Trek13

Hi, thinking of getting a 29er hardtail to go with my new hybrid. Pretty much down to these two choices. They are both probably specked with higher components than I will need for my local trails, but I want to do it right the first time. What do you guys/gals think? Thanks



https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...ce/x_caliber/#
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/...3/11512/55870/

kenhill3

Out of the box, fairly a toss-up, tho the Fisher has a 3x10 drivetrain which would appeal to me for the wider range of gearing. Pick the one which feels better to you riding it.

ColinL

24/38 double with 11-36 cassette is more than adequate for most trail riding.

the Giant has a carbon frame at that price? unbelievable. but more importantly, it also has a 15mm front axle. that combined with the carbon frame should result in a much stiffer, better steering bike.

I would bet the Giant is a lot lighter, but you probably won't be able to justify another set of the Racing Ralphs.

dminor 

Haha - - they didn't say carbon, did they? They said, "composite." Who knows, its could be Lexan . . . or kevlar and ABS .

Trek13

Thanks, but you lost me there. Are the Racing Ralph tires good or bad? Thanks

Trek13

I found the answer: WHAT IS IT MADE FROM?

The Giant XTC Composite 29er is a full-carbon fiber frame crafted out of Giant’s “composite grade” carbon
 fiber. This is the lowest-modulus carbon fiber that Giant produces. They selected it because of its vibration-absorbing properties, and it is claimed to be less brittle than higher-modulus carbon. The first thing you will notice is the gargantuan downtube, which is asymmetrical, as it bows slightly toward the non-drive side of the bike to make room for the drivetrain. The XTC composite 29er also utilizes a press-fit bottom bracket.

dminor 

^^ I was kidding. Under their 'Technology' tab, they had a description of what it is: "T-600 raw carbon fiber is used to create the composite material used for these lightweight, stiff and compliant framesets. Blending performance and value, this technology features modified monocoque construction." They also have a clickable link from there that goes into excruciating detail.

ColinL

Great on hardpack. Very fast, agile and light. Not very durable in terms of treadwear and resistance to cuts.

Very expensive. The durability and cost are usually why people don't buy another set. However, there is no doubt in my mind that they are a far better, and lighter, tire than what the Trek comes with.

Trek13

Thanks, but I would be riding almost always on hardpack . So am I good then? Newbie questions, I know. :-)

Trek13

Thanks, maybe the CF is why the bike sells for almost $300 more?

ColinL

Yes, I would buy the Giant. The Trek's fork is a slightly higher model, one rung up the ladder, but since it has a quick release I am sure it won't corner or brake as well as the Giant.

Trek13

So, can we all agree that the Giant will be the lighter and faster of the two???

Zephyr11

Trek has a 2 degrees slacker headtube. Methinks it might descend better, if that's of any importance to you. (Maybe, anyway, as that's only one of many factors). Also, Giant is stupid and doesn't put any useful meaurements on their website. If you feel like being a math geek, you can figure out the reach and stack. If you feel like just looking at it from a practical aspect (best way to go about it, IMO)...which one rides better?

dminor 

Hahahaha! Only real bike companies give out reach & stack figures.