First Look: The 2022 Giant Trance X Keeps the Fun Alive with 27.5" Wheels

Nov 2, 2021
by Matt Beer  
photo


While other brands are pushing for mixed wheeled trail bikes, Giant's newest generation Trance X is built around dual 27.5" wheels on a chassis delivering 145 mm of travel with a 160 mm fork.

The lineup consists of three models starting at $2,850 USD, except for Australia, which will only have two options. Looking closer, you'll find that there are four frame sizes; S, M, L, XL, but no carbon options.

Trance X Details

• Aluminum frame
• Travel: 145 mm / 160 mm fork
• Dual 27.5"
• Seatstay pivot flip-chip
• 63.8-64.5 degree head angle
• 433 mm / 430 mm chainstays
• Size: S, M, L, XL
• Price: $2,850 - $4,500 USD
• giant-bicycles.com

Giant says that speed and style is what drove the design of the new Trance X, and that's apparent when you look at the geometry table. Giant gives the option to tweak geometry with a flip chip at the seatstay pivot, dropping the head angle down to 63.8º with short 433 mm chainstays in the low setting.




Frame Details

photo


To soak up bumps large and small, Giant used their well known Maestro suspension design. Utilizing their Aluxx SL-Grade aluminum and a one piece composite rocker link to stiffen things up, the Trance X delivers 145 mm of travel via a 185 mm x 55 mm Trunnion mount shock. By arranging the suspension in this configuration and using a shorter shock, Giant's engineers were able to lower leverage ratio and shorten the chainstays, all while dropping the center of gravity. Specs like a press fit bottom bracket and 148 Boost rear wheel spacing are standard practice by now. Finishing things off are a rubberized chainstay, a downtube protector and internally routed housings, and an accessory mount under the top tube.




Geometry

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Models and Pricing

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Trance X 3 - $2,850 USD
photo
Trance X 2 - $3,700 USD
photo
Trance X 1 - $4,500 USD

The budget-friendly Trance X 3 features a RockShox Yari RC with a Motion Control damper, Shimano Deore brakes and shifting components, topped off with Giant components like wheels and cockpit. Another $900 for the Trance X2 will get you a Fox Rhythm 36, SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain, TranzX adjustable dropper post, which can be boosted up to 200 mm of drop. At the top of the ladder sits the Trance X 1 with a SRAM GX drivetrain, Code R brakes, and burlier Giant TR-1 wheels.

All the models use roll on 2.6 Maxxis Assegai and Minion DHR II tire, as well as Fox DPS shocks, except the Trance X 1, which gets a Float X rear shock and Fox 36 Performance Elite fork with a Grip 2 damper.

photo


Posted In:
Reviews and Tech First Looks Trail Bikes Giant Giant Trance X


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261 Comments
  • 417 4
 Here you are, Pinkers. The dream bike everyone wants.

-Alu frame
-Tiny ass wheels
-Cheap af
-Black
-Maxxis tires/tyres
-Pressfit BB...Wait. What?! Pressfit BB?! This bike is garbage, never mind!
  • 60 1
 I’m offended
- also water bottle mounts
  • 30 10
 Pretty similar to the thought process I went through with the norco range. I can deal with an integrated headset, but not an integrated headset AND a press fit BB.
  • 48 1
 Yeah, never thought I'd say Giant checks most of the boxes on what I want for my next bike, but here we are..
  • 178 31
 It’s funny because PF is problem free 99.9% of the time but people just have convinced themselves they don’t like it because it’s the hip thing to dislike.
  • 37 1
 @nskerb: I have never had a problem with a PF BB. Arguably, threaded are easier to service but over time I have bought the tools so it's not a problem. I am on my 3rd Giant now. I am looking at this bike, and a couple of others, closely as I began my migration back to 27.5 wheels.
  • 41 28
 @nskerb: Judging by the number of creaking Press Fit bottom bracket bikes that go by me, I think you're wrong.
  • 44 30
 @brooklyn1: All bb bearings are press fit - they are pressed in cups or cups are pressed in the bb shell - end of story. If it creaks your frame tolerances are shit - check Hambini for more info Big Grin
  • 15 0
 @Kaspy: and then the ones pressed into cups are then threaded into the frame in the cups - which is what everyone is talking about
  • 22 1
 @nskerb: I'm with you there, pressfit BBs are about as problematic as threaded, in that most of the time theyr'e not.
Granted BB30 was a bit shit, as was PF30, but PF92 works just fine and I've had zero problems with it on any of my bikes, nor any of my customer's bikes with just one exception.
  • 9 2
 Never really had a problem PF except for some aluminum shelled BBs. However once I got the press fit tool, PF became not even an issue.
  • 7 2
 @nskerb: yeah, my 2015 reign is using hope pressfit BB for almost 2 years without any creaking whatsoever...my friend on the other hand, using a threaded BB frame, got creaking and squeaking sound after 1 4months
  • 4 5
 @brooklyn1: or YOU are wrong as I had no issue with pressfit BB. Who knows
  • 4 1
 @brooklyn1: do you see correlation between bike price and creakiness? My take is that high end bikes have higher manufacturing tolerances, so can run press fit with no creaks and the lighter weight.

I've had two bikes with press fit, both have done thousands of kms with no creaks and have just needed some grease in the bearings
  • 5 0
 @Afterschoolsports: the Norco range has the rocker link pivot around the bb as well and therefore the bb shell is pressed into a machined cup. I would think it is much easier to guarantee proper alignment and tolerances and i would expect that to be a good durable solution.
I had a look at the exploded view of the range and holy cow this frame is insane in terms of details. The part count is through the roof!
  • 10 1
 @nskerb: you are probably right that only a small fraction of them creak but I don't think it is people trying to be hip by avoiding it, it's the risk of being one of the unlucky ones. If it creaks it could mean a new frame to sort the problem.
  • 10 1
 @Afterschoolsports: Not all pressfits are equal.

BB86/92 basically takes the dimensions of thread-in cups and adds them to the frame. I've never had a problem with these designs.

BB30 is a different story but at least its cheap and quick to change the bearings.
  • 4 2
 @nskerb: Sure, once you spent 145 $ on Hope's PF46/PF41 bottom bracket, they should be problem free 99.9% of time...
  • 6 0
 Just get something like a Token Ninja or Wheels Manufacturing BB, and when the bearings wear out put in some angular contact Enduro bearings. No probllama.
  • 6 14
flag thenotoriousmic (Nov 2, 2021 at 5:17) (Below Threshold)
 @ahchat: press fit bottom brackets are infinitely better than threaded bottom brackets. They seem to last a lot longer and unlike threaded bottom brackets your never going to write a frame off because your bottom bracket has seized inside the frame.
  • 3 3
 @nskerb: I’ve had 3 bikes with PF and “only” 1 of them had creaking issues. Not exactly 99.9% math but it was an issue on 99.9% of the rides I went on.. also it was a Giant Trance so it’s hard to want this bike
  • 4 2
 @nskerb: I have to agree. I’ve had press fit in two different trail bikes since 2016 and have never had a problem. I just don’t understand. Maybe the once per year rebuilding of a mountain bike is too much to ask.
  • 2 0
 @HankHank: not true at all.
  • 11 0
 @nskerb: PF itself isn't the culprit, it's absolutely awful quality frames with misaligned BBs that's the problem.
PF is objectively superior to threaded, in theory, the problem is that people keep buying overpriced garbage.
  • 3 0
 @HankHank: Saw a Niner bike with several millimeters of misalignment on the BB, the holes weren't round, AND they were severely undersized causing the bearings to deform.
Price =/= quality
  • 3 0
 @masacrejoe: I tried a Wheels Manufacturing BB in my Trance, all it did was delay the time from service to creaking by a little bit.
  • 5 2
 I was stoked to see another 27.5" trail bike, as these bikes are more easy/fun to throw around. But to be honest 430mm chainstays are not that short for a 27.5" bikes, and short chainstays are one of the biggest benefits of 27.5" bikes in my opinion.
  • 3 0
 @thenotoriousmic: I reject your reality, and substitute my own. Never ever has a BB seized inside any of my frames, but then again, I do regular maintenance. Just like I put anti-seize on a dropper post, or pedals, for that matter.
  • 6 0
 @nskerb: Also wheels manufacturing makes a threaded press fit bottom bracket and in general are really good. Super stoked on this company and it makes that less of a deal to me for whatever bike I want. wheelsmfg.com/bottom-brackets/bb86-92.html
  • 2 0
 @Mattin: it's got a 63.8 Head angle in low, you really don't want the rear to be too short with a long front center.
  • 5 0
 I don’t necessarily have a problem with press fit stuff, but poor QA on mass produced frames is something you can always count on.

It was my giant reign that ate pf bottom brackets and was incredibly noisy. Creaking from the BB, fox 36 CSU, etc. I gave up on it eventually after I went through three bottom brackets in six months. It was a shame because I quite liked the bike otherwise.
  • 3 0
 @masacrejoe: Absolutely! Love my Wheel Manu BB - They're genius - every PF should be fitted with these BB's
  • 1 1
 @nskerb: This and they have no idea how to use a shock pump let alone a bearing press... Honestly it's amazing they can inflate their tires.
  • 1 7
flag thenotoriousmic (Nov 2, 2021 at 7:01) (Below Threshold)
 @Scout290: I can confirm I have a frame with a hope bottom bracket stuck inside that I can’t get out. Had to write it off would never be an issue with a press fit. A threaded bottom bracket will never prevent me from buying a frame. I’d just prefer press fit as it’s never going to write off your frame.
  • 16 0
 @thenotoriousmic: Pssst! It's a reverse thread........
  • 1 3
 Your Comment is funny AF!!!!! Especially tiny ass wheels. How did any of us make it through the whole 26" wheel debacle? LOL
  • 2 0
 @ascotsmanrides: ahhh that’s what the arrows on the bb shell meant? Brb.
  • 2 0
 @brooklyn1: the creaking is easily solved with the grease you're supposed to use anyway. So because people can't maintain their bikes it's all the sudden the bottom brackets fault, ya that makes total sense....
  • 3 0
 @towner131: Can confirm, wheels bbs on all my bikes now (DH, Trail, DJ,) and they are excellent quality and trouble free
  • 2 0
 @nskerb: more than 3 years on the same PF bb on my trek slash and it's still smooth and creak-free
  • 1 0
 @thenotoriousmic: Well, that sucks man. But then again, I guess same can happen with PF. Galvanic corrosion or some fancy chemical process... I have owned a couple of Trek frames with PF, and I don't like having to hammer out the bearings. Maybe should've bought the proper tools, but I still prefer threads!
  • 2 7
flag firechickenextrasauce (Nov 2, 2021 at 8:00) (Below Threshold)
 Giant needs some serious rebranding. Maybe they'll get bought by Outdoor Magazine?
  • 8 0
 @brooklyn1: Most of the time, the creaking PF BB's you think you here are something else but everyone just KNOWS it's the BB. Chainring bolts, pedals, where the crankarm is pressed on to the spindle, preload adjuster not set right and tightened down are all more likely to creak than PF BB in my experience.
  • 3 0
 I had a good quality frame that needed the pressfit BB replaced every 4-6mos. After the fourth BB replacement I sold the frame, it was just too much. Pressfit is a dealbreaker for me. I weigh 210lbs and ride drops and jumps, so maybe that was part of it. Pressfit frames cost less to manufacture, which is why I think they are still in the market. My experience is anecdotal of course, but I think the whole design concept is bull. I would never buy a frame with pressfit for myself.
  • 3 2
 Literally unrideable
  • 2 0
 Also at present it's not actually showing up on their US site... I assume that will change though.
  • 2 0
 @brooklyn1: Thats probably due to lack of quality control. My past 3 bikes , two of them I have now, are pressfit. No creaking at all. Even when they went bad. If the tolerances are correct you won’t have creaking
  • 4 2
 @thenotoriousmic: people don’t like your answer. I also prefer pf over threaded. I’ve had creak issues with threaded and they also required more service. I’ve had zero creaks out of pf92 and only replaced when the rotation wasn’t completely smooth
  • 10 0
 I'm angry and I don't know why
  • 2 0
 @Wthomas: I wouldn’t recommend it but you could install a press fit bottom bracket with a brick no finicky proprietary tools and it’s never going to get stuck in your frame and I’ve just found them to be more reliable but I don’t think there’s much in it really other than I wrote a frame off that I would have had to do if it had a press fit bb.
  • 8 0
 @Ac282: pick a bottom bracket standard, be a dick about it.
  • 1 0
 @pdxkid personally, I draw the line at press fit frame pivot bearings. Cup and cone only for me. An yes, my GT IDXC was a bit creaky, why do you ask?
  • 4 0
 My 2016 Reign has been a beast, reliable fun and capable. I'm always surprised I don't care more Reigns and Trances out on the trails, maybe not the cool kid's choice, but they are just great bikes.
  • 1 3
 @birddog69: Make sure u be woke enough to count and offset the carbon emissions in the migration.
  • 1 1
 @thenotoriousmic: don’t worry I’m not taking that recommendation. When I do need to replace my bearings I’m gonna get a token threaded pressfit. Easy Peasy.

Love always,
Lemon squeezy
  • 2 0
 @pen9-wy: @pen9-wy: Yap, and if the material of your BB is thin it does not matter if you have threaded BB. It just flex under load and creaks. When you have the right tools, installation of press-fit is matter of few seconds...yes, you have to buy special tool but it will be used many times in future. To be honest, it looks that making properly aligned BB shell with right tolerances can do just few bike manufactures...sad but true
  • 1 0
 @nskerb: lol 60% of the time, it's crap all of the time.
  • 1 1
 Yeah, I was thinking “cool bike”, then I saw the press fit bb and was like “wtf”?

Truthfully, there are much better bikes at the price, like the GG Shred Dogg and Mega Trail.

Support the little guy!
  • 2 0
 @nskerb:
I am happy with my pressfit bottom bracket, now that it has a Wheels Manufacturing adapter in it Smile
  • 3 0
 @brooklyn1: we pulled my Liv (Giant) apart to replace a gritty BB and replace pivots, etc and it immediately started creaking. Replaced BB 3x or something after that and it ended up being the pedals and saddle...
  • 2 0
 @towner131: have used this, can vouch! Also made me realize that everything but the BB was creaking.
  • 3 0
 @fewdfreak: I have zero stats to back this up, but based on personal creak chasing, I'm guessing that the BB is unjustly accused 90% of the time. There are so many other things.
  • 2 0
 @Moonie2123: Yep, I don't think I have ever had a PF BB creak. Seatpost clamps, seats, rear derailleurs, pedals, and shock mount bolts are where most of my creaks have been.
  • 2 0
 @tacklingdummy: I'll add an XD cassette and chainring bolts to that list. I think the BB just gets blamed because it's in the middle! LOL
  • 2 0
 @nurseben: pretty hard to say GG is 'at the price' since these start at 2850. Nothing against GG, but an entry point on the complete giant is about a GG frame.
  • 1 0
 @brooklyn1: yeah but you only see the bad ones in a shop.
  • 121 1
 I can't wait until 2026 when the owner brings this by the shop for its first service ever.
  • 84 1
 As the owner of a 2017 trance with a shock and pivot bearings that haven't been touched since, I feel attacked.
  • 17 0
 And it's somehow fine right? Hahaha
  • 20 5
 I've had to tighten 1 bolt on my trance linkage since I bought the bike in 2015, not touched it otherwise and still works as good as the day I bought it
  • 38 1
 @ctd07:

As an avid cyclist and former 2015 Giant Trance owner, I might suggest a shock and fork service and all new bearings/ bushings. You'd be surprised at how blown out the bearings get... You only know what you know until you know something new.

Happy trails
  • 15 0
 @ctd07: an 06 trance was the only frame I've owned that I couldn't kill and sold on and know it saw actions for another decade before who knows what. Giant is the yota of bikes. They last forever.
  • 5 1
 @lone-ranger: don’t fix it if it aint broke ;p
  • 8 0
 I had a 2016 trance sx. I regret selling it. It took a beating and had zero issues.
  • 8 3
 @lone-ranger: I have slapped an ohlins shock on there, bearings are fine, I don’t wash my bike just wipe down, water kills bearings, especially pressure washers
  • 20 0
 @seanluge In fairness, they probably waited until 2025 for delivery
  • 1 0
 Good to know.
  • 8 0
 Just did the bearings on my 2017 Trance. Also the BB had way more play than there should be. Spoke to the bike shop owner who said the term "Well Used" came up quite a bit in the workshop and lots of disbelief that the bike was riding like it did. Workhorse if you ask me Razz
  • 2 0
 @lone-ranger: Indeed, I have a 2013 Reign but at some point like 5 years in or something, you would see the bike flex laterally if you hold it by the grip at an angle and push the BB area with your foot.
It was good again with a whole new set of bearings.
  • 2 1
 I had a giant trance XO 2009 , 100_140front 120mm rear, 26". Regret selling it, best bike i ve ever owned
  • 3 0
 This X1,000! My 2018 Trance was bullet proof, and even with the older geo was an awesome all round rig (especially here on the east coast). This new setup has everything I didn't like about the 18, Little longer, a lot slacker and beefier fork and brakes. People talking trash on this bike do not know what they are talking about.
  • 2 0
 Proud 2015 Trance owner here! Upgraded to 160+mm DVO fork, DVO T3 shock, and the bike I have is pretty much what they are selling above! I use XTR shifters with a 11-speed GX cassette and am pretty sure I'm 30 lbs w meaty tires too! Ride on!
  • 1 0
 @MountainBored: Nice! Yeah I was running a fox 36 and rock shox super deluxe ultimate. The big game changer for my setup was the offest headset bearing taking it to a 65 degree headtube angle plus a shorter stem made that bike so much more snappy and fun.
  • 1 0
 @ctd07: no it doesn’t, unless by work you mean move forward when you pedal.
  • 1 0
 @caltife: well played
  • 1 0
 @ctd07: six years? Well, maybe you can’t tell or maybe you don’t ride often, but those seals are old and brittle, so don’t be surprised if it blows up one of these days real soon.
  • 3 0
 I check them regularly, still run smooth with no free play, I never ride in the wet which helps, I'm also an (actual qualified) engineer, used to be a bike mechanic for a bit, was an ag' mechanic and fabricator for 7 years, so am capable of knowing if they're stuffed or not for all those worried.
  • 62 0
 Giant doing prices right!
  • 69 0
 I work at a Giant dealer. Their bikes are unmatched in terms of value. They offer carbon bikes with carbon wheels at $5000CAD. They also offer bikes with Performance Elite Grip 2 dampers on aluminum models.
  • 27 3
 @Ryan2949: precisely what I would expect a sales associate to say… ha!
  • 28 0
 @Tonedelove: to be fair, we also carry Scott, Salsa, Cervelo and Rocky Mountain! So it's interesting trying to sell these brands next to a Giant price tag wise.
  • 3 0
 @Ryan2949: I sold giant for about 10 years next to Santa Cruz, Rocky Mountain, and GaryFisher. I came to all the same conclusions. Back then the price wasn’t even fair! But that was before press fit BBs. Disclaimer though: I never had trouble with bb92 in my giants, but I got a new bike every year.
  • 9 0
 @Ryan2949: I currently have a 2019 Trance 29er 1. Best value spec on any bike I have ever had, including my old Canyon. Carbon wheels, GX drive train, Performance Elite forks and shock. $5000 AUD. I will be looking at this bike closely when (if) it arrives in Australia. I am long over expensive,boutique(?) bikes that are, at best, marginally better.
  • 14 1
 @Ryan2949: Hi Ryan I'm interesting in buying a full suspension mountain bike, I'll mostly use it for everesting my local parking building can you help me out?
  • 2 3
 @Ryan2949: in Germany Radon gives way better value. But Giant is good
  • 4 0
 @Ryan2949: grip 2 dampers on alloy frame models? Commencal does that too!

Seriously though that’s great that giant offers top level components on less expensive frames.
  • 3 0
 @inside-plus: I heard you say Everest -- it sounds like you need a Glory to get down that safely.
  • 4 0
 @Ryan2949: Have to agree. Picked up a 2020 Trance Advanced Pro 1 - all carbon, including wheels. Wasn’t particularity demanding all carbon but the things performs incredibly. Pounding the sh#t out of it on drops and chunder well beyond its recommended limit but all good. Wheels still spin perfectly straight with no loose spokes. Not sure why the hate on Giant??
  • 3 8
flag DizzyNinja (Nov 2, 2021 at 5:59) (Below Threshold)
 Giant has better pricing than some of the direct to consumer brands, that child slave labor really pays dividends
  • 4 0
 @birddog69: same. Rode Santa Cruz for ages and when I stopped working in a shop, went to Giant. Perfectly happy with my Trance Advanced 29-1.
  • 1 0
 @ismellfish: man! Giants carbon wheels are great! Mine are from 2017 and I have beat the holly hell out of them. They are still perfectly straight
  • 3 0
 @DizzyNinja: Replace that with "best in class manufacturing capability" and "economies of scale" and you nailed it!
  • 1 0
 @friendlyfoe: I’ll agree with economies of scale, both my Giants had some issues that would say they weren’t best in class manufacturing tho. I’m not anti giant by any means, but they aren’t the pinnacle of perfection
  • 1 0
 Economies of scale are awesome Smile
  • 2 0
 @ZSchnei: does it have oxygen bottle cage mounts?
  • 1 0
 @DizzyNinja: well giants headquarters is where they build their frames. That might have something to do with it.
  • 2 0
 @DizzyNinja: My 2014 trance was flawless. They have best in class capability in that as far as I know they were the first to invest in hydroforming technology. Quality control is a separate issue. Sucks that you had issues with quality in the past.
  • 1 0
 @DizzyNinja: well ya gotta pay for perfection, which in my Optus not out there
  • 42 2
 Giant Trans Sex Double Borat thumbs up
  • 1 1
 Yeah nah. I had a trance sx. Giant still makes sx models like reign sx
  • 1 0
 Longer, lower, slacker
  • 1 0
 @DizzyNinja: "great success"
  • 31 0
 Naturally since Giant made yet another sick bike to ride and own, Pinkbike will test the least relevant version to any other bikes they’re testing then complain about the components or price on the bike and not the actual ride quality that Maestro frames produce which above most anything else is the relevant information consumers are after.
  • 10 1
 LISTEN UP PINKBIKE. TEST A REGULAR BIKE.
  • 8 1
 Right? "We didn't like the Fox live valve, we didn't like the 35 RL" ooooookay, what about the bike?

and with Pinkbike three days behind on publishing the First ride article, I think we can make some strong inferences.
  • 25 0
 you know giant's done it right when the only complaints people have is a small bend radius in a single part of the top tube.
  • 14 0
 I personally find it quite erotic.
  • 5 0
 It's not the bend itself... it's that the bend creates a stupidly long seat tube. In this generation of bikes with sort seat tubes allowing long droppers. I'm 5'11, ride a size large bike and am able to use a 210mm dropper... it's awesome. A small size of this bike might have been the next bike for my 11 year old son, but those seat tube lengths and stand-over heights take it out of the running for us. I know they are probably able to keep the prices down by not changing the frame design much, which is great, and I think want to keep the bend as a brand identifier, but it's 2021 and geo has moved on... they're going to have to change things up if they want to be remain competitive. Though again, in this climate, they probably don't need to and will sell out anyway. So it's just too bad, as it's a great bike and spec...
  • 3 1
 @islandforlife: what has better standover that doesn't have 15-20mm less travel? you can slam your seat to the top of a 27.5 tire what more do you want
  • 2 3
 @Bro-LanDog: Geo and riding has changed in recent years... with longer reaches, slack HA's and steep STA's (like this bike has), you ride more central and low... where the seat is (vs, 5+ years ago when you used to mostly get behind the seat... it's now right below you and in the way if you can't get it low enough. So there is huge benefit to being able to get the seat as low (and out of the way) as possible. Most manufacturers realized this and shortened their seat tubes along with the modernization of their geo. And it's not about space to hang off the back, where you might hit the wheel with your ass (as was the old defunct argument against needed longer droppers.. ie. you'd just hit your ass on the wheel so more length wasn't necessary), it's about space in the middle. Especially when you're hauling ass down steep chunky terrain and you're bringing your bike up into you as you lift over obstacles... pumping it up and over shit quickly while at the same time leaning and hanging off the side of your bike trying to keep speed and grip through the terrain. More space in the middle, makes this much easier and more fun! I've gone from 125 to 150 to 175 to 180 to now at 210 and with every step, it got better. I didn't know how much better it was until I changed to bikes with lower seat tubes and used longer droppers. It's now something I look at carefully because it's become a serious limiting factor in how much fun and how fast I can ride a bike. Anyone who says they don't need more, hasn't tried a longer dropper. Of course it depends on how you ride and your terrain as well... some people may not find much benefit. But why limit choice and turn away potential buyers?

Most new bikes in this travel travel range and most with 10 to 30mm more travel than this bike have shorter seat tubes.
  • 7 0
 @islandforlife: you don't have to write a dissertation on droppers every time lol I have a oneup 210, I get it. But my day isn't ruined if I have to ride my 170mm bikes. Also, lower isn't always better, there's a reason dh seats aren't slammed as much as they can be.
  • 2 3
 @Bro-LanDog: Partially, that's because DH bikes have enough suspension travel than you don't miss the extra leg room too much.
  • 16 0
 No matter what people say. The fact Giant can provide a bike like this for this price is great! Sure it might not have the best sleekest looks etc, but it works. Giant bikes are good quality bikes, and a good value for money. Keep it up Giant.
  • 18 0
 A well done update to the 27.5 trance. Hard to think of a bike that may be more fun for everything you can throw at it.
  • 15 0
 This is floating my boat. I’m not that quick, I’m short and I just want to ride my bike for fun. I’ve got a 29er hardtail (Cotic BFe max, killer bike), but when I get a full suss again it’ll be 27.5.
  • 4 1
 It’s just about right all round for us shorties. Except for the weirdly long seat tube . 420mm on a small, really?
  • 4 0
 I have been saying it for a while. The wheelsize debate is dumb because for the vast majority, it has more to do with how the wheels fit the rider's size.
  • 3 0
 @bravefart: my pet peeve as well. 400mm is reasonable, less than that very welcome. But 420? (or 430 on the Reign). Come on Giant, you can do better than that! Just look what Ibis does with their seat tubes (on 29ers too).
  • 1 0
 @Vilhelm: Shit, you may be right. I'm doing completely the opposite: I've got a 27.5 hardtail which I love (Stanton Switchback) and I'm currently building a 29" Transition Smuggler... and I don't know if the Smuggler will be as nimble and fun as a 27.5 rig.
  • 1 0
 @justwan-naride: I think it has something to do with the rear shock. Trek, Giant have vertically-mounted shock whereas Ibis, Santa Cruz, etc are horizontal.
  • 14 1
 Rad bike, works for anything
  • 10 0
 Bloody hell it's a desirable Giant
  • 9 1
 Awesome value, Still the curved top tube. I might get one and just chop the top tube and weld it back in a straight line.
  • 18 1
 it's for people with big balls
  • 2 1
 Ya, it's not just the bend itself... it's that the bend creates a stupidly long seat tube and high stand-over. In this generation of bikes with sort seat tubes allowing long droppers... this outdated.
  • 6 1
 Being on 29ers for the last 4 years, I can't say I dislike, nor I love.

When I grab my old steed, a classic 26, one of the last 26, wity more "modern", it's amazing the agility and "flicability" of such machine.
Sure it has all other drawback, but sure I miss that feeling:
I'm fast AF! (Although chrono/Strava proves the contrary!)
  • 3 0
 +1 on that. Many people compare modern bikes with 29" wheels to old 26" bikes with very outdated geometries. And then they say 26" sucks. It's not the wheel size that makes a bike ride good or bad, it's the geometry.
  • 2 0
 @Mattin: I confirm... even if the wheels have a pretty significant role as well, but geometry is the key.
That's why I'm currently into a dilemma: building a modern 29er (Transition Smuggler) to replace my old-but-not-ridiculous RM Slayer SXC that I've got for 11 years. I decided to find him a successor last summer when I was having troubles in very steep terrains and on twisty bike parks: 68° HA on a gravity bike is definitely not the right number. Also the STA is much too slack and this bike doesn't climb well. It's a pity 'cos I love the LC2R rear suspension, I'm OK with the wheels' size, and it still looks cool Smile
  • 5 0
 Giant needs to update their USA website, Trance X is not listed. For that matter neither are the 2022 Talon models listed yet. Trance X is on the international website, but that doesn't mean that every country will get all the models.
  • 3 0
 Giant hates the US aluminum market. Only give us the lower spec levels and ugly paint jobs because the US is so obsessed with carbon. Wouldn't be surprised if the X 1 model in the first pic isn't even offered here. They didn't offer the 1 model for the 29er here either, just the 2 and 3.
  • 1 0
 @WY228: Could you explain more precisely why "the US are so obsessed with carbon"? (I think I already know the answer, unfortunately) Cheers!
  • 1 0
 @danstonQ the carbon bike market is so popular here that Giant usually doesn't offer its top spec aluminum models because they're in the same price range of the lower spec carbon models. Personally I'd rather have a higher spec alu bike than a low spec carbon bike but a lot of consumers here obviously feel differently.
  • 2 0
 @WY228: "I'd rather have a higher spec alu bike than a low spec carbon bike"...... it is so obvious, especially when the low spec components don't bring any loss of weight, because WEIGHT must be for sure THE argument for chosing carbon over alloy... unless there's something else (longevity? no. Rigidity? discussable)
Here in France the phenoma exists as well, probably not so much, but bad climbers remain bad climbers, even on a carbon rig, and they don't go faster in the descents Smile
  • 29 23
 I'm sure they're great, but the curved top tube/tall standover makes them look like they're from 2010.
On the plus side you can tell it's a Giant.
  • 29 7
 I don't agree. I think they look steller and the fact that I don't need a 200mm dropper on it because they made proper standover height is a huge plus. Not every bike needs to look like an oversized dirt jumper.
  • 7 1
 Tall standover? How short are you to where that's an issue on a mid travel 27.5 bike?
  • 6 1
 That makes it a perfect sleeper
  • 9 0
 You know what else is from 2010? All I Do Is Win, by DJ Khaled.
  • 2 2
 @Bro-LanDog: Who wrote "tall standover?"
  • 2 1
 @sonuvagun: Joe
  • 4 1
 Eh agree to disagree. The straight angles on all the other bikes in the market are starting to all look the same.
  • 1 0
 @inside-plus: great point
  • 5 5
 @mhoshal: You can run whatever length dropper length you want... you just pull it out of the frame.... like a normal seat post. The reason most manufacturers are lowing their seat tubes and stand-over is that it gives you have the option to run whatever length dropper you want (depending on insertion lengths)... it's a huge bonus. There is zero benefit to a tall standovers and long seat tubes, and no downside to short seat tubes and low standovers. I run a 210mm dropper on my size large (5'11") and it's amazing... so much room for activities!! But, if I wanted to, I could just as easily run a 100mm dropper. Choice = better. Limited by what will fit = worse.

This design is outdated... especially when compared against the competition.

A small size of this bike might have been the next bike for my 11 year old son, but those seat tube lengths and stand-over heights take it out of the running for us. I wouldn't buy one for myself either... after experiencing a 210mm dropper, I don't think I could go back!

I know they are probably able to keep the prices down by not changing the frame design much, which is great, and I think they want to keep the bend as a brand identifier, but it's 2021 and geo has moved on... they're going to have to change things up if they want to be remain competitive. Though again, in this climate, they probably don't need to and will sell out anyway. So it's just too bad, as it's a great bike and spec...
  • 3 0
 @islandforlife you can still get a pretty long dropper in these. Granted I'm on the 2021 29er, but same or very similar front triangle with this 27.5 from the looks of it. I'm on a size L and its a little on the big side for me (5'10", was dead between the L and M) and I was still able to fit a 180mm OneUp dropper. Have a little bit left under the collar too so I probably could run a 210 shimmed down to 190mm. Had I gone with the M I definitely could've fit a 210mm. Its not the most cutting edge geo on the market but its by no means outdated IMO.
  • 1 0
 @mhoshal: My comment was based on aesthetics. I’m a oversized dirt jumper looking bike fanboi. The seat tube length is actually probably about the same as my Optic, but I love the straight and low top tube.
  • 11 7
 Good someone has too. In a world of absolutely hidious pointless Mullet fad bikes it great to see someone sticking to the same size 27.5 wheels. Good on you Giant for still catering for those who wish to ride good looking bikes and in 27.5 configuration. This wheel size should never die!
  • 6 0
 Your so obsessed with mullets the Angling Times forum might be a better place
  • 2 7
flag MattP76 (Nov 2, 2021 at 0:16) (Below Threshold)
 @pen9-wy: I'm obsessed with getting rid of fads. Mullets are a stinker!!!
  • 6 0
 @MattP76: history of MTB is rammed full of 'fads' - it's just the good fads stay and the bad fads go.
We call it progression.
  • 3 0
 @MattP76: So, when are you going to get the word out to the professionals who have raced, and won races on these fads?
  • 1 7
flag MattP76 (Nov 2, 2021 at 4:14) (Below Threshold)
 @sonuvagun: LOL. That's hilarious.

Just because your favourite racer who is employed by a company that produces Mullet fad bikes does not mean they actually believe they are better.
Look at the bigger picture and stop believing everything you are told.
  • 3 0
 @MattP76: It could be that, but it could also be different racers of different proportions choose setups based on what allows them optimal control and speed.

But, out of curiosity, why does it bother you that others choose wheel combinations which are different from what you choose?
  • 2 0
 @MattP76: Just curios, have you ridden a 27.5, Mullet and a 29 back to back? And if yes, were/weren't you able to tell the differences in handling between the three wheelsizes ?
  • 3 0
 @MattP76: you must not have been following dh racing a couple seasons ago when some of the top racers started the mullet "fad" by racing their factory 29ers with a 27 rear wheel.
  • 3 1
 @sonuvagun: to be fair I think professionals could race and win on old school 26ers too…
  • 2 1
 I can't imagine anything that makes more sense than making your bike choices based on what makes the 50 fastest people in the world half a second quicker on a 3 minute track. /s
  • 5 2
 @sonuvagun: It bothers me that Mullets are being forced on the public and they are just not needed. The option of having of having the same size wheels in 27.5 is fading and it shouldn't be. That's why I have applauded Giant for keeping this option for the many people who want 27.5 wheels.
  • 1 2
 @dwbaillar: And they were no faster!
  • 2 0
 @mhaager2: You're certainly right, but how many would win against their competitive peers with 26ers? The point I was after is that I'm sceptical it was anyone's choice but their own to make the tire choices they did and there's no reason to assume it was for any reason other than their ability to go fast and have the control they need.
  • 3 0
 @MattP76: Okay, fair answer. We'll agree to disagree on what it means for something to be "forced on the public," but you took the time to answer so fair play to you.
  • 7 0
 My 2017 is still going strong and I beat Giant to the 55mm stroke and 160mm fork by 4 years.
  • 8 0
 I like the bronze.
  • 14 11
 Wait so is there no longer a 29” trance x ? They need to really figure out what they want to do with the trance. “ here is the trance, 140/150 trail bike, no wait here is the trance 29 , it’s like the trance but wayyy shorter travel, oh never mind here is the trance x, it’s almost like the actually trance but a 29er, okay okay Hear me out it’s the trance x but now it’s 27.5 again “

I want to like it but I don’t know what it is
  • 48 0
 You’re having a real tough time with the same name different tire size choices hey? Don’t google Canyon Spectral then, it’ll put you in the hospital.
  • 17 0
 They make (and will continue to make) a Trance 29, they make (and will continue to make) a Trance X 29, and now they make a Trance X in 27.5 (taking the place of the well outdated Trance 27.5). Their lineup is actually really flippin easy to understand, “X” designates longer travel/gravity oriented versions just like it did in 2012 when they started doing that, and they pretty much always list “29” if it has 29 inch wheels. You want complicated, try the Stumpjumper line which not only varies vastly in riding genres but even uses different suspension platforms for different models/frame materials.
  • 3 0
 They give people choice, why get hung up on names?
  • 2 0
 @Starsky686: lmao
  • 1 0
 @nation: don't they still also make the trance 27.5? It looks to still be in their line-up in alloy and carbon. I love that my 2017 trance advanced 0 is still essentially available new. It is still a seriously fun and flickable trail bike.
  • 1 0
 @Richridesmtb: not trying to disclose too much about 2022 model year, but this appears to be a replacement in their new catalogue.
  • 2 0
 @nation: Damn. I'm considering recommending the last of the old 27.5 ones to a friend who is new to mtb. They're still pretty reasonable geo for someone who could accidentally end up on a xc bike when it really is a trail bike they're after.

I'm probably going to recommend something 29er though. The rocks on our local trails certainly favour bigger wheels. But 27.5 really favours the tight trials around here that were cut in on 26 bikes!
  • 1 0
 @Starsky686:
  • 4 0
 Yay, this is basically my 2016 Reign with a better linkage and more manageable leverage ratio (reducing the rear travel). That bike ripped
  • 9 5
 It's weird, as big as Giant is, I never see one on my local SoCal trails. Ever.
  • 32 0
 That's funny because I bet 2/3'rds of the bikes on your local trails are made by giant even if they aren't branded giant.
  • 4 3
 @Bro-LanDog: If they make Spesh, Trek and Santa Cruz then I guess you're right.
  • 13 1
 @DBone95: They make at least 2 of those.
  • 3 1
 I see plenty in Socal.
  • 5 0
 @DBone95: Not Specialized, they are made by Merida.
  • 5 3
 @edfw: Giant does make some bikes for specialized.
  • 1 0
 @iliveonnitro: Indeed
  • 2 0
 Catch me riding my ‘17 giant trance all over San Diego trails.
  • 10 5
 My 2017 filter isnt working
  • 5 0
 It looks like a (2016) Reign.....
  • 6 2
 The official bike of Friday Fails?

Maybe so but that is top value in a world where all suspension patents are expired
  • 3 0
 I still think it's the Reign but a case could be made for the Trance.
  • 8 0
 @Adamrideshisbike: I think several cases will be made on the Trance
  • 3 0
 Probably the coolest thing Giant has done in a while. Also Low AF bottom bracket. High mode is 2mm lower than my transition Scout, which is already pretty low. I like this.
  • 1 0
 Where were you earlier this year??? Was looking for a 27.5 trail bike but wasn't too pleased with the '21 Trance offerings. Just seemed a bit under spec'ed and they had more options with their 29er line. Oh well, I got my dream bike anyhow - completely lucked out with an Ibis Mojo 4. Glad that they are pushing more 27.5s in the future!
  • 3 0
 Giant has verry light and durable frames I wish they would hire some designers for better paint jobs or just releas a all black/raw frame
  • 11 7
 Frame still looks like it’s from 2015
  • 4 4
 First thing i said to.
  • 12 0
 @Jmtbauckland if ain't broke...
  • 2 0
 Cause it works really good!
  • 4 0
 It's just a certain mark of wisdom: never change a good recipy, only improve it.
  • 4 0
 Large:
472mm reach - Great!
465mm seat tube. WTF??
  • 1 0
 I thought the same thing. Giving up a lot of drop on the post
  • 1 0
 I have 471 reach (probably lower with sag) and 470mm seat tube, 210mm and all seems fine with a shorter than this 50mm stem.

I get that everyone has their preference, and for people who like long bikes that's short but then wouldn't it mess up weight distribution?
Longer reach puts the front wheel further, and it's already a 64°HA
  • 2 2
 I still have two Trance 27.5 bikes in the fleet. A 2017 L and a 2019 M. They've both been out-of-date since about 2018. However, they moved my brother and one of his kids on to better bikes. I still ride the large lots, and liked it enough to replace most of the parts. They're a great foot-in-the door bike, and I got them both at awesome prices. The aluminum one is better built than most aluminum bikes on the market. Can't say I love the BBs. They creak, and shutting one of them up cost $300 in British CNC'd aluminum. The other I never bothered with. The headsets have never been a problem. I'm surprised they didn't lower the stand-over more or allow for a longer drop post. It's a limiting factor for this kind of bike, and goes against what these bikes do best. However, I still might buy one. They've been that good.
  • 1 0
 Hey~PInkbike. I would appreciate if i can see the riding comments of Trance X 27.5 from your test soon. It would be great to realize the specialty of this bike more for me, thanks in advance.
  • 4 0
 Keeps the fun alive with 27.5....knew it!
  • 1 0
 I love it ,about time the updated the 27.5 trance, 5 years ago every second bike u saw was trance , now with decent geometry.
  • 1 0
 Same Reach, Same Travel, 10mm shorter wheelbase, and 1 degree slacker than my 2020 Reign 29.

Hmm is my 2020 Reign now outdated??
  • 1 0
 No Sir, your bike is not outdated at all. And you, are you? Smile
  • 1 0
 www.vitalmtb.com/features/Giant-Trance-X-First-Look,3313

This website provide plentiful real riding comments of Trance X 27.5 via VITAL MTB, let's check it out
  • 1 0
 Been riding a kona with pressfit for 3 years, never heard a creak... But then again, I'm kinda half deaf after 3 years of infintry service
  • 1 0
 I'm still riding my 2014 trance advanced sx, haven't had one complaint minus the stupid overdrive 2 steertube width. Was super interested in this new model.
  • 1 0
 Press fit bottom bracket, what the garbage?. I have never had an issue with press fit bottom brackets because I don't buy that shit.
  • 1 0
 They seem decently spec and geo seem good also, we will have to find out Once I build some up and take em for a test ride
  • 3 0
 This thing looks sick.
  • 3 0
 Beautiful bike!
  • 5 5
 You know, mullet makes no sense for these 29er/27.5. A mullet has longer hair in the front and shorter in the front. It's actually a reverse mullet.
  • 14 0
 Business in the front party in the back.
  • 3 4
 I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks this every time I hear “mullet bike”. I actually can’t stand the term cause it’s wrong. Then again I’m still on a 26” so what do I know. But seriously..,,,
  • 3 0
 I think you mean short in front and long in back but I know what you mean.
  • 1 0
 Bring back the B9ers
  • 2 0
 I agree that it's stupid but I think the idea was "business in the front, party in the back". Like, 29 (front) is the XCish wheel size, while 29 (back) is the "fun" DH/freeride/whatever wheel size.

But yeah I'm just gonna call them "mixed wheel" bikes.
  • 1 0
 Love my 2011 trance x. rear suspension works at nearly modern levels of performance, better in some instances
  • 2 0
 would rag in the high setting an a 26" rear
  • 1 0
 Have to say 160 in the front for this bike is now desirable. Had the 2014 trance 1 for comparison.
  • 1 0
 How do I get the Aluminum Liv Intrigue 29 in the Giant version?
www.instagram.com/p/CUr7csrtMwm
  • 3 1
 Need a new frame design, looks ancient
  • 3 1
 This frame looks more dated than a Kardashian.
  • 1 0
 So we thought BSA's come back would save us from fressfit There came DUB and made things even worse. Threaded or not.
  • 2 0
 nice, still same design
  • 3 2
 Great value, albeit not very inspiring.
  • 1 0
 Sadly 700NZD more expensive in NZ than the US
  • 1 0
 Still going to be cheaper than almost anything comparable. Probably at least $700 cheaper than a roughly equivalent Remedy. Polygon doing pretty good pricing here, that's probably where I'd look if I was going to buy new.
  • 1 0
 Shit it's actually $1000 more than a Remedy 8 that comes with XT drivetrain and a decent Lyric.
  • 1 0
 Is that comparison with or without sales taxes?
  • 2 0
 Without. I forgot they don’t include them over there. @boozed:
  • 1 0
 In the US for 2022, Trek is only offering the Remedy 9.8 which is $6029 USD. I contacted them recently and was told so far for the USA there are no plans to offer additional models for 2022.
  • 2 1
 Yes, yes, yes, doesnt looks like a session. is a giant.
  • 2 0
 Good for Giant!
  • 2 1
 Mullet (or MX for the picky) version please, Giant.
  • 1 0
 Sweet, looks so good. Might have to demo this one out a few times first
  • 1 0
 Whooo!!!
  • 1 2
 The best feature is how the cables are routed so they can rub the shock stanchion and shave grams while you ride.
  • 1 0
 Won't happen they are fixed with zip ties
  • 1 1
 I'll tolerate 27.5, but aluminum? Get outta here!
  • 2 2
 Is Giant the new Orange?
  • 3 6
 So $4.5k alloy bike and you only get GX drivetrain?! Not exactly a bargain
  • 1 0
 How about $1500? Okay, I bought a used frame (2017), stripped, polished, and hung parts on it.

www.pinkbike.com/photo/20063050

www.pinkbike.com/photo/21580653
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