Short in travel, somewhat unbalanced in geometry: the Giant Stance E+ had already had a few years under its belt, was already clearly noticeable in the last Touring Fully test. Nevertheless, the Stance E+ remained the bestseller in Giant's full-suspension portfolio in 2022 and sold in the five-digit range in German-speaking countries - Giant didn't even sell that many high-end Trance E+ and Reign E+ models combined.
So it's high time to give this successful model a long overdue update. With new geometry, a fresh look and even new motors and batteries, Giant is making the Stance E+ electric touring bike fit for the future. Only the 29-inch wheels have remained the same, as has the e-bike's objective: to offer uncomplicated off-road riding fun at a fair price.
The facts about the Giant Stance E+ 2023
- Motor: Giant Syncdrive Pro 2 (85 Nm) or Sport 2 (75 Nm)
- Battery: 625 or 800 watt hours, range extender 250 Wh (599.90 euros)
- Frame: Aluminium
- Suspension travel: 140/125 millimetres
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Price: six models between 3999 and 5499 euros
- Weight: 25.18 kilograms (top model, EMTB measurement)
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Sporty and suitable for everyday use: the new frame of the Giant Stance E+ e-bike
The most striking innovation is the new frame. While the old Giant Stance E+ with its bent seat tube and steep steering angle was still reminiscent of classic all-mountain bikes from the days of the 26-inch battery pack, the new Stance E-Fully is much more modern. This is also reflected in the geometry. A steeper seat angle should significantly improve the riding position uphill, while the low bottom bracket, flat head angle and long wheelbase should ensure a lot of riding stability and smoothness downhill.
Like its predecessor, the new Stance E+ also comes with mounting points for mudguards and pannier rack in favour of everyday practicality. Models with the corresponding equipment will also be available ex works. The side stand mount in accordance with the KS40 standard should offer improved durability compared to its predecessor and also allow side stands from other manufacturers to be fitted.
Up to 800 watt hours: Large battery and new motor
The down tube of the Giant Stance E+ now houses at least a 625 watt hour battery, while the cheapest option with a 500 watt battery has been dropped. Instead, Giant has given the Stance E+ the battery removal of the top models with a tool-free removable cover and battery fixation with a Torx screw. The three more expensive models feature Giant's Top motor Syncdrive-Pro-2 even Giant's latest 800 watt-hour battery. With only a slight increase in weight compared to the 625 battery, it offers the best ratio of weight to range and is on a par with Bosch's 750 watt-hour battery in the Smart System. If that's not enough, you can add another 250 watt hours with Giant's Range Extender Energy Pak Plus (€599.90)
The fact that the new Giant Stance E+ has become significantly slimmer in the bottom bracket area and no longer has the "sagging belly" of the old model is thanks to the new motor. While the old Stance E still relied on Giant's Syncdrive Pro or Sport models based on Yamaha's PW-X2, the new e-bike fullys come with Giant's significantly slimmer and lighter Syncdrive Pro-2 or Sport-2 motors based on the new Yamaha PW-X3. The top-of-the-range Pro-2 drive delivers 85 Newton metres, while the Sport-2 in the more affordable models has to make do with 75 Newton metres, 100 grams more weight and slightly more idle travel when starting off.
A positive side effect in addition to the lower motor weight: the slimmer shape of the e-bike motor improves ground clearance and enables a lower bottom bracket without provoking bumps. This ensures a good stance in the bike and a full trail and cornering position.
Simple but effective: the Flexpoint rear triangle in the Giant Stance E+
Like its predecessor from Giant, the new Stance E+ also comes with a rear triangle in the classic four-link design, in which the rearmost bearing (Horst Link) is replaced by flexing seat stays. This is why Giant also refers to the design as the Flexpoint rear triangle. This design should work particularly well on bikes with slightly less suspension travel. The more complex Maestro system with floating shock is reserved for the top models Trance and Reign.
6 models from 3999 euros: from sports bike to SUV bike
The most affordable Giant Stance E+ 2 is available from dealers from an entry-level price of 3999 euros. The Syncdrive Sport 2 motor and the 625 watt-hour battery offer solid performance. SR Suntour suspension and Tektro brakes bring down the price of the entry-level e-bike model. The Stance E+ 1 then comes for 4499 euros with a Rockshox 35 fork, but identical motor and battery.
The E+1 Pro (€ 4999) and E+ 0 Pro (€ 5499) E-Fully models come with 800 watt hours in the battery and the top Syncdrive Pro 2 motor with 85 Newton metres. The top model E+ 0 Pro also comes with full Rockshox suspension and brakes as well as gears from Shimano's SLX and XT ranges, while the more affordable E+1 Pro has to make do with SR Suntour dampers and Tektro brakes.
The two SUV models Stance E+ EX (4299 euros) and EX Pro (5499 euros) come with lights and mudguards as standard. The price of the cheaper model variant is made possible by the weaker Sport 2 drive and the smaller battery with 625 watt hours, while the EX Pro is in the shops with a Pro 2 motor and 800 watt hours. With the exception of one model, which relies on a classic Shimano 12-speed Deore, all Giant Stance-E+ models come with Shimano groupsets from the Linkglide series. These offer fewer gears and are heavier, but should be significantly more durable. A good choice for a carefree bike that is also intended for everyday use.
Liv Embolden E+: E-bike model with lower entry and special geometry for women
With a lower step-through and specially adapted geometry and equipment, the Embolden E+ from Liv is the women's model of the Giant Stance E+. As with the Giant, you get 140/125 millimetre suspension travel, 29-inch wheels and a modern geometry as well as the latest generation of motors. Prices start at 3999 euros, with the top model Embolden E+ Pro costing 4999 euros.
On the trail: the new Giant Stance E+ 2023 on test
We were able to ride the Giant Stance E+ extensively both at the bike's launch in the Düsseldorf area and on our home trails. The new Stance E+ is already pleasing when you get on it. The rear-heavy riding position of its predecessor is history thanks to a steeper seat angle. You sit in a balanced position on the bike, even if it is not as compact as some of its competitors. The Syncdrive Pro 2 motor pushes powerfully uphill, but only releases its full power when the rider pedals hard. This is typical of the Syncdrive Pro 2 e-bike motor and appeals to sporty riders. The traction of the Stance E+ is first-class, the rear suspension smoothes out even the roughest roots with ease despite only having a nominal 125 millimetres of travel and impresses with a high level of suspension comfort, even when seated. Shimano's heavy XT Linkglide drivetrain, trimmed for durability, was convincing even with only eleven gears. The range on the E-MTB is completely sufficient, the shifting is smooth and the improved durability should be a good choice if the bike is used on a daily basis.
The Giant E-MTB climbs steep climbs with ease thanks to its long chainstays (467 millimetres) and successful geometry. The motor of the Stance E+, which jerks slightly when the pedals are pressed when stationary, has the typical super-short idle travel and makes it easier to get going uphill if you do get stuck. Unfortunately, the 2-in-1 display was less appealing. The button press is undefined and the readability in bright light could be improved. Changing the U-level always required a quick glance at the handlebars to find the right button. Although other Giant displays are easy to install, the successful Ride-Control-Go top tube display with the ergonomic remote is not compatible with the Stance E+.
Smooth running before agility - the Giant Stance E+ downhill
The Giant e-bike runs smoothly downhill. The long wheelbase, the modern slack steering angle and the long chainstays, together with the confident suspension and low bottom bracket, provide a lot of security in relation to the suspension travel. You can also venture into difficult terrain with the Giant without hesitation, the moderate suspension travel only limits the potential of the Stance E+ at a late stage. The E-Fully seems well balanced, but clearly prioritises riding safety and smoothness over agile handling. Our two test bikes were criticised for a noticeable rattling noise. Manuals and bunny hops - typical for long geometries - cost a lot of effort.
Conclusion Adrian Kaether - EMTB Magazine
With the new Stance E+, Giant is bringing its affordable fully up to date. Thanks to the large batteries, it has a long range. SUV models and Shimano's Linkglide gears emphasise the bike's suitability for everyday use. Nevertheless, the trail characteristics are top: the Stance E+ is stable and safe on the descents, is easy to control and climbs excellently. Despite minor criticisms of the display and background noise: The new Giant Stance E+ is a really successful bike and also quite affordable.
You can read in detail how the Stance E+ compares to the direct competition under 5000 euros in EMTB 2/2023 - on newsstands from 18 April.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
