NEW IMPROVED | 2020 Giant Contend AR | Which Model to Buy 1, 2, or 3?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Be sure to vist my website at www.blackwatercyclist.com Subscribe: tinyurl.com/yyd6vb6k Follow me on: Instagram: instagram.com/blackwatercyclist Facebook: facebook.com/BlackWaterCyclist1 Strava: www.strava.com/athletes/179615

[@kenbielecki229]

Got the AR 2 about 2 months ago and traveled close to 1000 miles so far. Huge upgrade for me since my last bike was over 15 years old. Gets me moving quickly.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Ken, how is it treating you now? Still enjoying it?

[@brianscott1117]

Rode a trek mountain bike for 21 years and finally wanted a road or gravel bike to keep up with my buddy who Is a serious road biker. I k ow this is not a racing bike but I purchased the AR3 and I’m thrilled. If anyone has any questions hit me up. Did three rides so far and got about 200 miles on it already

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Brian, how is it treating you now? Are you still enjoying it?

[@brianscott1117]

Never better

[@klpinvestments]

New bike day for me. Waiting for the delivery man to bring my new Giant Contend 3. I love your bike. Look forward to upgrading my contend 3 in the coming year or so. Like to 105 group. Carbon seat post. Carbon handlebars. Carbon wheels. Mostly ride pavement. Thanks for the video. Enjoyed.

[@robertbrett498]

After waiting almost a year because of supply chain disruptions, I took delivery of my Contend AR 3 and I am absolutely loving it. Your videos were very helpful in making my decision.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Robert! Thanks for the feedback and I am glad you finally got a hold of your AR!

[@jaskamalpannu613]

A question - I’m trying to get my hands on the Contend AR2, but the shop isn’t allowing test rides as it stands now. They do have given me a frame size based on my height. Would it be stupid to buy it without a test ride..?

[@xelseartheonlyone1267]

I got AR3 finally! I love it! The difference it has with my previous bike is huge. No comparison. It is FAST!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

So happy you got one and that you are happy with it! I keep trying more expensive bikes but keep coming back to my AR.

[@xelseartheonlyone1267]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Yeah it is amazing all rounder.

[@davidsupertramp]

Thanks for the videos, not a lot of AR content out there so this is really valuable. Here in late 2024, we now have the 1 (same), 3 (same), and 4 (claris). The Domane and AR3 have generally comparable geometry and specs at similar MSRP. I rode both and I would give the edge to Domane but I got the AR3 at a really great discount. Like the video, I think the bones are good and can see upgrading some parts -- starting with brakes. Bottom line, at MSRP I would buy the Domane but at reality the AR3.

[@JustBiZZaRe]

I just bought an AR 1 and absolutely LOVE it! The bike i had before was a 2002 Giant TCR TWO race bike and even though that bike was 20 years old i feel i could go faster on that one than I can on the AR 1. But besides that, it is a lot more comfortable the AR 1 and I am glad i went with it.

[@andrerodriguez1310]

Thanks for the excellent video! My bike weighs 22.5 lbs stock. I recently purchased the ar1. I will give some points to anyone interested in it. I am very new to cycling so please take my opinions with a grain of salt. First off, im 35 years old, about 5'10 and 230 lbs and i ultimately chose size ML. I was debating if i should get a larger size because i have a belly but i went to the shop and it was suggested to stick with Giants height sizing. It was explained their is more flexibility for the bike mechanic to adjust a smaller frame to accomodate you by making it longer as opposed to a larger frame and adjusting it smaller; hopefully that made sense.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Yes I would agree with that thought process on fitting. I think the M/L should be perfect for you. No worries on the belly, just ride and have fun! :)

[@bobbyjoesugar]

Bought the AR 3 and LOVE it! I haven’t been spoiled with hydraulic brakes, so it hasn’t been an issue for me, but love to have the option to upgrade it later on

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I really do not think you can go wrong with any model of the Contend AR because like you said, you can upgrade if you want.

[@CourtneyCoulson-f7w]

Great video super informative

[@kennethrobinson9553]

Thanks convinced me I should get the AR2. Unfortunately my bike shop only have the AR3! Will try it. If I like it I will hold out for the 2 if they ever get more supplies.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Kenneth, honestly the 3 will be great as well. They are all pretty close on specs between the 2-4 and prices close. The main thing is that the frame/fork is the same between all models so you can upgrade later if you want. I may get an XL 3 in the future and just change out the wheels and tires. The Large is a touch small for my position on the bike.

[@kennethrobinson9553]

Thanks I got the AR3 in the end and upgraded the seat post to be the same one as AR2. Love the bike thanks!

[@Smartinez28]

Thank you for the review..i Just started cycling and i want to upgrade my hybrid bike but looks like all the options are going to go over my budget. But this giant bikes are very affordable for me..Thank you again.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

No problem 👍 Happy you found the review.

[@aaronw5938]

Great follow up. Bought the AR1 after your first video about it. Fantastic bike so far. Now looking to get some wider tires to go with it.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

So glad that the video has helped you out and glad you are enjoying it. Fortunately you have a lot of options out there but it can be overwhelming. I love the Continental Speed Rides but they are not rated tubeless but I run them tubeless as long as you don't go above 40psi.

[@iPDot8]

Great vid! Been bike hunting for awhile and this vid was very helpful! Thanks. Probably going with the 2. Seems like best price/value option.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Yes the 2 really is a great option. I really like how Giant has spec'd all the Giant Contend AR bikes, plenty of options for everyone. Glad the video helped 👍

[@jasoncross6151]

I purchased the AR2 as I thought it very good value and I like the blue colour of the frame. I changed to braided hoses and floating discs and the brakes are amazing. Tiagra is ok and the AR2 comes with the Tiagra crankset as a pose to the AR1 that doesn’t come with the 105 crankset. AR2 is 11 speed ready so as components wear you can transition to 11 speed. I had a good deal on a 105 R7000 rear mech so have swapped out my Tiagra one. Conduct brakes are amazing and allow you to keep cost down if you damage a brake lever.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I have been very impressed with the conduct brakes myself. They feel great. I believe the crank is not 105 level but it is a little under the 105 level to keep cost down but it does look like a 105. I agree, I love the blue color as well. You made a great choice! Send me a pic on Instagram if you get a chance. Love seeing everyone's Contend AR bikes.

[@markmarlatt1105]

Just purchased the AR 2. Great bike but would have preferred either mechanical or hydrolic brakes. The mech to hydro thing takes up too much bar space (however works great). Also, the tiagra front derailleur definitely limits tire clearance.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Mark, are you running a computer on the front of yours? They make a computer mount for it but I actually found a direct stem mount I used and then got some longer bolts to mount it to the stem. If you are interested, I can send you a link of what I got and then message you some details of how I did it.

[@markmarlatt1105]

@@BlackWaterCyclist would love a link. The giant mount was just too expensive. Currently using my phone on the stem (quadlock) but planning on a wahoo in the near future.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@markmarlatt1105 So sorry for the delay. So go to Amazon and get one of these for the Wahoo. www.amazon.com/Dymoece-Extended-Elemnt%EF%BC%8CBicycle-Elemnt-Interface/dp/B07SSXGZ1H/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=Dymoece+Out+Front+Bike+Computer+wahoo&qid=1590541654&sr=8-5 Now you will have to go to the hardware store to get 2 longer bolts that are identical to the ones that come with this mount. Then you will use the bottle cage front derailleur spacers to take up the extra space for the longer bolt www.jensonusa.com/Problem-Solvers-Spaceout-Cage-Spacers-Silver-6mm?pt_source=googleads&pt_medium=cpc&pt_campaign=shopping_us&pt_keyword=&gclid=CjwKCAjw_LL2BRAkEiwAv2Y3STZdEa4NMJYlxRHkR-uvfcWCpQrEDTyDRWHLPbkC6PuzapuGjs-XOBoC-vEQAvD_BwE You can purchase those or run up to your local bike shop and they may have two extra laying around. You will then install just like you would on a normal stem, but you use the spacers and longer bolts to have it sit out just a little further in front. If you are still confused, send me a message on Instagram or on my Facebook page and I will include images so you can see what I did and I can help you out there. Probably should just make a video.

[@StuartHendricks]

I picked up an AR 4 a few months ago. At about 900usd for a capable all-rounder I really feel like it's one of the best bang-for-your-buck bikes out there. Not the smoothest shifters (Claris) but the ability to throw the bike on a dirt path at will and the way it soaks up shitty roads is impressive. Also very understated styling. I may throw some fatter tires on it soon and have some real off-road fun.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Glad you were able to snag one. They have been hard to find!

[@fredsimmons6341]

I'm getting back into biking after a 30 year break. I went shopping for bikes and, times being what they are, my only options, if I want to start biking this month, are to spend $2500 or more, or the go with the one $1100 Contend AR3, in my size, in stock, that I can ride away with this week. I was going to journey a bit farther and wider to see what else is available, but after watching your video, I think I'll go with the AR3 that's available right down the street. Thanks!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Fred, you are very fortunate to find a Contend AR let alone in your size. They have been hard to come by. I know some shops are starting to stock them which is exciting. I am glad the video was beneficial for you. Happy to hear you are getting back into riding! A lot has changed in 30 years but you still just have to push the pedals :)

[@fredsimmons6341]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Thank you! I just picked up the bike today. Rode it home and around the neighborhood a bit. A lot sure has changed in 30 years. I couldn't be happier with the purchase. It's a great bike to start back up on. Thanks again!

[@kijijiuser4173]

just bought the AR2! Coming late in June. Cheers from Canada.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Congrats!!! I hope it comes sooner for you :)

[@brucelee5465]

How much did you pay for AR2? I am planning to get one.

[@kijijiuser4173]

@@brucelee5465 its $1699 from my giant dealership,l

[@Natemare13]

I have a Canondale Silkpath hybrid right now - flat/straight bars. While I want to get into road biking more - which is why im looking aorund, I have to keep in mind that I have a family and I can only have 1 bike. I need a bike that can haul a kiddie trailer, a bike that I can ride around a parking lot with the kids on their toddler/kids bikes, a bike that I can ride through the occasional foot path/grassy area, AND a bike I can really get on and go on solo pure road biking outtings where I will not feel I'm missing out on a pure road bike experience. That last reason is why im looking for a new bike but I'm affraid of the two bikes (Current hybrid and Contend AR1) are too similar to warrant the expense to buy the AR1. I'm also affraid that the AR1 is too far into road bike territory that I will miss out on the other requirements. What do you think? AR1 ticks all of the boxes confidently or too close and I need to pick a bike that is either "More road (AR1)?' or "more family (Hybrid)?"?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Nate, Great questions! The Contend is definitely more towards the Road segment BUT I will say that it can take larger tires than your Silkpath you currently have which can help tremendously when off the beaten path. Also the BB is lower so if you need to stop suddenly when pulling the trailer, it will be easier to get a foot down without toppling over. I understand the need for one bike to do several things. If you can do it, what I would do is get a second wheelset. Find some 650b/27.5 wheels and put some wider 47c tires on it (they do fit if you check out my video comparing tire clearance between the Giant Gravel Bikes kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4nNiIR8r6t2q7M. So when you want to pull the trailer or go off road, you have that added contact patch and more cushion. Then when you hit the road, you can throw on the 700c wheels and 32c-40c tires and knock out the miles. I think if you want a bike that is geared too much to the beaten path and pulling trailers, you will lose out on the solo road experience. Does your trailer connect to the axle? The Seat post on the Contend is D shaped so maybe an issue if you have a trailer that connects to the seat post.

[@Natemare13]

@@BlackWaterCyclist thanks for the response. I would def be open to having two tire/wheel sets if it meant one bike. One set for "Family riding" (wider tires, more gravel/cycle cross) and one for pure road racing/road riding. If that's the case, do you think the AR1 is a good platform for this? Trailer connects to axle - you unscrew quick disconnect screw and a mounting bracket sits in between the quick disconnect on the rear wheel and the frame (i'm simplifying but thats the gist). That mount stays on the bike. It's very small and when you want to connect the trailer, the mount receives the trailer "hitch" and locks in. So. AR1 with one "serious road riding" set of wheels/tires and one "Family/gravel bike set up" set of wheels/tires gets me what I want? A serious enough (endurance like) road bike to get into road cycling, as well as a platform that can switch over to riding casually w/ family?

[@JacktheYeti3]

Just purchased the AR2. Excited to pick up this weekend. Thanks so much for the informative video!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Thanks for the feedback and glad it helped you in your decision. You are fortunate that you have found one out there. I have heard of so many being sold out.

[@JacktheYeti3]

@@BlackWaterCyclist I feel really fortunate! last one available, in my size, for 100 miles

[@martinschelzig3145]

Hey! Thank you for the sympathic video! I am just a little bit confused: It is exactly the decision I have to take: AR1 or AR2 - and it seems to be the Brake, that makes the main difference. In my Country (Germany) Giant actually sells the AR 2 with Tektro MD-C550 160 mm Disc breaks, which seem to be no hybrid solution, but fully mechanic. I am confused! :) Did they change that in the last two years?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Martin, yes great question. They actually went away from the hybrid braking system. A lot of people had leaking issues with them and they didn't like how they looked. So all are mechanical except the AR1.

[@jaskamalpannu613]

Hey man, love your videos! Quick question - Planning on pre-ordering the Contend AR 2 2021. However, the local Giant shop isn't allowing any test rides because of the pandemic. I'm 6'3 tall and they told me both L and XL would fit me, but suggested I get a L. It's worth mentioning this would be my first road bike since I've only ridden MTBs before this. Could you give me some valuable advise? Thank You!

[@harrisonrobinson7990]

I work at a giant bike shop and I can almost guarantee that you’ll need an XL frame.

[@jaskamalpannu613]

@@harrisonrobinson7990 Sorry for the late response. Thanks bro! Which would you pick for a beginner - Revolt 2 or Contend AR2

[@stevemcdonald8108]

Great reviews

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Thanks Steve! I appreciate it

[@vids1661]

Nice vid, thanks

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Glad you liked it! I appreciate the comment.

[@BuggieJadie]

HI there really good video. Hello from Ireland. I cycle about 100km per week. A mix of road and canal (light gravel trails). I currently have a 2008 Trek 1500 “Discovery Channel” model which I like. It has Ultegra group set. Do you think the group set on the Contend AR3 would match that (based on Shimano trickle down effect over the years)? And do you think this is suitable for my mix of cycling? It is just a weekend hobby for me as my 51 year old knees don’t like running or football as much any more! I have a local retailer who has an ARD for 1099 Euros which is inside my budget. What do you think? Thanks again. Declan.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Declan, great question. The AR sounds like just the bike for you. I actually use 32c tires on my road set up and it is very fast (easily runs well with the group rides). There are so many benefits to the larger tires. I can take it on light gravel, super comfortable at lower pressures, better control and actually rolls faster at lower pressures that smaller tires. I really think this bike will be perfect for what you plan to do with it.

[@ivanb141993]

I got the AR3 and looking to get a new seatpost/saddle. Does it have to be Dfuse seatpost or I can fit any non-proprietary seatpost with the correct width? Thanks!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Great question. You will only be able to use a Giant D Fuse seatpost. Good news is that you can use any saddle with that seat post. It uses the very standard clamp on 2 rails system.

[@Andyange]

I really like this bike. What size would you recommend for 6’2” and 33” inseam?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Sorry for the delay. I've been down with fever. Thankfully not COVID-19. I would usually tend to lean towards the XL but it really depends on where you like to sit in your wheelbase. If you like a lot of saddle setback then you may prefer the large. If you are like me and prefer to have a more forward position, then I would go with the XL. Honestly at your size, either one would work since you are between both sizes

[@Andyange]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Awesome thanks for the advice.

[@sanilj]

Can you make a comparison video on Motobecane gravel x1, x2 and x3 please? I bought an x1 because others were sold out. I want to know if I can upgrade by swapping the brakes, group set and gears. Thanks.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is a great suggestion! I will try to put something together for you.

[@michaeldjitowibowo4014]

Is it true that the AR 2 brakes (semi-hydraulic) takes a lot of cockpit space? Im afraid its gonna be difficult to attach some accessories.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Yes that is one of the major downsides of the hybrid brake system. Giant does sell attachments for it so you can attach your computer out front but it isn't cheap. I actually used one of these with really long bolts from the hardware store and some spacers to get a cheaper Garmin mount. amzn.to/2PLplOv

[@ChristianBrogaard-rd7ld]

thanks!!!

[@terr256]

Is the AR1 good for road biking? I plan to replace my old Fuji 4.0

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Terrence, the AR is amazing for road. I actually do most of my rides on the road with it and will occasionally get to some gravel. I am able to keep up with other people who have pure road bikes. Check out my video on the comparison between the other giant gravel bikes and I will discuss how it handles on the road there.

[@terr256]

@@BlackWaterCyclist awesome thanks! I was also looking at Trek Domane AL 3 Disc since it's around the same price point

[@paulholding8695]

Out of curiosity what are the weights for each model? I know that shouldn't matter, but I'm a roadie 😁

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Paul, it's a valid question👍 I do have the weights for the AR 1 in my longer project and review video but I do not have the weights for the 2 or 3. Here is the longer review. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYGsl6Cihpp5haM If I can get my hands on a 2 and 3, I'll weigh them.

[@robabbott381]

I've been looking at the diverge, revolt, topstone, and gt grade. They all seem similar. Diverge has future shock the seems like just another do-dad the could screw up and brake. I'm sure I'll be attacking more road than gravel. I think the carbon seat post is key. How much better are grx components? Giant will have to up its game and offer the slr dfuse handlebar and grx components.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Rob, thanks for watching. Are you talking about the alloy models on all those bikes or the carbon? Some geometries are different between the alloy and carbon models. I do not think I would like the headshock design. I

[@robabbott381]

Hi. Yes the alloy models. ar 1 vs revolt 0. what are your opinions. Have checked out the diverge alloy grave bike? for 2021 they are putting grx components. I'm leaning toward the diverge because it's more up to date with their components. But giant offers great value. A lot of tough choices and variety at the price range. 2021 diverge elite e5..might be a winner.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@robabbott381 Yes the alloy versions of all of those bikes usually have longer chainstays which tend to cause the bike to feel a little more stable and not as quick. For example, the Revolt Advanced is 425mm while the Revolt Alloy is 430mm. The Topstone Carbon is 415mm while the Topstone Alloy is 430mm. Not much difference but it will change how it handles. I have not had the chance to try the Diverge yet but I bet it feels very similar to the Contend AR. The one advantage the Contend has over the Diverge is the price. You can use that extra $ for some really nice wheels and tires. I would lean towards the Contend AR and the Diverge just because they have a little more spirited geometry vs the other more stable geometries.

[@conneljp]

I've purchased the AR2 on bike to work scheme so just waiting for it to arrive from Taiwan now! I am a bit worried reading horror stories about the difficulty and mess removing tubeless tires but I assume if i ever badly puncture them and decide not to repair or replace, I can just swap over to a 32-35mm normal tube tire which I know can then handle right? :)

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is great!!! The bike will come with Tubes and not set up tubeless so you can just run them that way. I honestly prefer tubeless because it almost eliminates flats if you have sealant inside. What are some of the horror stories you have heard?

[@conneljp]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Just that people have broken tire levers trying to get them off. Also, you more than likely need to get a compressor pump to inflate them because even floor pumps may not work (or take ages). And finally, changing tires can cause a huge mess with the sealant getting everywhere. It all seems very difficult compared to the ease of just maintaining tubes!

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@conneljp yes those are all legitimate concerns. A lot of tubeless road tires air way too tight on the bead because they make them to be able to run like 80-110 psi. I actually use regular tubed gp5000 tires set up tubeless and never go above 60psi. I run the 32c model. They are so comfortable and lightweight. I feel like I'm riding on a cloud with them. Just be sure you run plenty of sealant in them and you need a compressor but after they are set up, you never have to touch them. When ever I mess with tubeless and sealant I always do it out in the back yard in the grass/dirt so you basically don't see it when it falls down. Just run tubes for now and if you don't have issues, stay with them. You can always switch at anytime.

[@markthomas3853]

I'm not sure if they change the wheel spec recently but it looks like the 1 is P-R2 wheels and the 2 and 3 are the S-R2... any actual difference? I don't know, maybe it's only an 11 speed compatible hub? on my touring bike I run a 9 speed 11-34t cassette... the one thing that drives me nuts is the huge gaps between gears... for that reason and the hydro brakes I'd go for at least the 2 at a minimum and prob the 1 for those few extra gears between gears... off road I never cared about how wide the gears where but on road I'm far more sensitive to the cadence changes. on color choice I'd go on the 2... that blue is sexy... also the integrated hydro brake system is very clever... use whatever leavers you want is a neat option for down the road, want campy? kewl... single speed or bar end shifters are all on the table... but you are limited to the stems giant offers... really for the price difference I'd prob end up going with the 1 for the tighter gearing and more options on the stem... I'm tall, inflexible, and have a bit of a gut so I like a more upright/relaxed position for the $250 difference in the 2 v 1 I think i'd go spend the little extra money... I hope to get back to riding in the coming weeks... if I can stick with it maybe I'll justify a new bike and the 1 would be tops on the list

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hey Mark, great catch. I did some digging trying to find the difference between the two and the weights are near identical and the internal rim widths. Only thing I can see is some differences in bearings, nipples, and spokes. I really don't see much difference between the two sets to drive your decision to pick a specific model. They both are around 2200-2300 grams in weight. Thanks for pointing that out. The SR2 models are also 11 speed compatible, they just put a spacer on the free wheel for the 10 and 9 speed cassettes.

[@markthomas3853]

@@BlackWaterCyclist I haven't found the differences... I'm wondering if it's brass vs allow nipples and double butted spokes?... as a heavy rider I'd prefer brass and double butted (ideally triple butted) but really it doesn't matter on a bike of this lvl

[@hamidbazmi7948]

Hi, are GIANT CONTEND SL2 AND GIANT CONTEND AR2 THE SAME? Online,.the price and colour are the same.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Hamid, the SL can only clear up to a 28c tire where the AR can clear a 40c. The SL has a little shorter chainstays while the AR is a little longer for the extra tire size. Does that help?

[@hamidbazmi7948]

@@BlackWaterCyclist thanks

[@hamidbazmi7948]

@@BlackWaterCyclist I am thinking to buy one which can be fast on road and can be ridden off road, canals,etc.... I need to decide between 28mm and 32mm tyre, and also between shimano 105 and tiegra? Many thanks

[@yoseps3836]

Does the d-fuse alloy bar make any difference in riding?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

I honestly didn't feel any difference from a regular alloy bar. It maybe there but not enough to notice.

[@yoseps3836]

@@BlackWaterCyclist thank you

[@aaron.ohalloran7312]

Subbed to save a brother from the paint brush 🎨

[@DrSagaciousone]

Thank you

[@patrickorourke152]

What would be the max weight one of these would take would a large frame be big enough for a 6ft rider

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Patrick, definitely! Plus Giant has the best warranty in the business so if you have any issues with your frame, they will cover it. Yes Large would be perfect for a 6ft rider.

[@patrickorourke152]

Aaaaaah brilliant thanks for your reply

[@kerrysupporter]

I have the Content 1. It’s a lovely bike but a bit heavy

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

It is in the wheels and components. Primarily the wheels. The bare frame Large, weighed 1400 grams. Not much more than Large carbon frames. Yes it is a lovely bike.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Which model interests you the most and why?

[@alexeppenauer5855]

Thanks for this series of videos! I'm stuck between an ar1 and a prior year specialized diverge from a local shop. They've got a lot in common but I didn't realize the contend could fit larger than the stated tire width so I think you've helped me make my final decision 👍✌

[@kenleonard8733]

Really helpful video! I’d love to see this same video for the Giant Revolt Advanced.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Hi Alex, did you end up going with the Contend AR? I may try to get a hold of a Specialized Diverge so I can do a head to head comparison between the two bikes.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

That is brilliant Ken, I need to put that together.

[@alexeppenauer5855]

Black Water Cyclist I did end up going with the giant. I've had it for a little over a month and love it. I'll admit I'm a little torn on how to feel about not having the stem suspension available on some of the diverge models but if riders have gone without it for so long why should I need it (especially as an amateur cyclist)

[@sairoot08]

Is Giant Contend Ar gravel bike or road bike ?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Great question! Sorry for the delay, I've been sick. It is labeled as an All Road bike on Giant's website. So the short answer is yes, it is but it has a geometry that is closer to that of an endurance road bike that can clear larger tires.

[@andyhuang6121]

What about the giant contend ar 4?

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

When I made this video, there wasn't a 4.

[@jayjohnson007]

What is the frameset weight...

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Without headset, seat clamp, or fork, it was around 1450 grams for a large.

[@qibble455]

Good video but it would have been helpful to know the price difference between them.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Sorry about that. I didn't put the price because they may change them and they actually have for 2021. They were 1550/1300/1000 USD in 2020. Now they have all gone up about 100/150 more for each model in 2021.

[@qibble455]

@@BlackWaterCyclist Thank you! I like the version with 105 so I'll be saving a little longer as $1500~1600 is a lot for me. Thanks again for the info.

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

@@qibble455 yeah the 2021 model is $1650 now. Here is my latest video on the Contend AR going a model comparison between last year and this year. kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYCxoWyqr5eWfq8

[@ВоваВело]

★

[@0s0sXD]

wtf is that loud ass intro man

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

Bahaha, trying to blow some ear drums! Sorry if I hurt your ears. Ride on!

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

I have the Contend 3 in blue color, I got cause it was very affordable at $120 used. I'd just go for whichever I found cheaper

[@BlackWaterCyclist]

WHAT?! $120 used. You got the deal of the year!

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

@@BlackWaterCyclist I know 😆 couldn't pass, I think the original owner imported it from Japan but it didn't suit him, so he gave me this favor and sold me very cheap, and it's mint so I was very lucky