Being overweight is a huge problem in Germany: more than half of all adults weigh too much. The old Giant XTC Advanced similar: The carbon fibre frame weighed 1259 grams (manufacturer's specification). These days, a hardtail frame weighing less than a kilo is a must for marathon and hobby racers - even in 29 inch.
The new Giant XTC for 2020 should weigh just 920 grams, depending on the carbon layup. This brings the Taiwanese company closer to the lightest MTB frames currently available, such as the Specialised Epic or the Stoll R1the Simplon Razorblade SL or the Unno Aorabut are still slightly behind. The cheaper version of the XTC is said to weigh 995 grams. But weight alone is not enough to win races: Giant has slackened the head angle to 69.5 degrees and raised the seat angle to 73.5 degrees. This should give you more confidence downhill and further optimise the riding position.
There are three models to choose from with the new XTC Advanced: the top-of-the-range Advanced SL model, which costs 8,500 euros, leaves nothing to be desired. The Sram Eagle AXS changes the twelve gears electronically, high-quality Giant wheels with carbon fibre rims reduce the weight to 8.8 kilos. The Advanced 2 marks the entry level for 2200 euros. The favourable Rockshox fork and the SLX drivetrain reduce the weight: 11.9 kilos is not really a problem for racers. The mid-range XTC Advanced 1 model should represent the happy medium for most customers: The Fox 32 Stepcast fork and cheaper carbon wheels should reduce the weight of the 3500 euro bike to 9.9 kilos.
All bikes have a single drivetrain with twelve sprockets. This gives most sporty bikers a sufficient range. However, some marathon riders may wish for a version with double cranks. The single drivetrains either lack the gear for flat terrain or for really steep, long hills. No model comes with a dropper post, but this can be quickly retrofitted to the 30.9 mm seat tube.
