The brand new Giant shows its strength on the way up. Thanks to the long chainstays and low front end, the front wheel sticks to the ground. The steel spring damper is positioned high and quietly in the suspension travel so that the rear triangle does not sag uphill. At the same time, there is plenty of traction at all times, which is great on technical terrain. However, the drive requires a little rethinking: at high pedalling frequencies, for example when climbing short, crisp ramps, there is a lack of pulling power. On the other hand, the motor pushes powerfully and constantly even at a low cadence. The highest support level conveys more of a motorbike feeling than a bike feeling. The same applies to the acoustics, as the Yamaha is louder than the Shimano competition. If you prefer a more natural motor characteristic, it is better to use the third of five modes, as this (like the first two modes) releases the motor power depending on the rider's input. Surprisingly, there was hardly any difference in power between the three highest modes (Normal, Sport, Sport+) in practice.
But now onto the descent: On the trail, the full and potent suspension is immediately noticeable. The fork and shock are high in their travel, provide good feedback and work sensitively. The bike is therefore made for full-throttle descents. The geometry with a slack head angle and moderate reach is also harmonious. But beware: the front is very low. Even riders who prefer this characteristic have ridden the Giant with as many spacers as possible. That takes some getting used to. Too bad: The battery is extremely heavy at almost 4.4 kilos. This not only increases the overall weight, but also makes carrying a second battery a pain.
Conclusion on the Giant Trance SX E+ 0 Pro by André Kleindienst, German E-Bike Champion from Team Bergamont
A strong chassis and balanced geometry, the Giant cuts a fine figure on demanding enduro courses. 2.6 tyres are definitely the right choice for me on an e-bike, as they offer a lot of grip without a spongy ride feel. However, I wasn't entirely convinced by the motor. It doesn't react as sensitively as a Shimano drive. This is noticeable when wheelie riding, for example, where the Giant is difficult to handle. The minimalist display without a screen is not state of the art for me.
Technical data Giant Trance SX E+ 0 Pro 27.5"
Price 5999 Euro
Time / 500 hm4
23:58 min.
Reach height 828 hm
DRIVE
Engine Giant SyncDrive Pro, powered by Yamaha
Maximum torque¹ 80 Nm
Battery¹/ weight² / price Replacement battery Giant Energy Pak, 496 Wh, 4384 grams / 699 euros
Circuit Sram X01 Eagle (12-speed)
Translation (v. / h.) 36; 11-50
Display / Size Without display as standard, can be retrofitted
EQUIPMENT
Fork / damper Fox 36 Factory Fit4 Kashima / Fox DHX2 Factory Coil 2Position
Spring travel (f. / h.) 160 mm / 140 mm
Telescopic support Giant Contact Vario, 150 mm
Brake / Disc Ø (front / rear) Sram Code R / 200 mm / 200 mm
Impellers Giant AM+ disc system wheels
Wheel size 27,5''
Tyres Maxxis Minion DHF EXO 3C / DHR II Exo 3C, 27.5 x 2.6 inch
MEASURED VALUES²
Sizes / frame material XS / S / M / L / XL / Aluminium
Weight 24.38 kg
Centre of gravity height 514 mm
Handlebar width 800 mm
Crank length / Q-factor 170 mm / 172 mm
Reach / Stack 447 mm / 602 mm
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD³
Manufacturer information
²Determined on the test benches in the EMTB test laboratory, weight without pedals.
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.
4 Determined on the roller test bench in the EMTB test laboratory at the highest support level, constant incline without flat sections, 130 watts pedalling power of the rider. The time / 500 altitude metres refers to the first 500 altitude metres.
EMTB judgements: super (from 350 points), very good (from 315 points), good (from 280 points), satisfactory (from 245 points), with weaknesses (from 210 points), below insufficient. 4Average value from the range height test over the entire distance.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
