Giant Reign Advanced E+ 1 on test: Grey mouse or golden mean?

Giants E-Enduro Reign E+ has a long tradition and was one of the very early e-bikes designed for off-road riding. The latest version is no longer quite as aggressively designed, is intended to deliver a balanced mix of take-off qualities and riding fun and also comes with a few technical gadgets.

The industry giant Giant has made great strides in recent years, particularly when it comes to the e-system. Traditionally, the Taiwanese company's e-bikes come with in-house motors based on Yamaha hardware.

A stylish top tube display, which even shows the air pressure in the tyres, is one example of the successful efforts. Always keeping an eye on the air pressure automatically - that's real added value. However, one sensor failed several times during the test.

With a full carbon chassis, the Reign Advanced E+ is unfortunately not available at a low price. Our test bike is the middle of three equipment variants and costs 7999 euros >> available here. The entry-level model with more favourable equipment costs 6499 euros. This makes it clear that we are talking about a high-quality sports bike and not an everyday vehicle. With 180/170 mm suspension travel, the bike is definitely designed for tough terrain and use on enduro trails or in the bike park. This is also the aim of the relatively small battery with 560 watt hours, which prioritises weight over maximum range.

>> E-Enduro, full carbon frame, under 6000 euros? Two affordable bikes from Cube and Rose put to the test!

Climbing like on rails

The Reign E+ is traditionally strong on the climbs. The riding position is centred and control of the bike is excellent. The rear end generates a lot of traction and the soft MaxxGrip sticky tyres also suck up roots and obstacles. The front wheel hardly shows any tendency to climb, so even extreme steep sections are no problem. Although the motor is not a proven powerhouse, the power and torque are absolutely top-notch and completely sufficient. Only the short trail inhibits the climbing excellence in some key sections.

Fast and safe

The Reign is also a haven of peace downhill. The traction is really strong in every situation, which gives a lot of security and confidence. The suspension responds very sensitively, but then works with a good amount of support. Strong traction and controlled? Yes! Plush and super comfortable? No. You need a certain amount of self-confidence and riding skills to really step on the gas with the Reign. That gives it a racy character. Advantage: The bike doesn't bog down in its travel, but remains active. It's still easy to get airborne on jumps, but bunny hops and manuals are difficult.

A direct comparison with other bikes in this class is striking: The Giant Enduro is not the ultimate light-footed and manoeuvrable bike. On flow trails or flat terrain, it lacks a little liveliness and in tight bends, especially at slower speeds, it requires more effort. Also noticeable: the motor and battery rattle when rolling over obstacles. In our range test, the Reign had to make significant sacrifices. Responsible: the small battery and the very soft rubber compound on both tyres. At least you have full flexibility for long days: you can quickly insert a second battery or pack a range extender into the frame triangle, both are possible.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

• Very strong climber
• Plenty of traction and directional stability
• Battery quickly removable

Weaknesses

• Somewhat sluggish handling
• Engine rattles
• Small battery with short range

This test was created as part of a comparison of several high-end enduro bikes. All articles in the series can be found here in the links:

>> Santa Cruz, Giant or YT - who builds the best E-Enduro?

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