You can read the first information about the Giant Stormguard E+ here. How the E-SUV performs in practice and on the test bench will soon be revealed in the MYBIKE test.
The manufacturer sees its new model as an "extremely powerful e-bike that rides safely and in control both in the city and on off-road adventures". To achieve this, Giant promises to have equipped the bike with a powerful motor system, smooth suspension, a carbon belt drive and a unique pannier rack.
With the Stormguard E+, Giant wanted to develop a bike that offers a smooth and controlled ride on a wide variety of terrain - from rough roads to unpaved paths and trails. The suspension with 100 millimetres of travel should contribute to this. These "Stable Link" suspension elements have been newly developed and the system optimised so that it is compatible with a belt drive. According to the manufacturer, a pivot point in combination with an idler pulley should ensure optimum suspension kinematics. In addition, there is a pannier rack decoupled from the rear wheel and mounted above the suspension. This leads to improved suspension and therefore more comfort, especially when the carrier is heavily loaded. The suspension, combined with a Gates Carbon Drive CDX belt drive and belt tensioner, which keeps the belt tension constant during compression, is designed to maximise the durability of the drive.
In addition to the suspension on the rear triangle, a suspension fork also ensures comfort and safety. The 100 millimetre suspension and 100 millimetre suspension fork of the Giant Stormguard E+ absorb shocks and vibrations, while also ensuring that both tyres are always in contact with the ground. This improves traction on bumpy roads and off-road terrain.
The pannier rack is attached to the main frame above the Stable Link suspension and is therefore decoupled from the swinging mass. This allows the rear wheel to move without affecting the load on the carrier. The luggage carrier can be loaded with up to 15 kilograms.
Giant has equipped the Stormguard with a Gates Carbon Drive CDX belt drive. The advantage of this system is its long service life and the fact that it is practically maintenance-free and does not need to be lubricated. The belt is made of weather-resistant polyurethane and carbon fibre tensile cords which, unlike a conventional chain, do not stretch over time. Such a drive belt can also withstand tough conditions such as dirt, dust and mud and lasts for at least 10,000 kilometres. Further advantages of the belt: the carbon belt runs more quietly and is slightly lighter than a chain, and in combination with a hub gear, the drive can handle heavy loads and high mileages with long-lasting reliability, according to the manufacturer.
Giant presents the new SyncDrive Pro 2 as the most advanced motor in the Giant e-bike product range. With a torque of 85 Nm and a support ratio of 400 per cent, it offers consistent pedal assistance at all times.
The motor was developed in collaboration with Yamaha. Its Smart Assist technology utilises six sensors to determine the power required for the riding style and the respective terrain. The manufacturer also promises a reduced noise level and a low Q-factor for optimum pedalling performance.
The motor is powered by a new EnergyPak Smart 800, which uses battery cells optimised for e-bikes, which are larger and should have higher discharge capacities. Less heat is generated by the cells, which should put less strain on the system and therefore promise a longer overall service life for the battery.
The Stormguard E+ 1 is equipped with a Fox Float DPS shock, a Fox AWL suspension fork and a Giant Contact Switch seatpost. Shimano disc brakes and large-volume 2.6-inch tyres promise riding fun and safety on any terrain.
The Stormguard E+ 2 is equipped with a Fox Float DPS shock, an SR Suntour XCR 34 suspension fork and a Giant Contact Switch seatpost. An integrated pannier rack, lights and a directly mounted kickstand make it an ideal option for daily commuting.