We don’t think you’ll find a better full-suspension mountain bike in this price range. Its moderate modern geometry makes it impressively versatile, and this bike climbs as well as it descends. Whether cruising mellow trails or tackling more aggressive terrain, the Stance feels balanced and composed. Whether you’re just getting into the sport or looking for your full-suspension rig, the Stance 29 2 is a quality affordable option to consider.
Not only does this feel like a throwback to days gone by, but, if you’re not careful, you could find yourself riding your top tube. When it comes to descending though, the main hindrance is the 2x drivetrain. But as soon as you open the proverbial throttle, chain rattle, chain slap and – if you’re really gunning it – chain drop all become unwelcome partners on your ride.
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.
I highly recommend this bike for beginners or anyone who has a tight budget and would like to take up the sport. The recently redesigned Stance has modern geometry touches, a solid component specification, clean looks, and the all-around performance of bikes that cost twice as much. This bike climbs impressively well and the FlexPoint suspension design provides a stable pedaling platform and ground-hugging traction. The 120 mm of rear and 130mm of front wheel travel feels smooth and balanced while the updated geometry provides stability and the confidence to get after it on the descents.
Once bedded in, the stoping performance of the 300-series Shimano hydraulic brakes is extremely impressive. The long levers offer loads of mechanical advantage, and a single digit on the end is all you need to extract tons of stopping power—they’re possibly the highlight of the entire component set. The styling is brilliant and the rear derailleur looks a lot like a more expensive unit. Unfortunately there is no clutch mechanism, so the chain tends to flap about when the going gets rough and you’re more likely to suffer dropped chain. Wheels are a simple affair, comprised of double walled alloy rims, stainless steel spokes and sealed hubs.
The frame is purpose built with internal cable and wire routing, weight is well positioned low and center on the frame to maximize stability. Uncomplicated and lightweight, the Raidon R is a great shock for XC and trail riding. If you can swing it, I’d spend the extra money and get a Trance over the Stance.
There is no definitive right or wrong size, it all comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable. The different types of bikes are all explained within our buying guides. Boost hub spacing with a 15mm thru-axle adds stiffness and strength for the front wheel.
They are tubeless ready, for those who wish to reduce weight, and have some puncture protection built-in. The Giant Stance E+ 2 Power Electric Mountain Bike features 120mm of rear suspension travel and 130mm up front, plus the stable, nimble ride quality of 27.5+ wheels. This proven “single pivot” design uses the flexing action of the chainstay/seatstay giant KIDS BIKES junction to produce a lightweight and durable suspension system with 120mm (4.7″) of rear travel. The light weight and strong ALUXX SL aluminum frame featuring Giants FlexPoint suspension makes rooted, rocky, and all around tricky trails surprisingly easier. The 29-inch wheels Giant chose for this model bring a whole to roll the Stance’s initial design.
Compared to a standard tire you’ll feel grip in places you wouldn’t expect thanks to a bigger contact patch and greater rollover clearance. More air volume allows lower tire pressures which softens bumps and increases float on sand or snow. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the benefits of plus-size tires and rims will amplify your mountain biking giant mountain fun. The Stance 29 2 is a highly capable and fun bike as it comes, but there are a couple of component upgrades that could enhance its performance. The least expensive upgrade would be to switch the seat clamp to a quick release. This would only cost a few bucks and it would make raising and lower the saddle height a quick and tool-free task.