3 Negatives of the Giant Contend AR 1 | Shimano 105 R7000

In this video I discuss the only 3 partial negatives I could find with this bike. Check out the video to see if they are actually negatives or not. Thanks for watching.
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[@BlackWaterCyclist]

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[@maddensterling630]

A tip: you can watch series at Flixzone. Been using them for watching all kinds of movies lately.

[@maximuslanden7856]

@Madden Sterling definitely, been watching on Flixzone for since december myself :)

[@gnrands50]

I really like my Giant Contend AR-3, but the one negative that I had to change was the 11 - 34 cassette. The difference between the middle three gears I use the most was just too great. I wasn't able to maintain a steady rhythm at the pedals. After the first week I changed to a 12 -25 cassette and have been happy ever since. My Shimano SORA shifters also rattle and I tossed the stock tires immediately. My seat is all the way back so I have nothing but happiness in that department. Thanks for the excellent videos.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is great to hear! Yeah to hear that larger range, they have to put bigger gaps between the gears. If you are running 2x up front, you don't really need that large of a spread in the rear. I've been impressed with the Sora shifters myself, especially for being the lower end of the groupsets. I've seen some put a little piece of tape between the lever head and the shifter body to remove that rattle.

[@WheelersAtLarge]

Loving the Giant content 👍not so much of it about. I get that exact rattle too with my Tiagra 4720 levers, usually on rough grit sealed roads, doesn't seem as bad on gravel.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Now that I think about it, I am not sure mine really rattled on the pure gravel roads either. It would definitely rattle on the small little rough bumps on pavement.

[@GrouEEf]

So, I've done it. After watching your videos 5 times each I finally ordered the Contend AR 1, size L. Funnily enough, comparing the geometry of the contend with other much more expensive bikes I learned: The contend AR L is basically the same geometry as an Open UP (XL), just 1mm wheelbase difference, 2mm chainstays, same headangle, 5mm deeper bottom bracket drop. Fun. Because the open won tons of awards and reviews for being the top gravel bike. I'm considering really upgrading the thing as I just saved a ton of money compared to the Open. Maybe GRX levers? Dura Ace discs, they just look dope. Winspace Hyper wheels. 65mm? Oh yeah. Gravel carbon wheels. Maybe the redshift suspension stem for some gravel adventures...? Carbon bottlecages. Lighter stem. Any other idea where to save some grams? Love your videos btw mate.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Great buy! I just gave some pointers on the other comment. I was going to say that the Contend AR frame is very light for an alloy frame. Giant has always had some of the lightest aluminum frames. Many times they are lighter than other company's carbon offerings. I think my Large came in around 1400 grams while most carbon frames in the same size are around 1100-1300. I had mine down in the 17 lb range.

[@lesio40000]

I have found solution that get rid of rattling sound for 99%. I have used foam pads that are usually used to secure the legs of, for example, dining chairs so they don't scratch the floor. They have adhesive on one side, and sponge kind of material on the other. Dimensions 10mm x 25mm. Thickness~ 5mm. I have stick them on the top of the levers inside the hoods, when You squeeze the break lever. You can't even see them. Cheap and very effective.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is brilliant!!! I may try to make a video with that idea and give you credit for it if you are cool with that? Thanks so much for the input. I knew there had to be a simple fix, just took your innovative mind to figure it out.

[@lesio40000]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Sure;)

[@lesio40000]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXW7l6WcorKYmbc there are other factors that could cause the rattle also

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

​@@lesio40000 Great video he has done. Interesting that it is the pin and also the lever. Frustrating to have to do so much to those shifters for them to be quiet.

[@SamanthaNickole02]

I really enjoy your videos. Very informative.👍🏼

[@GrouEEf]

Hey mate, greetings from Sicily where I do climbing training with my contend ar, 8,2kg build :) One more negative that I experience a lot in the decents here, because the road surfaces are pretty... Meh: The rear derailleur cable rattles like crazy on the chainstays. There is a tiny rubber spacer on the cable, but it's by no means enough to stop the noise. Very annoying, I love the handling and the general build, but this drives me crazy 🤣😧

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I think I've had that same rattle and forgot about it. Try putting some electrical tape or clear frame protection under the chainstay to keep the cable from hitting the metal and it may fix it.

[@GrouEEf]

@@BlackWaterCyclist thanks! I did and it worked. To fix the rattle on the r7000 shifters it helps to tighten the head cap screw. Mine has become loose, I even lost the screw. Now I ride without the plastic cap, but the rattle is gone.

[@sikorsikor7098]

Guys, I discovered that rattle is from inside the frame. I moved the rear brake cable out a little and it helped.

[@RetiredTSgtUSAF]

I took a Drumond moto tool and cut that bolt, I did keep the nut on, just common since, no problems now. I just ordered the zero setback seat post on your recommendations thank you

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Great tip! Good to hear the zero setback works for you. I just went on another ride with my Contend AR yesterday. I've been using off and on it for the last 3.5 years and always love how it rides.

[@patrickmccary7687]

I ride the 2019 Contend SL Disc 1 I would agree on the tires since I run my in tubeless but I have not noticed any rattle to my shifters although Shimano replaced my 11 spd shifter 2 x due to an internal issues. But after 3800 miles those are the only issues.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Patrick, that is very interesting that yours do not have the rattle issue. I guess it could be due to the way the cable is tightened or something. It was my right shifter that really rattled a lot. Maybe I got a lemon. How are you enjoying your SL?

[@patrickmccary7687]

@@BlackWaterCyclist As I said 3800 miles in 2019 so far so good. I do plan on upgrading the wheels as well as adding a stages power meter

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@patrickmccary7687 Nice! Yeah the wheels will change the way the contend feels. I have not had great luck with stages in the past. One of the best power meters for the price is the Favero Assioma pedals. I have been running them since May 2019 and can swap between bikes very quickly. Also they aren't much more than Stages. I got mine from the Clever Training website for $650 shipped. Sometimes you can find even better deals for them.

[@MCBritta]

3 years late, but did you actually ever remove the originial tyres from the rims? you said you never tried them with tubeless setup but i'm pretty sure they're sold tubeless, just without sealant since it would dry out on bikes that are sitting in the shelve for too long. at least that was the case for me. bought a used contend ar 1, punctured one of the tyres, and when i removed it there was no tube, but the previous owner also forgot to add the sealant 😀

[@tylerjenicek4652]

I’m still stuck between the Contend AR 1 and Revolt 2. As a new rider I don’t think I’d really have much to complain about with either. Mainly wanted the Revolt 2 for a little more versatility but you seem to be doing well with your contend on some dirt. Would you recommend the Contend AR1 over the Revolt 2 and upgraded components?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Tyler, I actually just finished a gravel race with the Contend AR and finished 2nd. Is the revolt you are looking at the alloy model? If so it has a longer chainstay than the carbon model so will feel even more sluggish than the carbon revolt on road. If you plan to ride a decent amount of road with some gravel mixed in, I would definitely say go with the Contend AR. If you are only riding gravel, you may like the revolt more for larger tires. For my riding, I prefer the Contend AR but I usually leave from the house and on paved roads for awhile until I do get to some dirt. Let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks for watching 👍

[@tylerjenicek4652]

I appreciate the information! I had the alloy Revolt 2 model in mind due to my price range. It definitely sounds like the Contend AR is the way to go at this point. Originally I had only wanted a new bike so I could start commuting but I feel like I may end up branching out and having a bit more fun. Your videos on the Contend have been very helpful and informative. Thank you!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@tylerjenicek4652 oh yeah you definitely want to go with the Contend AR then. It can take fenders as well so in the winter it's perfect.

[@kevinthomson6324]

Really liking this ar1 to replace my aluminum defy3 (upgraded to 105 a few years ago) that’s getting old in the tooth and would love to get some wider tires. Rim brakes are limiting me to 25mm. Torn between the ar1 and the revolt 0 also with 105. Not a fan of the conduct brake contraption. I’m too fat to see the benefits of carbon so no need for that, plus I like the better durability of the aluminum frame. Especially if I ever decide to actually go on a small bike tour..... of the two which would you pick. The wider tires would be nice. But the ar1 would likely cover more distance for the same watts. Plus ar1 is cheaper and let’s be honest my wallet makes the final decision.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Kevin, sorry for the delay. I really see the Revolt as a Gravel Only bike. In my opinion it does not have a great feel on the road. Very sluggish feeling, especially for you coming off the Defy. The Contend AR will feel more like your Defy but able to clear 40c tires. Yeah so you are saving money, getting more speed, and in my opinion more fun. I hope that helps.

[@mamojohn86]

Hi Billy, Thanks for your honest and frank reviews - What do you think about Defy Advance 3 (2020) which is Tiagra versus Contend SL 1 (2021) 105. I want a fast bike both road and gravel / tow roads; Thank you!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi John, I would like to find a Defy to do a review on it as a light gravel bike. The new one can clear 35c but there is no flexibility on that. I tried to fit a 38c in one at the shop and there was absolutely no room. I would lean towards the Contend if you plan to do some gravel events but if you plan to mainly stay on road and just hit the occasional dirt road, the Defy would be best. In my honest opinion just looking at both bikes, you are more limited with the Defy without gaining much in terms of speed on the road compared to the AR.

[@evanm.2300]

I hate those seat posts. Never used one but if i wanted comfort id buy a modern suspension post and/or a knock off 3d printed saddle

[@comedyman112]

never heard of the r7000 shifter rattle. did you solve it by now?

[@Emolokz]

I hope the Contend gets away from the D-fuse and goes back to the round shape like it did with the Revolt.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I agree completely. I hope they go to the 30.9 round size like the revolt so you have the option of the d fuse or a round post. I think the big problem with the d fuse is the wedge they use.

[@Emolokz]

@@BlackWaterCyclist that, and droppers are just worth it.

[@SanjivKawa]

Super helpful videos set of videos, thanks so much. I'm picking up my new AR 2 tomorrow. I've been doing some research on fenders and ideally would like to go with a mounted set. Do you know if Giant makes a seat stay mudguard adapter? Trek makes one, part number W503255. I'm not sure if this will fit. Any tips would be appreciated.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Did you get the new bike yet? Happy New Bike day if you were able to get it. :) Let me know what you think about it. Giant has a lot of fenders on their website and they look very similar to the Trek model you have referenced. Here is the link to them. www.giant-bicycles.com/us/fenders They have the Revolt Fender which should fit on the Contend AR as well. I am not sure which country you are in but they are in stock in the states.

[@SanjivKawa]

Black Water Cyclist I picked it up yesterday and took it for a cruise through Central Park. It’s absolutely fantastic. Thanks for the tips.

[@kedapofeng8993]

You’re lucky anyone has it in stock 😂

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@kedapofeng8993 That is true! I am seeing some 2021 trickle into a few shops in Australia so hopefully we will start seeing more availability all over the world soon.

[@mrcsdamle]

How easy or difficult can this bike climb steep gradients with only 1:1 gear ratio (34:34)? Almost all Giant Bikes have 50:34 in front and 11:34 cassette.

[@ronhau1542]

I’d like to see you do a review of the Revolt.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I hope to do a legit review on the Revolt. I did the review series between the Revolt, Contend AR, and the TCX. Were you thinking the alloy Revolt or the Carbon?

[@ronhau1542]

@@BlackWaterCyclist carbon…. I’ll have to check that out. I had an AR on order and went to my lbs Saturday and the owner told me Giant canceled $1000 k of his bike orders including mine. He had a Revolt Advanced 3 still in the box my size so got it.

[@ronhau1542]

You and Clint Gibbs give the best most detailed videos out there.

[@johnnydwicked]

I assume you ran your wheels with tubes. What psi are you running in front and rear? I have similar giant PR2 wheels and Giant Gavia 28mm tires on my Contend SL Disc and I have set them tubeless. I run mine at 80 front and 90 back. I could try experimenting lowering it a bit more to damping the vibration your get rolling he roads. If you run your tires pretty high psi, they're gonna be rock hard but going to send all that vibration back up to you. I have heard numerous times about the Shimano Hydraulic shifters rattling. It's a very common problem. I'm guessing it's due to loose paddle or the oil reservoir underneath the hood? My Giant Contend has a rattling problem too but it's due to the internal cables in the down tube. Have you tried a Giant bike with the Conduct Hydraulic brakes? It's nice and if your shifters were ever to break, you could replace them with another regular cable one because the Conduct Hydraulic is a semi hydraulic brake system that has a hydraulic adapter installed on the front stem but your shifters just run a cable thru it vs Shimano's Hydraulic version where everything is integrated. There is a trade-off in looks tho between the two brands. With Conduct, you get a huge looking stem clamp vs Shimano's big hump on the hoods; more reason why I like the Contend AR2 version with the Tiagra + the metallic blue. :D

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Johnny, I tried them with high pressure on one ride and then I tried them around 70psi on another and I think it is just the type of rubber and thread count on the gaviria tires. The lower pressure was better but it still lacked the suppleness of my Continental Ultra II tires which I always use for training and they are cheap at $20 a tire shipped on Amazon. I actually really like the feel of the conduit brake system that giant makes. They feel better than some brands regular hydro brakes. Yeah people don't like the large stem face plate but they make a Garmin mount and if you are already putting a mount on the front of your bike, I don't see the issue since it is integrated. The contend 2 is awesome and I think a brilliant choice

[@theflyerpr40d]

Hi, By any chance do you know the weight of the frame alone not counting the fork. And the fork separate? And the weight ready to ride stock? Thank you!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I am sorry I never weighed the frame alone but I did weigh the fork and it was 465 grams without the thru axle. The frame itself feels very light and I've been able to build it up very light with sram red22 stuff.

[@theflyerpr40d]

Black Water Cyclist thanks, I am thinking of getting this one and changing the wheel set and use 25mm tires just for recreational road biking. How much your weight with the Sram stuff do you still have the stock wheel set? It seem to be the best deal with 105 everything else start up in the $2k

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@theflyerpr40d yeah the AR 1 is so good for the price. Check out my project and review video actually shows the weight of the wheels and the complete bike with Red 22 vs stock. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYGsl6Cihpp5haM

[@theflyerpr40d]

Black Water Cyclist thanks would watch it right now.

[@fredrikzoorken6299]

I'am surprise you are not mentioning the brake system. By any chance, do you know how to bleed the system? The reason I am a bit negative about it is, that I left the bike to the local bike mechanic but they were unable to bleed the system. They have no problem with doing it for the regular Shimano system but for this Giant conduct system they couldn't figure out. Now I am stuck with a new bike, unable to use the back brake, and have to find some Giant mechanic that is able to fix it.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Fredrik, this was 3 negatives with the #1 model which has the Shimano 105 system. The Giant Conduct Brakes have actually been discontinued on the newer 2021 models. They were great when they work but they appear to have some reliability issues. Here is a PDF on bleeding it. www.sykkel.com/teknisk/G_MY17_Conduct.pdf . There are a few KZbin videos out there but not sure how good they are. You have to have the TRP part that attaches to the syringes. TRP is the company who makes this brake system for Giant.

[@fredrikzoorken6299]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Ah, my mistake, now your list makes sense! To update, Found a local Giant mechanic, but the first mechanic destroyed the o-ring for the bleeding port. The Giant mechanic didn't dare to touch it in case of destroying it completely, since corona, it will be hard to get the spare-part. So now I have to figure out how to get that part/see if the first mechanic will honor the mistake and help me out. Anyway, thanks for the tip about the bleeding instructions. Cheers

[@evanm.2300]

Wow ! What a shit mechanic u got at first

[@TheSendakite]

The noise is a deal breaker - time to look at the Hatchet instead?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Yeah, or search the internet if there is any sort of fix out there.

[@TheSendakite]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Why Shimano would mass produce a defective part speaks to its ethic.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@TheSendakite check out Jeffrey Davis' reply above. Maybe it is fixable. I'll try to do a little digging to confirm.

[@TheSendakite]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Why bother? The bike is a lemon. Cycling is about enjoying the peace nature has to offer. Giant messed up and need to fix this - not me. Time for a mass recall.

[@JimboJonas]

I have the same rattle on the AR2/Tiagra version. Just slipped in a piece of old bar tape in the rattling part and it's gone.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is Brilliant M T! Thanks for the advice and tip for everyone. Looks like a few others are also getting that rattle. If I get my hands on one again, I will do a short video showing how to remove the rattle.

[@michaelrowe5896]

Handlebar tape I'm assuming correct?

[@jingalala1984]

Hi, can you please suggest between AR 1 and AR 2 which one should i go for. I am beginner and purchasing my bike for first time.cost difference between two is of 350 euros.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

They are both great bikes but honestly, I would go ahead and pay the extra money and get the 1. It has several upgrades like carbon seatpost, hydraulic disc brakes, and shimano 105 groupset. I think the hydraulic disc brakes are worth the extra money by themselves.

[@jingalala1984]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Thanks for reply.

[@UnclStpbro]

Are you able to do bunny hops on the Giant Contend AR 1? Thanks!

[@Mr.JoeBangles]

bunny hops? wtf?

[@praji94]

Gaint Ar 1 2021 or Defy advance 2 for majorly on road & long distance occasionally gravel ..any suggetion

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Sorry for the delay. If your gravel is pretty smooth and not too chunky, go with the Defy. If you plan to hit rougher gravel, go with the AR. I hope that helps.

[@greglee7708]

I wonder is this D-Fuse seat post any good with aluminum version?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Greg, I actually have never tried the Alloy version. It's got to be better than an Alloy round seatpost but I doubt it can flex as much as the carbon model.

[@claybowler751]

Wheels and tries are always sacrificed to get into the price point Giant is accomplishing with the Contend.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

You are correct but they are about $500 cheaper than other brands with the same build. But yes it's easy for a brand to save money with wheels.

[@Ashiquei]

So what is the main difference between contend vs defy....groupset?

[@dvs70]

My rattle came from the cable housing not being seated fully into the shifter.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Interesting, so after getting it seated properly, it didn't make the rattle noise anymore? It just sounds like it is coming from the lever, not a cable housing.

[@dvs70]

@@BlackWaterCyclist correct. It was only a few millimeters, but enough to let it jiggle over bumps. Drive me insane for a few months.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@dvs70 that's huge, thanks for the pointer.

[@Mr.JoeBangles]

you forgot the biggest negative....it's an aluminum frame!

[@danielcovert1023]

The giant contend ar aluminum frame. Is it a comfortable road bike?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Yes I have found it to be very comfy for an alloy bike because it can run the larger tires, plus it has the d fuse seatpost which helps a lot!

[@danielcovert1023]

@@BlackWaterCyclist and I did wanna ask. I recently bought a giant contend AR aluminum. The 172.5 mm crank arms hit the asphalt if I turn too sharply. What would be better. A 165mm crank or a 160mm crank for those sharp turns?

[@MO-ni1qv]

What your height ? And what size did you purchase ?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I am 6'1 almost 6'2. I could have gone L or XL but I decided to go with the Large.

[@jppilotadventurez5251]

What’s your bike size for the AR?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Kayla, I am riding a Large.

[@jackprichard6780]

You don't think it is heavy with a low spec frame for the price? Here in NZ it retails for $2500. Merida will sell you a carbon frame with 105 and hyro discs for the same price, under 9kg. The contend is well over 10 and it isn't top spec AL.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Jack, thanks for the question. Here in the states we don't have access to the Merida brand so sounds like a great option. The Contend AR frame and fork are actually very light, comparable to carbon frames but at that price the carbon frame maybe a better option. As with all materials, some carbon frames may ride worse than an aluminum frame and vice versa depending on how it is made. I know it is the lower spec AL but it rides very good and I have ridden a ton of bikes. I really do not think you will see any added weight with the Contend AR frame vs the carbon frame. So the weight will probably be identical with an identical build. As you said it is really the spec that makes the Contend AR pretty heavy, specifically the wheels. What model of Merida are you looking at? I would love to look at it myself. At that price though, I would lean towards carbon as well.

[@jackprichard6780]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Hey, thanks for the response. I am surprised you can't get Merida in the United States. I love my home but often living here you have to accept that consumer goods you hear about, particularly in the US, just aren't available. From my research the best value for money I can get is the Merida Scultura. At present the local retailer Bike Barn (naming things is a weak area for New Zealand) is trying to sell the some 2019 stock. I was recently told by a bike shop owner that the road bike market here isn't doing so well. Anyway, they are currently selling the disc equipped bike for NZ$1799 (US$1148.64) or the rim brake version for NZ$1500 (US$957.68). Both are built around the CF2 carbon frame, the pros ride the CF4 which is the same material but more long and low because they are pros. 2020 Giant Contends start at NZ$1162 (US$741.92) AR3 with Sora and end at NZ$1816 (US$1159.33) SL1 with 105. These are also sale prices. The Giant website says the SL1 is NZ$2500 RRP. I have included links below. By the way I love your videos. Come down here and do the Otago Trail, it's cool. www.bikebarn.co.nz/bikes/road-bikes/race/2019-merida-scultura-disc-4000-black-yellow-sku-19me83430 www.bikebarn.co.nz/bikes/road-bikes/race/2019-merida-scultura-4000-team-bahrain-sku-19me81405 www.evolutioncycles.co.nz/rp?cn=269&e_0=310&s=od&l=48

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

​@@jackprichard6780 I wish we had access to Merida but I believe they own a large portion of Specialized bicycles so they may not want to compete with themselves there. Those Merida bikes are beautiful and especially at those prices. I can see where the Contend AR may have one big benefit over those bikes is the tire clearance. The Contend AR can clear 40c tires easily so that opens up so many possibilities compared to just a true road bike. I would love to visit New Zealand and especially the Otago Trail. If I can get the channel to continue to grow, I will be there and I will be in touch :)

[@jackprichard6780]

I also think the Contend would be a lot more robust. I wouldn't worry about putting it on a rack on the back of my car the I might with carbon fibre.

[@neerajbaruah1749]

Can you do a same type of vid for trel domane al2 disc

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I will try to put together more videos like this for other models out there. I do not have a Trek Domane AL to test so it is hard to put out the negatives if I am not able to test it. I have thought about doing some comparison videos between the Giant Trek and Specialized bikes that are similar and talk about the differences in features.

[@neerajbaruah1749]

@@BlackWaterCyclist would be gr8

[@keithmoore6659]

Love the videos, but go get some sleep!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Well I started uploading last night around 10pm so I was asleep while it was finishing. Our internet is no good.

[@artemartem7534]

Is that a gravel bike?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Well it is labeled an "All-Road" bike but it clears up to 41c tires so it is a gravel bike with a little more aggressive geometry.

[@artemartem7534]

@@BlackWaterCyclist thank you!

[@mrcsdamle]

How easy or difficult can this bike climb steep gradients with only 1:1 gear ratio (34:34)? Almost all Giant Bikes have 50:34 in front and 11:34 cassette.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

a 1:1 gear ratio is plenty for climbing with regular 32mm size tires. If you go on gravel and have larger tires, you may want a lower gear ratio but a 1:1 ratio is great for road. In the past, that ratio was not available on road bikes.