Originally Posted by
SpeedyStein
Thanks Norman. I wonder if the new Giant is able to squeeze in a 2.1? I should clarify the purpose of my interest... I am looking for a flatbar bike to ride fire roads, smooth single track, and paved bike paths. I like the idea of a 29er, disc brakes, and threadless headsets - which are my only objections to just updating an older MTB. I don't need or want suspension, which it seems that most bikes that can clear a 29x2.1 tire have suspension. I dont want to go through the hassle/expense of converting a hardtail to a rigid fork, and end up with a bike that is obviously kludged/compromised to make it work. Essentially, I want my old 1992 Cannondale M2000, but with 29er wheels, disc brakes, and a threadless headset.
So far, I think this Giant and the Marin are the two closest bikes available. There are a few singlespeed MTBs out there, but the trails I ride usually include a fair bit of climbing, and I need gears. The Surlys (Ogre, KM, Krampus) seem a bit overpriced for the build they come with, and a custom build/smaller brand bike will probably be too expensive. I doubt my wife would be OK with anything more than $1000, so this bike is definitely looking like a solid option. Now to go find one in person!
Edit: The guys at Giant said they successfully fit 2.2" knobby 29er tires on it. But I'd worry about mud/rock clearance a bit.
Rode some older iterations of the Muirwoods and always felt pretty neutral to me. The Toughroad definitely seems to ride better for me. But keep in mind these are short test rides, and swayed by personal opinion before I even get on them.
But specs show the Muirwoods seems to weigh 4-5 lbs more, and I'm not usually impressed with standard cromoly frames for ride quality. I'm very impressed by my extensive use of Giant's SLR grade aluminum, and the hydroforming different shapes can really give it a great blend of comfort while maintaining efficiency and great handling. I'd choose ALUXX SLR over standard butted cromoly any day of the week. Even if the weight was the same, which it's not.
Geometry wise the Toughroad has more relaxed headtube angle and seattube angle, not a bunch but could be noticeably better in rougher conditions. Very close in wheelbase and chainstay length, with the Toughroad having shorter wheelbase("quicker" handling?) but longer chainstays (pannier/heel clearance). Once again, very small differences.
Muirwoods just seems more geared for on road, straight line commuting, the Giant seems just a bit more capable of being a sporty commuter with fun capabilities on easier single track.