plaucc

Looking for another new bike with flat bar for all around go anywhere riding. The Giant ToughRoad and the alloy GT Grade Flat Bar version both looks awesome and priced similar. Only difference are the components but I am more interested in ride comfort and dirt road/pavement handling. Any suggestions from owner of either bike? Thanks.

GeoKrpan

If looks count, I think the Giant looks better. At any rate, get one with hydraulic brakes.

NormanF

I bought a GT Eightball before the GT Grade Flat Bar bike came out and I'm happy with it.

For both pavement and hardpack/gravel road riding, its been a great bike.

You have a choice between a 29er and a gravel road/adventure bike.

Either one would be cool for the riding you're looking to do.

blakcloud

They are both very nice bikes. The Tough Road is ready right out of the box for dirt and city riding with wide two inch tires while the GT has 28 mm (inch and a bit) which is better suited for city riding. Of course you could change the tires but you need to see how wide of a tire you can fit in that frame. I suspect you will have no problem but if tire size is important to you then check. The GT has the nicer components with 105. The Giant has a triple up front, do you need it for the type of riding you are going to be doing?

Each bike has a little something, you just need to decide if one bike fits your needs better than the other.

Jamesw2

I bought the GT Grade Sora drop bar. Put a triple on it upgraded the rear derailleur to a m 772 and an Idr front derailleur . Still not the best shifting thing. The biggest drawback to the grade is the 35 mm tire max. I am looking at the Tough Road and if i could choose over i would go with the Tough Road based on components and/or the GT Traffic .. I am impressed with the GT's ride quality but i am a clyde

fietsbob

My Local shop carries Neither, does yours? all parts attached to the frame can be substituted for your choice to improve the fit.

but the frame choice for 'size' is the start.