View Poll Results: Giant Escape or Roam
Escape
34
50.75%
Roam
33
49.25%
Voters: 67. You may not vote on this poll
Giant Escape vs. Roam vs. ???
03-01-14, 01:12 PM
#51
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
Well, we just checked out a Roam 2 (Large) [all they had] and we both loved it. Same great ride, if not better ... but definitely a nice noticeable upgrade in the brakes. Didn't really have a chance to test out the suspension as we're covered in snow here in Ohio. The little we were on it though, we both agreed that it was just as good, if not better than the Escape. Perhaps it's just my size, but I like the beefier feel ... just feels stronger.
While we were downtown today, we also had a big conversation about doing some city riding. In the Cleveland Suburbs, they are riddled with pot holes and just all around bad roads in certain areas. I think this helped us to justify going with the Roam/Rove over the Escape as well. I wouldn't feel comfortable/safe riding an Escape in certain areas with the fear of possibly damaging them. I think the Roam will definitely better suit our needs for this and more.
I think we're sold on the Roam! At this point we're relatively sold on going forth with a Roam/Rove 0. Gonna be a bit before we can pick them up; however I'll definitely report back after we're underway.
You all have been a fantastic resource and a huge help, really appreciate everyone's time and opinions!
While we were downtown today, we also had a big conversation about doing some city riding. In the Cleveland Suburbs, they are riddled with pot holes and just all around bad roads in certain areas. I think this helped us to justify going with the Roam/Rove over the Escape as well. I wouldn't feel comfortable/safe riding an Escape in certain areas with the fear of possibly damaging them. I think the Roam will definitely better suit our needs for this and more.
I think we're sold on the Roam! At this point we're relatively sold on going forth with a Roam/Rove 0. Gonna be a bit before we can pick them up; however I'll definitely report back after we're underway.
You all have been a fantastic resource and a huge help, really appreciate everyone's time and opinions!
03-01-14, 01:14 PM
#52
aka Phil Jungels
LOL, yesterday at the Doc's, she asked me if my heart rate is always this low ------- I told her that I thought it was "normal..."
03-01-14, 01:17 PM
#53
aka Phil Jungels
Great choice on the Roam/Rove...... You'll love 'em.
03-01-14, 01:20 PM
#54
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Now I'm just ... really anxious. Unfortunately, I have to wait about two weeks. I decided to grab a new Chase Sapphire card so I could get some free points for a vacation ... but now I gotta wait on that card to make the order, ahhh!! Good thing it's still crappy outside because we couldn't even ride yet anyway.
Wonder if I could talk my shop into ordering without putting 20% down ...
Wonder if I could talk my shop into ordering without putting 20% down ...
03-01-14, 01:37 PM
#55
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
As my students would say, "I know, right?" For those of us 'of a certain age', the benefits of cycling far exceed any risks (and there are risks), imo.
03-01-14, 01:40 PM
#56
aka Phil Jungels
Give them a cash deposit, with the understanding that it comes back when the purchase is final with the card.
03-01-14, 10:01 PM
#57
Member
Join Date: Feb 2014
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 37
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Congrats on making a decision! It is certainly difficult to come to a conclusion to the question "what is going to be best for me"and the endless amount of information and opinions on the internet promote over-analysation.
I've given my feedback on the Roam 2 because I just purchased one and am extremely happy with it. I live in Minnesota and deal with awful roads as well... I think the kind of riding we will both be doing is very similar so hopefully it works out well for you also. let us know how things are going after the maiden voyage!
I've given my feedback on the Roam 2 because I just purchased one and am extremely happy with it. I live in Minnesota and deal with awful roads as well... I think the kind of riding we will both be doing is very similar so hopefully it works out well for you also. let us know how things are going after the maiden voyage!
03-02-14, 01:33 PM
#58
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
So I ordered today and found out they were having a spring sale (just started today) and it was 10% off each bike! Now I'm debating... Is the Roam XR1 worth the additional couple hundred? They don't make it in a Rove and the 0 looks sharper...
Last edited by dasbean; 03-02-14 at 02:10 PM.
03-02-14, 02:02 PM
#59
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
The 0 is a very, very nice bike. The extra for the XR gets you a better (slightly lighter) frame, a few drivetrain upgrades, and a slightly nicer wheelset. Functionally, they're the same. Would I pay the difference? Yes. Would I need to? No. I would say the same for you: I think you were right to go to the 0 from the 2; 0 to XR? Not at all as clear.
03-02-14, 02:14 PM
#60
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
It's $150 difference which is what I saved with this 10%. I dunno if I should do it or not... Odd that they don't make it in the Rove.
03-02-14, 02:27 PM
#61
aka Phil Jungels
"The 0 looks sharper" says it all..................... buy the one you fall in love with!
Looking at the specs - I don't see $100 difference between the XR and the 0. I don't think you would notice any difference other than color................ MHO
Looking at the specs - I don't see $100 difference between the XR and the 0. I don't think you would notice any difference other than color................ MHO
Last edited by Wanderer; 03-02-14 at 02:42 PM.
03-02-14, 02:30 PM
#62
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
haha yeah, it seems silly to base on colors, but both of us are pretty bad like that. Being that she's getting the Rove 0 which is black/pink, I wasn't sure which would look better against hers. Another black, or a white? Still though, you'd think the XR1 being the most expensive, would also look the best ... sadly, it doesn't jump out at me.
03-02-14, 03:43 PM
#64
aka Phil Jungels
This thread has piqued n+1 for me ------- not a good thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And, I'm soooooo happy with my '08 Crosstrail Sport................................ got it just the way I want it ---------- almost!
And, I'm soooooo happy with my '08 Crosstrail Sport................................ got it just the way I want it ---------- almost!
03-02-14, 03:46 PM
#65
aka Phil Jungels
It's probably a good thing that my dealer of choice ------- doesn't sell Giant............ and they are open on Sunday afternoons starting this month........................
03-02-14, 05:05 PM
#66
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
I think Wanderer makes a very good point re. 'color'. I'll reinforce it: the 0 (again) is a very, very nice bike. Also, you plan on riding with your significant other; there's something to be said for this first serious, mutual bike purchase being made on equal terms, if you see what I mean!
Also, don't forget that both of you will ... or soon will ... want to buy cycling clothing items, helmet(s), etc. as you get into things. The budget has to accommodate that stuff as well, and it does make a difference.
That said, I'll disagree (friendly difference of opinion) with Wanderer re. 'worth it'; I do think the small price difference between the 0 and the XR is justified. As I mentioned above, the frame is lighter, and there are a few well-chosen up-specs on the drivetrain and wheelset. However, I still think that those differences are 'want' rather than 'need' -- not the case as between the Roam 2 and 0, where the differences are (in my view) functionally significant.
Also, don't forget that both of you will ... or soon will ... want to buy cycling clothing items, helmet(s), etc. as you get into things. The budget has to accommodate that stuff as well, and it does make a difference.
That said, I'll disagree (friendly difference of opinion) with Wanderer re. 'worth it'; I do think the small price difference between the 0 and the XR is justified. As I mentioned above, the frame is lighter, and there are a few well-chosen up-specs on the drivetrain and wheelset. However, I still think that those differences are 'want' rather than 'need' -- not the case as between the Roam 2 and 0, where the differences are (in my view) functionally significant.
03-02-14, 05:07 PM
#67
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-au/...7172/#overview
If we could get that here in Canada (we only get the XR 1), I'd be seriously tempted.
03-02-14, 05:11 PM
#68
Banned.
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Vegemite Island
Posts: 4,130
Bikes: 2017 Surly Troll with XT Drive Train, 2017 Merida Big Nine XT Edition, 2016 Giant Toughroad SLR 2, 1995 Trek 830
Mentioned: 29 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1916 Post(s)
Liked 312 Times
in
220 Posts
haha yeah, it seems silly to base on colors, but both of us are pretty bad like that. Being that she's getting the Rove 0 which is black/pink, I wasn't sure which would look better against hers. Another black, or a white? Still though, you'd think the XR1 being the most expensive, would also look the best ... sadly, it doesn't jump out at me.
As crazy as it seems, Giant have a listing for the XR1 in Australia, but not on the US version of Giant's site.
Maybe Giant has made the decision for you.
03-02-14, 05:21 PM
#69
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
Far as I know the Roam XRs have never been available in the States; we do get the XR1 (not the 0, sadly) here in Canada. I wish Giant would bring the XR0 here ... would seriously consider. Perhaps the OP of this thread is in Canada?
03-02-14, 06:18 PM
#70
Banned
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: lower mitten
Posts: 1,555
Bikes: With round 700c & 26" wheels
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time
in
1 Post
All what I want to see now is OPs pictures of his new bike when he gets it ;-)
EDIT this is a video of Specialized Crosstrail - very similar beast to Roam 0. This video nicely shows why Roam type of bike is a much better choice than Escape type of bike as a hybrid/utility bicycle. Fast forward to 2 minutes for best part https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hih5...e_gdata_player
Last edited by lopek77; 03-02-14 at 06:32 PM.
03-02-14, 06:52 PM
#71
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Yeah to badger's point, I was thinking keeping them both at a Roam 0 was ideal so that we have the exact same bike; however she was more than content with the Escape 3 when I was going with a 1 ... she wouldn't be upset in the slightest (except for the fact that we originally targeted < $1k for both bikes!).
So the difference between the 0 and XR1 is $170 ... is it truly worth it? I don't know. I do like the look of the 0 better; however now I'm really torn. I have very limited time left to change my mind as they put the order in and I think it goes out tomorrow.
So the difference between the 0 and XR1 is $170 ... is it truly worth it? I don't know. I do like the look of the 0 better; however now I'm really torn. I have very limited time left to change my mind as they put the order in and I think it goes out tomorrow.
03-02-14, 06:53 PM
#72
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Oh wait a sec ... you're right, Giant's site was somehow defaulting me to Canada ... as soon as I switched to the States, Roam 0 is as high as it goes. Ok well, that makes my decision all the more easy! Done and done!
03-02-14, 06:54 PM
#73
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
Ok, so now that I know for sure which bikes I'm getting, I do have a question about this "lock out" suspension. Is my assumption correct that I lock it out when riding pavement and unlock in all other terrains?
03-02-14, 06:59 PM
#74
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2014
Posts: 47
Mentioned: 0 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 0 Post(s)
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times
in
0 Posts
So I am talking to one of my friends who used to work on and sell bikes ... he tells me higher end bikes don't come with pedals? Is that true? I just looked more closely at the pictures on Giants site, and ... I don't see pedals. haha really? So I get to buy pedals when I go pick it up?? All the bikes in the shop had pedals, so perhaps that's something that they put on and sell by default? I can call them tomorrow, but was just curious if this is really how bikes are sold. Seems crazy odd to me. It's like selling a new car without a wheel!
03-02-14, 07:08 PM
#75
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Location: Southwestern Ontario
Posts: 5,126
Mentioned: 22 Post(s)
Tagged: 0 Thread(s)
Quoted: 1581 Post(s)
Liked 1,189 Times
in
605 Posts
So I am talking to one of my friends who used to work on and sell bikes ... he tells me higher end bikes don't come with pedals? Is that true? I just looked more closely at the pictures on Giants site, and ... I don't see pedals. haha really? So I get to buy pedals when I go pick it up?? All the bikes in the shop had pedals, so perhaps that's something that they put on and sell by default? I can call them tomorrow, but was just curious if this is really how bikes are sold. Seems crazy odd to me. It's like selling a new car without a wheel!
Last edited by badger1; 03-02-14 at 07:17 PM.