Giant XTC 27.5 2014

This the new Giant XTC 2014. A total new design from previous Giant XTC alloy models.

A few significant changes is the down tube is more leaning oval shaped compare to square. The frame is also lighter compare to legacy XTC models.

I've tested my friend's carbon version. Overall the handling of the bike is very smooth. This bike is really perfect for XC riding. However, my friend rarely ride XC. On the road, this bike also rolls smoothly.

The one that I rode had a Rockshox suspension fork instead of FOX that is shown in the picture. I'm unable to feel the suspension performance as I rode it on tarmac. For road use, it will have a slight disadvantage as it has only double crank. This bike cable are also internal inside the frame which is also another significant difference compare to the older models.

The component's given on my friend's bike a mix of Shimano Deore and SLX which is not that flashy or the lightest, but they all work great without any issues.