2021 Giant Trance X 29 2 (And weight in large)

Description and some detail about the 2021 Trance X 29 2 (Oz model). About the rider: over 40, 179cm, 82kg (with camelbak 85kg). I ride Brissy trails: Daisy, Cornubia, Bayview, and Cleveland and heaps of Hidden Vale Adventure Park. 1st ride setup - Fork setting: 2 volume spacers (came with 3) 67psi at about 25%sag. Shock setting: as supplied spacer 200psi at about 28-30% sag) this bike in L with XT trail pedals, bash guard removed and few changes comes in at about 15.4kg, but the bike feels sturdy and the weight is put into strength.

[@jacobthurston2561]

Ripper vid mate. Appreciate the time you’ve put into it.

[@RossLatham]

Nice work mate! agreed on not much info out there. Much appreciated for doing the run through!

[@armandojuan64]

I ordered a 2021 Trance 27.5 ( aluminum ) and since I am in the waiting list , I watch all about Giants that I can watch , thanks for such a detailed video . Ride safely , my friend and congratulations on your purchase .

[@schaeff6476]

Thanks for the kind words mate.

[@armandojuan64]

@@schaeff6476 You are very welcome , my friend .... and if you run into Mick Doohan by any chance , tell him that he is my hero and I worship him .

[@schaeff6476]

That man can ride! I haven't seen him yet but you never know

[@armandojuan64]

@@schaeff6476 Exactly .... you never know .

[@lukemerriman7939]

Hi Nath, I picked up one of these yesterday. Obviously haven't done much riding on it yet, but I did a shit load of research on it. Your video was definitely one of the best I came across, which helped make my decision. So I just wanted to say thanks and I got your Aussie humour because I'm an Aussie too haha Thanks again mate.

[@schaeff6476]

Cheers mate. I'm still loving this bike and will be riding for some years. Despite its weight I love how fast it is even in flatter and tight single track where I thought a more xc bike would be quicker. Thanks for the kind words mate. Enjoy. Schaeff.

[@MTBMOR]

What did you think of the bike? I love mine, but I've never changed so much on a bike before. I am about to switch a carbon wheelset.

[@BikingCarFanatic]

Awesome overview mate! Looks like this might be the perfect replacement for my 2018 Trance 2 27.5. Enjoyed watching my first review vid on this being done my another Aussie. Enjoy the bike mate, i've subbed to see it in action.

[@schaeff6476]

Cheers mate. Hope it was useful.

[@voices00]

Thanks for the detailed video.

[@billrose2339]

Nath - Cheers from America. I pulled the trigger on one of these today because of your video!! Sweet bike. From what little time I've spent on it, it is amazingly comfortable and I think it actually weighs less than the really really old MTB I was riding (steel 1991 bike with NO suspension). Looking forward to riding it very soon. Thanks for the awesome review!

[@billrose2339]

Also, have you experienced a lot of pedal rock strikes with this bike? I've read that the BB in the low position can lead to more rock strikes. Thanks.

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate. Thanks for the kind words. I rode today in dusty Brisbane and 1 year on i still love this bike. I ride in low mode and i do have occasional pedal strikes but not any more than my mates who ride a variety of other popular trail bikes. Its really only rough climbing where i strike. Its a small change to high mode but the bb noticeably sits higher and would reduce strikes if its an issue. Enjoy the bike mate. Cheers.

[@billrose2339]

@@schaeff6476 Cheers Schaeff. Been riding the sh*t out of this bike over the last month and can't believe how amazing it is. The downhills in full open position are incredibly stable. The only issue I've found is in the steep uphills - I will occasionally lose traction in open position on the DPS, so I'll drop it to the medium position and that really helps. Thanks again for your review!!

[@mikeygeester4284]

Great Vid! I want to see some video of you Riding it!!

[@competitiveadvantagellc3691]

I got one of these coming. Thanks for the video!

[@monkeymikemoves]

Thanks for making this review! Been scanning KZbin the last few days trying to find anything on this bike

[@schaeff6476]

I only made so anyone who researches like me can get some sort of look at it until the likes of flow or pinkbike get a pro video out. Hope it helps

[@schaeff6476]

I've had 2 rides on the trance x using nukeproof neutron v2 wheels. This has made a difference to the overall ride quality. Dropping 350 grams of rolling weight is noticeable particularly accelerating out of corners. The new wheels are 6 bolt and now I have Shimano ice tech rotors which has also made a difference in braking. Bike going great.

[@rupertmtb]

Can you please post actual weight of stock wheelset & neutron V2?

[@schaeff6476]

Stock wheelset 2.46kg taped and valve. Nukeproof neutron v2 taped and valve 2.08kg.

[@rupertmtb]

@@schaeff6476 Thanks!

[@lapolialegre]

Stock hub is boost 148mm?? want to upgrade wheelset and wondering what hub width

[@theadventuregamer6693]

@@schaeff6476 Does this weight include converting into tubeless?

[@schaeff6476]

Thanks everyone for positive feedback. Also thanks for thumbs up or down, I know it's a one take dry aussie humour vid. I would encourage anyone considering this bike to check out the flow mountain bike article by Will, and also their soon to be released video review. Flow does the best reviews for so many bikes and my improvised video is only to fill the information vacuum on this sick shredder. This bike uses my second bike yoke dropper, this is Devine and last was revive. Flow also reviewed that. Dropper review here flowmountainbike.com/tests/bikeyoke-divine-dropper-post-review/ and trance x review here flowmountainbike.com/tests/first-ride-review-2021-giant-trance-x-29-2/

[@andersonpaulo4011]

Uaaauu

[@danielfaria745]

Shoowww

[@19013rudy]

Gonna pick up the model under this tomorrow

[@AeroPrixma]

Looks great, that Fox 36 must be treating you well!

[@schaeff6476]

Yeah mate the fork adds massive stability up front. Its worth the weight penalty. There is a little play in the bushings when fork is unweighted but when bike is ridden and the sag is taken up It's good.

[@Shminimun]

Just picked up one of these, absolute beaut

[@evelleenfarias1240]

hahuahuahuaah

[@charlespalmerii4299]

I just got the 2021 Trance 3 29er Loving it, I need to do a video on it. Your video was great, Liking this X version of Trance :) Bike rides soo smooth....

[@schaeff6476]

Do it mate. No script, one take, and it will be useful to those interested in your bike

[@xover9169]

What weight is it?

[@lucaguernelli5537]

@charles Palmer can you please tell me the weight of your Trance 29 3 2021? Which size do you have ? Thanks

[@charlespalmerii4299]

@@lucaguernelli5537 , I have a Large, and give me a day to get back to you on the weight as I have not checked it yet

[@lucaguernelli5537]

@@charlespalmerii4299 thanks mate , I'll be waiting!

[@wbd3159]

Good stuff!

[@hindesite]

Just took a punt and picked up a barely used one of these. Seems like a great spec, but mine has loose cage rivnuts, and unbearably squealing brakes. Once I get things sorted I think it will be a great bike, possibly as good as my hardtail... Agree about the seat, it is surprisingly comfortable. And unbelievably, it also has the relatively common Fox fork knock - excessive play in the left side, right side is fine. Feels like a loose headset, but you can feel the play if you put your finger between the stanchion and the fork brace. rattles like crazy under light braking downhill.

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate, After about 6 months i also had the knocking in the fork, but Giant had it serviced and fixed under warranty. Apart from that its 1 year old now and still going strong as. I love it. Such a great trail bike.

[@julianbalcombe]

I just purchased the 2022 version of this bike and they changed the shocks to RockShox, I wonder how they compare to your fox on this model?

[@david029014]

How much weight do you think we can lose with some carbon wheels. If I can get her around 28 pounds I would be good!

[@henryo7105]

Hey mate great vid , just wondering if it has quick release on the wheels ? Thanks

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate, the wheels are boost front and rear and axles are removed with a 6mm allen/hex key. So no quick release. On my other trance I got an after market qr through chain reaction cycles as I taking the wheel on and off often

[@marvinjordan9987]

Gday mate. Nice bike, great review. I have one question, can this bike fit a 36t or a 38t chainring? My previous2018 Reign Adv 27.5 Medium fit a 38t, which was good for commuting to work. Thank you and all the best.

[@schaeff6476]

I honestly don't know. The gap between chainstay and chainring looks enough for 32 and 34 but you'd have to find that answer elsewhere.

[@Kozzy999]

Nice vid. How does this steep seat tube feel when you pedal in flat terrain? Do you feel some unwanted pressure on your wrists or back pain? I know that it is new school geo, but I am not sure how does it work when you need to commute to your trails in flat area.

[@schaeff6476]

The pedalling position is very comfortable. The wheels and chunky tyres are where you feel the drag commuting to the trails. The steeper seat angle is matched by a longer reach so really your body is further over the bb with the seat up, but when it's down you are in an excellent attack position. On the dirt fire roads can be tedious but the steeper the ups and downs the better the bike rides.

[@schaeff6476]

I know I speak about it's weight but it descends amazingly. And it must be said is very efficient and comfortable climbing. I didn't mention that a large originally comes with 170mm dropper post. My bike yoke Devine has 160.

[@rayanaeccher6012]

Mandou bem

[@david029014]

You should try odi grips love them

[@mattcharlton3583]

Great review! What are your thoughts on a 27.5 Trance Adv 1 being a good trade off for more travel than the Trance 29, but less weight than the X? Also know the X is slacker than the 27.5.

[@schaeff6476]

I had a 27.5 trance for 3 years and I liked it. As it currently sits the slacker seat tube angle makes steeper climbs a bit more of a balancing act of on the nose of the saddle. Also I was often striking the cranks and pedals a lot. But it was lighter as you say and really handled well due to low bb height. The slightly steeper head angle on the 27.5 is dealt with using the old 55mm fork offset which have great handling at speed but flopsy and lower speeds. I still believe 27.5 has a place depending on your style and local trails. I must say both the trance 27.5 and trance 29 out accelerate the X. So yes it a trade off worth considering.

[@schaeff6476]

And nearly 2kg lighter depending which 27.5 model

[@mattcharlton3583]

@@schaeff6476 Thanks for the response, appreciate it. The pain points you touch on for the 27.5 are the same as most reviews I've seen. Have an Adv 1 2020 27.5 on layby and collect in a couple of weeks, so was interested in your opinion. I got it for $4.3K and was too good of a deal to pass on. Currently ride a 2011 scott spark, so pretty sure the Trance I'm getting will feel like a massive improvement to me any way :)

[@btentusscher]

Great video! I was ready to order the Specialized Stumpy Comp 2021, but the pedal bob while climbing turned me off. The maestro suspension of the Giant sits under my skin now I’m trying to decide between the Trance pro advanced and the Trance X 1. What would be your choice for flowing and quick turn, rooty trails with flat climbs in western Europe? Demoing is not possible because of the covid bike shortage.. Hope to hear from you soon!

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate. I have never ridden in Europe so it is hard to answer your question. But there is some useful information I can give you. I still ride my Trance and Trance X each week and they both have different strengths. You have indicated that you are looking at getting a carbon trance or top level alloy Trance X. The Trance: 115 rear and 130 front, light and balanced. perfectly suited to terrain that it not too rough overall. more agile but repeated roots and rocks slow it down. if its singletrack where you generate your own speed and gravity doesn't assist too much then this bike is fast. The Trance X: beefier, longer and more suspension 135 and 150 (with larger stanchions). this has more braking power, more time with wheels on the ground through rough, but is heavier. The climbing position is as comfortable as any i've ridden but is not as responsive at the slower speeds to turns and accelerations. Really is a balanced bike between going up, and down. If you are riding trails with plenty or rough, technical high and low speed sections, and there is plenty of gravity helping you along then this bike will out perform the Trance when going down. In Australia we don't have access to the Trance X 1 model and i see it comes with carbon wheels. This would make the bike about 700 grams lighter then mine off the shelf!!!! Also many other parts are all a little lighter making a noticeable gain on weight saving. It's really all just information but both bikes can be ridden anywhere, it depends where you want the strengths and weaknesses to be. rough and rooty sections the Trance X. Fast and flowy or singletrack that lets you carry speed then the trance. Lots of jumps and drops, the trance X. Want to accelerate hard on the climbs and pace with the XC crown then the trance. Steady on the climbs and walk over rough climbs and make it up going down the then the trance X. Also consider what the other riders in your region use - are the fastest riders on cross country duallies, or short travel duallies? or are they on modern trail bike with 130 to 150 travel? For me here is Australia if i could only have one of the bikes you are asking about then I would choose the Trance X 1. p.s. I've got nothing negative to say about the stumpy or many of the other brands that offer bikes in this category. enjoy!! hope this helps.

[@btentusscher]

@@schaeff6476 Fantastic feedback Nath, thanks a lot for taking the time. After calling a couple of bikeshops to find a bike they can actualy deliver I am confused all over again. They all tell me even a normal Trance is way to burly for western Europe and try to direct me to the Anthem or another real xc bike. Very sad it is impossible to demo these days.. Some wisdom from your sidd?

[@schaeff6476]

@@btentusscher my advice would be unless you are racing regularly get the trance. its more fun, handles better and is not much heavier at all. put a faster rolling rear tyre on and enjoy.

[@lachcurtis5503]

Amazing video mate, cheers. Between this and Wills review at Flow i'm gonna lock this in. Did you try a medium first? I'm 178cm but i'm in Vic so can't go and try anything out at the moment due to iso. Leaning more towards large at this stage

[@schaeff6476]

Thanks mate. At 178 Its going to depend on what you prefer. You must consider if the 170mm dropper post can be low enough (At the collar) on large though. You can see how high my post is and it's 94cm from pedal spindle to top of saddle directly above centre of seat post. Because it's such a great price point I don't know if I'll sell or keep my trance. Also I got the front tyre size wrong as it's 2.5 wt. 2.4 on rear

[@chellidacosta1218]

Boaaa

[@lachcurtis5503]

Nath Schaeff cheers mate, I’ll have to wait for lockdown to pass and go throw a leg over

[@Shminimun]

I'm 178, I got the large and it's perfect, post collar is about 20mm out if the frame

[@881Gino]

Hey mate, thanks for the info. Looking at picking one of these up myself. What are your thoughts on the bike after a few months?

[@schaeff6476]

About 7 months in and still loving it. Such a capable bike. I will be hanging onto this for quite some time. Its over kill for easier trails but comes to life on faster or more challenging trails. For the money its an awesome bike.

[@Andyange]

Thanks mate for a good run down of this bike. Would you recommend SLX over sram GX?

[@schaeff6476]

Up front I'm a Shimano fan. However if cost is no issue I prefer the GX over the SLX for drivetrain. But prefer Shimano brakes over sram. That said, having had to replace busted rear mech the tiny difference in weight and performance isn't worth it. For the parts your most likely to replace- cassette and rear mech Shimano is the better choice by a lot of money. I won't be changing the SLX. Its so reliable. As for brakes I much prefer the Shimano 501/520 on this bike over my Guide RS on my other trance against every criteria of cost, feel, modulation, power etc. In short I believe GX drivetrain performs a tiny tiny bit better than SLX. But when cost added GX isn't worth the extra cost. And braking Shimano wins but I this is a personal feel opinion.

[@schaeff6476]

Based on cost alone SLX everytime

[@mAxELj]

Hi. Disc brake rotor size (front and back)?

[@schaeff6476]

203mm front. 180mm rear.

[@Jacob99174]

Thanks for posting due to the lack of YT content!

[@schaeff6476]

no wukkas

[@evelleenfarias1240]

Total sentido kkkk

[@Realisy]

Do you think small will work ok for someone who is 5’4”? Thanks

[@schaeff6476]

Hi Isaac, I really couldn't give you advice on sizing unless you are around my height. It's always best to use the measurements from a bike you have fitted to compare, or if you once have that get a test ride on one from a shop. Giant do have sizing guides somewhere Im sure.

[@AlinB1108]

If you replace the wheels, let us know what you chose and perceptual differences. Also since it’s size a bit long, do you think you could drop the stem to 35mm and not mess up the steering? I’m waiting on mine to arrive, large, and at 6’ the reach is a lot longer than my current bike. I’m thinking maybe I’ll get used to it but if I don’t like the position I could shorten the stem to 35.

[@schaeff6476]

There is definitely room to shorten stem and because the seat tube is steep climbing performance should be fine. That's just personal preference when you set up. Done over 500 ks on nukeproof neutron wheels. Great upgrade for under500 bucks. It improves the climbing and flat pedalling ability noticeably. Still better descender than climber though. I still love this bike a song as it's not a pedal fest on fire road.

[@MTBMOR]

That's interesting. Both my daughter and I thought the cockpit was short. I bought a longer stem 50mm medium and it feels great to us. I'm still playing with the hi/low setting.

[@leeroybarbz]

Tossing up between this bike and the 2021 Reign 2 29.. Can't quite decide. What do you think? (Also in Brisbane)

[@schaeff6476]

Mate the alloy reign is a beast and without pedals weighs over 16kg in large! I got the trance x to give a bike to really enjoy hiddenvale descents and cornubia. The reign has grown to 170mm at The front and I believe is too much bike for Brissy trails. If this trance x didn't come along i was going to get a fuel ex or commencal meta tr. This is truly an era when affordable brands are getting the geometry perfect for amazing performance, handling and fun. I would choose this bike for round SEQ. Its worth noting that i still find the trance (no x) faster at daisy and Cleveland. This bike however is more capable in more areas. Compare this trance x to one of the best trail bikes, like santa cruz high tower and you can appreciate how good This bike is going to be.

[@overigo9350]

Check to see that the 2021 Reign 29er has eliminated the rear creaking noise that the 2020’s were known for.

[@chrisearnshaw7865]

Hi, great review, how tall are you, I’m looking at the size large but not 100% it’s the right size for me?

[@MTBMOR]

I'm 5'9 and the medium fits great. My daughter is 5'8" and the medium is good for her. I did get a longer stem.

[@mtbnoobs]

Question for you, can you slam the dropper post all the way down to the collar? Or is there not enough insertion space in the tube? I just put a deposit down on one of these. Cant wait! 🤙🏼

[@schaeff6476]

Mate, the seat post can be inserted a long way. This is size L and therefore has a longer seat tube to insert into but I can get my 160mm divine dropper all the way down. Im sure the stock 150mm dropper would be similar. A medium frame might have a slightly lower chance of being able to be slammed but if that was the case (which is unlikely) then you could swap it out for a dropper with a bit less drop. if you google '2021 giant trance x' and then select images you can see heaps of pictures with the seat post near slammed. It's a great bike. I'm 500km in on mine and done shorter rides and longer 50km rides with long climbs to descents and it's fantastic. comfortable climbing and insane fun and capability descending. I still haven't tried the high mode position though, why would I? All the best.

[@David-rb3tk]

Thanks. Great review for average rider like me. I have a 2019 Trance 29er 1 with GX drive train and carbon wheels that all came as stock. What do you think of the idea of buying the Trance X 3 and swapping the SX drive train and alloy wheels to my old bike and the GX and carbon to the new Trance X 3? Sell the old bike, of course.

[@schaeff6476]

That's a tough one because the orange trance you have is such a well balanced short travel ripper. Im sure that it would lower the overall weight a fair bit and also improve the performance, but it might be more cost efficient if you are selling the old trance to leave it as is, cause it's such an attractive bike for lots of aussie trails. spending a little more and getting the X 2 might be a better option as the brakes and other finishing bits are far better as stock. I was tempted to take the carbon wheels of my 2019 trance adv pro 1 but im leaving it as is cause when i ride it on less grarly trails it just flies and is so well balanced. good question - your solution could totally work, but the orange trance will gain a lot of weight and no capability increase and the trance x will lose weight and not gain much capability.

[@David-rb3tk]

@@schaeff6476 Thanks for responding, Nath. I think your right. Love the current bike but as it can be quite steep and bumpy here in Tassie, it sometimes shows it's short comings in sketchy ways. I have mentioned the removal of the carbon wheels to a few riding friends and all said bad idea. So I will now put a deposit on a Trance X 2 and sell the old bike when it arrives. I will just ride the new wheels and if I don't like them, replace them. Happy trails.

[@schaeff6476]

@@David-rb3tk No worries. You made me think about that one. just wait till you first trail that's fast, rough, or technical and it will be a PR!!! enjoy mate.

[@david029014]

Can you review your trance advance 29 also? I was looking at that bike too.

[@schaeff6476]

Maybe. Ill see how i go. Its a sick short travel bike though.

[@FabAlb166]

how would you say the Fox DPS compares to the DPX2 of your adv. pro? I'm especially interested about pedaling on the flat and upwards fire roads (sadly have to do this quite a lot to get to the local trails)

[@schaeff6476]

Now this i have a strong opinion of cause i was disappointed with the DPX2 on my trance. I played with spacers and settings and could only get it satisfactory. The DPS on the Trance X has a 55mm stroke as compared to the DPX2 which has 44mm stroke (or 42 can't remember but its short). The DPX2 gets to about 220 PSI and then for me no matter what i added after that it took another 25 psi to reduce the sag and by that point the shock was not using it full travel when riding. so I ride it at 225psi and 230psi, without and with pack respectively and that is at 30% sag and will get through the travel on most trails. Now the DPS has been easy to set up, flawless on the trail and exactly how a shock should be to use and setup. So im pretty impressed with the DPS. A lot of this comes down to the longer stroke and larger volume of the DPS. the margin of error is far larger and acceptable settings area the same to still get a decent feel. I had a similar lower specd fox shock on my 2017 trance 27.5 2 and it was 'wet fish' at times or harder when it took repeated hits over 8 minute plus descents. The DPS just keeps on giving the buttery goodness in a world where olive oil spreads are trying to take over! its good. My DPX2 was tuned for riders under 80kg for sure, but once i got it as best i could it was a very good 115mm of travel. OK now climbing, well the Trance Adv is a single track weapon as long it the conditions aren't too rough, rocky or steep with the those conditions. It accelerates like a bullet and once i got used to adjusting my cornering a bit it was great. It climbs well on everything but is not as comfortable as the X as you need to lean forward a bit on steep fire road water bars or pinches. The X cannot compete on trail climbs but mostly due to weight in those wheels (but we are talking small margins). Ive got some Nukeproof wheels coming and that will drop 460grams from bikes weight, and thats significant. But it climbs really efficiently and comfortably, the position is so good. Yesterday i rode some trails that demonstrated that over a 6 minute climb i was 10 seconds slower but was 10 seconds faster descending, and overall a little quicker on the X, as there are segments that combine the down and the up and i grabbed a PRs and the up and down cancelled each other out but the traverse was where i made a bit of time cause the bike handles, hugs the ground over rough and carries speed so well. If you've got to ride fire roads this bike will be comfy and efficient and then you will grin for hours descending! hope that helps. schaeff

[@schaeff6476]

Its no slug on flatter ST either. Just a touch slower on 1% to 5% climbs compared to trance. If your trails are mostly smooth go trance If rough then x.

[@FabAlb166]

Wow great detail, Interesting how you connect the feel with the amount of travel the shock has. Never thought about that. Really great to hear that the X does so well. I am only 72kg so maybe I would be good with the 29 adv. too. Is the platform of the shocks in any way different in feel or performance. I have a FIT4 Fork whose lockout is really great. No bouncy bobing and almost like a rigid fork if you go out of the saddle and throw in some strong pedal strokes. Somehow I still tend to the 29 adv. As I see myself more XC Style riding with a couple of harsh decends where I prefer to have a "traily" bike and have more of a challenge than a "enduroy" bike with which I can shine in really hard terrain but plow down everything else

[@FabAlb166]

Maybe I is also because I am just kind of a weight weenie and the trance X is just way heavier :D As you really have described well that there is hardly any difference besides the weight when going uphill. 10s on a 6min climb could really souly be the increased mass.

[@schaeff6476]

If your after a bike that can be ridden all day like am xc bike or sprint like one but want some better high speed handling and ability to attack a few jumps or flow trails the trance is a slayer. I've set some pr's on the trance that I won't beat on this bike and they are all more xc orientated segments.

[@wilhump8187]

How tall are you? I am 5'11" and worried about a 486 MM reach on a L but feel the M reach is too short.

[@schaeff6476]

About 5'10"

[@wilhump8187]

@@schaeff6476 I will order a large then 👍

[@schaeff6476]

@@wilhump8187 I think large is plenty roomy enough. I doubt you would have your sear as high as me. I have long legs and short arms.

[@wesdixon8088]

Does the size large feel big at 179cm? I'm wanting to buy a trance X but not sure what size to get at 189cm. I want something slightly more playful, so I was planning to go for the size large. Does that seem appropriate?

[@schaeff6476]

That's a tough one as I am pretty reluctant to give sizing advice. You're 10cm taller than me though and I think you will be cramped on a large.

[@schaeff6476]

And large doesn't feel cramped at speed or in slower technical sections

[@wesdixon8088]

Thanks for the advice :)

[@socal-fishing-7608]

I want to upgrade my Dropper seat lever to a wolftooth also but not sure what I need?? IS-II or EV there is 3 option for shimano. Will I need the lever only?? thx

[@schaeff6476]

I got the lever with it's own bar clamp band. there is adjustment inbound and outbound to get it where you want it irrespective of clamping it to the left or right of the brake lever. It has the cable clamp behind the lever so is compatible with all cable actuated systems. I got mine over 4 years ago from MTBDirect. I just chose option with 22.2mm bar clamp. this website has really good pics of the options. but get it from wherever you want. play it safe and get the band clamp on or tailor to suit. www.mtbdirect.com.au/wolf-tooth-dropper-remote-lever

[@socal-fishing-7608]

@@schaeff6476 Hey appreciate your help , thanks for providing the link and taking your time to reply to my questions.. thanks again

[@Dustydayzz]

thanks mate, how long is the crank?

[@schaeff6476]

170mm

[@fernandomuguerza7469]

what wheels are you planning to buy ?

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate. I've ordered the nukeproof neutron v2 29er set. Around $440 aud. From wiggle or chain reaction. They are microspline but not centrelock. That's ok cause I have some Shimano ice tech 6 bolt 203 and 180 rotors off another bike. Even with understated wheel weights claimed there will be a very significant weight saving, 400 grams at least but I'll do a weight update when they arrive. The neutron have a 29mm inner width.

[@david029014]

Have you ever compared this to a Santa cruz high tower?

[@schaeff6476]

Yes i have as my best mate rides one. Of course the santa cruz is carbon and better specd but i think tge ssnta cruz is slso a better bike.

[@TARMACULA]

Thanks mate enjoyed the video and was the decider in picking mine up today in a Xl size. Took it for a run today and was very impressed. Only issue I had was some creaking around the lower rear shock mount or crank region.. By the end of the ride it had become less audible ( maybe grease etc working it's way thru etc) but just wondering if you experienced any noise in the first hour?

[@schaeff6476]

No I didn't have that. I did notice the chain took a few rides to run nicely over the chainring at the cranks. But no creaking. In my experience creaking that feels like it's from the bb could be seat post not greased enough, pedals not greased and tightened properly to cranks, or even suspension pivots not done up correctly.

[@jamescederquist2507]

I'm 6'2 leaning towards a XL too

[@jaynebarnes2138]

Great review, you should get an ebike and review it. Ebikes are the future.

[@schaeff6476]

haha. My wife would disown me and I would die from the shame.

[@jaynebarnes2138]

@@schaeff6476 Haha, fair enough, no shame in getting more DH into your hour of power mate ;)

[@schaeff6476]

@@jaynebarnes2138 thats true. There just not my thing.

[@jaynebarnes2138]

@@schaeff6476 I can't afford one so I just grab onto them when they pass me on the climbs. Cheers mate.

[@cam4443]

Hey mate, great vid what wheels are you putting on it. ?

[@schaeff6476]

I've got the nukeproof neutron v2 wheels. Dropped weight of bike substantially. Rode them today. So far so good.

[@cam4443]

@@schaeff6476 Thanks I wish check them out, are they only alloy?

[@schaeff6476]

The neutron v2 are alloy. They don't come in carbon

[@ridwanmichaelwelong7]

I’m a Giant guy. Own a 2013 Trance X 2. This bike is a sick btw how the heck did you get this bike?? You can’t even order it on the web..

[@schaeff6476]

I went to Giant Bayside and they had one coming on the weekend and I bought it! This is in Australia.

[@ridwanmichaelwelong7]

@Nath Schaeff ohh right on🤙

[@garyoneill8868]

@@schaeff6476 good fellas at Bayside.

[@nedtics675]

I’m interested to hear your thoughts now that you’ve been riding it for a while

[@schaeff6476]

My thoughts. Firstly changing the wheels to something far lighter was a great upgrade. I love this bike anywhere it's rough, technical, or steep ups and downs. It's not as fun or quick on anything xc or trails thst aren't too demanding as I feel its weight climbing. I prefer my 115mm trance for that terrain. This bike is very controlled in steep terrain and fast rough and fast loose trails. I love the big fork and burly frame when the going gets tough and rough but I'm not claiming it's enduro worthy. (Nor is the rider). Here's some useful info: on every trail that is blue down or black down this bike holds all my records since I started recording rides 12 years ago. Its holds no climb records BUT it has taken some segment records where there is a long climb and descent in a segment (4km plus distance). But overall I just have such fun riding it fast. Jumping, cornering, emergency braking and ploughing through rough are great on this bike. If you're trails are XC style or easy blues then go lighter and less travel otherwise consider this as a much more capable trail bike.

[@nedtics675]

@@schaeff6476 thanks for your thoughts brother! I own one too. So here I go; -I mostly ride Red Hill and 100% agree on the climbing. She is a beast and requires some good pins to get her up. -I cant afford new wheels however this seems like a sensible upgrade. I just can’t justify 1/4 of the bikes actual price for them. Have you flipped the chip? Cheers!

[@schaeff6476]

I spent under 400 aussie dollars on my wheelset. But I did ride the stock one's and it's only climbing I notice the difference. I've flipped the chip and I only found it useful on rough climbs. It was easy to flip but I think the bike is excellent in low mode for its travel and strength.

[@Quarterz84]

Hey I just purchased this bike in a large and I've come from a medium 29er hardtail. I'm 182 and 76kg this bike feels very big but gobbles up gutters in my street. I tried throwing it around a bit doing some bunny hops, it feels like a dirt bike very solid 🤔 You think I should of gone a medium? Or is this how upgrading to a X country bike feels?

[@schaeff6476]

At 182cm you are on the right bike. This is just one of the modern trail bike geometries bikes that are perfect out on the trail. Im 179cm and a medium is too short and compact. These aren't XC bikes and X doesnt in Trance X doesn't allude to that either. You're on the right size. Enjoy the new age.

[@Elrod88]

Your height for this Large size selection?

[@schaeff6476]

179cm

[@ErikM340]

The bars were originally 780 or 800 mm wide ? Tech specs says 780 mm and the geometry board says 800 mm.

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate, The bars that came on the bike are 780mm wide by spec and by measure. ( i checked with a tape measure) I cut mine down to 770 so with my lock on grips they are now 780 tip to tip. Mine is a large and it is possible that an XL may have a wider size, but mine came with 780. Hope this helps.

[@ErikM340]

@@schaeff6476 Thanks, I was just curious because I have that giant 780 mm bars on my old bike so it will be perfect. Cant wait for the bike :)

[@timkirkpatrick1519]

What colour is this?

[@schaeff6476]

Its called balsam green and black.

[@socal-fishing-7608]

Hi there I’m 6 1 what size do u recommend?? Thx

[@schaeff6476]

XL for sure.

[@schaeff6476]

Im jusr under 5'11 and see how high my seat post is. Definitely XL.

[@david029014]

How you doing with this bike

[@schaeff6476]

Great. Still loving it. just had suspension services at NS Dynamics. riding sweet as, better than new

[@david029014]

can you do a follow up video? i just brought this bike!

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate. I just got a hero 8 and uploading a short video as i type! . There will be more trail videos to come. Ill do some follow up stuff too. Cheers.

[@david029014]

@@schaeff6476 great! Thanks! Keep up the great work

[@schaeff6476]

@@david029014 its up! More to come.

[@NeonTuner524]

How were you already able to order one? Their website wont even allow me...

[@schaeff6476]

The shop in Brisbane had one on the way and i put a deposit down and it arrived 3 days ago

[@NeonTuner524]

@@schaeff6476 a shop just north of me has ONE extra Large in stock...of course..I need a large at 6' tall 😓😓

[@schaeff6476]

Giant bayside

[@NeonTuner524]

@@schaeff6476 Going to pick mine up today. Full Cycle in Boulder, CO had one on lay-away for a Customer who decided to bail on his order. Life is all about timing hahaha.

[@leeroybarbz]

@@NeonTuner524 How are you finding the Large? I have also seen the XL instore and not sure if i should do it or wait for a L. I'm 6'2 and 35 inch inseam

[@david029014]

I have this bike and it is a great bike, but 2 things the weight, and the paint it's nice but not flashy or modern like the santa cruz bike paint jobs.

[@concrerto]

Canyonairo!!! Cha! 😂

[@kevinwells1660]

Those 410 hubs are not cup and cone. Shimano have moved to sealed cartridge in these. bike.shimano.com/en-NZ/product/component/deore-m6100/FH-MT410.html Checkout dealer manual

[@schaeff6476]

Praise the Lord. Shame they weigh the same as a small brick.

[@kevinwells1660]

@@schaeff6476 all the axle and plug in caps are all steel. Freehub body probably all steel to. I think they'll be very reliable! This bike is on my shortlist

[@schaeff6476]

@@kevinwells1660 I'll say this - the bike feels very stable, reliable, and strong when descending. I love it. so much fun.

[@rupertmtb]

Thanks for sharing, nice overview. Did you consider size M? I'm 178cm tall (5'10") inseam 85cm (2'9") arm length 69cm (2'3"") measured like shown here: www.ciclicasati.it/how-to-take-body-measurements-english I did have a test ride reign 29 and trance 29 (not X) size M, they felt a bit short on ascents but they were great on flat and awesome on downhill sections. I will probably give another try and test Reign L It seems to me that with too big bikes you have to shift saddle forward like you did. What are you thoughts on size M? Cheers!

[@schaeff6476]

Hi mate, no id didn't consider medium as the seat post is way too high, and the dropper only comes with 150mm on medium. I love the reach and my saddle is pretty centered on the seat post despite how looks in vid. This bike does not suffer poor handling at all. in tight riding at Cornubia this bike was awesome. My Trance is a large also and i have sat on a medium in that model, and also on a medium High Tower and the knees and elbows are not in a good space. I do have to lean forward a little on my trance to lower my chest, but this trance x is magic. Just turn and burn. I think if you're uncertain you will need to sit on them both. My first ride was about 3 hrs with 1000m of climbing at HddenVale and no sore neck or back etc, and yesterday i did 2 hrs at Cornbia with around 750m of climbing and descending and again such a comfortable bike to climb on and blast down. I don't stop for breaks its just ride and eat a banana at the hour mark and crack on. Also my inseam is (roughly) 86-87 and my saddle is 94cm from pedal spindle at the lowest point of the stroke to the top of my saddle. Hope this helps. Schaeff

[@rupertmtb]

​@@schaeff6476 Thanks for feedback, I really appreciate it! One thing that may be worth to note is that you can shorten stem on L and reduce it to 35-40mm if 50mm is too much. Regards!

[@rayanaeccher6012]

gostei

[@crhayes]

​ @Rupert Mtb Have you decided between M or L? I have the exact same measurements as you and wondering the same question.

[@rupertmtb]

​@@schaeff6476 I've had opportunity to test back to back Reign-29-L and old-Trance-29-L (not X) on enduro tracks. I definitely will stick to new-tranceX-L . Reign29-L feels much more stable on descends, jumps/drops, slack head tube tube and longer wheelbase help a lot, you can feel front wheel is further in front of you, this greatly improves stability. Old Trance-29-L also felt good on descends much better than Trance29M which was very nervous. My buddy owns old-trance-29-L he would pick Reign29 instead however we both agreed that new-tranceX-L will be great deal. Other than that, those bikes climb amazingly! Cheers!

[@mtnbikerva1]

All the videos and reviews, and comparisons, are in the west and or at ski resorts. I live in the Northern Virginia area. I need a bike for the true tight single track and switch backs, along with the multiple types of terrain and soil we have in this region. I do not I do not want a bike that is a pedal and Crankset DESTROYER!!!! I like a bike that does not dictate to me all the many places it will not allow pedaling! A bike that performs well at: sprints, Climbs, descents, flat areas, roots, ruts, really rocky, loose soil, loose on hard, mud, sand, loam... Our Appalachian mountains are older and not as peaked as the Rockies, or as tall. NOT DOING GAP JUMPS AND BIKE PARKS. Any of you able to ride and compare the other 12x-14x travel, brands/bikes to INTENSE, Santa Cruz, Yeti, specialized,GIANT TRANCE X pro, PIVOT 429, or maybe too much bike for here the SWITCHBLADE? Is it true that the NEW redesigned SWITCHBLADE is such a better pedaling and handling magician that it is as good or better than a smaller travel bike like the 429 or Scott whatever model, etc.? Are most of the bikes to long and slack to ride the tighter switchbacks? Looking for a great all around MIDATLANTIC, totally different environment of riding. Will the new Geometry of the LOW, long and slack, be harder on the knees since I assume the knee will be more in front of the pedal spindle vs traditional? Is the Intense geometry a little behind, in reality? Is this good or bad for a pedal everywhere bike? Not just descending! How about the LIVE VALVE, is it just a way to Separate A fool from his money? Or does it truly make it like owning two or three different bikes? Does it make it a cross country bike and a trail bike and a enduro bike? Does it add in a lot of problems in cost and time and maintenance? Or does it just make the bike a lot better? How good is the basic peddling platform and suspension on the Trance X? Without the Live Wire magic, is it as good or better than a DW link? Is it smooth or harsh? What are the differences in sprinting, climbing, ascending tech/rocky and loose or roots, and tight switchbacks? Descending same? WOW what horrible wheels the Trance X pro comes with! Do you have to pedal a quarter of the way around before the hub engages? What are the specs on rim internal and ext.? Spokes? Nipples? Is the hub upgradable? carbon quality? Do they crack easy? Will a 2.6 fit well in the back? What is the quality of the frame carbon? Will it take a dpx2 shock? I do not want to get beat up or jack hammered, but I don’t want a wet noodle. I am 6 foot 1 inch tall and 165 pounds naked. A bike and manufacture I can count on In the backcountry, and to have to have quality support post sale!!!! Thank you, and good riding to you all!

[@schaeff6476]

Struth mate! You want what we all want by the sounds of it. In the high mode the Trance X has plenty of pedal clearance. For its size it is a great handling bike in switchbacks. It is heavier that boutique brands, however they will take your inheritance compared to this. It pedals really well and i hardly ever take it out of fully open. If your trails are really tight and pinchy like modern XC maybe get a bike with shorter travel and shorter wheelbase. Heaps of options. Good luck and enjoy the trails. PS I've only been to Virginia once a long time ago, but your trails won't be as dry and loose as here on Australia. you're enemy are roots and wet over there.

[@km006]

What would you say about noise? I've watched a pinkbike review of the Trance X 29 1, and their complaint is about how noisy the bike is. What noises do you notice in particular, if you even do?

[@schaeff6476]

Hi Kera, overall I've found the bike very quiet. But it must be said that the stock dropper seatpost develops a bit of play as time goes on. This is noticeable when seat down and rider standing. It rattles about. I now have a bikeyoke devine dropper and as awesome as it is it also has small bit of play. I put up some vids of me riding this bike and the audio is great at capturing bike noise. Have a look at my run down wallum Froglet and you can hear the bike. I can't agree with pinkbike as my experience once i pulled cables tighter through the frame it was very quiet. Also i only saw pinkbike review the 3 which is far lower specc'd than this bike which is 2.

[@km006]

@@schaeff6476 Yeah, I meant their review of the 3. Thanks for the reply man! Will check out that run down wallum froglet, have a nice one!

[@schaeff6476]

Also if interested i did a long term review about a week ago after riding for 13 months.

[@km006]

@@schaeff6476 I already watched that one haha. Cheers mate!

[@jasonlee8719]

Wait that math didn’t add up… did it?

[@schaeff6476]

Aussie humour.

[@gorakhnath3928]

Please give me😲😲😲😲😲😲

[@jaimeramirezsolano685]

Quite heavy for a trail bike

[@schaeff6476]

I agree. Given great it is descending and efficient (not fast) it is climbing it is the funnest and most capable bike I've ridden. Got some wheels coming and total weight will be just under 15. Its handling is superb too. In the short term I'll use my other trance at some trails but if it's rough or longer descents this thing kills it. Check out flow mountainbike for a great review. They're great. Once that's out I'll likely can this vid

[@schaeff6476]

Also medium santa cruz high tower carbon with pedals 14.6kg. Alloy large stumpy without pedals 15kg! Things are getting stronger and heavier

[@jaimeramirezsolano685]

@@schaeff6476 that's right.

[@jaimeramirezsolano685]

@@schaeff6476 because of this tendency, I think I'm gonna switch to something lighter and versatile for all-day epic riding. Currently I ride and specialized enduro comp 29 er which is very stable on rough terrain, however if feels somewhat boring on flowy, semi flat not very steep terrain , however, due to its weight 15.4 kg with pedals on S size, i feel it drains a lot of my energy on long climbs and have to put a lot of effort in trying to keep up with my the people I usually ride with, who by the way have lighter bikes (xc). That's why I'm gonna buy one bike to do it all, having in mind that where I live there's no gnarly and rough trails (my enduro which have 160 mm on the front and the rear never goes all the way in its travel (140 mm it's the deepest it has gone) so I think the the bike that will suit me better at my locals trail will be a santa cruz tallboy (13.82 build) or a Revel Rascal 29er.

[@jaimeramirezsolano685]

@@schaeff6476 I think for where I live right now I'm overbiked. I'm very competitive on the climbs, sometimes i am even faster than my xc mates, but I wouldn't sacrifice the downhill part which is the what I enjoy most