The Giant Fathom is the third hardtail in the group that fits the trail category. Compared to the classic entry-level hardtail with a cross-country focus, the Giant has a longer suspension fork, a slacker steering angle and a shorter stem for more direct handling. For more grip and comfort, the Taiwanese also give their trail hardtail fat 2.5 mm tyres, which already roll in tubeless setup as standard. All in all, this makes for a very safe and fun ride, even when the trail gets more demanding.
In our overview article Hardtails from 1199 to 1799 euros: 9 sporty entry-level hardtails in the test you will find all the bikes tested.
Giant's own fork responds well and provides good usable suspension travel. The only thing that spoilt the otherwise successful picture was a slight clacking noise during rapid rebound. The riding position is balanced on the climbs. However, the Giant Fathom accelerates sluggishly due to the heavy tyres, even though the total weight remains under the 14-kilo mark.
Conclusion on the Giant Fathom 29 2 by Peter Nilges, BIKE test manager:
The Giant Fathom not only has a lightweight hydroformed frame, but also all the ingredients that characterise an affordable trail hardtail.
Technical data and notes Giant Fathom 29 2
Manufacturer information
- Price: 1399 Euro
- Available from specialised dealers
- Material / Sizes: Aluminium / S / M / L / XL (tested in size L, 46.5 cm)
Measured values
- Weight without pedals / frame: 13.55 kg / 1937 g
- Weight of wheels: 5569 g
- Frame stiffness (absolute / STW): 53 N/mm; 27.4 N/mm/kg
Equipment
- Fork: Giant Crest 34
- Suspension travel: 130 mm
- Cranks / gears: Shimano Deore / Deore
- Gear ratio, range / handlebar width: 1 x 10, 418 % / 770 mm
- Brake system / Disc (front / rear): Tektro TKD 143, 180 / 180 mm
- Seatpost / seat comfort: Giant Contact Switch / 7.6 mm
- Wheels / tyres: Giant AM 29 / Maxxis Minion DHF / Aggressor 29 x 2.5
BIKE test rating²: good - 162.8 out of 250 points
¹Price may be subject to additional costs for packaging, dispatch and coordination.
²The BIKE judgement reflects the laboratory measurements (BIKE laboratory measurement) and the subjective impression of the test riders.
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super (250-205 P.), very good (204.75-180 P.), good (179.75-155 P.), satisfactory (154.75-130 P.), with weaknesses (129.75-105 P.), unsatisfactory (104.75-0 P.).
