Giant Talon 2 E+ 2021 Electric Bike Review and Demonstration. First ride and battery statistics

I have previously built a 1000 watt rear wheel electric bike and a 350 Watt Mid Drive but they did not quite satisfy my needs for an electric bike. The 1000w broke spokes regularly and the 350w was just a bit lacking. I have decided to lash out and go with the professionals. Here are my first impressions of the Giant Talon 2 E+ Electric Bike from the Bicycle Super Store in Nunawading.
***UPDATE***
Just completed a 76km ride on the Warbuton Rail Trail. Lilydale to Warbuton. Battery performed well for 75.5km then it lost its grunt. Being a rail trail the elevations were gentle so a nice consistent pedal speed.

[@simonhahnel8092]

****UPDATE**** Just completed a 76km ride on the Warbuton Rail Trail. Lilydale to Warbuton and return. Battery performed well for 75.5km then it lost its grunt. Being a rail trail the elevations were gentle so a nice consistent pedal speed.

[@simonhahnel8092]

@wayne britten Not really my specialty sorry.

[@DilipBanerjee]

Thanks for this update. I think I read somewhere that the battery was supposed to last for over 100 km, so this real life test gives valuable insight.

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@DilipBanerjee I imagine you could get 100km out of it if you had it on the lowest setting. In other words you do most of the work.

[@DilipBanerjee]

@@simonhahnel8092 Thanks Simon. In my mind I imagine using the motor mostly for headwinds and climbs. I have a feeling, though, I may get addicted to it. 😄

[@rossdunn828]

I love the clean look with the cables hidden and the flat black finish. Thanks for all the data.

[@simonhahnel8092]

It is a nice looking bike for sure.

[@oshea6702]

Simon, im having some real trouble working out how to take the battery out of my talon (same model as yours) any help would be appreciate, im unlocking with the key but nothing seems to move. all the best

[@ahighervibe4086]

As an actual mountain biker, I can't consider the Talon because even though it has no rear suspension, which is bad enough, 100 Mil Fork on it, making it less-than-ideal on the trail to put it mildly. I don't know, that's $2,500 I would think they would put a better Fork on it but what do I know

[@simonhahnel8092]

Lucky for me I am not an actual mountain biker.

[@deleted.6743]

this video sold me! I picked up mine and love it! Moved the magnet to ditch the speed limit and its so much fun might cross paths one day as I start to grow my rides

[@simonhahnel8092]

Good choice! It is a great bike for sure.

[@simonhahnel8092]

Which magnet did you remove?

[@deleted.6743]

@@simonhahnel8092 I put a flat magnet on the pedal crank and just flipped the sensor over to see that instead of the spoke magnet. Its easier to get it aligned with a wider magnet (little bar from Bunnings) as the spoke one os too small and a couple of mm either way it doesn't read.

[@mattbright8635]

53kph was that standard or with a speed chip fitted?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Standard. Was just going down a big hill

[@manbajari]

hey mate good footage, i'm currently trying to decide on the Giant Roam or the Talon as they are both at the same price point for a basic commuter , also looking at a schwinn that's about $500 cheaper but is rear hub drive having trouble deciding.

[@simonhahnel8092]

If you are not doing gravel the roam would possibly be a better choice.

[@usmanisi]

I just got Roam E+ and it’s a great all-rounder!

[@michaelslough8250]

I am getting the Roam E+ GTS which is the hybrid version of the Talon... It does not come with a digital readout. You mentioned bluetooth, is there an option to connect a digital display with speed, duration battery etc displayed

[@simonhahnel8092]

They do not have the Digital display in Australia unfortunately. I think I will end up getting a Garmin GPS device which can also link up to my Watch.

[@skorpijonSLO]

My fathom 2020 version has ANT+ and bluetooth connectivity. You can check for ANT+ bike computers that shows your speed and cadende from bike sensors.

[@paveeshcm6423]

lam from India how can I get it ? lam interested to buy

[@justind7138]

How would this go as a city commuter and trails every now and then?

[@simonhahnel8092]

That is my intention for it. Done the trails and if we ever get out of Covid work from home I can tell you about the commute. Awesome on the trails.

[@masonjagat]

Bike range...? How many miles before battery is dead

[@simonhahnel8092]

76km and it runs out of puff

[@Kincop]

​@@simonhahnel8092 What weight do you carry? As it would impact the batterylife.. and how tall are you vs size of the bike?

[@perrosymasperros8516]

beeauttifull..,.,gretings from argentina

[@simonhahnel8092]

It is a pretty sweet bike.

[@monicapatri9813]

in argentina wow!!

[@michaelstanton297]

hermoso .. saludos desde Australia. I only replied porque estoy aprendiendo español 🙂

[@urnie4843]

I see this model has the 500w battery but the others 400w🤔 Nice looking and looks good enough on and off road , Just doing g research before I buy thankyou

[@simonhahnel8092]

Yes it does. That was the main reason I went with this model. The standard Talon only has the 400W.

[@iforce2d]

lash out... or splash out? :)

[@simonhahnel8092]

A fair bit of coin either way.

[@danieltosic6213]

I Have simular bike giant liv vall 2018 80nm yamaha and same baterry like your yamaha is very strong motor uphills never problem

[@vtechead1]

I find the cadence required to get power while in the last two highest gears is set too high. Trying to do 100 + revolutions in gears 8+9 for any length of time is not on when on the flat.unless my settings are wrong !

[@tommac215]

Hi what is the strange rattling noise it sounds so annoying or is it just your microphone

[@claytonvankuyl4268]

I'm considering buying this bike, what do you think about it now for having it awhile? Any issues? Been fun still?

[@piotrczajkowski5050]

Nice footage, thank you. Can you buy the Giant rack's and feners from Giant? The ones that E+ EX version has?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Sorry. Not familiar with the accessories.

[@MH-kr5ue]

Nice presentation with the A4 sheets, gav a fresh feel

[@hauer587]

Ordered it yesterday

[@simonhahnel8092]

I think you will enjoy it. I am for sure.

[@zulhilminajmi8560]

MOI QUI NE FESSAIT PLUS DE VELO AVEC CE MODELE ECLECTIQUE CA M'A REDONNE ENVIE DANS REFAIRE

[@GregMorganCapeTownWild]

Thank you for this great video. Watched it as part of my research before buying one. I got mine a few days ago and am really impressed. I live in a very hilly area which often has strong headwinds.

[@simonhahnel8092]

Glad you are enjoying it. Giant do make a good Bike.

[@Barry-26]

Value for money

[@simonhahnel8092]

Not cheap but I think so.

[@michaelstanton297]

Thanks for sharing your feelings on this bike in a natural way. The elevation acceleration revelation was a sensation :) I'm ordering mine tomorrow

[@simonhahnel8092]

My 85 yo father took it for a ride last night and went up our steep road and loved it. I do not think you will be disappointed.

[@michaelstanton297]

@@simonhahnel8092your battery was at 52% in the vid. How did performance go as charge dropped? Like how low does it go before you notice it?

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@michaelstanton297 I did not notice any performance drop. The final hill on my ride is quite steep and it powered up it at 52%

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@michaelstanton297 Will get more details when I run it a bit lower.

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@michaelstanton297 ****UPDATE**** Just completed a 76km ride on the Warbuton Rail Trail. Lilydale to Warbuton. Battery performed well for 75.5km then it lost its grunt. Being a rail trail the elevations were gentle so a nice consistent pedal speed.

[@tdnishio]

I have it on order, as I was told by the LBS owner, Giant no longer makes the eFathom for the US market. Anyways, the Talon 29ers tires are not tubeless ready, whereas I see the more expensive models are? Anyways, I am 71 yo, like to be out in nature, so just beginning mt. biking, taking it slow.

[@simonhahnel8092]

You will love it. My 85 yo father took it for a ride a few weeks ago and he is now looking at one as well. He is still doing 100km rides on his normal bike but it is almost time.

[@Stoicexpression]

Where do you order this online?

[@tdnishio]

@@Stoicexpression Local Bike Shop, many sell Giant, Trek, and Specialized bikes...

[@NZbird]

Thanks Simon - an excellent review. At 75, I've just ordered the Talon E+1 as my first e-bike and from your review, it looks like the Giant Talon range are ideal for a newbie. Unfortunately, international supply chain problems means that I won't get it until May/June '22.

[@simonhahnel8092]

I think you will enjoy it. My Dad, 86, still uses leg power. Had to buy this so I could keep up with him. Hope I can still be riding at 75-86 +

[@NZbird]

@@simonhahnel8092 Thanks so much for the encouragement - your Dad is amazing! I've just hung up my motorcycle helmet but e-mountainbiking in our hilly part of NZ should keep me out of mischief!

[@CoroElToro]

What a beautiful place there 😉👌👋

[@simonhahnel8092]

Thanks. We like it. Will be carried out in a box.

[@pfrolov1]

Hey! Which height are you and which size did you get?

[@simonhahnel8092]

I am 6ft and bought size L for Large. Very comfortable ride.

[@pfrolov1]

@@simonhahnel8092 thanks! I'm arnd same and just bought the same size

[@troyanthonymorris]

How is the noise from the motor? Is it loud?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Not loud at all.

[@joerambo4977]

I have the original Tallon it's an amazing bike I would definitely go with this one if I get a e bike I want one bad

[@joelt9027]

I just won the bike from a raffle

[@simonhahnel8092]

You will love it.

[@joelt9027]

Just rode it it’s so fun

[@BALIMAN666LOVINA]

Very nice Bike. Can you Tell me, what ist the size?? Greetz from Germany

[@simonhahnel8092]

29inch wheels and Large Frame. I am 6ft and is comfortable for me.

[@BALIMAN666LOVINA]

@@simonhahnel8092 . Thanks a lot for your answer. I ordered the same Bike via Internet in XXL. I See only Pictures in size S. There ist a different to your Bike. So I am wondering. ( I mean the above tune to the accu. In size S IT ist together, no slit). Sorry for my Englisch....

[@frdsor]

@@BALIMAN666LOVINA How was the XXL ? Was it a slit or not?

[@BALIMAN666LOVINA]

@@frdsor . I really Love my Talon in XXL. Only the Fork is Bad. I want to change the XCM again the XCR with 130 mm. Shit, I want to post a Photo but it is not possible?

[@Kincop]

​@@BALIMAN666LOVINAHow tall are you?

[@gee1136]

Where can I buy the charger separately and what is the charger called

[@xghostx7889]

Can you play Bluetooth music from your buke

[@AZTEC_ARTS2023]

If i was to use this for mid to long distance riding between towns / cities .... pavement + gravel + uphills wold you recommend this & how long to FULLY charge it after a long day of riding. Can you disable the "assist" completely, if i feel like pedaling for real, or a while ?

[@simonhahnel8092]

You can ride it without assist. As it is a heavy bike with large tires it would be hard work. Full charge from memory was about 5 hours.

[@MrCelemmax30]

mon cadre n est pas le même, il n y a pas l espace entre la barre transversale et le sommet de la batterie....??

[@604Lance]

Anyone know if this bike is decent for downhill? Could it handle black diamond level trails or would that be too much for it. Thanks

[@mikeh.8155]

Components are pretty low end, it's not for heavy duty trails

[@ianking8417]

Hi. Great video. Just purchased Roam E. Just wondering if you could reply or video how you set up camera on your bike. It seems really stable and in a good position. Type of camera? Thanks

[@simonhahnel8092]

I have a mount on the handle bar with a go-pro. I tried one on a helmet and the footage was terrible.

[@estabousirugbychannel]

Merci beaucoup pour votre vidéo, elle m'aide pour faire le bon choix avant d'acheter mon VTT. / Thanks a lot for this video. It help me to do the right choice before buying mine.

[@simonhahnel8092]

Glad I have helped. Generally you cannot go too far wrong with Giant. I think they have done a nice job with this bike.

[@mariamartavlogs1171]

Maneira a baik saimom.

[@Nundahmusic]

Have you unlocked it?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Not yet. I do need to though.

[@SoundScrapers]

I am tossing up between this one and the E+1. Would you say there’s a considerable difference between the two?

[@simonhahnel8092]

From Memory the 1 E+ had the smaller battery which is why I went for the 2.

[@deleted.6743]

the e3 has the smaller battery, the e1 has a 10 speed which I think would be really good to have but for the life of me I couldn't find one anywhere to buy.

[@povids4827]

how did you put on the water bottle holder?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Just need to find the right shaped holder. Bit of a tight fit but one of the ones I had worked out ok.

[@whathappenedtoearth6495]

Merely 21 kms and a half used battery? That's terrible battery mileage!

[@simonhahnel8092]

Completed a 76km ride on the Warbuton Rail Trail. Lilydale to Warbuton. Battery performed well for 75.5km then it lost its grunt. Being a rail trail the elevations were gentle so a nice consistent pedal speed.

[@whathappenedtoearth6495]

@@simonhahnel8092 That's pretty good mileage cheers Simon

[@dannysparkes7150]

Hi Simon I have just bought the same bike. I think I have a problem with the gear change. I've had it back to the dealer twice now with no better result. Downshifts ie from 9 down to 1 are fine but coming back are very notchy and abrupt. I'm concerned I could do some damage either to the chain or even the motor. How have you found the upshifts?

[@simonhahnel8092]

No problem at all. maybe the automatic cut out is not working.

[@imadeadoodee]

This is interesting. I just brought one of these bikes yesterday, so don't even have it at home yet, but yesterday I test road another 9 speed giant (2nd hand) with the full-length internally routed cabling. My nephew also has a similar bike. The shifting was rubbish on both of them. I have been looking after my own bikes for 30 years, but I could not tune the gears to work properly in both directions. If it shifts up cleanly, it won't shift down. I suspect giant have the cables running around some tight bends that eventually cause the inner cable to cut into the outer cable housing, which causes drag when you try to shift down. Just a theory but I've seen it on both the giants I have looked at.

[@cramgee98]

What is the difference between 1, 2 and 3?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Running gear and battery size.

[@rob4924]

Where did you buy this from I can’t find one anywhere.

[@simonhahnel8092]

I got this one from the Bicycle Superstore Nunawading. They were selling like hotcakes during the lockdown.

[@chrisl3337]

Ok so did the giant app read 30.5 kilometres for the trip.?Probably be more accurate as it is running off the wheel sensor/tacho... and garmin watch being gps (as the bird flys) determining the distance. Therefore read less kilometres

[@simonhahnel8092]

Nope. The App was increasing kms at 24 kmh as I was sitting on a park bench. Garmin tracks by position and is very accurate.

[@chrisl3337]

@@simonhahnel8092 wow ok that's no good..

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@chrisl3337 I am sure it will improve over time. They are a bike company after all not software developers. Asides from that the bike is awesome.

[@emirabuhishmeh]

what size pls?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Will be handy for a camp fridge or 2 as well when we are up for the weekends.

[@lllllllllll11111lllllllll]

what’s the battery life , hour wise?

[@simonhahnel8092]

About three hours though I did not time it. 76km at average speed 25kph. Close enough.

[@f50koenigg]

How fast can it go on flat?

[@simonhahnel8092]

28.6kmh. Then only as fast as your legs can make it go.

[@toddincabo]

sweet

[@monicapatri9813]

I agree with the video, even so, I prefer to continue with my bromtom bike with the Aston Rider engine under pedal box, it runs at more than 23mih x for less than $ 300!

[@simonhahnel8092]

Agreed. All the electric bikes I have ridden are a lot of fun.

[@gpxjimmy]

I will get 1 of this for daily use

[@simonhahnel8092]

You will enjoy

[@petejames9366]

Go up hills easily ?

[@simonhahnel8092]

My 85 yo father road it up our road which is quite steep. So yes, very good up hills.

[@teacher5376]

Electric giants vs manual legs power bikes.

[@UkjentDimensjon]

50% after 1.5 km? I'm still learning but that doesn't seem very good 🤔

[@simonhahnel8092]

That was on top of the 1 hour 17 minute ride. All up about 30km. Full Battery went about 75km.

[@UkjentDimensjon]

@@simonhahnel8092 oh right ok! That is decent then.

[@bennyswales8245]

To many fucking adverts on you tube

[@yurid5089]

What is max distance did you ride on the battery? Did you use economy mode? Is your motor powerful enough?

[@simonhahnel8092]

Motor is quite powerful enough. I have not yet run the battery out but at full power on quite steep terrain I would estimate 50km based on the rides I have done.

[@deleted.6743]

I use about 1% per km on 150% assistance and about 1.5% per km on 300%

[@simonhahnel8092]

****UPDATE**** Just completed a 76km ride on the Warbuton Rail Trail. Lilydale to Warbuton. Battery performed well for 75.5km then it lost its grunt. Being a rail trail the elevations were gentle so a nice consistent pedal speed. On full power for the last 25% of the ride and auto before that.

[@deleted.6743]

@@simonhahnel8092 haha I was going to give that ride a try yesterday but did the mullum mullum loop again instead What level assistance do you normally ride with? I use level 3 myself Today I fitted some hookworm tyres and im keen to see how they go.

[@simonhahnel8092]

@@deleted.6743 Same. Level 3. Just ramped it up to 5 when I hit the hill heading back up to Mt Evelyn.