You really can't go wrong with either one. The Giant offers slightly better components, for a higher price -- however none of the differences really makes one bike more capable than the other. I like the hydraulic lockout fork (you can engage/disengage while in motion) on the Roam 2 as well. Hydraulic brakes are really only worth the extra cost if you must have them. I test rode both, bought the Roam, but the frame fit is really quite different between the two. Make sure you ride both, and I'd recommend the one that feels best. My girlfriend ended up buying the women's version of the Crosstrail Disc.