Why would Giant drop the Tektro 295 hydraulic brakes (2018 model) for the Tektro 275 hydraulic brakes (2019 model)? I thought the Tektro 285 hydraulic brakes were the lowest-grade, bargain-basement priced Tektro hydraulic brakes! Has anyone heard of Tektro 275 hydraulic brakes?

I wonder, did Giant strike a deal with Tektro to build a “special” low-cost hydraulic disc brake alternative to the lowest-end 285 models, altogether dismissing the Tektro 295 brakes included in the 2018 model?

Of course, such disappointing specs like these are easy to find. What I’m concerned about is how many other shortcuts have been made in Giant’s manufacturing process of one of their best-selling bikes. Shortcuts in frame construction and internal components can considerably limit the strength, handling and longevity of a bike. What a shame.

I’d buy a new 2018 Giant Escape 1 Disc tomorrow (if I could find one), because I believe it’s a better bike. Based on reviews from multiple sources, including Giant retailers, my intuition proved to be correct. I don’t mind paying more for a bike that offers more, but I’d be crazy to pay more for less: i.e., the Giant 2019 Escape 1 Disc!

A well-known bicycling website reviewer compared the 2018 and 2019 Eclipse 1 Disc models. In its price range, the 2018 scored a 9 and earned a respectable “Best Choice” award. The 2019 model? It scored a 7, with no accolades other than the internal cable routing. The reviewer’s closing comment was rather harsh, wondering if the visible shortcuts are indicative of internal and construction shortcuts which might make themselves known in real-world situations.

Driving just a few feet from multi-ton vehicles would prove to be one of those “real world situations.” It would prove to be a most inconvenient time to learn of any such shortcuts. I buy solid bikes that match my riding style and I keep them in like-new condition (my current Cannondale lasted through 30-years of heavy riding).. I’m not so attached to a bike brand & model – especially when it’s up to me to upgrade the new bike to make it road-ready. Why install and replace parts (to match the quality of the previous model), when you can buy a bike that simply needs to be adjusted to fit at the store? I’m looking for a bike that matches my riding style, as did the 2018 Eclipse 1 Disc. When I find such a bike then I’ll part with the money in a heartbeat. Apparently, Giant is facing the same problem with the 2019 Escape Disc. They’ve “improved” a “Best Buy,” by apparently reducing quality, lowering srandards, and increasing the price.