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The Trance X 2 has the same geometry as its expensive carbon counterpart, which we in BIKE 3/22 with a long reach, low bottom bracket and long wheelbase. The riding position is correspondingly balanced to slightly sporty. The 77-degree seat angle puts enough pressure on the front wheel to climb steep sections in the saddle. With the shock open, the rear end pumps when pedalling. However, the shock platform and the lockout ensure composure.
The Giant Trance X 2 is stingy when it comes to features
At 15.6 kilos including pedals, the Giant is in the middle of the test field. Compared to the expensive carbon model, the frame weighs around 750 grams and the complete bike 1.9 kilos heavier. The wheels are factory-fitted tubeless and accelerate well. In terms of equipment, the Trance, together with the Conway, brings up the rear in this test group. The low-cost Sram SX drivetrain with a narrow range and the heavy Rockshox 35 suspension fork are below the level of the competition. Even the cheap Shimano brakes only decelerate moderately on descents.
Due to the smooth geometry and the successful riding position with a low centre of gravity, the Giant Trance X actually craves speed on the descents. However, the favourable suspension (especially the fork) reaches its limit early on when riding fast, is unstable and thus prevents the Giant from developing its full potential. Despite its weaknesses, the Trance manages the balancing act of uphill and downhill qualities.
Conclusion on the Giant Trance X 2
Max Fuchs, BIKE Editor: Uphill, the Giant Trance X is one of the best bikes in the test field and does honour to the all-mountain category. However, the downhill quality suffers due to the favourable spec and the somewhat weak suspension.
Technical data:
General
- Price: 3299 Euro >> e.g. available at Fahrrad XXL
- Frame material: aluminium
- Frame size: S / M /L / XL (tested size L / 46 cm)
- More info->
Measured values
- Weight without pedals: 15.25 kg
- Front / rear suspension travel: 148 / 142 mm
Equipment
- Fork: Rockshox 35 Gold RL Compression
- Shock: Fox Float DPS Performance
- Crank: Sram SX Eagle
- Gear system: Sram SX Eagle 1 x 12
- Gear ratio / bandwidth: 30; 11-50 / 454 %
- Brake system / Disc (front / rear): Shimano BR-MT 420 / 203 mm/ 180 mm
- Telescopic post / stroke / Ø: Giant Contact Switch / 170 mm / 30.9 mm
- Wheels: Giant AM 29
- Tyres: Maxxis Minion DHF / Dissector Exo Protection TR 29 x 2.50 / 2.40
- Ease of maintenance: medium
You can download the full test of our all-mountain bikes here:
Test All Mountains 2022 from BIKE 7/2022
