On the other hand, you have to do without the tried and tested Maestro rear triangle and thus accept compromises in the suspension. The more favourable Flex-Pivot rear suspension struggles on the climbs. The platform on the shock can't completely suppress the bobbing. The high weight of the complete bike also slows down the ride towards the summit. However, the short top tube and offset handlebars ensure a comfortable riding position in all situations. The Giant invites you to cruise rather than race for the best time uphill. It also shows its gentle side on the descents. Both the fork and the rear end have little compression damping and release their travel quickly. Sporty riders will miss some feedback from the ground. The high bottom bracket and the relatively steep steering angle make the handling a little stilted, but the good tyres and brakes score points downhill.
Conclusiontop equipped touring bike with a comfortable character.
The alternative:
The Giant Stance 1 Ltd costs just 1499 euros. But you have to do without the telescopic seatpost and the XT equipment.
You can read this article or the entire issue of BIKE 4/2017 in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
