Giant builds with the XTC SLR 29 1 the sportiest bike in our 2021 comparison test of seven mountain bike hardtails around 1500 euros. It performs well downhill, but not quite as confidently as the heavy downhill specialists. On the other hand, it scores all the more points uphill and when doing kilometres.
Although the Giant hardtail costs 1499 euros (1399 euros before the Price increase in February 2021) is not one of the most expensive bikes in the test, the Taiwanese have managed to keep the total weight below the magic 12-kilo mark. The aluminium frame is not only beautifully shaped, but also light at 1740 grams. It also delivers impressive stiffness values on the BIKE test bench.
At the same time, the seat comfort is also very good - the metric that shows how well the frame and seatpost absorb small impacts. This makes the frame one of the best you can expect in this price range.
The equipment also matches the sporty character of the XTC SLR 29 and is of a consistently high standard. The gear mix of Shimano XT and SLX as well as the Shimano brakes with ergonomic levers round off the high-quality impression of the 29-inch hardtail.
We were surprised by the in-house Giant Crest suspension fork with its 34 millimetre stanchions. It can be locked out from the handlebars, responds sensitively and, despite the 104 millimetres of travel, easily absorbs even the biggest hits. A successful debut from Giant.
Unlike the downhill specialists in our test, some of which weigh two kilos more, the Giant XTC SLR 29 is a classic, sporty hardtail. The right choice for beginners who prefer to tackle fast off-road tours rather than technical descents.
All results of the comparative test
Which manufacturer offers the best spec for the money in 2021? Which bike shines on downhill singletrack descents and which bike is the most efficient and sporty for longer tours? We tested the seven mountain bike hardtails in direct comparison on varied off-road test laps.
In addition, each candidate has undergone an elaborate laboratory procedure. In the BIKE laboratory, we disassemble each test bike into its individual parts and test the frame, wheels and forks in particular according to standardised procedures. The elaborate measurements enable a differentiated assessment. The Comparison test of seven MTB hardtails from 1300 euros with all the results, data and details in BIKE 5/21. Keen for more? Order now your BIKE issue, printed or digital, individually or as a low-cost subscription.
You can download the complete test with all riding impressions and laboratory values from BIKE 5/2021 as a PDF below the article.
The test costs 1.99 euros. Why not free of charge? Because quality journalism has a price. In return, we guarantee independence and objectivity. This applies in particular to the tests in BIKE. We don't pay for them, but the opposite is the case: we charge for them, hundreds of thousands of euros every year.
