year alerted me to the fact that full suspension has come a long way since my first unsatisfying adventure on an early Specialised FSR A1 in the 90's, and I decided that the time had come to take a trip on the wild side...the dream of a new bike was born. I don't have a huge budget, so did lots of internet research and despite not having ridden one (or even seen one close-up) I decided the Trance 2 was for me. There followed weeks of waiting, planning, hoping...finally the bike arrived, was disassembled for coating in clear plastic film (a relatively cheap investment in protecting paint and frame) then reassembled and ready to be ridden. It's taken me a few rides to get the rig fully 'dialled' but now it feels like an extension of me - I've noticed no bobbing whilst climbing (and I regularly climb long paved roads en route to the trail); the lockout on the Reba is great, and with the fork set at 130 psi positive, 140 psi negative, floodgate 1 rotation from fully open, rebound 3 rotations out, rear shock 190 psi at 3 clicks from slow, I have pretty much my dream ride. I did notice on the first ride the 'pedal strike' problem recorded by other reviewers - upping the pressure in the rear shock has to a large extent remedied this, but I guess if you need more that 4 inches of travel, go for the Reign. On choppy, rocky, cross-country sections the suspension is simply magnificent - balanced, plush, predictable and tuneable - making it the ideal trail bike. If long-distance, pain-free cross country epics are what spin your MTB wheels, then I highly recommend you try one of these machines - and if you're lucky enough to live in Australia or NZ, you'll get a winning spec level thrown in - the Easton components look and work well, and the Avid brakes are simply great. Overall, as a friend of mine said when he got the photo attached to my proud 'check out my new wheels' email, the Trance 2 is one sexy bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Carlsbad, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: October 10, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Bottom Line:
This is an update to my earier review. Fox replaced the rear shock, the new one has enough damping and the landings no longer bounce. The Miestro suspension may prove to be as good as the NRS and stronger as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Carlsbad, Ca. USA Date Reviewed: October 7, 2005
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm on
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Warehouse, San Diego
Strengths:
Good component group...Wheel set (mavic 317), Hayes Hydraulic Disk Brakes, strong frame with no flex. Suspension gives smooth ride. Rapid Rise deraileur. Time pedals (no sharp edges). The ride is efficient and smooth. This bike hops over obstacles with little effort.
Weaknesses:
For <$2K you don't get primo parts everywhere. The tires are questionable, the seat slightly uncomfortable, the seat post too weak, and the rear shock could use more damping.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher X-caliber, Giant NRS-2
Bike Setup:
Replaced Reba fork with Fox Talus. Installed 75mm stem, FSA seat post with Specialized seat and Richy Z max 2.35 front tire. Rear tire to be replaced soon.
Bottom Line:
Pedaling efficiency is great. The ride is smooth, but the under damped rear shock sends the bike airborne more than I like. The NRS-2 would stick to the ground upon landing, the Trance-2 definitely bounces after landing. This will take some getting used to. This effect doesn't seem to slow me down too much though, it just feels different.
The frame is much stronger than NRS-2, I feel no flex on the Trance-2. Time will tell but this bike seems to be a heavier duty VPP type suspension.
The rapid rise deraileur takes time to get used to. Now that I am able to switch between my bikes and shift well, I do prefer the rapid rise. It just shifts better.
I broke the seat post bolt once (I weight 175), and had trouble keeping the seat properly anchored. In general, I dislike single bolt seat posts, its too much to ask one bolt to do. Try this test... push up on the nose of the seat, notice the seat rail clamps pull away from seat post.. NFG!!
I expect to replace a few components on any bike I purchase because I don't spend $4K to buy it. With new tires, seat and seat post, this is one solid bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Williams
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale Date Reviewed: October 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Quartz, Lost Dog, Natural Wash
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Performance Bicycles
Strengths:
Suspension is really the key in this bike for this price range...and on the sort of trails I've tested. The value for all this is pretty incredible and I'm very happy with th bike, even through it's first few flaws.
Weaknesses:
First change included the tubes, which were paper thin and flat after my first ride. I've also had some minor break in for the pedals which were advanced for me to exit as an inexperienced rider. I've honestly had as much trouble with the tried and true Shimano XT parts as anything, and I'm still fine tuning through some cable stretch and shifting patterns. Also working through some stiff chain links.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher, Trek, Raleigh
Bike Setup:
Stock except added slime tubes, computer and water rack. I may add a thumb shifter for the front shock compression to adjust from the shifter instead of reaching down.
Bottom Line:
I've now been on the bike for about 15 outings and 70 trail miles. It's going through a break in period, which is evident in my comments above, but in all, I couldn't be happier. I'm new to the sport and find myself obsessed with riding, where on a much lesser bike, I know would not be the case. It exceeds all my expectations in value, seems to handle anything up to and beyond intermediate terrain handedly and will not likely undergo many "upgrades" or changes in accommodating this rider for many years. I'd recommend it to anyone breaking into the sport or transitioning from a lesser full suspension or hard tail bike that likes anything less than advanced singletrack routes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris jackson
a Weekend Warrior
from Taupo/New Zealand Date Reviewed: September 28, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Local Craters of the Moon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
NZ
Strengths:
Reba Fork/Lockout,Good allround set up climbs well comes down even better!Hayes Brakes are mustard!Good bounce at the back with the fox shock quick set up an go
Weaknesses:
Tires are crap in the wet not to bad in the dry Cables rub but not a major
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Hardtail GT i-Drive
Bike Setup:
Out of the box just moved the brake levers a bit
Bottom Line:
Glad i got this bike makes it seem alot easier my arse thanks me!!This a great allround bike suits my type of riding {going as fast as i can without killing myself}!! Gets you out of tight spots With the top brakes and soaks up the bumps to keep you on the straight and narrow!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob Tucker
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO, USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Nederland & other area trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1600.00
Purchased At:
University Bikes - Boulder
Strengths:
Suspension - comfort - climbing & descending
Weaknesses:
Nothing glaring - could be a little lighter.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, Kona King Kikapu, Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Amazing. My first FS bike - coming from a Specialized M4 hardtail. I am still in awe after each ride. It's heavier than the Specialized, but makes up for the weight with climbing efficiency and descending prowess. I am taking lines that I would never have dreamed of before and with much greater confidence. I am switching out the wheels for a lighter wheelset with better tires for the terrain here (very rocky - LOTS of Ups and Downs). I have a challenge to Lance though... it "IS about the bike!"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy Williams
a Weekend Warrior
from Scottsdale, AZ USA Date Reviewed: September 16, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Mcdowell Mtn Ranch trails
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1499.00
Purchased At:
Performance Scottsdale
Strengths:
Components included, XT and LX Deore
Weaknesses:
Not comfortable with the pedals
Similar Products Used:
Giant Trance 3, Raleigh Crested Butte, Cannondale Jeckyl, Jamis, and Gary Fisher
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
Love the Bike, although I'll return after I've ridden hard enough for the first few falls. I got a smokin' deal as the bike was on clearance, listed at Bingham Cyclery in Salt Lake City for this price and Performance, per their guarantee...matched it. I did a lot of research before diving in, and I'm pretty convinced that for someone new to the sport (above standard recreation), I got the best deal out there for the money. Against the other bikes I tested this one gave me the best feel, sturdy but comfortable, felt great in it's weight class vs my last Raleigh Crested Butte, and I know has a set up that is everything I'll need. I'm looking forward to some planned rides with a few very experienced riders that coached my through the buying process. My only complain was the pedals that I couldn’t stay in during my first few rides, which I’m sure have more to do with my mechanics in using the bike than the hardware.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom P
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR USA Date Reviewed: September 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
whoops
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Sunriver Sports
Strengths:
It didn't take long when on a demo ride to see that this bike really excels at speed. It is like all those ski reviews you read where they say the ski begs you to go faster. At speed it is like a super happy pet dog. The ride is very plush and climbs surprisingly smoothly. I was waiting for the VPP bikes to come down in price but after testing this and being able to buy the complete bike for nearly the price of a VPP frame only - which are experiencing bushing problems - this was a no-brainer. Front fork lock out is easy to use although I find I don't need it.
Weaknesses:
I seem to have to pay more attention to my pedals to keep from hitting rocks when peddling than other rides I have had. The rear suspension seems very sensitive to minor air pressure changes in terms of sag and ride quality. The clearance when not peddling is totally fine though. We don’t have very rocky technical trails here in Bend. If you have a lot of big rocks on your trails you might want to go for the Reign. My bike came with a rapid rise derailleur which while working well enough I would rather have high normal where you can down shift skipping a couple of gears at a time not to mention being able to swap bikes with your buddies. See other reviews on that topic. I also wish the rear disk brake could be adjusted to have a little wider resting clearance to the rotor.
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Superlight Amp B4
Bike Setup:
Stock except immediately changed tires, pedals and rear derailleur from rapid rise - low normal to high normal
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks especially for the money. My enjoyment of mountain biking has increased about 25% (which may have coincided with buying and riding with a mini type mp3 player about the same time)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Nevada City, California Date Reviewed: September 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Nevada City & Downieville stuff
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Extreme Outfiters
Strengths:
solid feel, climbs great for it's weight, very smooth with correct set-up
Weaknesses:
Like everybody else...Tires and seat, the seat has some hard seams and stiching in the wrong places for my butt
Similar Products Used:
Never...Riding hardtails since 1978. to many to list
Bike Setup:
Stock with the exception of tires, grips & new seat comming soon!
Bottom Line:
This is my first experiance with a full suspension, I held out as long as could. I am very happy with this bike, overall great quality, on long agressive rides I am not as beat up at the end. This bike is so smooth and fun it has gotten me into some trouble coming into knarly sections going alot faster than I thought... the brakes work very well! Time will tell how it holds up, I ride fairly hard but smooth due to my time on hardtails. I get in approx. 120-140 miles per week and my weigh(220lbs) tends to tear bikes down faster...so far so good!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Cristea
a Weekend Warrior
from Thousand Oaks, CA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Space Mt.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Newbury Park Bicycles
Strengths:
Great all around. Excellent climber
Weaknesses:
Had a problem with the front shock valve and the master cylinder. Both were covered under warranty.
Similar Products Used:
Specalized Ground Control Comp
Bike Setup:
Stock + WTB raptor's and a Light & Motion Arc.
Bottom Line:
Like the bike alot so far. But will probably trade up to the Faith model soon. I would like something a little smother on the downhills. Stock tires suck. But the rest of the components are awsome at this price point.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Concord, NH USA Date Reviewed: August 20, 2005
Best bike in its class for the money. Pretty light and well equipped. The fork is very nice and easily adjustable. The rear suspension is smooth and fells like 5 inches or travel versus the 4.2 claim. The stock tires held it back. Beware: My bike came with very thin lightweight tubes which blew on the first ride. Get rid of them and go with thicker tubes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Weekend Warrior
from Allamuchy, NJ USA Date Reviewed: August 17, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1850.00
Purchased At:
Cycle Works, Byram, NJ
Strengths:
Great Bike! The suspension is awesome with little or no bob on climbs and provides for plush decents. Climbs like a hardtail. Great bike for the price!
Weaknesses:
Tires could be better, but that is only stupid little complaint I have.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Jekyll 500
Bike Setup:
Stock bike, but I changed out the rear tire and put fatter grips on the bike. Also plan on adding small stubby bar ends.
Bottom Line:
This is a great bike. This is the first Giant I have owned and it is awesome. I cannot believe how much better a rider this bike has made me. I am able to shoot up hills and fly down decents like I have not done before. I highly recommend this bike to anyone from a beginner to expert. This is what a full suspension bike should be.
$ 2000.00
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