The best of both worlds: That's how 27.5-inch pioneer Giant advertises its latest XTC models. However, we can't say the same for the top model and the challenger with its first-class equipment. But first things first: With wheels weighing less than three kilos (!), the 8.6-kilo lightweight accelerates as if with a hidden electric drive. Two or three turns of the pedals in the cradle and the minimally profiled Schwalbe tyres are flying over the trails at high speed. Like a rabbit on the run, the agile XTC makes hooks through the tight, sandy berms of the test circuit. However, you need a steady, secure hand on the handlebars to keep the sporty racer with the firm SID fork on the ideal line. The XTC doesn't allow as much room for small corrections as some of the smoother 29ers. Who always hits the racing line at 180 km/h? World Cup pros, that's who the Advanced 0 is made for. The handling is a little more good-natured and the riding position is more relaxed on the baby-blue rational model. The dual-speed groupset, including the impressive Shimano XT brakes, is also more mainstream-compatible than the eleven-speed radical version of the noble racer. Thanks to the slim 27.2 mm carbon fibre seatpost, comfort is praised by both racing fans. The frame shows more than one centimetre of flex on our comfort test bench - a top value. The best of both worlds? In terms of weight and acceleration, the Giant racers come very close to lightweight 26-inch bikes, but they don't come close to the highly regarded downhill qualities of 29ers.
Conclusion Comfortably trimmed for propulsion: The 27.5-inch lightweight with rocket-like acceleration easily secures a place in the front row. The 3000-euro model with impressive equipment is a little more moderate in the new XTC fleet. Worth considering even for 26-inch fans.
Giant XTC Advanced 0
PLUS Super-lightweight wheels, lots of comfort on the saddle, lightest bike in the test, clean frame design
MINUS Tyres for dry, firm floors only
Giant XTC Advanced 2
PLUS XT brakes with 180 mm discs, lightweight wheels, lots of comfort on the saddle
MINUS Favourable rubber compound for tyres
