The Fathom E+ e-bike hardtail has been in Giant's programme unchanged for some time now. You can see that in the hardtail now: Syncdrive motor of the previous generation, small batteries, conservative geometry. So it's high time for an update. For 2024, Giant is therefore completely redesigning the Fathom and revising all the important components. The frame, motor and battery are completely new, and the equipment and geometry have also been significantly adapted for 2024.
The facts about the Giant Fathom E+ 2024
- Motor: Syncdrive Sport 2 or Pro 2, 75 or 85 Nm max. torque
- Battery: 650 or 800 Wh (removable)
- Frame material: aluminium
- Suspension travel: 130 mm
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Frame sizes: S to XXL
- Price: from 3499 Euro
- Permissible total weight: 156 kg (manufacturer's specification)
New frame, fresh geometry
For the new Fathom, Giant has revised the frame from the ground up. In direct comparison to its predecessor the significantly more modern and straightforward look, which is reminiscent of the new Fully Stance E+. The fresh look is a by-product of the redesigned geometry. Specifically, the steering angle has been slackened by two degrees to 66 degrees, while the seat angle of the new bike is one degree steeper and now stands at 75 degrees. The main frame has been lengthened slightly. These are all welcome changes that bring the Fathom E+ up to date and should give the bike a more comfortable riding position on tour as well as more confidence off-road.
Fathom E+ geometry at a glance (size L)
- Seat tube length: 460 mm
- Wheelbase: 1241 mm
- Reach: 451 mm
- Stack: 664 mm
- Steering angle: 66 degrees
- Seat angle: 75 degrees
- Chainstay length: 470 mm
New Syncdrive motor, batteries with 22700 cells: The e-bike drive
The second major change besides the new frame: In all three Fathom E+ models now features the latest generation of motors from Giant on the hardware basis of the new Yamaha PW-X3 with Giant software. The cheaper models come with the Syncdrive Sport 2 drive with a maximum of 75 Newton metres and a battery with 650 watt hours, while the top model gets the Pro 2 drive with 85 Newton metres and a large 800 battery for even more range. The large battery consists of 22700 cells from Panasonic, which are currently only used by Giant. They deliver a higher energy density and generate less heat than their predecessors. This should also have a positive effect on the service life of the batteries. With the optional range extender (250 Wh / €599), the range can be extended even further for extra-long tours.
The motors are operated via the all-in-one Remote Ride Control Dash, which also has a small colour display for the most important data on tour as well as an ANT+ and Bluetooth interface. Unfortunately, in our experience, this is not the most reactive or readable solution, But the connectivity is great. For example, heart rate belts can be paired with the remote to keep an eye on your heart rate while riding. The motor power and reactivity can be customised to personal preferences via Bluetooth and app.
From 3499 euros: The three models of the Giant Fathom E+
The entry-level price for the new Giant Fathom e-hardtail is €3499, and the three available models are designed slightly differently overall. While the Fathom E+ 2 with retractable seat post is aimed at mountain bike beginners, the models with the addition EX with mudguards, kickstand and pannier rack are also aimed at commuters and touring cyclists who occasionally want to turn off onto unpaved paths. Nice: As is usual with Giant, all models are approved for a total weight of up to 156 kilograms (rider, bike and luggage). This means they are also suitable for heavy riders and heavy loads.
The Fathom E+ models have to fear competition, especially from their own rivals. The Stance E+ in particular is only slightly more expensive than the Fathom and is often better equipped. For example, if you can do without the large battery and the Pro motor, the Stance E+ EX is a sophisticated SUV fully for the same price as the comparably equipped Fathom E+ hardtail.
BIKE review of the Giant Fathom E+
With the new motor and the fresh frame including revised geometry, Giant has given the Fathom E+ important updates. Nice to see: Even the cheapest model comes with a dropper post. The price is fair, even if the Fathom E+ at 3500 euros is unlikely to have an easy start in the currently very competitive market. - Adrian Kaether, editor for BIKE and EMTB
Adrian Kaether
Editor
