It may still be the middle of winter however Giant and LIV are turning up the heat with their sizzling new season range of bikes, apparel, helmets and parts. Last week both Giant and Liv officially unveiled their complete 2018 line-ups at an exclusive dealer launch up on the Gold Coast. [R]evolution was invited along and we got the opportunity to check out all of the new bikes and gear in the flesh and so today we’re going to run you through the new headlining models. But before we get into that lets first open our trusty notebook and run through our 5 top highlights from across the new ranges…
1 // Brand new gravity enduro specific SPD shoe called Line! It’s easy to see why this shoe has become the new ‘go to’ choice for Giant’s Factory Enduro team riders. The fit and function of the ‘Line’ is unreal. They’re nice and light, very comfortable on and off the bike thanks to their ExoBeam developed sole, and the ExoWrap 360 foot enclosure delivers a great feeling of stability and connection to the pedal.
2 // Paint jobs and styling across the entire range of Giant and Liv bike ranges are absolutely ‘on point’ this season. Lots of new vibrant colours that really ‘pop’ but at the same time have a great balanced ‘stealthy’ look to them. It has to be said that this could be the best looking complete bike range we’ve seen to date.
3 // Dropper posts on the ‘Fathom 29er’ hardtail range (starting at just $1399 complete) are a brilliant spec choice as it’ll unlock the true trail potential of this range, whilst also greatly increasing the category of rider that these bikes would be a great match for.
4 // Giant x 100% collaboration which is debuting an awesome new range of ‘co brand developed’ riding apparel (jersey, gloves and shorts) as well as a sweet full face DH helmet called ‘Status’ and pair of goggles called Reveal.
5 // Adjustable rear dropouts on the XTC allowing the bike to be compatible with 27.5+ or 29er wheels, or even a straight single speed set-up. A great design that has been really well finished down at the rear end of these bikes.
5.1 // (Bonus favorite shout out) The new digital ‘Control Tower’ floor pump is absolutely packed with cool features. Such as a pre-set pressure level and an overall great ‘durable’ high quality feel to it. Who’d have thought you could really improve upon the design of a humble ‘ol bike pump!?
Glory Advanced (carbon)
“Developed and fine tuned over several World Cup seasons, the latest generation Glory Advanced delivers Giant’s Factory pros every advantage in a sport decided by fractions of a second. Featuring 200mm of fully active Maestro rear suspension on a superlight, stiff and strong composite mainframe which has been optimized around 27.5 inch wheels.”
Glory Advanced 0 – $8499.00
GLORY ADVANCED KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite mainframe for ideal blend of weight and stiffness.
– Maestro Suspension Technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent rear suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for unmatched frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for precise front end steering stiffness.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– 12/150mm rear dropout design maximises stiffness and efficiency.
Glory (alloy)
“Pretty much all of the prowess and speed of the Glory Advanced, but without the carbon frame. The alloy Glory represents amazing value and downhill performance. With 200mm of fully active Maestro Suspension featuring a co-pivot shock mount, 27.5 inch wheels, a super stiff OverDrive steerer tube for unwavering control and steering precision, a 63-degree headtube angle and longer wheelbase, the 2018 Glory is your ticket to the podium.”
Glory 1 – $5999.00
Glory 2 – $3699.00
GLORY KEY FEATURES
– ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– Maestro Suspension Technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent rear suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for unmatched frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for precise front end steering stiffness.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– 12/150mm rear dropout design for maximum stiffness and efficiency.
Reign Advance (carbon)
“The all-new Reign Advanced features updated geometry with a longer cockpit made with a lightweight, super stiff Advanced grade composite mainframe and ALUXX SL aluminium rear swingarm. The updated trunnion mount Maestro suspension system delivers 160mm of smooth, active travel and incorporates a new Advanced Forged Composite upper rocker.”
Last week we spent several days test riding the 2018 Reign Advance at the bike’s global launch over in Europe (which you can read about here: https://revolutionmtb.com.au/exclusive-2018-giant-reign-launch-live-from-italy-first-look/ ) and this week we’re able to check out the complete Reign range (try saying that 10 times fast!)
Reign Advanced 0 – $8999.00
Reign Advanced 1 – $6499.00
REIGN ADVANCED KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite front frame triangle for an outstanding blend of minimal weight and stiffness.
– New Advanced Forged Composite technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness, superior strength and lighter weight.
– Maestro suspension technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– ISCG-05 chain guide compatibility.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Reign (alloy)
“The new Reign range showcases the same geometry and tech features of the Reign Advanced only with a full alloy frame.”
Reign 1 – $5999.00
Reign 2 – $3799.00
REIGN KEY FEATURES
– ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– New Advanced Forged Composite technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness, superior strength and lighter weight.
– Maestro suspension technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– ISCG-05 chain guide compatibility.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Trance Advanced (carbon)
“The quintessential ‘do everything, ride everything, trail bike’ is better than ever for 2018. Featuring 140mm of rear suspension travel and 150mm up front, plus the superior all-rounder performance of 27.5 inch wheels, refined Maestro suspension system includes a new trunnion mount shock and Advanced Forged composite rocker arm, which makes the whole chassis lighter and stronger. Overall frame geometry has evolved with shorter chainstays and a longer toptube for confident handling on aggressive terrain.”
Trance Advanced 0 – $8799.00
Trance Advanced 1 – $5999.00
TRANCE ADVANCED KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite mainframe for the ideal blend of weight and stiffness.
– Advanced Forged Composite technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness and lighter weight.
– Maestro Suspension Technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent rear suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Trunnion mount shock improves suspension performance.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– ISCG-05 chain guide compatibility.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Trance (alloy)
“The alloy frame brother of the Trance Advanced. Featuring a ALUXX SL aluminum frame with updated Maestro rear suspension featuring a trunnion mount shock and Advanced Forged Composite rocker arm. The result: 140mm of smooth, active rear travel to conquer the roughest trails. Frame geometry is designed around its 27.5 inch wheels, which deliver both quickness and control on rugged terrain. It also comes with a 150mm suspension fork for even more confidence, making it perfect for technical terrain.”
Trance 1 – $5299.00
Trance 2 – $3699.00
Trance 3 – $2999.00
TRANCE KEY FEATURES
– ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– New Advanced Forged composite technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness and lighter weight.
– Maestro Suspension Technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent rear suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Trunnion mount shock improves suspension performance.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– ISCG-05 chain guide compatibility.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Anthem Advanced Pro 29er (carbon)
“Fancy yourself winning a XC World Cup race? Look no further than the all new Anthem Advanced Pro 29er! More than two years in the making, this new addition to the legendary Anthem series blends the most up-to-date Maestro rear suspension with the speed, control and stability of totally reengineered 29er frame geometry. Handcrafted with a superlight Advanced grade composite mainframe and rear triangle, it features 90mm of smooth rear suspension travel and 100mm up front. The result: a fire breathing XC machine that’s all about speed and control. The new trunnion mount shock produces a lower leverage ratio for better pedalling and braking efficiency, and also allows for shorter chainstays to improve the bike’s climbing capabilities and agility. The Advanced Forged Composite upper rocker arm is lighter, stiffer and stronger than the previous aluminium version and the combination of wider Boost hub spacing and Giant Wheel Systems gives you super strong and stiff wheels for confident, precise handling on rugged trails.”
Anthem Advanced Pro 29er 0 – $8999.00
Anthem Advanced Pro 29er 1 – $5999.00
ANTHEM ADVANCED PRO 29ER KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite mainframe and rear swingarm for the ultimate blend of minimal weight and stiffness.
– New Advanced Forged Composite Technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness, superior strength and lighter weight.
– Maestro suspension technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 29 inch wheel specific geometry optimises acceleration and stability over XC terrain.
– New trunnion mount shock improves suspension performance and allows for tighter geometry.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Anthem (alloy)
“Built on a lightweight ALUXX SL aluminium frame that’s specifically engineered for quick and agile 27.5 inch wheels. It features the latest Maestro rear suspension design with a trunnion mount shock for smoother trail performance and an Advanced Forged upper rocker arm for added stiffness. It features an updated 130mm suspension fork up front and Boost hub spacing (110mm front/148mm rear), which improves wheel stiffness for even more control.”
Anthem 1 – $5299.00
Anthem 2 – $3699.00
Anthem 3 – $2999.00
ANTHEM KEY FEATURES
– ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– New Advanced Forged Composite technology upper rocker arm for increased stiffness and lighter weight.
– Maestro Suspension Technology delivers the most active, efficient and independent rear suspension.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– New trunnion mount shock improves suspension performance.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– Integrated downtube and chainstay protection prevents damage from trail debris.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
XTC Advanced 29er (carbon)
“A much loved staple horse in the line-up for many, many years, for 2018 the XTC hardtail range is better than ever. With its large diameter 29 inch wheels, and an option to switch to 27.5+, this lightweight, Advanced grade composite hardtail lets you choose one bike for multiple riding styles. In its 29er form, it’s ready for smooth, fast singletrack or XC racing. For rougher, more adventurous rides, you might choose the added cushion and control of 27.5+ wheels*. It features wider Boost hub spacing to improve wheel stiffness and add tyre clearance, plus a host of other features that let you dial in its performance for nearly any type of terrain. And as we mentioned earlier in our ‘Fav 5’, you can even transform the XTC into a singlespeed.”
XTC Advanced 29er 0 – $8499.00
XTC Advanced 29er 1 – $5199.00
XTC Advanced 29er 2 – $3699.00
XTC Advanced 29er 3 – $2799.00
XTC ADVANCED KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite mainframe for ideal blend of weight and stiffness.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– 27.5+ or 29er wheel compatible* for unrivalled versatility.
– Singlespeed convertible for multiple riding styles and preferences.
– Internal seatpost clamp for clean frameset aesthetics.
– Convertible dropout design for multiple wheel configurations.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and efficiency.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
XTC Advanced+ (carbon)
“The plus size wheeled XTC promises to be a highly versatile addition to the XTC hardtail family.”
XTC Advanced+ 2 – $ 3499.00
XTC ADVANCED+ KEY FEATURES
– Advanced grade composite frame for ideal blend of weight and stiffness.
– MegaDrive downtube connects the massive headtube and bottom bracket area for added frame stiffness.
– OverDrive steerer tube for front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for pedalling efficiency.
– Internal cable routing for sleek, uncluttered performance and looks.
– 27.5+ or 29er wheel compatible for unrivalled versatility.
– Singlespeed convertible for multiple riding styles and preferences.
– Internal seatpost clamp for clean frameset aesthetics.
– Convertible dropout design for multiple wheel configurations.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and efficiency.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Fathom 29er (alloy)
“Packing a punch in that mid one thousand dollar price bracket, the Fathom range is set to go off for 2018! With smooth rolling 29er wheels and a lightweight hardtail frame, Fathom 29 keeps you balanced and in control on all types of XC terrain. Built on an ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame, it features relaxed geometry that, when paired with its large diameter wheels, produces a stable ride quality that’s ideal for challenging XC trails. Efficiency on the climbs, and total control on the descents.”
Fathom 29er 1 – $1999.00
Fathom 29er 2 – $1399.00
FATHOM 29ER KEY FEATURES
– ALUXX SL grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– OverDrive steerer tube for precise front end steering stiffness.
– 29 inch wheel specific geometry provides stable off-road handling.
– 100mm travel front suspension offers control and confidence in XC terrain.
– Giant Tubeless System delivers seamless tubeless performance with
superior efficiency, ride quality and durability.
Stance (alloy)
“Offering exceptional value for money, the 2018 Stance is a duel suspension bike that packs more than enough ‘meat on the bone’ to open the true trail riding experience to a whole category of new riders. Featuring a lightweight ALUXX aluminium frameset and our innovative FlexPoint rear suspension, Stance is the perfect gateway to singletrack trail performance. The proven single pivot rear suspension design is durable, lightweight and super smooth with 120mm of travel. Frame geometry is optimised for the 27.5 inch wheels, ideal for a variety of trail adventures ranging from smooth singletrack to more technical terrain.”
Stance 2 – $2199.00
STANCE KEY FEAUTRES
– ALUXX grade aluminium frame provides lightweight, stiff and efficient performance.
– OverDrive steerer tube for precise front end steering stiffness.
– PowerCore bottom bracket for unparalleled pedalling efficiency.
– 27.5 inch wheel specific geometry optimises control, acceleration and stability.
– Dropper cable routing for clean performance and looks.
“Liv brand has been leading the charge in female riding and the explosion of female specific bikes and gear. The 2018 Liv range looks set to raise the bar even higher on all fronts with their most exciting and extensive range ever.”
Liv ‘Hail’
“Debuted in the range late last season, the Hail is Liv’s full blown gravity enduro machine. [R]evolution has spent a lot of time riding the Hail (and falling in love with its performance) which you can read about here:
www.revolutionmtb.com.au/livs-latest-models-hail-pique/ “
Hail Advanced 0 (carbon) $8799.00
Hail Advanced 1 (carbon) $6299.00
Hail 1 (alloy) $5299.00
Hail 2 (alloy) $3799.00
HAIL KEY FEATURES
– 160mm travel frame with a 160mm fork.
– Hydraulic disc brakes for precise braking and control in all terrain and variable weather conditions.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– Maestro Suspension and trunnion mount shock improves suspension performance.
– Advanced Forged Composite Technology is used to create a lightweight composite upper rocker arm that achieves impressive lateral stiffness
and strength.
– OverDrive steerer for precise steering, stiffness and control.
– Designed using Livs 3F Design Philosophy to build bikes for women.
– 27.5 inch wheel size optimises traction and efficiency.
– Hail models are available in both carbon and alloy frame options.
Liv ‘Pique’
“One step back from the ‘Hail’ on the gnarly scale is the Pique which still inspires confident, agile downhill ripping and will help you tackle the uphill with traction aboard the trunnion mounted Maestro suspension. The 27.5 inch wheel size ensures that bike handling is still nimble and playful, while maintaining the stable cornering and bump reducing qualities of a larger wheel size.”
Pique Advanced 0 (carbon) $8499.00
Pique Advanced 2 (carbon) $4799.00
Pique 3 (alloy) $3299.00
PIQUE KEY FEATURES
– 130mm travel fork and 120mm Maestro Suspension trunnion mount
rear shock improves suspension performance.
– Hydraulic disc brakes for precise braking and control in all terrain and
variable weather conditions.
– Boost 15x110mm (front) and 12X148mm (rear) hub spacing improves
stiffness, trail handling and tyre clearance.
– Lightweight and highly durable frame.
– Advanced Forged Composite Technology is used to create a lightweight
composite upper rocker arm that achieves impressive lateral stiffness
and strength.
– OverDrive steerer for precise steering, stiffness and control.
– Designed using Liv’s 3F Design Philosophy to build bikes for women.
– 27.5 inch wheel size optimises traction and efficiency.
– Pique models are available in both carbon and alloy frame options.
Full-E+
“Gaint’s headlining ‘E’ trail machine is looking might fine for 2018. Featuring the all new SyncDrive Pro motor, the Full-E is a highly capable trail bike which gives you a massive 80Nm torque to conquer steep climbs and enjoy every aspect of your off-road adventures. Featuring 140mm of smooth Maestro suspension travel, and frame geometry that’s designed for 27.5 inch wheels, it’s a fun way to tackle technical trails.”
Full-E+ Pro $6499.00
Full-E+ KEY FEATURES
– Hybrid Cycling technology to conquer gruelling climbs.
– ALUXX SL aluminium technology for lightweight, stiff and strong frameset.
– Maestro suspension technology for smooth descending on rugged terrain.
– 27.5 inch wheel technology for superior off-road performance.
– Giant SyncDrive Pro 80Nm central motor, powered by Yamaha.
– Giant EnergyPak500 lithium-ion battery.
– Giant PedalPlus 4-sensor technology.
– Giant RideControl EVO.
– Contact Switch remote height adjust seatpost.
– Hydraulic disc brakes for superior control.
Dirt-E+
“The Dirt-E+ hardtail’s compact SyncDrive Sport motor delivers a smooth and instantaneous boost that blends seamlessly with your own pedaling power-so you can ride stronger and longer, even on steep and challenging trails.”
Dirt-E+ 1 Pro $5299.00
Dirt-E+ 2 Pro $4499.00
DIRT-E+ KEY FEATURES
– Hybrid Cycling Technology to enjoy more challenging XC terrain and steeper climbs.
– ALUXX SL Aluminium Technology for the best overall ride quality.
– 27.5 inch wheel technology for a balanced, confident ride quality.
– Giant SyncDrive Pro 80Nm central motor, powered by Yamaha.
– Giant EnergyPak500 lithium-ion battery with side pull functionality.
– Giant PedalPlus 4-sensor technology.
– Giant RideControl EVO.
– Optimised geometry with improved vertical compliance by 50%.
– Best-in-class battery and motor integration.
– Tubeless tyres & plus-size tyre clearance.
– Boost thru-axles front and rear.
– Reduced to standard MTB Q-factor (168mm).
Giant x 100% Colab goggles and helmet
‘Status’ full face helmet – $289.95
- Ultra-light fibreglass shell
- Active Cooling System maximises airflow for optimal ventilation
- Washable comfort liner, cheek pads and chin strap covers
- Compatible with inflatable emergency helmet release systems
- Padded chin bar interior for enhanced impact
‘Reveal’ goggles – $79.95
– Anti-fog and scratch resistant lens
- Lens curvature provides comfort and enhanced field of vision
- 9 pin lens retention system
- Shares the same lens and tear-off profile as 100%
- Frame is constructed with flexible and durable urethane
- Oversized 45mm silicon coated strap
- Triple-layer foam enhances comfort and moisture management
- Mirrored lens with spare clear lens included
– Available in white or black.
For full spec listings and more information about the entire Giant and Liv 2018 ranges visit your local Giant / Liv dealer or head across to: www.giant-bicycles.com/au/