TESTED | Here's why the 2019 Giant Trance 29er is Giant's most radical full suspension mountain bike

[@ClintGibbs]

From one KZbinr to another, you did a really good job on this review. You hit he major points and did it professionally. Nice job.

[@singletrack]

Thanks Clint! I've been testing and reviewing bikes for a long time, but I'm still pretty new to this KZbin thingo. Still got a lot to learn, though so far it's been a helluva lot of fun! [ST Wil]

[@marlinbrute3478]

Clint is the man

[@neillanders8292]

U guys are both the man.

[@ClintGibbs]

@Richard Franklin please stop a spanmmng peoples KZbin comments. I've seen this exact same comment and reply on so many channels now.

[@alberternie6627]

4 months of testing - that’s what I want to hear about. Not, ridden once and it’s blah blah blah. Subscribed.

[@singletrack]

Thanks for subscribing Albert, and glad you liked the review! [ST Wil]

[@nl3712]

Agreed but the riding footage could’ve been better...

[@brenbascos]

I have this bike for about 5months now. All I can say is that as a beginner-intermediate rider, I can be aggressive with this bike. Gives you so much confident in riding. So comfortable and it wont take long til you realize that the bike is almost an extension of your limbs. Which i think is the main reason why you get the confident of going faster and faster.

[@letour32rr]

I love how comprehensive this review is! I also love that you switched up parts to see how the bike can be used more for XC or Trail with the associated tires and geo changes. Not once have a bought a bike and just left it stock. A bike is a ‘paint by number’ canvas that each owner needs to customize to some extent to perfectly meet their needs.

[@flyingnorseman]

Best thing I ever did for my bike was removing an air volume spacer from the Fox 34 fork. I spent 6 weeks messing with all the adjustments and air pressure but it was still harsh and I was unable to utilize 30% of the travel. 1 spacer removed and the small bump sensitivity is incredible and I am using 95% of travel on most rides with zero bottom outs.

[@IsraelMagalit]

I almost didn't watch this thinking it was too long. I'm glad I stuck it out. Your thoroughness is appreciated. Very well done!

[@richchin5163]

One of the best bike reviews I've seen on KZbin or anywhere else, for that matter. Really nice job.

[@singletrack]

Thanks very much Rich - appreciate the feedback and the kind words! [ST Wil]

[@alexli2696]

This vid helped me picking up this bike. I am a quite new MTB rider(only 1 year) with 2 HTs before this bike. This bike climbs really well. When I started riding this bike on a local trail with about 5 technical climb sections(roots, steep with tight turn then lift....), an experienced rider told that there are only few young and very fit riders can finish the whole climb sections only during Summer season. I made it happened last week with about total 12 trials. Tell you a secret, I am 48, not young any more! I also like the descends feeling on this bike when I follow my friends who with their more expensive bikes. Sweet bike! My only complaint is that I had to replace the worn out rear brake pads after 4 months about 700km(maybe I brake too much, not aggressive enough when descending) and like what Wil said: size M should come with 150mm dropper post). Nothing went wrong so far. But anyway, this bike gave me lots of fun and exercise during Pandemic. I also got a very good deal on it when 2019 models clearance before the bike shortage season came.

[@seanmccarron2062]

I watched this vid a week or so ago while I was checking out a few options at the LBS. I am now 3 rides into owning my Trance Advanced Pro, and watching this vid a 2nd time is a great reminder of how to maximize my new ride. I'll likely check it out again cause I am sure I'll need the reminders. Thanks for helping me choose this right bike!

[@bjf5027]

This is the single best, and most perfectly articulated bike review I have ever seen

[@maaduece5132]

i never heard such a comprehensive technical description off the pro and cons of a bikes characteristics

[@singletrack]

Cheers for the feedback mate! [ST Wil]

[@GrantSpoon]

I just demoed this today and your review very much matches my experience. I thought the understeer was my imagination but you described it well. And so fast and stable on downhill. Putting this near the top of my shopping list for a new full suspension.

[@nicholas787nicholas]

I can't get enough of this review... If I watch it one more time ill be convinced to go out and buy one

[@singletrack]

Cheers Nic - stoked you enjoyed the review mate! [ST Wil]

[@swank1x]

It's one of the reviews that convince me. Very happy with it. :)

[@jworthe]

This is the most comprehensive review of any bike I've seen.

[@player1tv]

After riding my bike 4 days a week & trying to setup the bike better, your review makes even more sense now, its brilliant.

[@garyoneill8868]

Congratulations Wil. That is the best review I've seen yet. Probably on anything, not just bikes. Well done, that was great to watch. Fwiw, I've watched a lot of Clint Gibbs too and he is also VERY good. Regards, Gary.

[@АртёмБелан-ф6ц]

You made such a good rewiew, I have never heard so much useful information in reviews. Thank you, great job!

[@singletrack]

Thanks for watching and for your feedback mate - it's much appreciated, and glad you enjoyed the review! [ST Wil]

[@jaystewart3820]

Having recently purchased alloy advanced 1 I have to say these are fantastic bikes for riding in Sydney. My only gripe so far is the paint quality is rubbish with multiple chips on lower parts of the frame after less than 15 rides. For the cost definitely should have come with more frame protection.

[@maaduece5132]

paint protection film cost f all compared to the cost of a new bike

[@jaystewart3820]

For a 5k bike it should come with paint protection is what I'm saying

[@MrBenjabin]

Povo bike povo paint. Stfu

[@johnsterfer5906]

@@MrBenjabin I know this comment is a year old but I hope you've grown up. If you haven't, please do.

[@davidobrien5286]

Very thorough review and one of the few that's not afraid to call out short comings and compromises.. I've since bought the 2020 version of this bike and have discovered you really are pretty much spot on in everything you said and I've ended up very close to your suspension set-up too. Subscribed.

[@bbqcrew1]

Spot on review, great real world explanation of the pros and cons. I've been riding one for 6 months, mainly flowy trails but also serious trails at Madena and Derby. It does reach it's limits on big rocky trails, but generally its just so much fun and can get through technical stuff easily. It's made me faster. Great pickup on the under steer, which I've also found occasionally and couldn't figure out. Definitely need to play with the suspension to fully use the travel, but when you get it right its pretty amazing for the amount of travel. Will try your setup on the front shock. I've found the paint to be pretty robust even when I threw it at some big rocks in a crash. Great all-around bike, perfect for a recent mtb holiday with a big mix of conditions. Upgrades; ditched the Guide T brakes for some Code RSC, brilliant brakes and best upgrade, cushcore in the back tyre to run lower pressure with confidence, Maxxis 2.5 WT DHF front and 2.5 WT Agressor rear for serious trails with still plenty of clearance and added protection on the swing arm.

[@singletrack]

Good stuff Steve! Glad you're enjoying your Trance 29, and it sounds like it's worked out to be a great all-round choice for your riding. The Code RSC upgrade is exactly what I would do - the Guide Ts are ok, but the Code RSCs are in another league. Thanks for checking out the video and for your positive feedback mate! [ST Wil]

[@christophj3014]

Good review, lots of information. I have the Trance 29er 2 (blue frame) and I absolutely love it. I have resisted the 29er "fad" for a while, now I wondering why I have not moved over earlier. The bike is made for the trails I am riding, it has reignited my joy of riding MTB. Initially I was planning to by the Trance 1, but the extra coin was not worth it, I am planning to upgrade my wheels, tires and cassette (NX 11-50 is a pig) which should get me close to 13.3 kg. I love the Maestro suspension, always have, it is subtle but supportive, perfect for trail riding. The Fox Rhythm is also nice, even though it is the base fork, I am happy with it. Maybe I will bump into you when you are riding at Harcourt.

[@bike_somm]

Spot On As Per Usual~ You have been ROCKIN the Review world lately!!!

[@singletrack]

Thanks very much Jay - glad you liked the video! [ST Wil]

[@56sagaz]

Thank you. Excellent review. By the way Giant should reward you, I bought my trance 29” after watch this video👏🏽

[@bumblebeeyaj9375]

How you like it?

[@georgiaguardian4696]

The value and the adjustability of the bike is amazing. Giant quality is among the best.

[@froggy0162]

Hi from the guy on the Trance 27.5 that stopped for a chat at Harcourt :) Great review, and nice job cleaning that bloody hairpin!

[@sifataumoepeau5732]

Bought this bike, partly after watching earlier reviews and a couple of questions of Wil. Fantastic bike. As always a great, honest review.

[@singletrack]

Glad to hear you're digging your new bike Sifa! And thanks for checking out the videos in the first place, and for your questions/comments! [ST Wil]

[@saimen1024]

Wil, this is amazing! You've brought in all the technical details, as well as the fun part, which is obviously the trail review in such a smooth and entertaining way. Sooo, now I need to see more of your videos! ^^

[@baabbylon]

One of the most comprehensive reviews I’ve heard on any bike, spot on dude 👍 looking forward to more from this channel, thanks

[@ChasingGiants23]

Loved that video! being a Giant Hard tail owner that gave me all the info I need on the TRANCE. tks heaps

[@singletrack]

Absolute pleasure mate - glad you found the video review helpful! If you've got any questions, just let me know and I'll do my best to answer them for you. [ST Wil]

[@vrwgq3q]

The 29er is a great downcountry bike for a fraction of the price of a tallboy optic or sight. The 27.5 is a great alternative to other trail bikes like the 5010. Just a great value for dollar and it’s a good design.

[@alecandersen9268]

Wil. Excellent review. Thank you for such a thorough explanation and analysis. Great to read a review from someone that really demoed this bike extensively. Three questions if you have a moment: 1) The tyres come with a stock 2.3" width, but the rim and frame can accommodate up to 2.5". Did you feel 2.3" were a sufficient width for the bike or would you upgrade to 2.5? 2) In your onboard review on KZbin from Feb, you showed that you added the vittoria air-liner tubless insert. Did you keep that in for the rest of your demo time? Do you recommend that with the carbon rims and all or did you find there weren't all that beneficial? Did you put in the front and back? 3) What knee pads are you wearing and do you like them for trail riding, or have you found other good ones that protect yet are comfortable? I've seen singletracks reviews, but would love your opinion Thanks so much. Keep up the great work!

[@TheBikeRoom]

With reviews on KZbin or the magazines, I can't help pitting my own knowledge and uh hum expertise against the reviewers' presentation. I enjoy watching yours and as always, I end up agreeing and understanding your view-point which only makes me want to buy this bike. Well done to Giant and well done to you and ST.

[@singletrack]

Cheers mate, and really glad you enjoyed the video review! [ST Wil]

[@brooklynphoth9465]

Can't wait i'm getting one for my birthday and after seeing this clip i'm happy I'm getting one

[@TheTNTmaster808]

Very well put together review, and Thanks for using metric and imperial!

[@philmtb121]

Great review. Riding mine for 4 months now in NZ on mostly grade 3 forest single track. Fair bit of playing around with sag and rebound. Currently running same pressures/ sag as you. Might play more with rebound in line with your thinking. No upgrades, but have Shimano XT single pot brake set ready to install. Rotated the bars as you described- feels good. Most definitely have great anticipation regarding the 2020 model and if they will make any changes. My boy has an EX 8- loves it. Technology certainly has optimized mountain biking big time. Keep up the good work.

[@singletrack]

Good to hear you're enjoying the new bike Phillip! Thanks for checking out the video and for the feedback - it's much appreciated mate! [ST Wil]

[@nestogsw9659]

Thanks for the advice for newer, less experienced riders to go for a 27.5 instead. Watching so many vids and seeing 29ers as the current trend, I was starting to feel myself go in possibly too radical of a direction and getting more bike than I can handle as a newcomer to the sport at the ripe old age of 40 lol.

[@yourfavoritewelder3162]

This is a very thorough review. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@NilabhUmredkar]

Best articulated review so far. Thank you. If you can have only one bike - Trance 3 29 2020 or Trance 3 27.5 2020, which one would you prefer? For bikepacking trips, Light enduro and small jumps.

[@pacosenderos]

Excelente video, mucha informacion util. Tengo la Trance advance 2, y he llegado a las mismas conclusiones que expones en el video, en cuanto a neumaticos, conduccion , pintura,etc. Enhorabuena por tu trabajo

[@mosiowaty1573]

Freaking awesome interview! I'm riding a Giant Trance 27.5 and I absolutely loved it for my first-ever enduro season. However with growing experience I feel it's got too much travel and too little high-speed stability, and I was wondering how a Trance 29 would do for a substitute. Looks like getting one is a great idea!

[@chrisgould7606]

Great review. Very well articulated.

[@rexarthurramos1642]

Okay, that was a really good comprehensive review. Thanks!

[@charlespalmerii4299]

Really Like the Trance... Thinking of the 2020 Trance 3, seems like a great bargin...

[@GOTCHAPARK]

Great review , very informative ! Thanks for taking the time to do these reviews .

[@arvismac]

Nice take! You got a new subscriber.

[@MrThegixerman]

Love mine handles great.. Got a bit too confident on mine and broke a rid...

[@dallasdavis-timms3574]

Great review. What is your opinion on the Trance vs the Trek Fuel?

[@camwells9726]

I honestly was about to ask the same question?

[@singletrack]

Hey Dallas, glad you liked the review! Your question on the Trance vs Fuel EX is a good one - those are two very similar trail bikes from two of the biggest brands out there. I actually answered this same question for another one of our KZbin viewers just earlier, so here's the response; Between the Trance and Fuel EX, it's a difficult choice. The Trance 29 just feels tough - the geometry is so planted at speed, and the piggyback shock gives it fantastic control. But as I mentioned in the video, that geometry does require you to push it accordingly, and if you're having an off day it can feel like hard work. I'd say the Fuel EX offers a slightly easier riding experience overall. The handling is slightly more neutral, while the suspension is plusher and deeper in comparison. It's also more active - under both pedalling and braking inputs, so the traction is insanely good. All up it's a wicked fast bike on techy singletrack. The bigger the hits, the more capable it is over the Trance 29's 115mm of rear travel. But you'll need to toggle the shock's compression switch a bit more often to get the most efficiency out of it depending on the trail situation. As for which one I'd go for? I'd almost have to flip a coin, but I think the Trance 29 would possibly get the edge. It is quite a bit newer (the current Fuel EX chassis is coming up to 3/4 years old I think?), and the feature list is pretty comprehensive really. Hope that helps mate, but just holla if you've got anymore questions! [ST Wil]

[@mellord83]

@@singletrack what about the 2020 trek fuel ex with the updated geometry? How does that compare to the trance?

[@garyoneill8868]

Wil, I can't see a 2019 Anthem 1 (or thereabouts) 29'er review. Have you done one? If not, would you consider it please? Cheers, Gary. P.s. again, fwiw, videos like this helped me buy my new mtn bike recently.

[@garybrown9719]

Nice review would you change anything for 2022

[@wayne_kurr]

Hi mate - great review. I have the same bike but I'm thinking I haven't got my suspension sorted. With gear I'm around 85kg and i've been running 90psi up front and 200psi on the rear. What would you suggest would be a good set up for a rider of my weight? Also - completely agree with your comments on the Guide T brakes - they're rubbish. Currently having XT8020 front brakes installed with a 203mm rotor and XT8000 rear brakes with a 180mm rotor.

[@singletrack]

Yo James, thanks for watching and for your question! In terms of weight, you've got about 15kg over me, which means you'll need higher pressures in your fork and shock to achieve the same amount of sag. Ideally you want around 20-25% sag on the rear shock. You measure this first by pushing the black rubber O-ring all the way up to the top of the main shock seal, then sit on the bike while wearing all your riding kit (and backpack if you ride with one). You might need a friend to help you balance while you're sitting on the bike. Then dismount the bike gently without pushing down on the suspension. The O-ring will have been pushed down the shock stanchion, and you just need to measure the distance between the main seal and the O-ring. That shock has a 42.5mm stroke, so the sag range you're looking at is; 20% = 8.5mm 25% = 10.6mm 30% = 12.75mm In my experience, the Trance 29 works best with around 20-25% sag. More than that and it feels quite boggy, and I also found I clipped pedals a lot too due to the lower BB height. For my 70kg riding weight, I ended up with 220psi in the rear Fox Float DPX2 shock. So if you've got the same bike as the green one I tested, you'll be wanting more pressure in your rear shock. I can't say how much for sure - you're best off measuring the sag and going off of that. But you'll probably end up with more like 240psi in the rear shock. As for setting sag on the fork, it's basically the same process. However, instead of sitting on the saddle, you need to stand up on the pedals and bend your knees like you're riding downhill. I found 25% sag worked best for the Fox 34 fork, and I had about 78psi inside the air spring. Hope all of that is useful for you James, but just sing out if you've got any more questions mate! [ST Wil]

[@wayne_kurr]

@@singletrack Thanks for the detailed reply Wil. The bike is still in store getting the brakes sorted but hopefully will get it back and have a bit more of a play. Interesting what you say about the dampening with the rear also, I find mine pogo's a little so theres definitely some more tuning for me to do!

[@toddmerriott6901]

Good lesson on how to ride the 29er!

[@barrydodson4191]

nice review! still trying to decide between this and an Anthem 29, thanks for the details!

[@david029014]

You should review the 2021 giant trance x. Your reviews are excellent!

[@MTBukk]

This is the perfect review! I bought this bike! Thank you! 🙂🤘🏻

[@alexaldridge4986]

Hey man, Thank you for the review. After buying the bike it helps. I ended up buying the top of the line model with DVO suspension, which so far so good. MY question for you is that i am 6’2” at 200 lbs so i am a size XL. The bike geometry and setup feels absolutely right but the suspension bob while climbing kind of sucks. Any recommendations here? I saw you mentioned giving it lower speed rebound, which makes sense, but for a long legged guy who wants some extra help climbing, kind of a let down. I can tell the bike wants to climb efficient and fast, but the suspension bob distracts me.

[@justing888]

Please do a review like this on the new YT Izzo when they become more available for testing 🙏🏾 awesome review made me really consider this bike

[@bgnorm2]

Excellent review Will thank you!

[@andrewspencer9104]

Great review, bought one.

[@joshy285]

Fantastic review! Lots of great detail and I found the suspension set up comments really informative. I generally prefer the peppiness of 27.5 bikes and your comments at the end about the Trance 27.5 were interesting. What would you say would climb better though between the two? The 27.5 model has a fair bit more travel. Would this add to the weight/make climbing a bit harder? Climbing capability is as important for me as descending! Thanks in advance, Josh

[@yolmangil1318]

What do you think about the wheels this bike comes with? Will you change the rear hub or buy a new Wheelset? Excellent review and video. Thanks.

[@paullindley4901]

Will, great review of the Trance 29 pro 1. As stated, you preferred this set up over the higher priced model. I wonder how you think it would compare to the lower models specifically the Trance 2. What will I be giving up...the nitty gritty...Are they worth considering over other 29ers?

[@DexyTrain]

Great review,just went and bought one right away.

[@bumblebeeyaj9375]

How you like it?

[@lorenzo6mm]

I love my 29er Norco XFR. Its dead fast. The physics of pedal torque are amazing. Its like and extra gear of power without any effort. This bike sounds amazing for the full trail in the dirt and rocks.

[@desertlogic222]

That maestro rear suspension schools most other suspension setups. Almost no bob when climbing or lockup while braking. All because of the 4 links. Most other brands have 3 links which haven’t changed much since the 90s.

[@carlosmacias7840]

Do you think a lower end trance will performe as well as this one?

[@huubmunstege3428]

Great and very informative review. Thanks!

[@glennh2965]

You have hit on what I am looking for, a trail bike I can XC race on occasionally. I like to ride like where you filmed (Harcourt?) but then want to do some 50k XC races and the Redback in Alice. Not being able to convince the wife the need for two high end bikes do you think this might fit the bill? I have looked at the Specialised Camber comp, etc. Your thoughts?

[@petertaylor6402]

Would of liked to hear more about its efficiency and power transfer?

[@trailblazeratv6306]

Awesome I weight the same as you do so I';ll try these PSI numbers, Thanks

[@cracotator]

Thanx a lot for those trail bikes reviews it helps a lot !! Do you think the Giant Tracer 29 2 will be as good as the 1 ? Aluminum vs carbone...

[@FhargaZ]

So many details, well explained 👏

[@sneakyray9160]

Would it be possible to increase the rear suspension maestro travel from 115mm to 130mm?🤔 maybe swapped out the maestro rocker linkage?

[@mc540flip]

Excellent review! Preference between this, Stumpy ST, or Fuel Ex?

[@singletrack]

Cheers Michael! Very good question! It's been a while since I rode the Stumpy ST at the Specialized launch last year, so I'd really need some more time on one to make a definitive verdict on that one. Between the Trance and Fuel EX, it's a difficult choice. The Trance 29 just feels tough - the geometry is so planted at speed, and the piggyback shock gives it fantastic control. But as I mentioned in the video, that geometry does require you to push it accordingly, and if you're having an off day it can feel like hard work. I'd say the Fuel EX offers a slightly easier riding experience overall. The handling is slightly more neutral, while the suspension is plusher and deeper in comparison. It's also more active - under both pedalling and braking inputs, so the traction is insanely good. All up it's a wicked fast bike on techy singletrack. The bigger the hits, the more capable it is over the Trance 29's 115mm of rear travel. But you'll need to toggle the shock's compression switch a bit more often to get the most efficiency out of it depending on the trail situation. As for which one I'd go for? I'd almost have to flip a coin, but I think the Trance 29 would possibly get the edge. It is quite a bit newer (the current Fuel EX chassis is coming up to 3/4 years old I think?), and the feature list is pretty comprehensive really. Hope that helps mate, but just holla if you've got anymore questions! [ST Wil]

[@mc540flip]

Singletrack Magazine Very helpful! Thanks for the input. I’m digging the Trance too.

[@lukib2984]

Hi, very nice review! What frame protection is on the bike? I couldn't find anything so far.

[@jaujud]

Riding Giant Trance 2 LTD (27.5") from 2016. Originally it had Fox Float 32 fork and recently I upgraded to Rockshox Pike 150mm of travel. Couldn't be happier...well maybe if swapped the wheels for something stiffer 😂 Nice review of the newer model though!

[@wayne_kurr]

Out of interest.. How would you compare this bike to a 2018 Canyon Spectral CF 8.0?.. say hypothetically if one popped up for a very good price fitted with a FOX float x2 factory shock.. (you can't have too many bikes right..?)

[@TimFromWales]

Great review. And that bike looks nice - like the understated branding - is that a preproduction model?

[@singletrack]

Hey Tim from Wales! Thanks for watching the video, and really glad you enjoyed it! The bike is actually a stock colour for 2019 - there's a single 'Giant' logo underneath the downtube, and a single 'Trance' logo on the top tube. It's all very discreet, and I gotta say I'm a fan too - makes for a nice change from Giant models of old! [ST Wil]

[@ChrisEgan86]

Hi Wil, Nice to see some bike reviews on the Bendigo trails, I ride the same ones! I have a 2015 Anthem 29er, I think it's great for the climbing around here but I find the 100mm travel a bit limiting and always feel like I'm hanging over the front wheel. Looking at upgrading but don't want a massive travel bike, just something for local trails. Do you think the trance 29er is a good option? See you out there, Chris

[@ericandersen6611]

Wil, Thank you for posting such a great review of this bike. I have been studying reviews on this bike for months and am close to making a decision on this bike. I had two questions if you'd be willing to answer: 1) You speak of the geometry and the stable platform it provides, especially at high speeds. What can you say about the bikes flickability/nimbleness? I've been riding a 26" bike my whole life and it's time to get with the times and upgrade. However, I'm concerned about getting used to the feel of a 29er over the old-school 26" I've grown up with. I don't want to spend thousands on a bike only to hate it's characteristics. So does this bike still feel flickable/nimble, especially compared to other 29ers? Do you think one can get used to it coming from the world of a 26" bike? I live in Utah, so most of my riding is on XC and trail terrain (with an occasional Moab trip for more enduro terrain)) 2) Can you explain why you prefer to swap the stock position of the DHR & DHF tires? Seems like those were specifically designed for the position they came on out-of-the box, so I'm curious why the switch? Thanks again for the review!

[@HansProbs]

in the same boat, riding a 26”er and debating on this vs a 27.5 trance. riding in VA w tight twisty track thats more xc/trail. Makes me wonder how this compares to a jeffsy, heard great things

[@amrjon]

You will adapt quickly enough. The comments in this review about needing to ride with a lot of body language are very true and probably one of the main adjustments coming from a 26. Best thing is to arrange a long test ride.

[@singletrack]

Hey there Eric! Thanks for watching the review, and stoked you liked it too! 1) Going from a 26in bike to the Trance 29 will take some adjustment time. Along with its new-school geometry, it will ride quite differently to anything from a few years ago with 26in wheels. To begin with, it's going to feel quite sluggish and difficult to negotiate tight corners. The thing with a slack head angle and 29in wheels though, is that you really need to lean the bike through the turns, rather than trying to steer by turning the handlebar. That takes time to develop the right technique, but once you're confident in dropping the saddle down and leaning the bike over, you'll find yourself carving corners intuitively. The Trance 29 is a pretty low-slung bike, so with the saddle dropped out of the way, it's not too difficult to throw it about as needed. The big bonus you're going to experience is the 29in wheels momentum on rougher and rockier trails, and along with the Trance 29's stable geometry, you're going to be going a helluva lot faster on the descents! 2) I just prefer the Minion DHR II tyre over the DHF. I find the DHR II has more braking bite, and more traction when the trail is particularly loose and steep. Because of this, I run it on the front where I want maximum traction. Hope that helps answer your questions, but just shoot if you've got any more Eric! [ST Wil]

[@ericandersen6611]

Many thanks for taking time to respond, Wil. I've really loved your insight and commentary in your video, your article, and the responses below. I know everyone has their preference and you can come to adjust/love whatever bike you choose, and it totally depends on what type of terrain you will be consistently riding, but I'd love to know your preference overall. If you were kind of in my shoes (coming from a 26", but a confident and capable rider of many years (despite still using a 26" ;))) and had decided to buy a Trance yourself, assuming the trails you were riding were not consistently filled with 4+ foot flat drops and big gnarly obstacles to plow over, would you go with the new 29er or the traditional trance 27.5? I'm getting a little hung up on the 130/115 spec of the 29er vs the trance (150/140) or a yeti SB130 with 150/130. Granted, the 26" I've been riding for years had a whopping 50mm of travel in the back, so anything would be better than that obviously. I find it interesting, as you noted, that Giant's race team plans to race the 29er on a lot of enduro races this year. In fact, McKay Vezina just won the Sea Otter Showing enduro race on his Trance 29er. I want a bike that will bring me into the new generation, being modern and stable, yet fun. I know a 27.5 would be more flickable and easier to ride as you noted in the video, but several other reviewers have also used terms such as lively, fun, versatile, etc. to describe the new Trance 29er. I liked team Giant's explanation on developing the 29er's geometry (chain stay length, offset, angles, shock, fork, etc.): kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnKvgWahmLV6gcU and kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIbFZomNgduLqLs and kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWixaHdqfb-cra8. So, which Trance would you choose/recommend if you had to (I won't hold it against you ;))?

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Really excellent comprehensive video. This bike is high on my list for a new bike, and I am normally riding 150 mm steeds!

[@singletrack]

Thanks mate - glad you enjoyed it! [ST Wil]

[@jarradnelson]

Awesome review! Would this be a comfortable ride for a few XC / Stage events in a year?

[@andresgaona4813]

Great review. I want a bike capable for long rides (marathons), trails and some enduro stages (only to participate). Which bike should I bought, trance advanced 2 or spark 920?.

[@singletrack]

Thanks Andres, and glad you liked the video! Both the Spark and Trance 29 are great bikes, so it's pretty hard to go wrong with either. I think if your preference leans more towards aggressive riding and technical descending, the Trance 29 is the one to go for. If you want to do a bit more longer distance races and all-day pedalling trail rides, the Spark would be the better pick. Hope that helps! [ST Wil]

[@mothstudios]

Suspension very different, Sparks rely on the remote to move between open/climb/lockout modes, and I reckon Scott relies on this a bit too much. For me the Spark wallows in open mode. Conversely Giant have just gone with as good a suspension package as they could, and I reckon it would show.

[@akidone]

Great review and thoughts, thanks for that! Regarding the stock dropper post on your M sized bike, where you able to get it completely down with the stock 125mm version?

[@mara2382]

very good review! definitely helped me to decide on the 2019 trance 2 29" last year! how would you rate this trail / short travel all-mountain bike in terms of "bike category"? according to giant customer service it's a category 4 which translates to 1,2m drops and up to STS 3 trails in my book... however different manufacturers describe category 4 as only suitable to about 0,6m drops which ain't too much. unfortunately giant didn't give me a final answer to that 🤷🏻‍♀️ cheers

[@Jolinator]

Do you still recommend the 27.5 Trance in 2020? got my eye on the Advanced 2 2020, looks like decent build that would be well matched to some later shock and drivetrain upgrades. 67.5 head angle and 73.5 seat tube angle though has me worried also considering a YT Izzo.

[@seppmaier3050]

Getting mine tomorrow. Yeeehaw!!

[@Walnussbaer95]

Great test, thank you very much! :)

[@BengLang84]

Hi! Thanks for the great review! I just want to ask what tires would be good for trails riding? I thought the dhf/dhr combo would be a good one. Thanks a lot =)

[@singletrack]

My pleasure Alvin! I really like the Minion DHF/DHR II tyre combo. Personally I'd prefer to have more grip and confidence than not enough. On smoother trail surfaces they are overkill though. If this were my bike, I would think about fitting a faster-rolling tyre on the back just to give it a bit more pep. A Minion SS would be a good option, or even an Ardent or Crossmark. The new Bontrager XR3 looks like a good speedy rear tyre, and I'm already a big fan of the XR4/XR5, so that could make a solid front/rear combo too. [ST Wil]

[@BengLang84]

@@singletrack Okay =) What abput dhf/aggressor combo? =)

[@singletrack]

@@BengLang84 - That would be a great option! The Aggressor is a superb tyre - perhaps not as fast rolling as it looks, but still a versatile rear tyre - particularly for dry and/or rocky conditions. [ST Wil]

[@BengLang84]

@@singletrack okay. By the eay may I know why did you put the DHR II at the front instead of DHF?

[@singletrack]

@@BengLang84 - I just find it's a grippier tyre than the DHF - particularly in loose conditions. It has better braking control too, so when it's steep I find it more confidence-inspiring up front. [ST Wil]

[@duncanh6045]

Love your review style

[@MTBTexasBikeRider]

Awesome video did a great job on this Giant review 👍😊🙏🚵‍♀️

[@X8___]

Solid video. Thank you.

[@philipp1136]

Where did you get the downtube protector? The 2020 Trance isn’t coming with one... 😕

[@dazza9360]

Great review! How tall are you and did you find the medium tested suited you well?

[@singletrack]

Dazza Hi, Wil is 175cm tall

[@mothstudios]

Good review. Like your channel. I usually prefer a more boutique brand bike but LBS suggested the new Trance and in the end couldn’t go past it. Don’t think Giant got quite the kudos they should have for this bike.

[@mothstudios]

Though I should mention, first time user of SRAM Guide brakes and not a fan.

[@singletrack]

Great to hear Michael! And agreed regarding the Trance 29 - I think it's a bike that might get overlooked by a lot of potential riders given it's a Giant. But if this is the vibe Giant is going for now, I suspect we'll be seeing some interesting updates to some of its other models in the coming years, and that might change some opinions. [ST Wil]

[@singletrack]

@@mothstudios - One thing I will mention with the Guide T brakes is that they really need a good thorough bleed (sometimes more than one) to remove sneaky air bubbles that hang out inside. I've had a few sets lately where even after a bleed, the lever felt spongy with an excessive throw to it (so much that the lever was coming all the way to the grips). I then did a full system bleed again, and managed to remove more air and got the brake lever feeling solid like it should be. That might say more about my bleeding skills than it does about the brakes, but it might be something worth checking out to see if you can get them feeling better. Once bled correctly, they should actually feel pretty decent. [ST Wil]

[@mothstudios]

Singletrack Magazine ah ok thanks, will give that a go.

[@pacosenderos]

Magnifico video , muy bien explicado . Greetings from Spain

[@awalsh5798]

You talk about lighter wheels and tyres for Xc, what was the combo and are the std carbon wheels not light enough?

[@MrMaciejS]

Hi, What pedals did you use for Trance 29er? :) I wonder type of bike better for flat or clips.. Cheers.

[@artblackwood7936]

Excellent review

[@trailblazeratv6306]

I just bought one, it’s Rad !! Mine has more frame armor on the swing arm and XT brakes

[@adamhopkins728]

Hi Will great review mate thanks. I have the option to pick up one in a large but I have had medium full sus in the past I am 178cm 80 kg which puts me right on the edge of both frames. My worry is it will feel huge on the trail. Your opinion would be appreciated seems you have good view on the medium. Cheers Adam

[@bstaplet]

Same height as you, sat on both, MEDIUM felt way too small unless you want to run a 60-70mm stem. Compare reach to something like the yeti or even new Reign