Best electric road bikes of 2023: Go farther, faster. Giant road e

Trek vs. Giant Bikes | The Ultimate Comparison Guide

Trek vs. Giant is a great bike rivalry that has benefited everyone who loves bikes. If you need to decide between the two, you will have to compare the components of their respective road bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes. Warranty and customer service also need to be discussed. Let’s do this.

When compared to each other, Trek vs. Giant bikes results in a pretty close race. Giant is generally cheaper with more high-quality components on their bikes, whereas Trek tends to be more innovative in its designs. Both brands deliver high-quality bikes in different categories.

It could be a difficult choice when you are in the bike shop, and you need to choose between a Trek or a Giant model. As I will explain in the article, Giant is generally cheaper, but if you’re looking for a high-performance bike, then Trek leads the way. Choosing one over the other is a win-win situation, as both brands are fantastic.

• Trek vs. Giant Bikes: Comparison

• Trek vs. Giant: Product Range
• Trek vs. Giant: Design
• Trek vs. Giant: Innovations
• Trek vs. Giant: Overall Price
• Trek vs. Giant: Frame Material
• Trek vs. Giant: Suspension and Gears
• Trek vs. Giant: Brakes
• Trek vs. Giant: Pro-Cycling Wins

• Trek vs. Giant Road Bikes: Performance

• Price
• Frames
• Trek vs. Giant MTB: Performance
• Components
• Design

• Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Cover
• Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Don’t Cover
• Trek vs. Giant: Customer Service

Trek vs. Giant Bikes: Comparison

Giant is the world’s largest manufacturer of bicycles, and Trek is the leader, most popular, and respected bike brand in the American market. Both of these bike manufacturers offer models in most categories, price points, catering for all types of cyclists.

When comparing Trek vs. Giant bikes, it’s like comparing Chevrolet and Ford vehicles. Both are hugely respected and liked brands, with solid reputations to boot. Ask a thousand people to choose between the brands, and it may be split down the middle of a clear win for one.

Ask another thousand people, and the results could be different. I’m trying to get across that both brands are very well supported. There are some minor differences between the brands that can help you decide whether you want a Trek or a Giant bike.

Trek vs. Giant: Product Range

As mentioned earlier in the article, Trek is the leader in the American market. They have the broadest range of bicycle options; whether you are looking for an entry-level bike or a high-performance bike used by professionals, Trek has you covered.

Giant also boasts an impressive selection of anything bike; however, they lack behind Trek in their product range. An interesting fact about Giant is that in some cases, they can manufacture bikes designed by competitor brands, as their team has excellent bike manufacturing facilities across the world.

Trek vs. Giant: Design

Trek road bike designs are flashy and cutting edge, geared towards research and development, focused on making their bikes look and feel better when on the saddle. people tend to go for a Trek Road bike when money isn’t a problem.

Giant road bike designs are less flashy and more geared to adding quality parts to the design than turning heads on the road. Giant tend to merge the practicality of their bikes’ with added performance by going with their general design, whereas Trek’s models seem to be more streamlined every year.

Trek vs. Giant: Innovations

Both brands have played an instrumental role in incorporating innovative ideas in bike manufacturing, changing the way we build and ride bikes.

Trek Innovations

Here are some of the revolutionary technologies developed by Trek over the years:

• OCLV Carbon
• Alpha Aluminum
• Active Braking Pivot
• RE:aktiv
• Full Floater
• Trek IsoSpeed

Giant Innovations

Here are some of the innovative technologies developed by our friends at Giant:

• Cadex
• Compact Road Design
• OverDrive
• Comax Composite Technology
• Maestro Suspension
• Dfuse Technology

Both of these manufacturers have played a massive part in the evolution of the bicycle, and long may it continue.

Today, both brands are still at the forefront of innovative designs, revolutionary accessories, and yearly improvements on the bikes we have grown to love. Deciding who gets your money may rest on what technologies are present in the model you’re looking at.

Trek has proved its worth regarding the production of award-winning reliable racing bikes, where Giant is all about the comfort of the ride and producing affordable quality bikes for everyone.

Trek vs. Giant: Overall Price

Trek bikes are generally more expensive than Giant. The main reason for this is that Trek bikes are manufactured in the United States, where the components cost more than in Taiwan, where the components cost less.

Giant bikes are less expensive than Trek bikes, mainly because they are manufactured in Taiwan. The island contains a closely interweaved supply chain incorporated with mature manufacturing technology.

The parts are cheaper, allowing Giant to add extra accessories within a reasonable price frame.

Everything is closely situated, from the suppliers to the OEM companies, this results in lead times in materials, manufacturing, and design being shortened. Giant differentiates itself from competitors that, from ideation to raw materials to the finished product, is all controlled in-house (whole process.)

Giant produces bikes almost half the time it would take in the United States and brings them to the market at a much lower cost. Lower cost, in this case, does not mean lower quality, as Giant prides itself on delivering quality products to the market at the best possible price.

With any product, the more expensive ones tend to be the best manufactured, best-performing ones. These bike brands offer some more affordable bikes and some pretty expensive ones.

Trek vs. Giant: Frame Material

Trek Road Bikes have been referred to as indestructible, and if you have ever owned one, this will make perfect sense to you. They use only the strongest OCLV Carbon fiber in constructing their road bikes.

Some of Trek’s models are made from Alpha Aluminium, and through the process of Hydro Foaming, creates a frame that’s not as stiff as aluminum frames of old, giving the frame:

• Reduced Weight
• Reduced Stiffness (in critical areas that produce a harsh ride quality)

Some of their frames are tested in wind tunnels to help with optimum aerodynamics, and they love to produce a stiff, typically rugged frame compared to that of the opposition.

When engineering quality carbon, it’s crucial to minimize voids – spaces between the layers of carbon that can compromise the frame’s durability and strength. Trek’s OCLV Carbon exceeds aerospace standards; your bike frame will literally survive when launched into space!

Giant Bike Frames are made from an Advanced Grade Composite (Raw carbon), which features an excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, that is both light and highly durable.

For some models, they employ what they call Modified Monocoque Construction, where the front triangle is molded and assembled as one piece without reducing:

Giant also produces frames from aluminum alloy, which is light in weight yet durable. However, these frames may need regular servicing to keep them in perfect condition and avoid rusting.

One thing to remember is that Giant started as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), making frames for their bikes, even some bikes for their competitors like Trek were their thing.

If your main aim is to enjoy the act of cycling, then a cheaper aluminum frame could work for you. If you aim to be super-competitive and train to win, you should spend your money on a carbon fiber frame.

Trek vs. Giant: Suspension and Gears

Trek is a master when it comes to suspensions. Trek fits their models with the following suspension systems, each one playing a significant part in one of the essential areas of any bike, the suspension:

• Full Floater – This allows for an extraordinarily responsive and nimble suspension that gives you the feeling of bottomless travel.
• IsoSpeed – This road bike suspension system decouples the seat tube from the top tube, decreasing driver fatigue.
• RE:aktiv – This suspension system adapts to the terrain with affective dampening and low shaft velocity.

Giant’s suspension systems are also top-notch and are of high-technological quality:

• Maestro Full Suspension – This suspension system is used on their mountain bikes; it utilizes four tactically placed pivot points connected to two linkages, creating a single floating point that minimizes suspension compression.
• Flexpoint Suspension – A suspension system that offers the same benefits as a multi-link system without the added cost/need for regular maintenance.

In some of their higher-priced models, both Trek and Giant use SRAM RED eTap AXS Groupset, expect Shimano kits on the mid-range models. Trek uses higher gear ratios in their bikes, whereas Giant prefers to go with lower gear ratios in similar models.

Trek vs. Giant: Brakes

Trek revolutionized the biking industry by releasing their patented Active Braking Pivot or ABP system. Manufacturers struggled for years with breaks and the suspension system, as braking would lock up the suspension.

That was until Trek unleashed the ABP, which allowed the suspension system to function at its best while braking, resulting in:

• Less Unintentional Skidding
• Less Chatter
• Driver Confidence (On or off the brakes)

Trek and Giant Road bikes use hydraulic disc brakes on their road bikes, although you might find rim brakes on some older or specific models. Hydraulic disc brakes are a way more effective braking system and hardly get damaged when put to the test.

Both have a wide range of brakes that they use on different types of bikes, but it’s usually hydraulic for road bikes, which is considered the most efficient braking system available.

Trek vs. Giant: Pro-Cycling Wins

If you are into competitive racing, you probably have a Hero that you follow religiously. When looking at some pro-cycling wins for each of the respective brands, it looks like Trek nails it with regards to producing high-performance bikes in the pro-cycling circuit!

YearTrekGiant

2021 Wins	39	14
2020 Wins	34	21
2019 Wins	41	26
2018 Wins	39	14
2017 Wins	26	41

Trek vs. Giant Bikes: Road Bike

When comparing two brands, it’s best to compare their top-of-the-range models with each other. Have you heard the saying that goes that you are only as good as your last bike?

When you compare Trek’s Émonda SLR 9 eTap vs. Giant’s Propel Advanced Pro Disc 1, the slight differences are usually found in the different technologies used by the specific manufacturer, a different part here or there, both bikes are of high-quality and worth the price.

Trek vs. Giant Road Bikes: Performance

Trek bikes are ideal for the serious, heavy-duty racer and heavier than the average rider. Trek is known for its superior rear suspension, making mincemeat any terrain without feeling bumps or ruts.

When used in urban areas, giant road bikes are typically more geared for the average rider. Giant likes to give the user a very comfortable ride compared to a Trek bike where performance is everything, and people sometimes refer to Giant bikes as “souped-up” tourist bikes.

That being said, Giant is no slouch when it comes to producing high-end road bikes. They have been doing it for many years, maybe just not as regularly as Trek does.

Trek vs. Giant: E-bikes

Some manufacturers design e-bikes that use a twist throttle to engage the electronic drive system, where you are not required to pedal for the motor to engage, but not Trek or Giant. They only produce pedal-assist e-bikes that deliver power according to driver input.

You will notice that Trek has a wider variety of e-bikes models under each respective category, compared to Giant, servicing a larger consumer base:

• Verve
• Allant
• Vale Go!
• Powerfly Electric Mountain Bikes
• Powerfly Equipped Electric Mountain Bikes
• Rail
• E-Caliber
• Domane HP
• Domane LT
• Domane ALR
• Townie Go!
• Townie Path Go!
• Attitude Go!

Giant’s e-bike range is also one of great variety, matching client expectations regarding options. The difference is the number of models under each category of e-bike (:

• FastRoad E EX (2022)
• Revolt E (2022)
• Roam E
• Trance X Advanced E
• FastRoad E EX Pro
• Talon E 29 3
• Trance X E Pro 29
• Revolt E Pro 28mph
• Stance E
• Explore E

There is little that separates both brands regarding their respective e-bike line of models. Your decision may rest on the price and functionality of the bike also what technology is used in the design.

Giant recently released a model – Reign E 0 (2022) that features a 750Wh battery – whereas, until last year, the most powerful battery used was 650Wh by both Trek and Giant.

They both produce bikes in the following categories:

The guys at Bicycling.com and Outsideline.com concluded that Trek’s E-Caliber 9.9 XTR won the e-mountain bike of the year award in 2021. Another feather in Trek’s hat, a full hat, I might add.

Trek vs. Giant: Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes are designed to perform on gravel paths and tarmac, a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure bike.

Trek again has a broader range of models for gravel bikes, and their new model Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap has taken the gravel bike scene by storm.

Giant’s Revolt Advanced Pro (2022) is a cheaper option, with less technology involved, but still a fantastic ride.

When you can’t afford the top-of-the-range models, you will always find a model from either company that gives you value for money. Finding the right bike for you is all about personal riding preference, your budget, and what you expect to get out of the bike.

Giant VS Trek Mountain Bikes

Both are major mountain bike brands and leaders in the industry, for the right price you get an awesome bike. Some Trek MTB frames are in fact from Giant! Both make great bikes and crappy bikes depending on the price range, anything over 800 is often far superior to a 600-700 bike.

If you’re a very fast rider or rather heavy don’t get a Giant. Giant’s MTB suspension have long and flexible lower link which is less comfortable at high speeds and heavy riders might consider it a bit too flexible. Your weight might compress the suspension too much wasting energy and performance.

Only just a couple of years ago Trek had better geometry and suspension design but nowadays there’s hardly any noticeable difference. The most important part is the frame, both offer great frames but with a few small differences. Most of the components come from Shimano or SRAM.

Price

Giant offers the best bang for your buck, they recently even cut where Trek did the opposite. From a value proposition, Trek is less attractive, with the recent difference in prices, this is where Giant stands out. Unless you’re able to get a discount on a Trek, budget-wise Giant is the better choice.

Frames

Giant is the largest manufacturer in the world and makes bikes for every brand, their frames are top quality and even Trek sometimes has Giant frames (check the photos from the Giant bike factory in Taiwan).

Other people report that they find Giant’s frames not stiff enough, but it depends on what you like best and it’s less relevant when it comes to mountain biking. If you’re not the racing type or break bikes occasionally, get a Giant.

Others find Giant’s frame angles less progressive compared to Trek. When it comes to hydraforming (a process using fluid and high pressure to shape the tube), Trek is doing trickier stuff to gain strength and stiffness.

Most of the time Trek does a better job optimizing frames when it comes to the strength-to-weight. In doubt and if you feel they are equal, check which of them offers the best warranty.

Trek vs. Giant MTB: Performance

Both perform excellent depending on the bike and your personal preference or body type. Heavyweights and racers will often be better off with a Trek because of the differences in suspension.

Trek is often considered like a plow bike and Giant is more playful, this also depends on how you set up your bike. The more you pay the better the performance and this goes for every reputable brand.

A 500 mountain bike performs a lot worse compared to a higher-end 1500 bike. You get what you pay for and sometimes saving a little bit more is really worth it if you’re looking at a lower range bike. I’d stay away from the cheaper models if you can unless you only plan to use it on roads and pavements.

Components

Here’s a big difference, you often get better quality components when you buy a Giant MTB considering you’re comparing bikes at the same price range. Like mentioned before, Giant can get their parts cheaper because they own many of the factories and buy in bulk.

The components often don’t have anything to do with the brands, they buy them from other manufacturers but the price makes a difference.

Design

Both make great designs and this is really a personal preference. It’s all in the eye of the beholder but often people like Trek designs better. This also might have to do with the brand’s status. Giant is less shiny/flashy, like the Toyota of mountain bikes. They’re reliable, more affordable but not the sexiest.

Giant’s FOCUS is on the quality of the parts and Trek is more into research and development trying to innovate and make better bikes. Suspension layout, for example, is a bit different on Trek bikes.

Trek vs. Giant: Warranty And Customer Service

A warranty is a manufacturer’s guarantee that the product you buy from them is of good quality and doesn’t contain manufacturing defects from their side.

It gives the consumer (you) the legal right to ask for help from the manufacturer, should any problems arise with their product, according to their terms and conditions.

Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Cover

Both Trek and Giant offer lifetime warranties on their frames and forks, with Trek offering a two-year warranty on:

• Parts
• Accessories
• Apparel
• Rear Suspension Linkage Components – Rocker link, bearings, accompanying hardware, and components
• Bontrager wheels (with alloy rims)
• Decals
• Paint

Trek allows ownership to change from the original owner to a buyer, offering the new owner a warranty on frames and forks. Trek’s Carbon Care Warranty allows customers to get a discount on frame repairs for non-warranty damages.

Giant’s warranty is for one year on the following and only applies to the original owner of the bike:

• All original components and the paint finish, all Giant repair parts, accessories, and replacement parts are warranted to be free from defects in workmanship and material for one year from the original date of purchase.

Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Don’t Cover

• Normal wear and tear
• Corrosion
• Improper maintenance
• Improper assembly
• Installation of any components, accessories, and parts not originally intended for or compatible with the bicycle when sold
• Damage or failure due to misuse, accident, abuse, or neglect
• Labor charges for the replacement of parts or changeover
• Non-proprietary products – any other original component or part – covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty

Any modification of the bike’s frame, fork, or any of the components will void the warranty in its entirety. The warranty will be valid from the purchase date and is expressly limited to the replacement or repair of defective items at the manufacturer’s discretion.

All bikes must be registered when bought by the manufacturers to place the bike under warranty. Spending lots of cash on a bike and not registering it for a warranty is negligent. Please remember to register your new bike immediately.

Trek vs. Giant: Customer Service

Both manufacturers offer excellent customer service, as you would expect from industry leaders, such as themselves:

Having the most retail outlets and service centers, Trek might edge Giant in this department regarding faster service delivery.

Conclusion

If you are stuck with a set budget, then Giant may be the bike for you. If your finances allow for it, and you like flashy things, then Trek is the easier choice. High-performance road bikes are Trek’s domain at the moment. A Giant will do just fine for the average rider looking for a comfortable, more playful ride.

When it comes to Trek vs. Giant, one will always bring out a better model than the other, placing the ball in the other’s court. The thing is that the rival always responds with innovation and upgrades, which is why the bicycling industry is in such a healthy state.

It all comes down to personal preference, and the whole world can tell you what’s best, but until you get on the saddle of the bike, it’s all just noise. Try both brands at least once, and make your choice from personal experience.

I always had a thing for cycling sports and love almost anything that involves bikes and boards. I work part-time as a designer in the tech industry and work on my blogs whenever I can.

Posted on Last updated: May 27, 2022

Best electric road bikes of 2023: Go farther, faster

Electric bikes are incredibly popular and a huge part of the cycling market these days. They can make cycling more accessible to a wider range of riders over different applications and terrains and are just downright fun to use. The best electric bikes can be used over a range of uses, including e-bike commuting and gravel riding. We will be taking a look a the best electric road bikes here, a category that has come a long way with the best models being very close to the best road bikes in terms of ride quality and looks whilst offering heaps of extra power when needed.

Electric road bikes can almost go unnoticed these days, so discreet they now look. They utilise a lot of the same components regular road bikes do, like the best road bike wheels and best road bike tyres most of which are rated for e-bike use these days.

E-bikes are now nearly universally accepted, the ‘cheating’ argument has fallen by the wayside as people have acknowledged how useful and varied e-bike uses can be. Whether that be aiding sustainable travel or helping groups of riders with varying fitness ride together.

We’ve gathered the best electric road bikes into this list, helping you analyse specifications and tech to help you make a more informed buying decision. If you still need a little more help, head to the bottom of the page to see our buying guide pointers.

Best electric road bikes available today

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Reasons to avoid

The Trek Domane SLR is the newest e-road bike from the US-based brand. Available in six different spec options but all based around a superlight weight Trek OCLV 800 carbon frame, this is the lightest e-road bike trek has ever produced.

The Domane SLR is aimed at performance road riders who want a little extra zip, it has a discreet motor and battery from German specialist TQ which offers a super smooth and quiet e-riding experience. The Domane SLR is lighter than the Trek Domane LT and has a non-removable battery whereas the LT’s is removable

You get a neatly integrated LCD display in the top tube, mode toggle buttons custom built into the shifters, and the lights and eTap charging can be wired in to run from the battery to simplify things. If you want a high-end lightweight electric road bike, the Domane SLR is one we’d be happy to recommend.

Reasons to avoid

Claimed to weigh 11kg, the Ribble Endurance SL e is one of the lightest e-road bikes currently available and, visually, the frame is almost identical to its non-assisted sibling, including the aggressive geometry.

Using the Mahle Ebikemotion system, the Endurance SL e doesn’t get a control unit, instead opting for a button on the top tube that cycles through the three levels of assistance. Hidden inside the downtube is a Panasonic 250Wh battery, which is connected to a rear hub-based motor said to provide 40Nm of torque. There is an accompanying app, too, which will provide additional information such as remaining battery life.

As Ribble is consumer direct, the pricing is competitive with the Tiagra build starting at £2,799, and the 105 build starting at £3,299 — every component can be upgraded through the brand’s ‘BikeBuilder’ program.

Reasons to avoid

Using the C64 as the backbone, Colnago has adapted its carbon racer into a pedal-assist roadie. Claimed to tip the scales at 12kg including the battery, Colnago says the rear hub-based motor only adds 3.7kg and it’s capable of delivering 250 watts of assistance.

With the battery housed in the downtube, the E64 doesn’t get a built-in head unit; instead, there is a button on the top tube that controls the electronics. The battery is stored in the downtube and is not removable, but Colnago says there is an auxiliary battery on the horizon which can be stored in one of the bottle cages to add range.

Although the E64 appears to be a carbon-lugged frame, it’s a visual illusion with these details being added in the paint shop. The bike comes with a Shimano Ultegra drivetrain, Deda finishing kit and Mavic Aksium Elite EVO UST wheels.

Reasons to avoid

With the IsoSpeed decoupler in the seat tube and room in the frame for 38c tyres, Trek’s Domane LT is probably the best electric road bike for comfort.

It comes with a 250w motor and 250Wh battery, so in terms of power and range, it’s on a par with many of the ‘secret e-bikes’ featured here, however, instead of having a battery permanently hidden inside the down tube, the Domane uses a removable battery. Batteries do degrade over time, so the option to replace them will be positive when it comes to long-term ownership or resale value.

The Domane LT features all the niceties of the pedal-powered Domane, including fender mounts, Blendr accessories, and endurance geometry. The carbon frame is fitted with a Shimano Ultegra 2×11 groupset, with a 50/34 chainset and 11-34 cassette.

Reasons to avoid

On the surface, the Nytro looks like any other Pinarello frame, complete with a wavy fork and aero tubing but hidden in the downtube are a Fazua drive unit and battery. The Nytro is claimed to have up to 250w of power and 55Nm of torque, and the battery can be dropped out of the downtube to make it just a normal road bike, weighing in at around 9kg without the battery.

The frame uses the brand’s F10 frameset as a starting point and adds a bit of length to the wheelbase and height to the head tube. Rest assured, Pinarello hasn’t forgotten to give the Nytro its trademark asymmetric tube treatment.

Built with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 11-speed drivetrain, the bike gets hydraulic disc brakes and rolls on Fulcrum Racing 5 wheels. It also comes with a Pinarello-sized price tag.

Reasons to avoid

Launched during the 2019 Tour de France is the latest addition to Specialized’s line-up of Turbo bikes, the Creo SL, is designed to be a high-performance e-road bike that’s powered by the brand’s own SL 1.1 drive system, it also uses the brand’s Futureshock 2.0 at the front. Instead of an aftermarket solution from Bosch, Fazua or Shimano, Specialized designed its own, which is claimed to weigh just 1.96kg.

The 320Wh battery itself weighs 1.8kg, and Specialized is also offering 60Wh extender packs which fit in a bottle cage — the extender packs are included with the S-Works and Founders edition, but not the Expert build.

With the Mission Control app, you can run diagnostics and customise the assistance levels. Specialized says you can customise them on the fly, which means in theory, you could tailor the wattage to help you keep up with friends on the climb while still getting a workout.

The Turbo Creo features a full carbon frame and is only available as a 1x setup, with the Expert edition using a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed Di2/XT Di2 mix drivetrain with Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes and Roval carbon wheels.

Reasons to avoid

The SuperSix EVO Neo features a ebike motion X35 motor, which offers 250w of assistance and up to 40Nm of torque (in the highest mode).

According to Cannondale, the 250Wh removable battery will take you around 75km on a single charge. The bike comes with 28mm slick Vittoria Rubino Pro tyres, and the frame features an integrated seat binder combined with a 27 KNØT seat post, designed to work together to absorb road bumps. The frame also features SAVE micro-suspension to smooth out most rides for added comfort.

It’s powered by a respectable Shimano 105 R7000 hydraulic groupset, with 2×11 gearing. Up front the FSA crank features 50/34 chainrings, paired with an 11-34 cassette at the rear, offering a massive range of gears.

As part of Cannondale’s e-bike range, the SuperSix Evo Neo 3 Disc benefits from the brand’s integrated wheel sensor, which delivers accurate speed, route and distance information, registers your bike, reminds you when you need service, and more.

Reasons to avoid

There’s no denying that the Revolt E carries more of an electric bike aesthetic than some others here, but within its oversized down tube comes a large battery and a motor with a lot of torque.

Powering it is the Shimano EP8-powered SyncDrive Pro pedal-assist system, which promises smooth acceleration (thanks to its 85Nm of maximum torque). Meanwhile, the Shimano GRX Di2 1×11 electronic groupset and 40mm tyres make it all-road ready if you plan to mix things up a bit. There are also mounts for mudguards and racks.

The system is simple to use, and the motor comes with a SmartAssist mode that automatically adapts to your cadence and ride style, tuning the amount of assistance to the levels you actually need. This means you don’t need to think about anything and can pedal without thinking about it.

How to choose the best electric road bike for you

Your riding demands will dictate which e-road bike is best for you. Hopefully, this guide should have given you an idea of what’s out there. Next, You should consider how you may want to use your e-bike: are you commuting to work, adventuring and discovering new terrain or simply adding a new bike to your fleet? Your requirements will dictate weight, gearing, range, prince point etc. Test ride a bike if you can and chat with manufacturers about which e-bike is best for you.

What do I need to know about the drive system?

With the electric bike market continually growing, more and more brands are getting on board and developing newer and better technology all the time. The best electric road bike will likely come with a powerful and reliable drive system, including one of the best e-bike motors from the likes of Bosch, Yamaha, and Shimano, while some feature integrated units from Ebikemotion and Fazua.

These systems place the motor either at the bottom bracket or the rear hub and vary in weight. In fact, some of the integrated systems are surprisingly light. The power they offer is an important factor, and most hover between 250w and 500w.

What’s the best wattage for an electric bike battery?

How long is a piece of string? It all depends on how much you’re riding, and how much you care about your electric road bike’s aesthetic.

When e-bikes started to gain popularity, the batteries were bulbous, and almost appeared to be haphazardly bolted on wherever there was space. Now we are seeing brands working to integrate them into the frame seamlessly.

Unfortunately, the smaller the battery, the smaller the capacity. which is measured in watt-hours (Wh). While some brands are quick to make claims about how far certain Wh batteries will take their bikes, these figures can vary greatly depending on the level of boost, the terrain and even the weight of the rider. Bosch has put together a handy Range Assistant, which can provide a good idea of how much mileage you can expect to achieve, depending on your riding habits.

While some bikes have removable batteries which allow you to keep a spare, others with hidden battery packs look much cleaner.

Are electric road bikes unisex?

As a general rule of thumb, most e-road bikes are made to be unisex, while having multiple size options that should work for most people. The saddle, which is the key contact area that needs some tailoring to fit the users, is easily swapped out for one of the best women’s road bike saddles if need be.

If you would prefer a women’s specific model, be sure to check out our list of the best women’s electric bikes.

Regional restrictions

Most e-bikes use one of three e-bike systems, however, depending on where you live, the level of assistance as well as whether you need a license and insurance will vary. Here’s a breakdown of all the e-bike restrictions in place in the UK, US and Australia.

The UK adopted a lot of the EU’s regulations regarding e-bikes but with Brexit, it’s hard to say if that may change.

All of the bikes featured here fall under ‘The Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EPAC) Amendment Regulations’ mandates; electric assistance can only provide 250 watts of aid and must cut out at 25kph. It also stipulates the rider must be in motion for the motor to kick in and be at least 14 years old.

Electric bikes (and riders) that meet these standards have the same legal standing as regular bicycles and are allowed on roads and bike paths.

In Europe, a new class of speed-pedelecs or s-pedelecs are gaining popularity that are capable of providing assistance up to 45kph. You still need to pedal for the motor to kick in, however, under UK law these are considered two-wheel mopeds and require insurance, a legally certified helmet and a qualifying driver’s license.

In the US, rules for e-bikes vary from state to state; 30 states classify e-bikes as ordinary bicycles, while the remaining 20 label e-bikes as mopeds, scooters or something else altogether.

Federal law defines an electric bicycle as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of fewer than 750 watts, whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20mph.’

It’s worth noting this statute defines the maximum assisted speed of the bike when being only powered by the motor, not when it’s being pedalled. To make things more confusing, state regulations can supersede the federal statute.

The Bicycle Product Suppliers Association has proposed a three-class system which divides electric bikes up based on their maximum assisted speed:

Class 1: the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling and cuts out a 20mph

Class 2: the motor can contribute regardless of pedalling but is governed to 20mph

Class 3: the motor provides assistance when the rider is pedalling but cuts out at 28mph and must be equipped with a speedometer.

For all three classes, the motor can only put out a max of 750 watts, and the class needs to be clearly labelled. This system also defines where the bikes can be ridden; classes 1 and 2 are permitted anywhere bikes are allowed, while class 3 can be ridden on roads and bike lanes but not multi-use paths, and may be subject to minimum user age and helmet requirements.

So far, 22 states have legislation creating a class system and our friends over at People for Bikes has put together a full state-by-state run down.

In Australia, e-bikes are split into throttle-operated and pedal-assist. Both systems must be limited to 25kph, and the throttle-operated motors can only output 200 watts while pedal assist is legal up to 250 watts. Anything that exceeds these figures is considered a motorbike and must be licensed and insured.

Giant Electric Bikes Review

Giant is the world’s largest manufacturer of traditional bicycles and is expected to become the most dominant player in the e-bike market in the recent future as well, as Giant electric bikes are becoming more and more popular.

Apart from designing and producing its own bikes, Giant also manufactures bicycles for other major cycling brands, such as Trek, Scott, and Colnago. Therefore, it’s unlikely that you’ve never ridden a bike made by Giant.

If you’re considering adding one of its bikes to your collection, you should read our detailed Giant E-Bike review below. We’ll tell you all about the brand and the technologies it uses, as well as show you its electric bike lineup.

Are Giant bikes worth the money? Let’s find out!

About Giant Bicycles—Are They Really THAT Good?

Giant is a well-known brand that has possibly contributed the most to the world of cycling.

Giant is a member of the Giant Group, which was established in 1972, in Taiwan. It is the world’s largest manufacturer of high-quality bicycles and cycling gear and one of the most influential brands in the industry.

Giant Cadex 980C first mass-produced carbon fiber road bicycle.

As an independent brand, Giant was born in 1981 when the first Giant-labeled bicycles hit the stores, first in Taiwan, and then in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world. After that, it soon rose to stardom and became the biggest player in the game.

The thing that sets Giant apart from other brands is that it has always been the pioneer of change. Giant made its frames from lightweight aluminum when the industry’s standard was still steel. It was also the first to make carbon fiber bikes widely available to the world, revolutionizing the cycling experience.

Giant also transformed the look and feel of modern road bikes with its Compact Road technology, as well as improved off-road performance bikes with Maestro Suspension.

Today, Giant continues developing groundbreaking cycling technologies and manufacturing modern bikes, including e-bikes for recreational and practical use.

Giant’s Patented E-Bike Technologies

Giant has been around for almost 50 years. During that time, it has patented numerous technologies that have completely changed how we ride bikes and how we think about them.

Let’s take a look at some of the most important e-bike technologies that this company has developed so far. You can find most of these solutions on Giant’s electric bicycles. But it all depends on how much money you spend.

SyncDrive Pro

SyncDrive Pro is a technology that provides pedaling assistance that’s in tune with human input. Therefore, Giant’s bicycles are able to produce smooth pedaling power and a natural feel that ensures good performance and an enjoyable ride.

Smart Assist

Smart Assist technology uses complex mathematical calculations to determine exactly how much power a rider needs, based on their power input and the pedal-assist level.

EnergyPak

EnergyPak is Giant’s latest battery system that features an elegant design and full integration. The EnergyPak batteries are placed inside the bike’s downtube, so they’re not an eyesore. These batteries also charge up to 80% in 2.2 hours and offer a better range than regular batteries.

RideControl

RideControl is a handlebar-mounted command center that features special ergonomically designed controls. It lets you have full control over your e-bike and track important metrics such as distance, speed, battery level, and pedal-assistance level.

E-Bike App

Giant’s E-Bike App lets you connect your smartphone directly to your e-bike via Bluetooth. The app lets you tune the motor to get the best support ratio for your needs, use navigation, and track important fitness data.

Review of Giant Electric Bikes Lineups

When it comes to e-bikes, Giant’s selection is not huge at the moment, but it is pretty decent nonetheless. The company manufactures electric bicycles in several categories, including Road, Gravel, Mountain, and Lifestyle.

No matter if you are a regular rider who spins the pedals every day or if you haven’t sat on a bike saddle in decades, you’re likely to find a model that you like in Giant’s lineup.

Let’s take a quick look at each of the categories, learn about the individual model lineups, and find the best Giant electric bike for your personal needs.

Giant Electric Road Bikes

Electric road bikes stand for everything that’s good about cycling but make it even better with a boost in power to make riding more enjoyable.

If you still want to enjoy speed, cover long distances, and look cool, one of the Giant electric road bikes is the right choice for you.

Road E Pro

A drop-bar electric road bike to help you enhance your road riding experience

Road E Pro is a proper electric road bike made for speed and performance. These are Class 1 electric bicycles with drop bars, a mid-drive motor, and an integrated battery that sits hidden inside the downtube.

The Road E Pro series features Giant’s SyncDrive Pro 250W motor with 80 Nm, combined with a 500Wh battery. It’s built around a lightweight aluminum frame, equipped with high-end Shimano components and hydraulic brakes that stop on a dime.

If you wish for a high-end electric road bike to overcome injury or keep pedaling well into old age, the Road E Pro model is a foolproof choice.

FastRoad E EX Pro

Versatile and fast e-bikes for road and off-road exploitation

FastRoad E EX PRO is a multi-purpose electric road bike with flat bars and wide, versatile tires. It features the Giant SyncDrive Pro 250W motor with the Giant RideControl EVO display for maximum control. The Giant EnergyPak 500Wh battery ensures a decent range and fast charging.

The Giant FastRoad e-bike sports Shimano’s gravel-specific GRX RX400 groupset and 27.5 x 2.40″ tires, so you can enjoy in on paved and unpaved roads. Accessories like fenders, lights, and a rear rack will only make the ride better and more practical.

We recommend it to commuters, bike travelers, and those who want a bike that replaces their car.

LaFree E

Haven’t ridden a bike in decades? Start here!

LaFree E is not a road bike in the traditional sense of the word, but it is built to be enjoyed on the road. Giant LaFree is a city/commuter/comfort bike built to be appreciated on a daily basis by regular people, rather than hardcore cyclists.

It has a 60Nm SyncDrive Life motor and a 400Wh battery that together provide plenty of assistance and a decent range. The upright geometry will put you in a comfortable riding position and the rear rack allows you to carry groceries, a child seat, or anything else you need on hand.

Explore the neighborhood, get fit, commute, or ditch the car, LaFree E can do it all.

Giant Electric Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have become very popular because they give you more possibilities than any other type of bike. A gravel electric bike takes those possibilities to another level.

Ride farther than ever before, explore paved and unpaved roads, and keep pedaling even when you run out of road. Let’s see what Giant’s gravel e-bikes put on the table.

Roam E

Forget about the limits and start exploring more.

Giant Roam E is an all-road electric bicycle that’s built to enable you to roam and explore wherever you want to. You can ride it on smooth asphalt but also on gravel, bike paths, or even trails.

Roam E is powered by a Giant SyncDrive Core 50Nm motor, with an automatic mode and tunable support. This Class 1 e-bike also has a 400Wh battery and a RideControl display.

The suspended fork, hydraulic disc brakes, and 700x45c tires come together to make it a comfortable and capable e-bike for all purposes.

Explore E

All the e-bikes you need in one affordable model.

Giant Explore E is the ultimate electric bicycle for the average rider. Unless you’re a performance-oriented road or MTB rider, you’ll probably like what Explore E is all about.

This is a commuter bike that’s built to stray away from smooth city streets. It features a Giant SyncDrive Life motor, an EnergyPak Smart 500Wh battery, and a RideDash EVO display. It’s built around a lightweight aluminum frame with a suspension fork and features a mid-range Shimano Alivio group.

Giant Explore E can be ridden day or night, rain or shine as it comes with fenders, lights, and a rear rack that can carry whatever you need. Get it and forget that you own a car.

Revolt E Pro

Leave no rock unturned on scenic backcountry roads.

Last but not least, we have a proper electric gravel bike with drop bars, a gravel-specific groupset, and gravel-ready tires. Giant Revolt E Pro has all you need to explore gravel roads, away from the hectic traffic and busy roads and streets.

The Giant SyncDrive Pro motor outputs 80Nm of tuneable support, coupled with a compact 375Wh battery. This is a Class 3 e-bike, so the maximum pedal-assisted speed is 28 mph, perfect for hardpacked gravel roads.

In addition, Revolt E Pro features a full Shimano GRX groupset, including brakes, and 700x45c tubeless-ready tires.

Get Giant Revolt E Pro if you want efficiency, control, and versatility.

Giant Electric Mountain Bikes

A few years ago, few people could imagine that electric mountain bikes would wiggle their way onto trails. Today, the electric mountain bike market is the fastest growing one in the e-bike industry.

Giant electric mountain bikes let you enhance your singletrack adventures, climb steep hills, and conquer high peaks. climbs equals more descents, which comes without a recovery penalty if you do it on an e-bike.

Let’s see which models Giant offers at the moment and find out what they are good for.

Talon E

An e-bike for beginners to enjoy the perks of real trail riding.

Giant imagined the Talon E series to be a selection of affordable mountain bikes for trail beginners and those who simply want to enjoy some off-roading. Talon E is built around a sturdy aluminum frame and a 100mm fork, combined with massive 29″ wheels and tires for uncompromising on-trail rolling capabilities.

It uses a Giant SyncDrive Core mid-drive motor to push the rider, with 50 Nm of torque and 5 pedal-assist modes, plus automatic. The 400Wh battery is “hidden” inside the rather unwieldy down tube.

The traditional drivetrain has a Shimano Alivio 9-speed rear derailleur and a 36T chainring on the front. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are easy to adjust.

We recommend it if you think it fits your needs.

Trance X E Pro

E-mountain trail bikes for big boys and even bigger trails.

Trance X E Pro is a serious electric mountain bike with full-suspension, 29″ tires, and aggressive slack geometry. If you want a Giant fat tire mountain bike and you have a big budget, there’s little you won’t like about these models.

The Giant’s mid-drive motor puts out massive 80Nm of torque for powerful climbing, with pedal-assist up to 20 mph. The battery has a 625Wh capacity, which translates to a lot of climbed hills.

The Fox suspension gives you 150mm of travel front and rear, whereas the 2.6″ Maxxis tires ensure both grip and confidence to shred trails.

Simply said, Trance X E Pro will let you hit trails as hard as before, if not even harder, as it is one of the best Giant electric bikes.

Stance E

A mid-range Giant full-suspension electric mountain bike for harsh terrain.

Giant Stance E is designed with trail-friendly geometry and rider-friendly components. This is a purebred full-suspension trail bike with 130mm of travel and a mid-drive motor that will send you flying up steep climbs.

The SyncDrive Sport motor is powered by Yamaha and develops 50Nm of torque, whereas the battery packs 625 Wh of additional juice.

Stance E bikes feature lightweight and efficient 1x drivetrains and uncompromising 29″ wheels. These ensure a good attack angle on fast descents. While descending, you’ll also appreciate the hydraulic disc brakes with giant rotors.

Are there any trails and descents waiting to be sent?

Fathom E

Versatile trail application with 27.5″ wheels and a dynamic motor.

Giant Fathom E will let you take full control of trails thanks to its sport-optimized motor and versatile 27.5″ wheels with super-wide tires.

This bike excels on XC and singletrack terrain, where the SyncDrive Sport motor can help you reach a 20mph speed and the 500Wh battery can help you maintain it over a decent distance.

Fathom E bikes are reasonably priced, so they come with mid-range components that offer excellent value for the money. Examples of this include Shimano Deore components and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes.

This is a Giant electric bike for easier climbing and longer riding, deep into the sunset.

Reign E Pro

Reign the trails, both up and down, with the help of a mighty motor.

The Reign E electric mountain bike is the creme de la creme of Giant’s e-mountain collection. These are premium enduro bikes with high-end components and high-end prices. The top model costs 8,500. Ouch!

We’re talking about SyncDrive Pro mid-drive motors with up to 80Nm of torque and EnergyPak Smart 500Wh batteries integrated into the down tube.

Happy owners will also enjoy the high-end SRAM and Shimano drivetrains, brakes, and top-of-the-line 170mm suspension. These are 27.5″ electric mountain bikes, so handling is nimble and precise on demanding twisty trails.

You can’t go wrong with one of these Giants if you need their performance and their price fits your budget.

Momentum Lifestyle Electric Bikes

Momentum is a newly-established brand, founded by Giant. It makes so-called Lifestyle bicycles intended for casual, everyday use. If you’re an urban commuter looking to ride their car less, Momentum is a brand you should look into. These are also great bikes for recreational rides around the block, through the park, on bike paths, or for losing weight.

At the moment, Momentum manufactures three electric models called:

According to the info on the website, momentum was founded with a clear mission: “To help you move through life with happiness and ease.”

The three model lines available at the moment roughly cost between 2,100 and 2,800, which puts them in the entry-level to mid-range category. They include both step-over and step-thru frame variations, so they’re suitable for male and female riders.

Something they have in common is Giant’s SyncDrive mid-drive motors, hydraulic disc brakes, and a relaxed upright riding geometry. This makes them ideal for older riders, as well as those riders who don’t cycle too much but want to feel good when they do.

Momentum e-bikes are neither very lightweight, nor too fast (these are Class 1 e-bikes), but they look pretty and get the job done with ease. If you want a no-fuss e-solution, look into this Giant’s sister company.

Value for the Money—Are Giant Electric Bikes Too Expensive These Days?

Giant is one of the biggest, if not the biggest bicycle manufacturers in the world. That’s true for electric bicycles as well. Big-name brands are usually more expensive than small ones because they sell you both the bike and the branding. But is that true for Giant as well?

Actually, compared to some other big cycling brands like Trek, Specialized, or Canyon, Giant is a lot less expensive overall. That’s possible because Giant does the entire production and development process in one place, which allows them to cut costs, reduce overhead, and lower production times.

Therefore, even though you can definitely find cheaper e-bikes out there, Giant electric bicycles are not overly expensive. They offer pretty good value for money. Plus, buying from a big brand means that you will 100% get a replacement or a refund if your bike has a manufacturing defect. That’s not usually the case when purchasing cheap bikes off Amazon, even though you save at first.

What’s unique for Giant is that its e-bikes are fitted with proprietary technologies, such as SyncDrive motors and EnergyPak batteries. These are fitted on high-quality frames that are also built in-house by Giant. Therefore, all parts are compatible and work well as a package.

Ultimately, if you want an e-bike from a reputable and recognizable brand that offers good bang for the buck, you should probably get a Giant e-bike if there is one that fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Looking for answers to some specific questions about Giant electric bicycles? Check out the FAQ section below.

Is Giant the best bike brand?

Giant electric bikes are very good, considering that this is the biggest cycling brand in the world. However, whether or not they are the best is a subjective matter. Giant makes high-quality electric bicycles on par with other major manufacturers like Trek, Cannondale, Specialized, Canyon, and so on. Therefore, it is definitely one of the best bike brands in the world. Giant’s bikes get excellent ratings and user reviews, known to be durable, affordable, and reliable.

Where are Giant e-bikes made?

Giant has manufacturing factories in Taiwan and China, as well as the Netherlands and Hungary. Most of their e-bikes are made in Taiwan, but some are manufactured in other facilities as well.

Which is better Giant or Trek?

If you have a certain budget to spend and you do not want to go over it, Giant is the better choice. You will get better components and more value for your money. However, Trek bicycles are better designed and look nicer than Giant’s. Therefore, if your budget allows it and you’re willing to pay more for better looks, you will not go wrong with Trek either. Both companies are major players in the industry, manufacturing bicycles that last for years and ride for tens of thousands of miles.

Are Giant e-bikes any good?

Giant electric bikes offer the best value for money compared to all other established brands. The company has long been known as the king of budget bikes. However, Giant has also been consistently making high-end bikes that help riders win world championships and Grand Tours. Giant equips its bicycles with parts sourced from other reputable cycling brands, so you know you’re always getting high-quality gear for your money.

Does Giant make good electric mountain bikes?

Giant makes excellent electric mountain bikes. Giant’s e-mountain bicycles are equipped with proprietary SyncDrive motors and EnergyPak batteries made in collaboration with Yamaha. Giant produces electric mountain bikes in different price categories, so they are suitable both for beginners and for experienced riders.

Giant FastRoad E 2 Pro 2020 – Electric Road Bike Review

I managed to have a quick go on one of these the other day, so I thought I’d share my thoughts with you. I’ve ridden a few flat bar electric road bikes recently and I have been suitably impressed with all of them. But the one I was most keen to try out was the 2020 model Giant FastRoad E 2 Pro. In this review, I will let you know what I thought and go into the specification in a bit more detail.

Summary

One of the first electric road bikes I rode back in 2018 was a Giant Road E 1. It’s fair to say, that bike made one hell of an impression on me! To be honest, in the face of the latest crop of super lightweight, carbon-framed e-road bikes the original electric road bike from Giant now seems like a bit of a beast in comparison.

The thing is, with this current trend of building e-road bikes that look almost indistinguishable from their unassisted counterparts and opting for small batteries with lightweight compact motors. What you end up with is a slightly heavy road bike that has an e-assist you can use for maybe 30-40 miles (constantly on) or double that if you’re frugal with the assist.

I’ve ridden quite a few of these bikes, and I have been suitably impressed with all of them, but… as good as they are, one thing they all lack is a real ‘kick-in-the-pants’ pedalling boost. This is fine if you’re just looking for a little help on the hills, but if you need significant electric assistance, then something like the Giant FastRoad E 2 is the way to go.

Electric Components

The electric bike motor industry has been going into overdrive these last couple of years, fine-tuning the technology and reducing weight. One of my consistently favourite motors over the years has been Giant’s SyncDrive, which is the result of a collaboration with Yamaha.

Batteries have also transformed. With higher energy density and better cells, you can now have a battery that is lighter in weight and integrated into the downtube of the bike, whilst still giving a decent range.

Giant SyncDrive Pro motor

As I have said previously, this is one of the best e-bike motors currently available on a production bike. There are now several different versions available – the Life, Sport and Pro. The FastRoad E 2 is fitted with the most powerful SyncDrive Pro motor, which has to be ridden to be believed!

With up to 80Nm of torque and 360% of tuneable assist available, this is a motor that makes a difference to those steep climbs.

Electric assist is delivered using Giant’s PedalPlus 6-sensor technology, ensuring you get the right amount of assistance concerning your pedalling effort. Pedal lightly on a flat road and you won’t notice too much happening, but as soon as the road heads uphill and your pedalling effort increases you are rewarded with a smooth and seamless surge in power.

The same applies if you find yourself pedalling into a strong headwind – the motor will compensate for your increased effort, effectively cancelling out the wind resistance.

But what happens when the assist cuts out after 15.5mph? I felt the transition from assistant to non-assist was fairly seamless. The only thing you will notice is the extra weight of the bike.

There is no display panel on the FastRoad, but instead you get the RideControl One remote keypad where you can change assist levels and see your battery life with an LED indicator. If you want a whole host of other information then you can use the smartphone companion app which will give you everything, including speed, remaining battery range, GPS navigation, pedalling cadence and much more.

EnergyPak Smart 375Wh Battery

This battery has been reduced in size and weight over previous models making for a much more integrated look. Although the total energy capacity has been reduced, thanks to the increased efficiency of the motor there has been no compromise on battery range. With the EnergyPaK Smart 375Wh battery, a range of over 70 miles is achievable in Eco mode.

Bike components

A lot of flat bar electric road bikes are using 1 x drivetrains nowadays, these are fine for city riding, but limit top speed when descending or riding out in the country at higher speeds. The FastRoad E 2 uses a traditional compact double crankset upfront with an 11-32 10-speed cassette at the back, giving a total of 20 gears to choose from. This means you can ride at optimum efficiency. Shimano hydraulic brakes provide good stopping power and Maxxis Re-Fuse 700 x 32c gravel tyres provide decent grip on most surfaces.

Gearing

Shimano’s dependable Tiagra components are used, with flat bar trigger shifters, front and rear derailleur and 11-32 cassette. The front crankset is a Giant custom 50/34 crankset designed specifically for this motor, to keep the q-factor to a minimum.

With the light action of the trigger shifters, all the gears indexed perfectly and shifting from the small to the big ring on the front was also very slick. Having a 34t small ring up front and a 32t low at the rear meant that climbing 15% gradients was an absolute breeze!

Brakes

Shimano MT-201 / BR-U300 hydraulic brakes with 160mm rotors provide very well stopping power and good brake modulation. Although these brakes are considered fairly entry-level they performed perfectly.

Wheels and Tyres

The Giant GX wheelset is robust with sealed bearings and a thru-axle on the front. The tubeless-ready Maxxis Re-Fuse 700 x 32c gravel tyres make riding on country lanes and canal towpaths a lot easier. They also roll well and offer a decent level of traction in all weather. These tyres also offer a reasonable level of puncture resistance.

Frame

The FastRoad E 2 frame is combined with a carbon fork. The frame uses Giant’s patented Aluxx SL (super lightweight) technology and benefits from a relaxed and comfortable geometry, which will help if you are planning longer commutes or weekend rides. Like all Giant frames, this one is very well made with neat welds and finished in a lovely charcoal black.

Finishing Kit

Giant’s finishing kit is always good quality, from the D-Shaped seat post to the Connect XC flat handlebars. The Sport saddle may not be to everyone’s liking, but I found it to be just fine over the short test ride. The handlebar grips are nice ergonomic Giant grips with decent bar ends – ideal for changing your hand position on longer rides.

Who is the Giant FastRoad E 2 Pro aimed at?

If you like having all the benefits of a road bike, but do not get along with drop-handlebars, or you’re looking for a fast urban commuter then the Giant FastRoad E 2 Pro is ideal.

The FastRoad is also ideal if you are returning to cycling after an illness or injury. It’s particularly helpful if, like me you live in a very hilly area and find it hard to motivate yourself to go cycling. I tested this bike on one of my local climbs which ascends 470ft over 1 mile at an average gradient of 8.6% (the first third of a mile being 12-15%) and this motor produces so much torque that you could stay seated and just spin away without a care in the world!

Maybe you’re a recreational rider who wants to go on 60-70 mile weekend rides and arrive back home without feeling totally drained. Either way, the Giant will have a broad appeal to riders of all ages and abilities.

Conclusion

I have to confess, I’ve always liked Giant bicycles long before they started making e-bikes. Having ridden many different types of e-bike over the last few years, the one motor that always has me grinning from ear to ear is the SyncDrive. It’s just so smooth, but at the same time delivers bags of power when needed.

The 2020 FastRoad E 2 Pro felt lighter and more nimble than the Road E 1 drop-bar version I had a go on in 2018. This is due to the lighter motor, battery and re-designed frame. The handling is confidence inspiring, if a little predictable.

Everything on this bike worked exactly as you would expect on an e-bike of this price. The gear changes were crisp and precise, the brakes worked a treat and the motor just kept on giving and giving.

If I ever find myself in a fortunate enough position to have a collection of e-bikes in my workshop, I would definitely be adding the FastRoad. It’s the kind of bike that just makes you want to go out cycling as much as possible.

The only compromise with an e-road bike like this is there is a weight penalty – the FastRoad E 2 tips the scales at around 18.7kg (with pedals), making it about 3-4kg heavier than a similar Fazua or x35-powered electric road bike.

How does it compare with the competition? Well, it doesn’t really have any competition as there are no other flat bar electric road bikes that use this motor. Most use either the Fazua Evation or the x35 ebikemotion. I have previously ridden the Boardman HYB 8.9e (Fazua) and the Lapierre E-Sensium 200 (ebikemotion), and I enjoyed riding both bikes, but neither had the snap crackle and pop factor of the Giant!

Meet Tony, a passionate e-bike advocate and enthusiast who discovered the life-changing benefits of electric bikes back in 2016. Tony’s technical experience within the e-bike field was gained while running a successful electric bike conversion business for 5 years in his home county of Cornwall, UK.

Is Giant a Good E-Bike Brand to Buy? Brand Models Review

The Taiwanese bicycle company, Giant, has been in the industry since it was founded in 1972 in Taichung city. From the start, King Liu, its founder, and Tony Lo, the CEO, intended to produce top-quality bicycles, and that’s pretty much the goal that the company has stuck to over the years. This is only evidenced by the remarkable milestones it has produced in the span of time since its founding.

The brand doesn’t explicitly state why it chose the name, Giant. Its logo does depict an inherent love for the outdoors, as it calls to mind numerous elements associated with it, such as the hills and roads one rides through — or even a bird or two we occasionally see.

Only a few companies can genuinely claim that they are true innovators, and this company is more or less one of them. You can see how it allows its ideals focused on innovation to come to life by looking at its rich history alone. For this, it’s still enjoying massive growth up to the present.

Giant has a clear FOCUS on manufacturing sportier, power-based models that you won’t hesitate to take with mountain biking with your or tackling rugged roads. That being said, most of the 10 distinct e-bike lines of the brand fall under the eMTB, road, commuter, city, and gravel categories.

Since it’s an e-bike company largely known for its innovative drive, expect smarter designs and features from most of the models. It doesn’t see the need to go overboard with power, but it’s definitely more tech-driven compared to most e-bike companies. Higher customizability is another one of the strong points of its models, especially the most recent ones.

Giant Trance X Advanced E Model Line

The Trance X Advanced E eMTB line recently released a model that’s already being widely praised for its high customizability, particularly on the part of the motor and battery. You can get as much as 86Nm of torque from its Yamaha motor and one of the highest riding ranges at present from its EnergyPak battery (118 miles or 190 km, to be exact). You practically get to dictate how much power and riding range you want from your eMTB, so that’s one obvious plus.

Another aspect we love is the SmartAssist. Thanks to its 6 sensors, the e-bike basically adjusts the amount of assistance you need while riding. This is neat not only for helping you conquer any kind of tough incline and rough roads while aiding you in saving power as well.

Giant has its own app for its models, which allows you to personalize your e-bike and view its battery levels and detailed specs. The tires are sufficiently large, allowing them to give you adequate stability regardless of how bumpy and hard the trails get. Other notable components are the powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes.

On the whole, it’s an eMTB model that combines Smart features and personalization, making it overall tough to beat.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Trance X Advanced E model line here.

Giant Reign E Model Line

This eMTB has plenty of customizability as well. You can even integrate a bigger 750W battery if you can’t get enough range from the 500W one.

The still relatively bulky motor belies relatively lightweight compared to most, especially when set next to its previous incarnations. Unsurprisingly, it delivers the same 85Nm of torque that’s pretty much a standard in Giant’s high-end models.

You get to control the motor’s assistance mode through the RideControl controller, which is set next to the lock-on grips for convenient control. We also like that it sports an adjustable geometry, with two high and low settings that let you adjust the height and angle of the seat and bottom bracket.

All the notable tech included in the Trance X Advanced line can be found here, too.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Reign E model line here.

Giant Road E Pro Model Line

The inclusion of components that can be just as good for mountain biking makes this road e-bike pretty much a hybrid eMTB/road in our eyes. It weighs significantly less compared to most of Giant’s eMTBs, so that’s a big plus for anyone who wants less heft when riding over roads.

This model and line, in particular, can accelerate up to 28mph (45 km/h), which isn’t exactly achievable by some of the brand’s other e-bikes. A maximum riding range of 90 miles (145 km) from its 500W is obviously a big thumbs up — some riders even claim that it can go up to 100. The SyncDrive Pro motor is brand original, guarantees 80Nm of torque, and actually syncs with your pedaling.

Other praiseworthy features include the puncture-resistant tires and the fact that its curved handlebars make it ideal for mountain biking, too. The 160mm Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide adequate stopping power for assured safety.

Read also: How to select the best road e-bike (with examples)? – and also in this article. And, How much does a good road e-bike cost?

It’s an e-bike that won’t let you down when negotiating hilly terrain thanks to the power. We also love that you get all these perks for far less money than other Giant models.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Road E Pro model line here.

Giant Fastroad E EX Pro Model Line

We won’t hesitate to recommend this for anyone looking for a sportier commuter. It’s considerably versatile when we think about that fact alone.

Giant’s innovative prowess again shines through in the overall motor design; it’s compact but can pull off all the generous assistance you need when cruising up inclines or when accelerating during longer rides. It uses the same SyncDrive motor found in other Giant models and, therefore, offers the same benefits we mentioned above.

If you want to save a couple of hundreds of bucks but can’t sacrifice higher riding ranges, then this is the Giant model to get. It guarantees up to 90 miles (145 km) from its EnergyPak 500 battery.

Same as the Road E, it’s lightweight thanks to its aluminum frame. This one is more generous with its components, too, as it includes fenders, a rear rack, and a kickstand, along with headlights. All we can say is don’t sleep on this line, especially if we consider the improvements in more recent models.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Fastroad E EX model line here.

Giant Revolt E Pro Model Line

Giant’s only gravel offering as of this writing, the Revolt E has been widely and consistently praised for a good reason. Sure enough, it has the right amount of versatility to fit that category, particularly its ability to handle most kinds of terrain, may they be suburban roads or rural trails.

Its weight tops at 39 pounds (17.7 kg) because of its aluminum frame, which is light enough compared to others in the market. It also accelerates quickly and tops at 28mph (45 km/h) without much effort. You get up to 5 motor assist modes from the SyncDrive Pro motor. Like other models on the same price point, the Revolt claims to provide 90 miles (145 km) of range on a full charge.

Read also: How to select the best gravel e-bike (with examples)? And, How much does a gravel e-bike cost?

It lets you add other components such as fenders and racks, too. This e-bike definitely deserves to be labeled as an all-arounder.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Revolt E Pro model line here.

Giant Roam E Model Line

Being low-end doesn’t necessarily mean that you miss out on value. That much is proven by the Roam line simply because it technically still has the Giant touch. The EnergyPak and SyncDrive battery and motor may be less specced compared to other lines, but they’re still relatively powerful and has the same tech, such as the SmartAssist.

The top-notch design gives the e-bike the same stability you can expect from higher-end models. The aluminum frame keeps the weight down. It even has a walk mode, which makes it more amenable for you to dismount and walk it should the need arise.

This road e-bike is clear proof that Giant knows how to appeal to riders of various walks of life. It’s basically the outstanding Giant experience made available in a far more budget-friendly way.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Roam E model line here.

Giant Explore E Model Line

The Explore has step-thru and step-over options, making it easy for riders of the former to mount and dismount. Both top at 28mph (45 km/h). It calls to mind the Fastroad line but with slightly downgraded specs. It still packs a lot of punch when delivering motor assistance, though. Despite the cheaper price tag, it actually has a higher riding range limit of 105 miles (170 km), too.

The integrated tech that’s worth mentioning includes the RideControl on-board navigation, which gives you plenty of helpful directions while on the go. It definitely comes ready to tackle the challenges of the day-to-day commute as evidenced by its complete components that include a rear rack, mudguards, fenders, and lights. The handlebars are wide enough to feel comfortable for most riders.

If you don’t want an e-bike that’s overly specced and can get you through the everyday commute or long rides and rough trails with relative ease, this is the model to get. It’s just as versatile as other lines that I’ve mentioned that fit the said label.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Explore E model line here.

Giant Talon E Model Line

The Talon line is designed solely for offroading, and this shows in the overall geometry of its models and the 100mm suspension fork that takes care of most bumps while riding. The relatively large tubeless wheels add to the stability.

Considering the price, it’s not a surprise that the motor and battery get toned down here, especially the former. The SyncDrive motor gives you as much as 50Nm of torque, but the battery can still manage up to 93 miles (150 km). It uses the same RideControl controller found in other models.

It’s definitely a Giant offroader recommended for riders who still want a quality ride but don’t want to have to shell out too much dough for it.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Talon E model line here.

Giant Trance X E Pro Model Line

Think of this eMTB line as a less-specced version of its Advanced counterpart. Considering the amazing changes introduced by the Advanced line, that move may have caused it to overshadow this particular line to a certain degree. It doesn’t help that most of the models on this line are quite bulky and heavy.

Nonetheless, the Trance X E still pretty much provides the same experience as the Advanced models. They may not have the same customizability, but you can expect the similar extraordinarily convenient experience afforded by the Advanced line.

There’s also the trademark adjustable geometry and excellent suspension that make it deserving to be on the top list of eMTBs. It still brims with power and capacity, and you don’t need to look further than the motor and battery to see this.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Trance X E Pro model line here.

Giant Stance E Model Line

The Stance E uses a SyncDrive Sport motor, which delivers 70Nm of torque and tones down the noise a bit more than its counterparts. The battery can provide as much as 105 miles (170 km), which is way above average.

The full-suspension frame is just what you’d expect from a brand that’s known for its difficult-to-rival designs. There’s no room to question the optimal stability that results from it, too. The adjustable air suspension lends itself to comfort as well.

Read also: How not to sweat on your e-bike commute? Trip planning – in this article, on the road – in this article, when you arrive – in this article.

It rides smoothly as well, with or without motor assistance. Other noteworthy parts include the hydraulic disc brakes and the standard RideControl control pad that lets you control motor assistance without much difficulty.

We invite you to take a closer look at the Giant Stance E model line here.

What Do Most Riders Think About Giant?

It’s a mainstream brand that built its solid reputation over time, so it’s a given that the brand will have many riders that will wholeheartedly say good (if not great) things about it. Price-wise, you pretty much have many options to choose from that will not make it hard for you to balance your budget and the features and kind of ride you want.

Overall, it’s a brand that obviously listens to the feedback of its customers, and we can see this in every new model or update to a specific line that it rolls out on an almost yearly basis. That’s undoubtedly one of its secrets to success. Not to mention the fact that it has one of the largest networks of dealers around the world.

What Countries Does Giant Ship To?

Giant has a global reach, so you can expect it to be able to ship to most countries worldwide. You can view the entire list and what to do if your country is not included here.

Take a look at this short video, introducing Giant electric bikes:

Hey there! My name is Igor Karni. I created this site to help you find answers to your questions about e-bikes. I hope that this blog will give you enough knowledge to rent or buy an e-bike you will love and the one that best suits your personal needs. It will make me happy if my articles help make your decisions a bit easier. And you have fun following the process!

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