Giant road bike - The price-performance hits from Asia
Giant is one of the largest bicycle manufacturers in the world. The brand was founded in 1972 by King Liu in Taiwan, with its headquarters located in the city of Taichung. From road bikes and gravel bikes to mountain bikes, triathlon bikes, cyclocross bikes, e-bikes, and city cruisers, you can find everything at Giant. The road bikes from this Asian manufacturer impress with cool designs and a range of colors, as well as aero elements and technical innovations. Moreover, they consistently offer an excellent price-performance ratio. Giant actively participates in cycling and tests innovations under tough racing conditions in the peloton. The racing bikes from Giant come in various models, detailed below:
- The race bikes: Performance and speed are at the forefront with these bikes, featuring lightweight wheels and sporty geometry. A prominent model from Giant is the TCR Advanced, which has several sub-variants such as the Giant TCR Advanced 1 and Giant TCR Advanced 2, ideal for beginners. The Advanced 2 is available in a stylish brown, while the Advanced 1 comes in an eye-catching Amber Glow. There's also the exceptionally lightweight Giant TCR Advanced Pro in Black Diamond gloss-matte, and the stunning Giant TCR Advanced SL. The TCR Advanced SL Disc, a real eye-catcher, comes in colors like crysocolla matt-gloss and neon green. All race bikes feature extra-light and stiff carbon frames.
- The aero racing bikes: These models focus on aerodynamics and efficiency at high speeds. The Giant Propel Advanced minimizes air resistance for faster acceleration, and new models include integrated disc brakes for an optimal riding experience. Sub-variants include the Giant Propel Advanced 1, Giant Propel Advanced Pro, and Giant Propel Advanced SL, primarily constructed as carbon road bikes.
- The endurance road bikes: These bikes blend performance with comfort, providing a superb riding experience even on long distances. The Giant Defy is designed for long-distance rides and offers several sub-variants like the Giant Defy Advanced 1 and Giant Defy Advanced 2. The Giant Defy Advanced Pro features a D-Fuse carbon seatpost and a Contact SLR D-Fuse carbon handlebar, which work together to enhance compliance and minimize shocks on the road.
- The all-round bike: The Giant Contend serves as an excellent all-around bike for both leisurely rides and workouts. It comes equipped with the Shimano Claris gear shift and is offered in different sub-variants, including the Contend AR, available with an aluminum frame or a carbon frame.
- The triathlon helper: The Giant Trinity is crafted for triathletes looking to enhance their aerodynamics.
Giant also offers a dedicated line for women, known as LIV road bikes, which are tailored to suit women's geometry.
If you’re eager to explore off-road riding, check out the gravel bikes that blend features from mountain and road bikes. The Giant Revolt is an excellent choice in this category.
Long-standing partners for the components
For its components, including wheels, shifting groups, saddles, and more, Giant collaborates with premium partners like the renowned Japanese manufacturer Shimano and the U.S brand SRAM. Both partners have a long-standing history in producing high-quality bicycle components.
The shifting groups
Giant bikes are equipped with either Shimano or SRAM shifting groups. Older models and entry-level bikes typically feature Shimano's mechanical shifters, including the Shimano 105 or Ultegra. The 105 uses Shadow RD technology, which ensures smooth shifting performance while stabilizing chain movements. The rear derailleur lies flat against the chainstay to protect it. Higher-end models often incorporate Shimano's electronic shifters, including Shimano Ultegra Di2 or Shimano Dura Ace Di2. Shimano's circuits feature distinct separation between shift buttons for precise shifting, even with thicker gloves. SRAM circuits such as >SRAM Red Etap AXS, SRAM Rival Etap AXS, or SRAM Force Etap AXS are also available, known for their low weight and precise shifting capabilities.
The brakes
Brakes and brake levers are chosen to complement the shifting groups. Two main types exist: rim brakes and disc brakes. Rim brakes, an older technology, are lighter but may have diminished performance in wet conditions. Conversely, disc brakes, the newer technology featured on many road bikes, deliver consistent braking performance, even in adverse weather. Many of Giant's latest models come equipped with superior disc brakes, offering enhanced braking force over rim brakes and requiring less force to engage, improving safety and comfort on descents. Disc brake models are generally marked with the abbreviation "Disc," while rim brakes are less commonly found on new bikes.
Seatpost / Saddle & Wheels / Tires / Rims
Giant designs its own seatposts and saddles to minimize weight while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency and high stiffness. The manufacturer also produces its own wheels and collaborates with partners for tires, offering both tubeless and tube options. Tubeless setups allow for lower air pressures, improving ride quality and grip.
Handlebar & Equipment
The handlebar often consists of a stem and handlebar structure, with options for fully integrated aero cockpits. Handlebars can be adjusted using spacers to suit the rider's preference, ensuring an optimal cockpit position. In addition to high-quality components, a range of equipment can be attached and purchased, including helmets, bike computers, and pedals, with popular brands such as Garmin and Wahoo leading the electronic gadgets market.
Which Giant road bike is the right one?
With the variety of Giant road bikes available, choosing the right one can be challenging. If you're more of a sporty rider, consider the Giant TCR Advanced or Giant Propel Advanced, based on whether your preference leans toward mountain rides or fast local routes. If comfort is your priority, look at the Giant Defy or Giant Contend. For off-road excitement, opt for gravel bikes like the Giant Revolt or cyclocross racers like the Giant TCX Advanced.
Ready to conquer the roads with a Giant road bike? Browse our store to find the perfect fit. We accept all payment methods and offer shipping throughout Europe. If you are uncertain about your selection, the buycycle team is eagerly available to assist you!
