As an owner of the older (2020) Trance 29 I agree with you on pretty much everything. Great overview! However, I'd offer one caveat regarding downhill performance. I originally bought the bike as a return to the sport after a decade off. Previously I raced DH and stuck to freeride. The Trance was purposely bought to underbike and limit the trouble I could get myself into until I regained some skills. It did just that and I quickly found the limits of the downhill performance. However, I think it is a super versatile platform for the right conditions with a few changes. I swapped to very aggressive tires (assegai, DHR), cushcore F&R, oneup bars, and MT7 (I'm a heavy guy) and this thing holds it's own against 160+ bikes descending in the right conditions. Provided you're not in lots of chunk or repeated compressions, this thing rips. I am able to maintain a top 5% strava on many of the descents (not bragging, just trying to give a reference point against a large data pool). It corners like you're on rails, but it's not a free ride. You need to think and activity choose your lines carefully. You nailed it when you said it's not plush. This becomes apparent when it gets chunky. The bike can do almost anything you throw at it, but when things get rough you quickly go through the travel and are forced to slow down. If you're looking for a versatile platform that can be pushed in either direction depending on the setup, you'll be super happy with the Trance 29. Just my 2 cents. Have fun out there everyone!
You guys are doing great work here on this platform with your reviews/videos. Thank you for putting out solid content with real-world/applicable information. Thanks!
I got a 2020 trance 29er and I’ll say 2 good things and 1 bad about it. 1. +Total pilot bike (very responsive, very fast, comfortable at speed) 2. + The spec of mine is outrageous for the price (fox, sram eagle, maxxis) 1. - For how fast the bike is it needs better/bigger brakes (my first upgrade from stock)
I was waiting on the 2021 Trance 29 but they couldn't delivered and ended up with a Norco Optic and have been happy with it, never got to compare the two, I'm guessing from the reviews the Trance is a climber and the Optic is a descender. Great review as always.
A lot of TH-cam reviewers do not seem to rate giant bikes. Not sure why that is, seems unfair. This sounds like a great bike if you don't ride anything narly. I'm currently riding the X version from 2021. Awesome bike but seems slightly harder getting it going up than my 2017 27.5 Trance. But going down it just gives so much more confidence. This bike may be a good option. Thanks for the objective review.
@@KnjazGromowladny I'm really not sure where the 27.5 bikes sit now. Just making the observation that sometimes getting the 29er wheels spinning takes more effort. The newer Trance models have much slacker geo than the older 2017 model.
@@AaronSchroderI actually have a 2017 27.5 trance 2 and I don’t feel it efficient in climbs and I want to upgrade to a newer Trance X for more efficient climbing and just sending it in the downhills what’s your opinion? Do you recommend that upgrade?
I have had two different gens of the trance and have loved both of them. People care waaaay too much about the good but trendy names that are overpriced. When I'm done with this trance, I'll but another one.
How does it compare to the Ripley or Ripley AF on ups and downs? How much did your build weigh? The frame looks burly and dare I say heavy with that Float X. Thx for the great review. Not a lot out there except on the live valve versions. Appreciate you reviewing this more typical suspension set up.
I think it’s a little more XC than the Ripley. It climbs more efficiently but descends a little more timidly. That build was 29 lb with pedals and a bottle cage. I bet it gets a lot lighter though. We built this one slightly burly.
Hey Conor. i would like to give you the credit for my RIPMO, Ibis. Thank you for your vids, I decide to purchase that bike, now, I am thinking about to purchase this Trance 29, Giant bike. My question for you is the bike that you just ride was a carbon frame or alloy frame ? what would be your opinion if i want to buy the alloy frame, do you think is going to be really heavy for uphill?? Im still debating between RIPLEY AF or TRANCE 29, since Giant is selling this bike on sale i wanna go for it, but, i would like your opinion before . PLEASE . THANK YOU AGAIN
This one was a custom build using the carbon frame. The alloy frame would be just fine. If you're buying a complete build, keep in mind that the alloy frame builds also have cheaper/heavier components on them. So it wont just be the difference in frame material. It will end up being significantly heavier. Some people care about a pound or two - others wont even notice.
Great review. Great format. Dig your style. Not sure I buy into the steeper STA on a short travel bike. Long hours in the saddle on steeper STA bike puts a bit too much weight on the hands. Its one of the reasons I went with the original Trance 29 as it has a more traditional STA for a xc/trail bike. That said, I'd replace the original version with this if I have to. As far as handling rugged, trail... where these slacker, long travel bikes loose a bit of ground is not so much in the chunk, but rather in taking the chunk at super fast speed. I think you mentioned this later in the video. I split my time between xc/trail, AM, full on DH with 3 dedicated bikes. A rider just has to be honest with themselves as to what type of trails they ride and how they like to ride them. I think if I could only have one mtb, it would be my Trance 29. Fact is the vast majority of the ride is not bombing chunk at mach speed, but rather in the slow tech and climbs - might as well have a bike that makes the most of that.
I feel the opposite. With bikes getting longer and longer, you kind of need the steeper seat tube angle so you're not as stretched out. You're able to sit more upright and keep the weight through your hips rather than leaning forward while reaching for the bars.
As a previous gen Trance 29 owner I would have gone for a new Trance 29 if they had specced a good mid spec bike without Live Valve. Also, the in frame storage “lever”, WTF?! Anyhoo, really enjoying my new Top Fuel 9.8XT with a 130mm Pike up front
Not sure why, but I always felt the Giant bikes always felt bulky during climbs. But they still climbed great. I found the Ibis and Orbea are the most comfortable on climbs. Will you do a review on the Orbea Oiz TR?
Nice review, it seems that trance 29 and 29 X have low bb height in low setting, did you have pedal strikes and what do you think from your experience ? thanks
I'm looking for the elusive bike that I could comfortably finish an XC race or Enduro race with nothing more than a tire/wheel swap. I don't race to win, just to finish and have a good time. Which bike would fit the bill? Trance X? Trance 29? Ripley AF? Something else? Thanks for the awesome content!
Trance X is a happy middle that's a good climber and a good descender. But I'd do a Ripley AF with a DPX2 and Factory 34 w/ Fit4, double DHR2 for enduro and Rekon/Rekon Race for XC
@@outsider1733 Fit4 for the lockout for XC races during climbs and sprints. But I personally went back to a Grip2 after a while. I prefer fast tech descents, so a finely tuned 130mm Factory goes a long way for comfort and control. I'm also more of a sit-and-spin rider, even during XC race, so I don't lock out my suspension. Ibis are very supportive bikes already, so you won't feel like your losing power in suspension bobbing
Is that one of the international version paint schemes? My buddy with shop hookups just got a white/marble color that seems the same. Not seeing it in the US market.
Owning a Orbea OIZ now, bummed to see this leans more Cross Country than trail as you say. I hoped it could be an upgrade from my current CC bike. But does not seem like it.
That’s kind of the nature of the bike. Its not really meant for chunky trails. You could pay sound with volume spacers to try to get it a little softer off the top without compromising bottom out support.
If you had to choose between the Trance and the Trance X, which would you choose? I live in the Midwest (Illinois) and ride a combination of technical and flowy trails.
For Illinois I'd say the trance 1 is fine. I've rode the Glendale to Dixon springs and it handles all of it. In addition you can ride the whole tunnel hill trail and stay in comfort. Also, the trance 1 has a geometry adjustments that, I believe, can make it better for downhill.
I’m pretty sure that I’ve worn this video out, while waiting for my ‘22 Trance 29 1 to show up. Probably be another few views before that happens. 🤷🏻♂️
How would a regular Trance 29 compared with a Trance X 29? I’m torn getting either 1 of them, i was thinking more X, for being a heavy rider!! Most my riding is single track, most time it’s flat.. but also got some rocks/roots nasty terrain! I’m afraid getting regular T29 i’ll bottom out! i currently owned a 2018 Trance 2, but wanna move into 29er
Check out the written companion piece to this video (link in description) for that comparison. Also don't be afraid to bottom out. It should happen every ride. I don't think big people need ore travel. Thats the beauty of suspension. It can be tuned to rider size, weight and style.
I was torn too. I went with the trance 1. I believe that I made the right choice. It is a very comfortable ride and I think it's going to be able to handle the chunks as well. I'm going to find out soon.
How would you compare this bike to the rocky mountian instinct you reviewed? Which was was better uphill and downhill and which would you prefer if you only had 1 bike in your garage?
How would you say this Trance 29 compares to the old one? I've upgraded my old Trance 29 2019 Advanced 1 pretty heavily and thinking of upgrading to a new frame.
@@bikersedgeI'm surprised you found the new Trance more XC than the old when on paper it should be a more confident descender. Can you explain? This leads me to wondering about shock tune. Do you think experimenting with more sag for a bit more plushness would pay dividends on the downs?
I don’t think it’s the shock tune. I think it’s the suspension design. It pedals way more efficiently. The old Trance had a bit more of a plush feel. This one feels more firm and efficient.
I had the Spur and wanted something more trail and plush for my rides on medium chunky trails by my house, so I got this bike because bigger fork and slacker head tube. It came with the Fox Live Valve and had a rough time on it. Now I got rid of Live Valve and put Fox Factory new grip X and float on it and the front end still feels harsh (a little better) but Im still frustrated I just want a comfortable plush bike. Should I get a Ripmo or something? What bikes feel plush and damp?
You’re not really going to find a “plush” bike in the 120mm category. The thing that makes them quick and zippy uphill is the same thing that keeps them from feeling plush and comfy on the DH. It’s a matter of priorities. If plush is your number one priority then get a big bike with a lot of travel and an active suspension platform.
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u altitude, Megatower, sb160, sentinel. Keep in mind those will pay a huge penalty on the climbs and will handle very differently. They’re big bikes designed for rough and fast descents.
@@bikersedge If you take the door off it has a plastic plate and for bolts and the cables are zip tied, Im thinking you could flip the whole thing around? I don't know for sure but I thought I saw a video that I cant find any more where the nob was on top.
You can fit an Elite Fly 750 (25oz) in there - best option I've found. Tried a Wolf Tooth B-RAD combined with spacers thinking I may be able to shift down but the added height kills it. Happy with the Elite.
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u Have a medium as well, trust me that exact water bottle fits with a couple mm to spare before grazing the underside of the top tube. I just put a small strip of helicopter tape under just in case any rubbing but so far not a scratch. Just be sure you get a side-mount cage (I have the one from Giant) and move it as far toward the latch knob as possible. The Elite Fly 550 (18.5oz) will definitely fit with room to spare. That's what I carry in my Bontrager Rapid Pack so I'm carrying 1.3L (~44oz) total.
For the most part, yes. It has much quicker handling. It's lightly less stable though, so if your turns are steep and bumpy, the X might actually be better.
Please help! My Trance Advanced Pro 29 2 has a creaking noise, it's been to the bike shop twice and they can't figure it out. They regreased the bottom bracket, derailleur hanger, pedals and it still creaks while I'm sitting and pedaling especially on the uphill parts. Its only 3 months old.
@@bikersedge Great review. Have an Advanced Pro 2 with stock Minion/Aggressor. Looking to switch over to Ground Control T7s. Any experience with these on the Trance? Reason I'm looking to change is primarily control in tight corners, plus better speed in the flats. Riding Southern Ontario (loam, roots, tight technical corners, sharp climbs, short descents) and finding the Trance fishes too much going around tight corners. Chip is in high position which improved, however took a buddy's Epic Evo for a spin and had much better control. Of course the bike plays a factor but I was quite impressed with the stock tires on the Epic.
BB height can be a tough thing to measure. Tire pressure, tire size and sag can all effect it. Giant measures BB drop instead. It’s 45mm in high and 35mm in low.
I love my Trance 29 BUT.... I'm not impressed with GIANTs warranty service... I've been waiting SIX MONTHS, since the second week I owned it, for a front wheel warranty replacement from my local GIANT dealer. Not even a fancy wheel...Their generic AM 30 29" wheel.
Unfortunately that’s not a problem unique to Giant. All the brands are in the same boat. We’ve seen extremely long wait times on almost all warranty stuff. Brands simply just don’t have product.
@@chrisbraun72 How do you like the Trance 29 so far? im thinking of trading in my Fathom 1 for a 2022 Trance. Think it could handle some of the chunk and tech here in colorado?
@@Shred_Tube For where I live it's perfect. Mostly long distance riding single track with roots and baby head rocks. The Trace 29 is like a Subaru Crosstrek, sporty feel with a bit a ground clearance so it can can handle some off road but it's no Jeep Cherokee. The Trance 29 is almost a hardtail version of the Fathom, same front travel and similar geo but with some rear cushioning but If it's more chunk your after... maybe the Trance X?
As an owner of the older (2020) Trance 29 I agree with you on pretty much everything. Great overview! However, I'd offer one caveat regarding downhill performance.
I originally bought the bike as a return to the sport after a decade off. Previously I raced DH and stuck to freeride. The Trance was purposely bought to underbike and limit the trouble I could get myself into until I regained some skills. It did just that and I quickly found the limits of the downhill performance. However, I think it is a super versatile platform for the right conditions with a few changes.
I swapped to very aggressive tires (assegai, DHR), cushcore F&R, oneup bars, and MT7 (I'm a heavy guy) and this thing holds it's own against 160+ bikes descending in the right conditions.
Provided you're not in lots of chunk or repeated compressions, this thing rips. I am able to maintain a top 5% strava on many of the descents (not bragging, just trying to give a reference point against a large data pool). It corners like you're on rails, but it's not a free ride. You need to think and activity choose your lines carefully. You nailed it when you said it's not plush. This becomes apparent when it gets chunky.
The bike can do almost anything you throw at it, but when things get rough you quickly go through the travel and are forced to slow down.
If you're looking for a versatile platform that can be pushed in either direction depending on the setup, you'll be super happy with the Trance 29. Just my 2 cents. Have fun out there everyone!
This was the ONLY review to answer my questions about this bike...exactly the kind of bike i am looking for..
Glad the video helped!
Same here, out of all videos, you answered my questions. Thanks a lot
Appreciate tossing in the comparison against the Spur! I LOVE my Spur but it's always nice to hear what the competition is bringing.
I’m going to try to do that with every bike going forward.
Great review. I especially appreciate your "Who's It For?" commentary. Love Antelope Island for winter riding. Just gotta watch out for the buffalo!
Stoked you liked it! You’d outrun all the bison on this thing. So fast.
I know this is an old vid, but I am glad you got the frame only without the live valve. This bike definitely does not need it. I love mine.
I agree. This one is ultra efficient.
2023 Trance X Advance Pro 1 with Fox Live valve is INSANE. WOW. what a bike.
I just got the 2022 with live valve. I've only rode it twice and I'm already in love with it.
You guys are doing great work here on this platform with your reviews/videos. Thank you for putting out solid content with real-world/applicable information. Thanks!
Stoked you like the videos! Thanks for the feedback.
I got a 2020 trance 29er and I’ll say 2 good things and 1 bad about it.
1. +Total pilot bike (very responsive, very fast, comfortable at speed)
2. + The spec of mine is outrageous for the price (fox, sram eagle, maxxis)
1. - For how fast the bike is it needs better/bigger brakes (my first upgrade from stock)
Your videos are so well produced. Keep at it.
Glad you like them!
Appreciate all the hard work you doods put it 🙏🙌🤘
I appreciate that!
Had a Trance 29. Was a good bike for the money. Just upgraded to a SB130
I think Giant makes a great bike, period. Not just "for the money." So good.
I was waiting on the 2021 Trance 29 but they couldn't delivered and ended up with a Norco Optic and have been happy with it, never got to compare the two, I'm guessing from the reviews the Trance is a climber and the Optic is a descender. Great review as always.
You pretty much nailed the assessment. Optic is rad!
I think the trance has an option for a slacker fork for some good descents.
Great real personal review. Just subscribed. This bike has to be the best all arounder for the category.
Hey thanks. Glad you liked it. It's a pretty solid option, especially if you like climbing.
I like the review. Feels like Giant doesn’t get much love for some reason
I’m with you on that. Very underrated.
A lot of TH-cam reviewers do not seem to rate giant bikes. Not sure why that is, seems unfair. This sounds like a great bike if you don't ride anything narly. I'm currently riding the X version from 2021. Awesome bike but seems slightly harder getting it going up than my 2017 27.5 Trance. But going down it just gives so much more confidence. This bike may be a good option. Thanks for the objective review.
@@AaronSchroder do you want to say, that Trance is a kind of sweet spot between 27.5 and trance X?
@@KnjazGromowladny I'm really not sure where the 27.5 bikes sit now. Just making the observation that sometimes getting the 29er wheels spinning takes more effort. The newer Trance models have much slacker geo than the older 2017 model.
@@AaronSchroderI actually have a 2017 27.5 trance 2 and I don’t feel it efficient in climbs and I want to upgrade to a newer Trance X for more efficient climbing and just sending it in the downhills what’s your opinion? Do you recommend that upgrade?
I have had two different gens of the trance and have loved both of them. People care waaaay too much about the good but trendy names that are overpriced. When I'm done with this trance, I'll but another one.
I always feel like Giant doesn't get the credit it deserves.
How does it compare to the Ripley or Ripley AF on ups and downs? How much did your build weigh? The frame looks burly and dare I say heavy with that Float X. Thx for the great review. Not a lot out there except on the live valve versions. Appreciate you reviewing this more typical suspension set up.
I think it’s a little more XC than the Ripley. It climbs more efficiently but descends a little more timidly.
That build was 29 lb with pedals and a bottle cage. I bet it gets a lot lighter though. We built this one slightly burly.
I found the Trance handled more XC than the Ripley. Though I found climbing was more comfortable on the Ripley and a way better descender.
Hey Conor. i would like to give you the credit for my RIPMO, Ibis. Thank you for your vids, I decide to purchase that bike, now, I am thinking about to purchase this Trance 29, Giant bike. My question for you is the bike that you just ride was a carbon frame or alloy frame ? what would be your opinion if i want to buy the alloy frame, do you think is going to be really heavy for uphill?? Im still debating between RIPLEY AF or TRANCE 29, since Giant is selling this bike on sale i wanna go for it, but, i would like your opinion before . PLEASE . THANK YOU AGAIN
This one was a custom build using the carbon frame. The alloy frame would be just fine. If you're buying a complete build, keep in mind that the alloy frame builds also have cheaper/heavier components on them. So it wont just be the difference in frame material. It will end up being significantly heavier. Some people care about a pound or two - others wont even notice.
Great review. Great format. Dig your style. Not sure I buy into the steeper STA on a short travel bike. Long hours in the saddle on steeper STA bike puts a bit too much weight on the hands. Its one of the reasons I went with the original Trance 29 as it has a more traditional STA for a xc/trail bike. That said, I'd replace the original version with this if I have to. As far as handling rugged, trail... where these slacker, long travel bikes loose a bit of ground is not so much in the chunk, but rather in taking the chunk at super fast speed. I think you mentioned this later in the video. I split my time between xc/trail, AM, full on DH with 3 dedicated bikes. A rider just has to be honest with themselves as to what type of trails they ride and how they like to ride them. I think if I could only have one mtb, it would be my Trance 29. Fact is the vast majority of the ride is not bombing chunk at mach speed, but rather in the slow tech and climbs - might as well have a bike that makes the most of that.
I feel the opposite. With bikes getting longer and longer, you kind of need the steeper seat tube angle so you're not as stretched out. You're able to sit more upright and keep the weight through your hips rather than leaning forward while reaching for the bars.
As a previous gen Trance 29 owner I would have gone for a new Trance 29 if they had specced a good mid spec bike without Live Valve. Also, the in frame storage “lever”, WTF?! Anyhoo, really enjoying my new Top Fuel 9.8XT with a 130mm Pike up front
Yeah. It's a bit of a bummer that they only have the Live Valve version.
Quality review, so easy to understand! So it's a bit less XC than the Exie? Sounds like it sits right between Exie and Ripley...
Hey thanks for the feedback. Yeah I'd probably put it between the Exie and Ripley.
Not sure why, but I always felt the Giant bikes always felt bulky during climbs. But they still climbed great. I found the Ibis and Orbea are the most comfortable on climbs. Will you do a review on the Orbea Oiz TR?
We’ve already done one. It’s a year or two old at this point.
Funny, I've felt the same about the trek ex line even though they climb perfectly fine.
Good looking bike. The paint job looks weathered or dirty. Digging it with that Pike. 👍
Looks amazing in person.
I have a trance 1 in phantom green and it's beautiful. Ha
Nice review, it seems that trance 29 and 29 X have low bb height in low setting, did you have pedal strikes and what do you think from your experience ? thanks
Didn't have any pedal strike issues. It's not something I really suffer from. I've found technique goes a long way in preventing them.
Torn between this and the Hightower 2 in R build. Its $400 more. What do you think you would recommend for a very large rider?
Very different bikes. I’d say if you prefer XC riding this will be better. If you want a versatile all mountain bike it’s tough to beat the HT.
I'm looking for the elusive bike that I could comfortably finish an XC race or Enduro race with nothing more than a tire/wheel swap. I don't race to win, just to finish and have a good time. Which bike would fit the bill? Trance X? Trance 29? Ripley AF? Something else? Thanks for the awesome content!
Tough to find a bike that will do both. Maybe the Trance X or the SB130. The Rocky Mountain Instinct might fit the bill too.
Trance X is a happy middle that's a good climber and a good descender.
But I'd do a Ripley AF with a DPX2 and Factory 34 w/ Fit4, double DHR2 for enduro and Rekon/Rekon Race for XC
@@cliffsangelsphotography That's an interesting idea. I assume you'd go with Fit4 for weight savings? Thanks for the thoughts!
@@outsider1733 Fit4 for the lockout for XC races during climbs and sprints. But I personally went back to a Grip2 after a while. I prefer fast tech descents, so a finely tuned 130mm Factory goes a long way for comfort and control. I'm also more of a sit-and-spin rider, even during XC race, so I don't lock out my suspension. Ibis are very supportive bikes already, so you won't feel like your losing power in suspension bobbing
Is that one of the international version paint schemes? My buddy with shop hookups just got a white/marble color that seems the same. Not seeing it in the US market.
This is the frame only paint job. Standard in the U.S.
I think this is my next bike and would like to try extending the fork travel to 140mm think it could be a great allrounder!
I don’t think that would be a bad idea at all.
Owning a Orbea OIZ now, bummed to see this leans more Cross Country than trail as you say. I hoped it could be an upgrade from my current CC bike. But does not seem like it.
There are tons of options in the category. you'll be able to find something a bit more "trail" than your Oiz.
Have you got any suggestions to make this bike handle chunky trails a little better?im finding it very stiff in the rear.
That’s kind of the nature of the bike. Its not really meant for chunky trails. You could pay sound with volume spacers to try to get it a little softer off the top without compromising bottom out support.
@@bikersedge ok yeah I will try that,thanks
I just opened my rear shock and it has the biggest volume spacer in it already,and I just ordered a pack of spacers,not sure what to do now?!!
Great review! What gloves are those?
Hey thanks. They’re Giro DND gloves.
Finally a good review.....abit too late though 😁
Cool bike and cool build.
Very cool
LOVE those gloves!! What are they ??
Giro DND
Where is this channel based out of? Always riding the prettiest trails.
Salt Lake area. Utah doesn’t suck.
@@bikersedge most of your videos are shot there?
@@jasonnowwhat5041 all of them except for the red rock desert stuff.
@@bikersedge awesome thanks. I live in Phoenix now but move around a lot and always on the lookout for epic trails!
If you had to choose between the Trance and the Trance X, which would you choose? I live in the Midwest (Illinois) and ride a combination of technical and flowy trails.
Personally I like the Trance X for my style of riding. Im not much of a go uphill fast kind of guy.
For Illinois I'd say the trance 1 is fine. I've rode the Glendale to Dixon springs and it handles all of it. In addition you can ride the whole tunnel hill trail and stay in comfort. Also, the trance 1 has a geometry adjustments that, I believe, can make it better for downhill.
What do you think of the longer chainstays on this bike, Any positives or negatives?
I’m a tall guy so I like a little longer chainstay. These are right around the sweet spot I think.
What is your mic and camera set up whenever you do a sit down commentary? Like at 13:05
I have a Sony A7sIII and I use the Tascam lav mic.
Was this the trance 29 1, 2 or 3? Thanks!
I’m pretty sure that I’ve worn this video out, while waiting for my ‘22 Trance 29 1 to show up. Probably be another few views before that happens. 🤷🏻♂️
How would a regular Trance 29 compared with a Trance X 29?
I’m torn getting either 1 of them, i was thinking more X, for being a heavy rider!! Most my riding is single track, most time it’s flat.. but also got some rocks/roots nasty terrain! I’m afraid getting regular T29 i’ll bottom out! i currently owned a 2018 Trance 2, but wanna move into 29er
Check out the written companion piece to this video (link in description) for that comparison. Also don't be afraid to bottom out. It should happen every ride. I don't think big people need ore travel. Thats the beauty of suspension. It can be tuned to rider size, weight and style.
I was torn too. I went with the trance 1. I believe that I made the right choice. It is a very comfortable ride and I think it's going to be able to handle the chunks as well. I'm going to find out soon.
How would you compare this bike to the rocky mountian instinct you reviewed? Which was was better uphill and downhill and which would you prefer if you only had 1 bike in your garage?
I think this bike more closely compares to the Element. the Instinct isn't really that close.
@@bikersedge could you elaborate on that a bit more?
The instinct is a Trail/All mountain bike. The Trance 29 is basically an overbuilt XC bike.
@@bikersedge Thank you! You guys are great and super informative!
How would you rate the sb115 against the trance.
Really liking the 115 as a next bike.
This climbs much faster. I'd say they're fairly evenly matched on the DH.
How would you say this Trance 29 compares to the old one? I've upgraded my old Trance 29 2019 Advanced 1 pretty heavily and thinking of upgrading to a new frame.
This one feels a little more XC to me than the old one. Pedals better for sure.
@@bikersedgeI'm surprised you found the new Trance more XC than the old when on paper it should be a more confident descender. Can you explain? This leads me to wondering about shock tune. Do you think experimenting with more sag for a bit more plushness would pay dividends on the downs?
I don’t think it’s the shock tune. I think it’s the suspension design. It pedals way more efficiently. The old Trance had a bit more of a plush feel. This one feels more firm and efficient.
Does the Trance pedal as good as the Anthem? Considering gettint rid of the Anthem and Trance X and just building a Trance.
No it doesn’t. The anthem is much more XC.
@@bikersedgeso would you say the Trance is right in the middle between the Anthem and the Trance X?
@@Lenser yes. It’s somewhere between those two.
How does the Trance scale compared to the Yt izzo core2? , were you lucky enough to try the Yt izzo core?
Haven’t ridden the Izzo. Not a brand we have access to at the shop.
I had the Spur and wanted something more trail and plush for my rides on medium chunky trails by my house, so I got this bike because bigger fork and slacker head tube. It came with the Fox Live Valve and had a rough time on it. Now I got rid of Live Valve and put Fox Factory new grip X and float on it and the front end still feels harsh (a little better) but Im still frustrated I just want a comfortable plush bike. Should I get a Ripmo or something? What bikes feel plush and damp?
You’re not really going to find a “plush” bike in the 120mm category. The thing that makes them quick and zippy uphill is the same thing that keeps them from feeling plush and comfy on the DH. It’s a matter of priorities. If plush is your number one priority then get a big bike with a lot of travel and an active suspension platform.
@@bikersedge Thanks! what bikes have you ridden that feel plush and comfortable?
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u altitude, Megatower, sb160, sentinel. Keep in mind those will pay a huge penalty on the climbs and will handle very differently. They’re big bikes designed for rough and fast descents.
@@bikersedge Yeah those are big bikes but I'm addicted to damp plush feeling on the trail. Will Exo+ casing tires smooth out the trail more?
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u not a ton. Technically you can run a bit less pressure in those but not enough to make a little bike feel “plush”
Hi, I was wondering if you could flip this in frame storage door upside down? I hardly have any room for a water bottle. thanks in advance.
Really doubt that’s possible.
@@bikersedge If you take the door off it has a plastic plate and for bolts and the cables are zip tied, Im thinking you could flip the whole thing around? I don't know for sure but I thought I saw a video that I cant find any more where the nob was on top.
You can fit an Elite Fly 750 (25oz) in there - best option I've found. Tried a Wolf Tooth B-RAD combined with spacers thinking I may be able to shift down but the added height kills it. Happy with the Elite.
@@fromoutwest Thank you, I have a medium but dont see how I can put a 25 oz in there but I will look into it. Would be cool though!
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u Have a medium as well, trust me that exact water bottle fits with a couple mm to spare before grazing the underside of the top tube. I just put a small strip of helicopter tape under just in case any rubbing but so far not a scratch. Just be sure you get a side-mount cage (I have the one from Giant) and move it as far toward the latch knob as possible. The Elite Fly 550 (18.5oz) will definitely fit with room to spare. That's what I carry in my Bontrager Rapid Pack so I'm carrying 1.3L (~44oz) total.
Would you say the trance 29 would be better through turns then the x?
For the most part, yes. It has much quicker handling. It's lightly less stable though, so if your turns are steep and bumpy, the X might actually be better.
differences in that kind of suspension betwen dpx2 and new float x?.... Thankssssssss
I haven’t done any specific back to back testing between the two. From what riding I’ve done I don’t think there’s a huge difference though.
Please help! My Trance Advanced Pro 29 2 has a creaking noise, it's been to the bike shop twice and they can't figure it out. They regreased the bottom bracket, derailleur hanger, pedals and it still creaks while I'm sitting and pedaling especially on the uphill parts. Its only 3 months old.
Creaks can be pretty tough to diagnose and fix. I find the easiest fix is a pair of headphones.
@@bikersedge Lol, oh noo's :( My dream bike cant creak its not fair!
@@bikersedge Would you recommend adhesive/primer compound for the press fit BB?
@@user-rj9ui3sz8u all bikes creak at some point. I personally wash my bikes extremely rarely and I swear it helps. Water isn’t great for bearings.
@user-rj9ui3sz8u no.
What tires did you exactly have on the bike?
Kenda Pinners
@@bikersedge Great review. Have an Advanced Pro 2 with stock Minion/Aggressor. Looking to switch over to Ground Control T7s. Any experience with these on the Trance? Reason I'm looking to change is primarily control in tight corners, plus better speed in the flats. Riding Southern Ontario (loam, roots, tight technical corners, sharp climbs, short descents) and finding the Trance fishes too much going around tight corners. Chip is in high position which improved, however took a buddy's Epic Evo for a spin and had much better control. Of course the bike plays a factor but I was quite impressed with the stock tires on the Epic.
which is better trance 29 1 or 2?
@@riderNdriver with giant the smaller the number the higher build quality.
hi all. giant trance pro 29 without the liv valve or trek top fuel
Not sure. We don’t carry Trek so I haven’t ridden the top fuel. Can’t say.
So is that the maestro suspension or single pivot?
Maestro
can you tell me what the bb height is in low and high mode?
BB height can be a tough thing to measure. Tire pressure, tire size and sag can all effect it. Giant measures BB drop instead. It’s 45mm in high and 35mm in low.
What state is this trail in? Looks so fun.
Utah. Antelope island.
@@bikersedge thank you! Gonna have to make a trip out that way
Could you compare this Trance to the Orbea Occam, please?
I don’t think they really compare. They’re not all that similar in terms of application or ride feel. This bike is way more XC
@@bikersedge Thanks
What do you think about the trance 2021 29 3?
It’s the older frame style. I used to have one of those. I raced True Grit on it. Great bike.
@@bikersedge do you think I should go for the newer 2022 model the 2022 trance 29 2 instead? It comes available on July.
@@ivannunez8795 I think the new model climbs better but feels a little bit more XC on the DH too. I liked it a lot for XC riding.
Is it good for some jumps on bike parks?
It wouldn’t be my first choice for hitting jumps.
@@bikersedgebut i am coming from full xc bike . Then you would think that this would jump better right ?
@@whodis4463 Yes it will jump better than a full XC bike. Still not ideal for jumps at bike parks.
What type of trance is that
We built it from the frame up.
for nasty rides there is REIGN! 🥰
I love my Trance 29 BUT.... I'm not impressed with GIANTs warranty service... I've been waiting SIX MONTHS, since the second week I owned it, for a front wheel warranty replacement from my local GIANT dealer. Not even a fancy wheel...Their generic AM 30 29" wheel.
Unfortunately that’s not a problem unique to Giant. All the brands are in the same boat. We’ve seen extremely long wait times on almost all warranty stuff. Brands simply just don’t have product.
what happened to your wheel?
@@Shred_Tube finally showed up to the store at the end of April.
@@chrisbraun72 How do you like the Trance 29 so far? im thinking of trading in my Fathom 1 for a 2022 Trance. Think it could handle some of the chunk and tech here in colorado?
@@Shred_Tube For where I live it's perfect. Mostly long distance riding single track with roots and baby head rocks. The Trace 29 is like a Subaru Crosstrek, sporty feel with a bit a ground clearance so it can can handle some off road but it's no Jeep Cherokee. The Trance 29 is almost a hardtail version of the Fathom, same front travel and similar geo but with some rear cushioning but If it's more chunk your after... maybe the Trance X?
Can’t find this model in the official page I only saw the aluminum one
In the US it’s the Trance Advanced Pro 29. We built this from the frame up. It’s nota stock build.
@@bikersedge that’s why, how do yo compare climbing with the ripley AF ?
This is faster. By quit a bit.
@@bikersedge then stay that in the title or description you fool. you confuse those amateur viewers seeking information
I don’t think build really matters.
also..can you get your hands on a salsa horsethief to do a review.
That one will be very unlikely.
Is this the 2 or the 1
It’s a custom frame up build
@@bikersedge i am looking at a trance 1 or 2.which one do you like
Personally don’t think the build is all that important. Get the one that fits the budget.
i bought this bike, then 2 weeks later almost died in a car accident, still havent rode it but cant bring myself to sell it lol
That’s no good. Hope you can get some rides on it soon!
That climb is the worst.
So bad.
That hike a bike, you mean? I've honestly never even TRIED to pedal that one.
@@kevinbiddle5444 It's doable, but it's a suffer fest, for sure.