E-Enduro test 2022Giant Reign E+1

Florentin Vesenbeckh

 · 24.10.2022

E-Enduro test 2022: Giant Reign E+1
Photo: Adrian Vesenbeckh

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The Giant Reign E+1 is a racy enduro bike with extreme geometry. Very steep seat angle, very slack steering angle, long reach and generous wheelbase.

The riding characteristics of the Giant Reign E+1 are surprisingly balanced considering these values. On rough terrain, the e-MTB provides a lot of security, but there is still plenty of fun to be had on moderate trails. However, the bike feels much more comfortable in serious enduro use than on leisurely tours. With a moderate riding style, the steering tends to tip a little, and the front-heavy and compact riding position can become uncomfortable on long flat sections. On the other hand, the Giant Reign shines when the going gets really steep. The aluminium bike is no stranger to a rising front wheel. Control in tight bends and on steep gradients is excellent, as the rider always remains centred on the bike. Added to this is the very high-traction rear suspension, which remains fully active even when the chain is pulled.

Racy enduro bike with powerful suspension and outstanding uphill characteristics.
Photo: Adrian Vesenbeckh

You can find an overview of all 7 E-Enduro bikes tested here. In it, we discuss in detail, among other things, the Motorswhich Reach heights and the question of whether a Light e-MTB or a classic e-Enduro is the better choice.


The direct response of the Syncdrive Pro2 motor is great on technical climbs. The resulting twitching as soon as you put your foot on the pedal takes some getting used to. Nevertheless, the Reign E+1 outperforms the competition on demanding climbs. The e-bike also masters rough descents with ease. The suspension with the high-quality Fox suspension elements (Grip2 damping) works well. Small bumps are absorbed sensitively, and even big bumps do not upset the e-MTB. With its very long wheelbase, the Reign E+ is more on the smooth side, but it is not unpleasantly sluggish.

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Conclusion by Florentin Vesenbeckh, deputy editor-in-chief of EMTB:

A racy enduro bike with powerful suspension and outstanding uphill characteristics. The extreme geometry predestines the Giant Reign E+1 for tough terrain, less ideal for moderate tours.
Florentin Vesenbeckh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of EMTBPhoto: Georg GrieshaberFlorentin Vesenbeckh, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of EMTB
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Technical data and notes Giant Reign E+1

General information

  • Price: 6999 Euro >> available here
  • Sizes / frame material: S / M / L (tested size) / XL / aluminium

Measured values²

  • Weight²: 25.3 kg
  • Reach altitude¹: 1648 (+202)hm
  • Average speed: 14.1 km/h
  • Centre of gravity height: 538 mm
  • Handlebar width: 800 mm
  • Crank length / Q-factor: 165 mm / 172 mm
  • Ground clearance⁵: 478 mm

Drive

  • Motor: Giant Syncdrive Pro 2
  • Max. Torque³: 85 Nm
  • Battery³ / weight²/ price replacement battery: EnergyPak 750 / 4260 g / 899 Euro
  • Gear system: Shimano XT (12-speed)
  • Translation (v. / h.): 36; 10-51
  • Display / size: RideControl Go, LED display

PLUS: Very direct response; power delivery; relatively quiet drive noise

MINUS: Twitching that takes some getting used to as soon as the foot is on the pedal; rattling noises

Equipment

  • Permissible total weight³: 156 kg
  • Fork / shock: Fox 38 Performance Elite / Float X2 Perf. Elite
  • Suspension travel (f. / h.): 170 mm / 160 mm
  • Telescopic support: Contact Switch, 150 mm
  • Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear): Shimano XT 8120 / 203 mm / 203 mm
  • Wheels: Giant e-TR1 30
  • Tyres (f. / h.): Maxxis Minion DHF EXO+, 29 x 2.6" / Highroller II DD, 27.5 x 2.6"

EMTB test rating: 8.5 points - very good

Giant Reign E+1 - Geometry dataPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungGiant Reign E+1 - Geometry data
Giant Reign E+1 - Riding behaviourPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungGiant Reign E+1 - Riding behaviourGiant Reign E+1 - CharacteristicsPhoto: EMTB-TestabteilungGiant Reign E+1 - Characteristics

¹ The reach height was determined during standardised test rides on an asphalt climb with a gradient of 12.2 percent. Highest support level, 150 watts pedalling power of the rider, rider weight incl. equipment 90 kg. The altitude metres in clearly reduced emergency mode are shown in brackets. The average speed refers to the journey with full assistance.

² Determined on the test stands in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals. Battery weight incl. screwed-on cover where applicable.

³ Manufacturer's specification

The judgement reflects the subjective impression of the testers and the results of the reach measurement and laboratory tests. The EMTB judgement is independent of price. EMTB judgements: super (from 9.0), very good (from 8.0), good (from 7.0), satisfactory (from 6.0), with weaknesses (from 5.0), below insufficient.

Measured with 36 centimetre raised rear wheel (step).

Florentin Vesenbeckh has been on a mountain bike since he was ten years old. Even on his very first tour, he focussed on single trails - and even after more than 30 years in the saddle of an MTB, these are still the quintessence of biking for him. He spent his youth competing in various bike disciplines and later his cycling career was characterised by years as a riding technique coach. Professionally, the experienced test editor now focusses on e-mountainbikes. In recent years, the qualified sports scientist and trained journalist has tested over 300 bikes and more than 40 different motor systems in the laboratory and in practice.

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