Since the battery pack has a plastic shield semi-permanently fixed that matches the frame, it’s not as convenient to buy two packs for extended range and just swap them. I also suspect that replacement shields could be expensive or unavailable in the matching color. There wasn’t a slap guard sticker on the cover, and there appears to be a gap at the bottom where dust and water could get into the plug interface area . While I do have some complaints about the size and weight of the charger, it is nice to see a fast device like this which can reduce your times between rides. It offers 6 amps vs. the more common 2 amp or 3 amps devices I usually see. The EnergyPak 500 is cleanly integrated into the downtube of the lightweight ALUXX SL frame.
Better yet, installing a dropper seat post on this bike would be incredible. There are quality options on the market in the $200 range from Tranz-X and X-Fusion that we’ve had good experiences with on other test bikes. I don’t have a lot of experience with the rear suspension design chosen here, apparently it allows the chainstays and giant ROAD BIKES seatstays to flex and only has a single pivot point. It felt good enough to me, and I hope it doesn’t create chain kickback or squat, input is welcome in the comments below. Since its original launch back in 2005, the Giant Trance has gone on to become one of the most common full suspension mountain bikes found on Aussie trails.
Like most bikes in this price range, the Stance 2 29 has a functional build with high and low points. In its stock configuration, the Stance gets the job done and it looks good doing it. Select local Retailers offer Home Delivery service on new giant ROAD BIKES bicycle purchases. This service is an additional $50.00 per bicycle and is dependent on the local retailer’s participation. Please check for participating retailers at check out, or on our Store finder by select the Home Delivery filter.
As a result we always aim to include some more affordable test bikes, and they’re typically alloy hardtails. While it’s great to see a Monarch shock on a bike in this price bracket, the Stance would really benefit from a firmer platform mode to spruce up the pedalling efficiency. Look Ma, no pivot – Giant saves weight and complexity by relying on built-in flex through the seat and chainstays. Triple chainrings may be out of vogue but they extract a wide gear range from the nin-speed rear cassette. Cranksets are not the best and really heavy, upgrade your stem and wheels. The Outroad Mountain Bike 26 inch is outfitted with a high-carbon steel double suspension system that utilizes a 21-speed gear that provides fluid motion and actioning under a wide array of conditions.
The Suntour suspension package on the Stance isn’t all that exciting, but it works well on this bike. The Stance 29 2 is a well rounded and high performing full-suspension bike at a very reasonable price. Bicycling participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products giant mountain purchased through our links to retailer sites. Overall, the Stance 29 2 is a bike that will help you get into new adventures, whether that’s increasing your fitness, getting rad on tough trails, or even just arriving to work feeling calm and happy. At $1,550, this full-suspension makes industry-standard features available to more riders.