I bought the Giant Talon 3 (29) because the TREK marlin 5 was out of stock, here's my honest review as a beginner who had a lot of questions (some of you probably are too): -The bike looks beautiful, aesthetic wise, bike was larger than in the pictures when I got one that fit me. -The bike rides beautifully, front shifters could be smoother but rear shifters are very nice. -I ride it for long hours on mountains, grass, gravel etc for my TH-cam bike blogs, it does fine. -I brought the bike on a MTB trail and abused the hell out of it, I crashed and crashed as I practiced my MTB skills. After all the abuse, here's two apparent things: 1) The chain drops when I crashed two times, so it's not that big of a deal because it only dropped when I was stopped and my crash shook the whole chain around. 2) The pedal is made of plastic and doesn't have the metallic nubs that more expensive bikes have, so every time I leaned too low and hit the floor with my pedals, it kind of shaves off the grips. What can be done to improve it? 1) Get metallic pedals 2) Install a dropper post if you intend to do some serious mountain biking. 3) Install a 1x like Dbest1a is doing in this video Overall satisfaction: Very satisfied. I bought the bike for $560 and it's worth every penny, considering the abuse I made it go through, it only had those two minor issues. A lot of beginners tend to give up the sport after their first time out on a trail and crashing left and right, so I would recommend getting an affordable hard-tail and outgrowing it with practice before moving onto $1000+ bikes. Check out the videos on my channel for reference, I'll put up a more "technical" MTB trail video soon.
So you have really been enjoying them . I have enjoyed this one with the upgrades I am made to it . It's been fun getting out on it when I can. Hoping to get it out a bit more in the next few weeks.
I have the same bike. Mine is a 2017 and in black and yellow. Been an amazing bike so far but it's definitely time to upgrade the fork. The first thing I did was change the pedals. I got HT components AE03. Highly recommended them. Great video and gave me some ideas! Thanks!
Glad you like the videos, and the pedals worked out great for you . Yes good pedals are a must , or be clipped. The bike has been a joy to ride. I just need to learn to jump.
Just subbed to you brotha. Bought my talon 3 today. Waiting to pick it up on Thursday. Really excited for it. I’ll be following you along with your bike. Thanks for all the tips and upgrades
Thanks for watching. Yeah knowing what I know now... and what I'd want , id probably just shell out for anything with a 1by setup and the gearing id want. See where I have the giant now is perfect for my trails.. Its rolls along just awesome. Stay safe out there.
I have the same bike! Thanks for putting the parts links in the description, I just bought the crank arms and chain ring. I wanted to change the gearing to a 1/8 but was having trouble finding parts and was unsure about fitment. 👍🏼
No problem. I am planning to switch to the screw cup 2 peace crank set up. The 1x 11 works pretty good. I just need to retune it now that the wires are breaking in. Depending on needs one could go 1x9 or 1x10. Whichever. The 1x is just way more efficient. A dropper post would be gold for me right now. Lol. Definitely my next bike will start at this level. Because I know what I would need and expect on my trails.
I have a T3 and 1x8 is the shizzzz! It’s perfect for all around riding. I can climb pretty much anything I want even steep stair sets, and I can fly down hills. The bike itself with better fork, pedals, 1x8 and tubeless rides like a dream. Maxxis Ardent 27.6 btw.
And I thought my trike was a rough ride. Guess that is why I never thought much about a dirt bike. Had one many many years ago and it hurt my leg in a brush with a tree. I decided then riding thru the trees was not for me. Thanks for the show and tell of your bike. Ride safe.
Yes you are right . That is also why I like the knee protection . Some of the trails that pass through trees, I slow down to size them up first. just in case.
See description. No I didn't have to swap the hub. There is another guy that did a video on the whole swap. You don't have to go 12 speed. You can keep chain alignment less of a problem by going 10 to 11 speed. I think if I were doing it again, maybe I'd go 1x10 .. but with at least a 48 . Still the 52 comes in handy when I'm spent. Just tracking on the 52 cog can be a bit iffy till adjusted right. I think of I wanted to spend more , id look for carbon fiber parts to drop weight. Not really a biggie right now for me. I have the dropper ,never installed it yet. Going tubeless up front really lightened up the front end. Lol. I have to do the same out back. You can really tell the difference. New tires really add a lot of grip I didn't have before , giving more confidence. . I run about 20psi up front.. 27 out back. Brakes are strong, but a bit mushy , no real feeling of bite. Thought about trying a different pad. Thanks for watching..
Yes they are stock. I didn't want to go wifer than the tired on the talon 2 or 1 . I listed the tires in the description. Just adding these tires has made my experience so much better. Grip is a lot better in dirt n slippery mud or similar.. Tubeless up front n gonna do Tubeless out back too soon. I'm not sure on rim width, is check the specs on the website for them .
Thanks for the video, im gonna buy a Talon 3 2021 in a few days and was wondering what was upgradable, but im kinda new to this ''new' generation bikes'' and would really love to upgrade to a 1x on the front for the simplicity of it, but i dont know what parts i should look for, or what sizes of the crankset would fit. I'm kinda confused. Can you help?
I know what you mean . I'm gonna just come out n say if you want a bike with a 1x I would set that as a starting point for the bike to come equipped with. It was too late for me at that point. I did end up converting it which worked out nice. It doesn't work perfect, but it works. (I'm still tuning it) Take your time and do a little more digging . You will see more 1xs that are maybe 150 to 200 more . Possibly will come with slightly bigger tires, better brakes and such. The Tektro brakes , which are hydronic have been very good. (For Me) . On a steep downhill though, I'd want better. I did swap to an air fork which improved dampening for my weight. (Not sure you'll find an air fork equipped under 800. I went to a 1x11 , but a 1x10ay have been a more fluid set up for this frame. Still it works good. Especially when I'm winded. Knowing what I know now, how I have the bike set up , would be my minimum. Hope this helps.
Nice giant man. I've got a talon 2. Went with a suntour epixon air fork and it's a night and day difference over the stock coil fork. Good looking bike brother, stay shredding!!
I posted links in the description. They are to Amazon, but ebay can be checked too. The scwalabe tires are 2.35 the rear maxxis is 2.3 . I believe the bike could hold a 2.4. The 2.35 is up-front and tubeless. The front with air fork n tubeless is really nice n light. I think im gonna do tubeless out back too. Running 19psi up front n 28 out back.
Did you have to change your rear hub? I have a 2020 Talon 3 as well and want to go 1x. I went to the links but then I had to pick different options based on measurements. What exactly did you get measurement wise. Appreciate it very much
No i didn't have to change the freehub. This is a 11 speed xx by 52 tooth.. It all just slid on .. Ok the measurements you refer to are the cassette tooth #s. So i have the 52 tooth out back, but depends on where you live and if there a lot of hills, and how steep... you may not seed so much. Also depends on your strength too. Also you don't have to go 11 speed .. you could also go 8 or 9/10, which would give better chain alignment. All depends on what you need. Anymore questions... just ask , no problem I don't mind. Thank you for taking the time to watch... I need to take this thing out again.. been a while.
@@dbest1aVlogs thanks yea I may have another. Your the only person who has a 2020 talon 3 that has an upgrade video that I've seen. Now a review on how you like the group set and how good it is would be awesome as well. Great job!
@@TheBoripride I like it so far . The only issue is sometimes its a little finicky getting into the 52, so have to adjust it properly. Its nice having the grip, and the gear to get up some hills with the more expensive bikes. I need to get my fat behind out ridinf more.
Good vid. I also have a Talon 3 and have blinged it up a bit. Rather than install a new crank to improve chain alignment, have you considered spacing the current front sprocket over by 10mm? Longer bolts and washers to start and then some nice spacers when you are happy with the setup. Keep the vids coming and thanks.
I thought of that, but didn't entertain it much. The new crank did come , but then life got hectic. Been about 3 weeks since I've been out on either bike. Ride safe. I'll do another video showing the change . Hopefully all works out ok.
Just just bought the same bike today, and was looking for videos on upgrades. Curious if your fork upgrade was done online or through not your local bike shop for that $100 credit. What was your experience with the crank and group set upgrade. I noticed that I dont use the front gears at all. Did you upgrade the crank and group set yourself or shop? Thanks for posting the video!
The fork upgrade I did through the Suntour website. They just want you to send them a copy of the receipt. Just keep in mind , when I say I never use the remote lockout, I mean it. Lol. You will need a new star nut. I used the old one. But better to buy new I installed the fork, but a bike shop will be more than willing to help. Crank.. Is just slip on arms, why? Cause stock is riveted gears. I couldn't use them with the Red 1x gear. Bottom bracket - used to creak on climbs, then I pulled it. Need the tool for that. Its a sealed bearing crank. So I greased it n reinstalled. I also greased the fork, and the wheel bearings with marine grease. Not much grease used on this bikes during assembly. I also found I rarely moved the front chain to the big ring, and the rear gears were just not enough for some of my climbs. 1x is the set up I want on any mountain bike I ever get. The tires were also a big help .. swapping out the icons. I do have some other videos of riding it in the trails in the mountain bike playlist.
Yes I did the crank and groupset , and tune it via park tools video. There is a guy on youtube that did a video on the 1x11 conversion. I believe there are 1x10s too. I don't recall , have to check ebay.. I do love the extra gears. Front tire is tubeless, by following a youtube video. He shows going tubeless using gorilla tape (I had to order it(tape) on ebay). I also got tubeless valves too. I'm sill running tubed in the rear , due to the hard tail. The tires were also the other biggest help, especially the front schwalbe.
No , the only thing I did with the bottom bracket was pull it out and grease it . Then reinstall , torque it down and put the pedal arms on with the 1 gear. No more creaks. I did adjust the rear derailuer which has helped with the rear shifting a bit. Otherwise works fine. I did order a full 2 peace set up with the bearing cups, but I haven't put it on . I am gonna leave this on.
Oh ok. Yeah I have it here , lol. I never even opened it yet. I did take the giant out a few days ago since it cooled off a bit. The current set up still works great with no creaking since I pulled it apart and added a little grease. Just had to adjust the rear derailleur hanger height. The low hears (higher teeth I believe 52) can be a Little picky.
Should I buy talon 3 2021 as my 1st bike? Or talon 2? Am a beginner. Talon 3 has 2*7 14 gears. My friends told that 27 gears are good. What should I do? Should I buy talon 3 for a beginners?
Myself, as a beginner, I have found that I like a 1 by set up. So 1 gear up front, and the multiple out back. If I were doing a purchase over again thay would be the first thing I'd look for. Then wheel size, I think I like the nimbleness of the 27.5s. Never tried a 29. It all depends on where your riding too. Even if I bought a talon 2 , I'd be swapping out that 2x for a 1x . The 1x is just very practical for me. We also have varying terrain, so some hilly where I am using the 52, and some not so where I barely get into the 46. I would compare the talon 2 and talon 3 specs. I think both have a spring fork which is just ok. I think the brakes are the same too. I know they have a 29er talon2. I would check the specs.
Yes. Maybe you would like the 29er. Still depends on where your riding too. I hear they handle n react differently. I did also change the tires for more grip
I have the same bike. Is it going to be worth it to change the flat bar into a loop bar? I intend to use the bike for long rides and for bike to work. Sick upgrades btw.
That sounds user needs dependant. It depends on what suits you. I ride dirt trails, and mountain bike trails with this bike so the stock bar is fine. You may have to ride it a bit, then figure out what changes you need or want to make.
Beautiful bike! I have a 2016 talon 3 , my first real mtb bike. I experienced severe chain suck and it seems that I need to replace my chainrings :/ I don't know if I should keep the same 3 by 9 config or go 1 by 10 .
Actually have the same bike, different color scheme... was looking to upgrade my front fork and was wondering if it was tapered or if it was a straight pipe...
Our Forks are Straight design, not the tapered. Suntour does offer an upgrade program as I mentioned if you want to get into an air fork , or if you were able to find a deal elsewhere. I would assume once you let them know the specs of the T3, which are available on the Giant site, they could fix you up .
Nice upgrades! Thanks for sharing. I have the same bike and I am running tubeless on the original tire and rim, neither of those are branded as tubeless. But hey, works. I am looking to install a dropper post. Does anyone know if Talon 3 2020 support internal routing for dropper post? Any recommendations for a cheap one? I am not going to upgrade many things on this bike. My plan is to ride till they break then upgrade. And for my next bike hopefully I will know exactly what I want so no upgrades needed. :) Happy biking
@@dbest1aVlogs actually I have just finished installing a 125mm travel internally rerouted dropper post on my Talon 3. I shined light through the cable holes in the bottom tube and found that it's all connected. So there was no trouble to thread the cable to entirely within the frame and come out at the front, along with the front derailer line. I had to move the front gear shifter out if the way, but that's okay as it's not used often. I really love the dropper lost. Now there is a lot of room to move around for steep downhill runs!
hahahah. Sometimes though I have to be mindful. AT times I go in it, and it backfires. I think it depends on the grade and terrain. Sometimes I stay 2 down and can stand and apply power, and retain some grip. I can't do that in the 52. Where I use it is variable . It's kind of nuts.
I have same bike but I want to upgrades what’s your recommendation I like going downhill but it’s a pain in the ass going uphill. It’s hard to go uphill what’s your recommendation for that and also should I change the fork I want better handling when you going downhill. Recommendation for better performance for both uphill and down hill thanks.
I'm not sure about what kind of downhill you mean . Bike park down hill (fast speeds) or rocky tech trail downhill. Both I don't have a lot of experience with, but I do know from my searching online this frames geometry is close to a xc style of bike. It's head tube isn't super slack, so you have to take that in mind when going downhill on super early stuff. Yes to the fork upgrade .. it helps with trails. If your looking to do serious downhill, I'd sell this and get a proper downhill set up , or build one. You also may run into an issue of overpowering the brakes too. So they would need to be upgraded.
Also remember, I had no clue what I was getting into or how much I'd like this hobby/sport. So at this point yeah the bike is at/or past the level of a talon 1 right now. Or at least very close...
Everyone says that to get a higher end bike but what he actually did was pretty smart he might have paid slightly more than the giant one but like he said he didn't know he was actually going to love riding his bike so why would you spend over $1,000 on a bike. You're not even sure you're really going to like and you could kind of build it to your liking overtime I'm pretty sure the upgrades didn't come as soon as he bought the bike he probably used it for a little while he didn't like this didn't like that and he started custom making it to his liking I think that's smart and at the end of the day his bike is probably better than a Giant Talon 1 in my opinion I probably would have done the same thing
In stock form it wasn't bad. I mean you can get by, I never got out the small ring up front, and felt I didn't have enough gears out back for big climbs. Hence the 1x swap. The fork, just be mindful with. It has its limitations. I had to hang the maxxis icons up. I just couldn't get any grip here. No matter what, get out and enjoy your trails.
I actually posted to videos of my riding it on the trails . Here th-cam.com/play/PLg95sYhvBAo5U0YHQLyrrtOwmdeqAXR4v.html I do have some footage of riding it stock too, just not uploaded. I use trailforks to find trails and track where I am going.
I think this is the bike in the same colour I'm picking up tomorrow :p has it got the ability to easily have a dropper post? Was the extra money worth spending compared to say selling it and upgrading the bike?
I have an external dropper post to install. I'm not sure if a internal would work, i didn't think it would. If i were to upgrade or change bikes, it would be either sell this with mostly stock components then sell the parts, or sell as a whole bundle at a decent price. As it is ... i love it , just needs a dropper installed i guess 😅 for spoiled people like me. Still its fun for a hardtail..
The seat is cool. But you spend a lot of time just a bit off of it. If you have the dropper, you can drop the seat low when you hit some rocky areas, or going down slopes, and you have to get behind the seat so you don't go over the bars. What does the seat feel like? haha you don't wanna know when you hit a rock and it flies up into you .. lmao ..
No I never have tried one. I know I'd have fun on one though. I am in the process of , almost, ordering a deopper post . Thats the one thing I really really want. Are you on a 29er.
No im not all stock 27.5 but i hear good things about the 29er, i am fairly new to mtb riding. I am appreciated for sharing your upgrades but im learning alot and your set up gives me some ideas maybe even copying them lol.
I agree, I've heard good about the 29ers too. Still I can't complain about the 27.5. I've been debating on if I should go tubeless out back. I figured with the hard tail the tube would help prevent force punctures
I got the same bike, and this video was exactly what I was looking for! I am curious though, did you have to get a new wheel hub or any other parts to put a new cassette on? I want to setup a 1x10 or something along those lines as well. It would make shifting so much better rather than having a front derailleur as well. edit: subbed as well!
No . see some of the other comments. Just slid the cassette on . There is another youtube video where a guy does the conversion, and shows just sliding the cassette right on. Was pretty cool. The one by is really nice on the trails . My range is pretty wide. Only thing was it took some time to adjust to get it to shift good.
I would say get out and ride them both. Then also research the geometry break down of both bikes. It will take some time and research. If you have a lot of hills, I'd go with a 1 by setup too. All depends on where your riding.
Dang Bud you got some change tied up in that bike, I would have to put a bigger and more plush seat on it, and some ape hangers on it for me to ride it LoL 😂, hey I gots to be comfortable LoL 😂, it's a good looking bike brother, ride safe and ride easy 💯✌️😎
Nice setup, seems like you are getting it tuned in! I keep looking at newer bikes but....I kinda need to ride the one I have to justify getting a newer one!..lol
You make a valid point. It really really depends on what you need. If your on trails that are decently smooth gravel... This and most FS bikes are overkill. When you get into the some more rough stuff, you either need a little bit better components on the bike, or change your technique up to suit. I have been watching a channel Kev Central that reviews a lot of walmart bikes. Oddly some nice deals on there too. ( just needing some minor mods)
@@dbest1aVlogs Well, I got a free bike from my brother last November, it's like a 1996-1997 GT Saddleback, old school brakes, etc. It's a Hardtail, but I am not in need of a full suspension setup. So, I have a free bike, but if I am not riding it, why buy a new one..lol
Brakes n such you can refresh. Get better compound pads. Refresh the bearings in the crank n wheels with n ew grease. If the fork works good nice. Keep it, or see about a cheap fork upgrade n fit it up. GT MAKES great bikes. Main thing is ride the trails to see your needs. This bike is made to get my lard but up these hills lol. If the area were flatter I'd not use the big chain rings out back. Just outfit it to serve you.
@@dbest1aVlogs Thanks! I did go through and replace the brake pads, new tubes and tires, trued the rims, lubed it all up, etc. The bike had sat for....I bet a decade.
Awesome bro. Hope your enjoying it. A friend at work showed me some keto pancakes on amazon. I think I'm gonna try them out. Yeah I'm back to doing keto. Need to drop about 10 lbs . Then 10 more. Sitting at 222 right now . Last june was 207 at Americade ... yesh
So .. check this out . I was riding all of 2018 doing 20 to 40 miles.... which helped me loose a lot of weight .. along with fasting and such. Then 2019 ... didn't do much... Started to gain weight. Then 2020 .. I decided to put the bike on a trainer, and ride . lol I couldn't make it 6 miles. I rode everyday on that trainer with zwift (a online program). I did that till eventually I could do 20 miles in the program. Then got the mountain bike, and started riding trails in the winter. Anyhow it is all progression. You don't, and should not just jump out there and try to ride 15 miles on the 1st day . Start off with 2.. then 4 .. then 5 .. then 7 .. You know what I mean . Definitely if I could do it , anyone else could.
Exactly.. you know you can even get an E bike ... Ride till you feel tired. Track your distance with fitting or apple watch. Whatever. Then use the E motor to get you back home. Then watch your progress on whatever app , strava, Apple, fitbit. Then you can see your progression I stregth. You will also see the difference in your physical appearance of your legs as the fat is burned off. That's why I post some of these video, to hopefully inspire someone to even think about their health different. I so appreciate you taking the time to watch.
I bought the Giant Talon 3 (29) because the TREK marlin 5 was out of stock, here's my honest review as a beginner who had a lot of questions (some of you probably are too):
-The bike looks beautiful, aesthetic wise, bike was larger than in the pictures when I got one that fit me.
-The bike rides beautifully, front shifters could be smoother but rear shifters are very nice.
-I ride it for long hours on mountains, grass, gravel etc for my TH-cam bike blogs, it does fine.
-I brought the bike on a MTB trail and abused the hell out of it, I crashed and crashed as I practiced my MTB skills.
After all the abuse, here's two apparent things:
1) The chain drops when I crashed two times, so it's not that big of a deal because it only dropped when I was stopped and my crash shook the whole chain around.
2) The pedal is made of plastic and doesn't have the metallic nubs that more expensive bikes have, so every time I leaned too low and hit the floor with my pedals, it kind of shaves off the grips.
What can be done to improve it?
1) Get metallic pedals
2) Install a dropper post if you intend to do some serious mountain biking.
3) Install a 1x like Dbest1a is doing in this video
Overall satisfaction: Very satisfied. I bought the bike for $560 and it's worth every penny, considering the abuse I made it go through, it only had those two minor issues.
A lot of beginners tend to give up the sport after their first time out on a trail and crashing left and right, so I would recommend getting an affordable hard-tail and outgrowing it with practice before moving onto $1000+ bikes.
Check out the videos on my channel for reference, I'll put up a more "technical" MTB trail video soon.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences.
I’ve had a Giant since I was like 6 when I first started to mountain bike and they are amazing
So you have really been enjoying them . I have enjoyed this one with the upgrades I am made to it . It's been fun getting out on it when I can. Hoping to get it out a bit more in the next few weeks.
Just bought a GIANT TALON 3 yesterday i get it tomorrow really excited to get riding
Awesome congrats .. hope you enjoy it
I have the same bike. Mine is a 2017 and in black and yellow. Been an amazing bike so far but it's definitely time to upgrade the fork. The first thing I did was change the pedals. I got HT components AE03. Highly recommended them. Great video and gave me some ideas! Thanks!
Glad you like the videos, and the pedals worked out great for you . Yes good pedals are a must , or be clipped. The bike has been a joy to ride. I just need to learn to jump.
Just subbed to you brotha. Bought my talon 3 today. Waiting to pick it up on Thursday. Really excited for it. I’ll be following you along with your bike. Thanks for all the tips and upgrades
Thanks for watching.
Yeah knowing what I know now... and what I'd want , id probably just shell out for anything with a 1by setup and the gearing id want. See where I have the giant now is perfect for my trails..
Its rolls along just awesome.
Stay safe out there.
I have the same bike! Thanks for putting the parts links in the description, I just bought the crank arms and chain ring. I wanted to change the gearing to a 1/8 but was having trouble finding parts and was unsure about fitment. 👍🏼
No problem.
I am planning to switch to the screw cup 2 peace crank set up. The 1x 11 works pretty good. I just need to retune it now that the wires are breaking in. Depending on needs one could go 1x9 or 1x10. Whichever. The 1x is just way more efficient. A dropper post would be gold for me right now. Lol.
Definitely my next bike will start at this level. Because I know what I would need and expect on my trails.
Dbest1a’s Ride do you have the link to the new crank you were planning on buying?
I am almost sure I put that link in the description. Let me look.
I have a T3 and 1x8 is the shizzzz! It’s perfect for all around riding. I can climb pretty much anything I want even steep stair sets, and I can fly down hills. The bike itself with better fork, pedals, 1x8 and tubeless rides like a dream. Maxxis Ardent 27.6 btw.
And I thought my trike was a rough ride. Guess that is why I never thought much about a dirt bike. Had one many many years ago and it hurt my leg in a brush with a tree. I decided then riding thru the trees was not for me. Thanks for the show and tell of your bike. Ride safe.
Yes you are right . That is also why I like the knee protection .
Some of the trails that pass through trees, I slow down to size them up first. just in case.
can you fit 2.5 tires on your frame?
I'm not sure, but I think that might be tight. 2.4 might be a better option. My front is 2.35.
Thanks for watching.
hi what allen key size did you use to remove the freehub body? thanks! cool bike you have there
I never removed the freehub. I just unlocked the cassette n slid it off.
Then slid on the new
@@dbest1aVlogs ahh okay thanks!
Pretty cool man. I've never known anyone to upgrade parts of their bike before.
Whatttt ... Yea it can get a little insane.
You must not be in the bike world at all then. Its extremely common to modify and upgrade bikes.
Thanks for the fork upgrade info, I may consider that as well, also the gearing info😜👍
Anytime. For the trails I ride I really like it. I just don't think I'd bother with the remote lockout version though lol.
where did you get talon 3?are you in the US?sorry first time to see your video and a talon 3 since our bike shop said talon 3 is for overseas
Yes in the USA..
Sir can you put the list of your your upgrade... plan to copy your bike... no need to change the hub sir? The 12speed will fit?
See description.
No I didn't have to swap the hub.
There is another guy that did a video on the whole swap.
You don't have to go 12 speed. You can keep chain alignment less of a problem by going 10 to 11 speed.
I think if I were doing it again, maybe I'd go 1x10 .. but with at least a 48 . Still the 52 comes in handy when I'm spent. Just tracking on the 52 cog can be a bit iffy till adjusted right.
I think of I wanted to spend more , id look for carbon fiber parts to drop weight. Not really a biggie right now for me.
I have the dropper ,never installed it yet.
Going tubeless up front really lightened up the front end. Lol. I have to do the same out back.
You can really tell the difference.
New tires really add a lot of grip I didn't have before , giving more confidence. .
I run about 20psi up front..
27 out back.
Brakes are strong, but a bit mushy , no real feeling of bite. Thought about trying a different pad.
Thanks for watching..
Hi...did you change the rear hubs?
No. Just slid the gears on.
Used the derailleur adjustment tool to help with adjustment. Another user has a video on it with install too.
Ate those the original rims. I was wondering how wide of a tire I could go with on the stock talon 3 rims
Yes they are stock. I didn't want to go wifer than the tired on the talon 2 or 1 . I listed the tires in the description. Just adding these tires has made my experience so much better. Grip is a lot better in dirt n slippery mud or similar.. Tubeless up front n gonna do Tubeless out back too soon. I'm not sure on rim width, is check the specs on the website for them .
Thanks for the video, im gonna buy a Talon 3 2021 in a few days and was wondering what was upgradable, but im kinda new to this ''new' generation bikes'' and would really love to upgrade to a 1x on the front for the simplicity of it, but i dont know what parts i should look for, or what sizes of the crankset would fit. I'm kinda confused. Can you help?
I know what you mean . I'm gonna just come out n say if you want a bike with a 1x I would set that as a starting point for the bike to come equipped with. It was too late for me at that point. I did end up converting it which worked out nice. It doesn't work perfect, but it works. (I'm still tuning it)
Take your time and do a little more digging . You will see more 1xs that are maybe 150 to 200 more . Possibly will come with slightly bigger tires, better brakes and such.
The Tektro brakes , which are hydronic have been very good. (For Me) . On a steep downhill though, I'd want better.
I did swap to an air fork which improved dampening for my weight.
(Not sure you'll find an air fork equipped under 800.
I went to a 1x11 , but a 1x10ay have been a more fluid set up for this frame. Still it works good. Especially when I'm winded.
Knowing what I know now, how I have the bike set up , would be my minimum.
Hope this helps.
@@dbest1aVlogs thank you very much for all this info. Stay safe my friend
Hi mate, did you change your stock rear hubs for the 11 speed cassette?
No. Just slide it on. There is a video on it on TH-cam, not mine. U could go with 9 , 10 ,11. Just depends on your needs.
@@dbest1aVlogs tks 👍🏻
Nice giant man. I've got a talon 2. Went with a suntour epixon air fork and it's a night and day difference over the stock coil fork. Good looking bike brother, stay shredding!!
Thank you . The fork made a huge difference. Enjoy the ride.
What size tires did you go with? 2.4?
I posted links in the description. They are to Amazon, but ebay can be checked too.
The scwalabe tires are 2.35 the rear maxxis is 2.3 .
I believe the bike could hold a 2.4. The 2.35 is up-front and tubeless.
The front with air fork n tubeless is really nice n light. I think im gonna do tubeless out back too. Running 19psi up front n 28 out back.
Ha thank you for this video I had to prove my friend you can upgrade a talon! Now to upgrade my talon!
Hehe yes u can...
Did you have to change your rear hub? I have a 2020 Talon 3 as well and want to go 1x. I went to the links but then I had to pick different options based on measurements. What exactly did you get measurement wise. Appreciate it very much
No i didn't have to change the freehub. This is a 11 speed xx by 52 tooth.. It all just slid on ..
Ok the measurements you refer to are the cassette tooth #s. So i have the 52 tooth out back, but depends on where you live and if there a lot of hills, and how steep... you may not seed so much. Also depends on your strength too. Also you don't have to go 11 speed .. you could also go 8 or 9/10, which would give better chain alignment. All depends on what you need.
Anymore questions... just ask , no problem I don't mind.
Thank you for taking the time to watch... I need to take this thing out again.. been a while.
@@dbest1aVlogs thanks yea I may have another. Your the only person who has a 2020 talon 3 that has an upgrade video that I've seen. Now a review on how you like the group set and how good it is would be awesome as well. Great job!
@@TheBoripride I like it so far . The only issue is sometimes its a little finicky getting into the 52, so have to adjust it properly. Its nice having the grip, and the gear to get up some hills with the more expensive bikes. I need to get my fat behind out ridinf more.
@@dbest1aVlogs lol...cool appreciate it 👊🏼
I have the same bike and I'm also looking to upgrade the forks can you tell me if they are straight or tapered steering tubes on the forks
They are straight. It is a good upgrade that helps.
Good vid. I also have a Talon 3 and have blinged it up a bit.
Rather than install a new crank to improve chain alignment, have you considered spacing the current front sprocket over by 10mm? Longer bolts and washers to start and then some nice spacers when you are happy with the setup.
Keep the vids coming and thanks.
I thought of that, but didn't entertain it much. The new crank did come , but then life got hectic. Been about 3 weeks since I've been out on either bike. Ride safe. I'll do another video showing the change . Hopefully all works out ok.
Im very curios as to how much your bike weighs now.....after all the changes
Just just bought the same bike today, and was looking for videos on upgrades. Curious if your fork upgrade was done online or through not your local bike shop for that $100 credit. What was your experience with the crank and group set upgrade. I noticed that I dont use the front gears at all. Did you upgrade the crank and group set yourself or shop? Thanks for posting the video!
The fork upgrade I did through the Suntour website. They just want you to send them a copy of the receipt. Just keep in mind , when I say I never use the remote lockout, I mean it. Lol.
You will need a new star nut. I used the old one. But better to buy new
I installed the fork, but a bike shop will be more than willing to help.
Crank..
Is just slip on arms, why? Cause stock is riveted gears. I couldn't use them with the Red 1x gear.
Bottom bracket - used to creak on climbs, then I pulled it. Need the tool for that. Its a sealed bearing crank. So I greased it n reinstalled. I also greased the fork, and the wheel bearings with marine grease. Not much grease used on this bikes during assembly.
I also found I rarely moved the front chain to the big ring, and the rear gears were just not enough for some of my climbs. 1x is the set up I want on any mountain bike I ever get.
The tires were also a big help .. swapping out the icons. I do have some other videos of riding it in the trails in the mountain bike playlist.
Yes I did the crank and groupset , and tune it via park tools video. There is a guy on youtube that did a video on the 1x11 conversion. I believe there are 1x10s too. I don't recall , have to check ebay.. I do love the extra gears. Front tire is tubeless, by following a youtube video. He shows going tubeless using gorilla tape (I had to order it(tape) on ebay). I also got tubeless valves too. I'm sill running tubed in the rear , due to the hard tail.
The tires were also the other biggest help, especially the front schwalbe.
Did you use the stock wheel hub?
Yes .. there is a video a guy did on youtube.. showing he just slid the 11 speed on. He showed his whole install, in his living room.
@@dbest1aVlogs thanks
Yes sir, anytime.
Hi, did you change your stock rear hubs for the 11 speed cassettes?
No. I just slid the cassette on. I'd probably go 9 or 10 speed if doing this over.
@@dbest1aVlogs looking at putting an 11 speed cassette on mine too. How has it been running? Why do you say you would've done a 9 or 10 speed?
Did u have 2 change out the bottom bracket bearing for the 1x
No , the only thing I did with the bottom bracket was pull it out and grease it . Then reinstall , torque it down and put the pedal arms on with the 1 gear.
No more creaks. I did adjust the rear derailuer which has helped with the rear shifting a bit.
Otherwise works fine.
I did order a full 2 peace set up with the bearing cups, but I haven't put it on . I am gonna leave this on.
Nice upgrades to your bike.
Thank you Greg
Hey, does the original crankset fits any of the original cranks? Or wheel bearing?
I am not sure. I used the stock crank. Just changed the arms . I did pull the crank to lube the bearings which nicely are sealed units.
Oh i meant to say the crankset you bought sorry, but thanks for your response
Oh ok. Yeah I have it here , lol. I never even opened it yet. I did take the giant out a few days ago since it cooled off a bit. The current set up still works great with no creaking since I pulled it apart and added a little grease.
Just had to adjust the rear derailleur hanger height. The low hears (higher teeth I believe 52) can be a Little picky.
Dbest1a’s Ride definitely looking to use my talon as a project bike as well, thanks for all your info
Hey anytime. Stay safe n enjoy the trails
Should I buy talon 3 2021 as my 1st bike? Or talon 2? Am a beginner. Talon 3 has 2*7 14 gears. My friends told that 27 gears are good. What should I do? Should I buy talon 3 for a beginners?
Myself, as a beginner, I have found that I like a 1 by set up. So 1 gear up front, and the multiple out back. If I were doing a purchase over again thay would be the first thing I'd look for. Then wheel size, I think I like the nimbleness of the 27.5s. Never tried a 29.
It all depends on where your riding too. Even if I bought a talon 2 , I'd be swapping out that 2x for a 1x . The 1x is just very practical for me.
We also have varying terrain, so some hilly where I am using the 52, and some not so where I barely get into the 46.
I would compare the talon 2 and talon 3 specs. I think both have a spring fork which is just ok. I think the brakes are the same too. I know they have a 29er talon2. I would check the specs.
@@dbest1aVlogs ok thank you. I am 6ft. So if i take talon 2 or 3 , i will go with 29er.
Yes. Maybe you would like the 29er. Still depends on where your riding too. I hear they handle n react differently. I did also change the tires for more grip
What width tires did u get
The front is 2.4 rear 2.35 ...
See description please for more info.
I have the same bike. Is it going to be worth it to change the flat bar into a loop bar? I intend to use the bike for long rides and for bike to work. Sick upgrades btw.
That sounds user needs dependant. It depends on what suits you. I ride dirt trails, and mountain bike trails with this bike so the stock bar is fine.
You may have to ride it a bit, then figure out what changes you need or want to make.
Beautiful bike!
I have a 2016 talon 3 , my first real mtb bike. I experienced severe chain suck and it seems that I need to replace my chainrings :/
I don't know if I should keep the same 3 by 9 config or go 1 by 10 .
All depends on your needs and where you ride. I love the 1 by for the trails. Then just tune your gearing to fit. Its a easy swap too.
Are those 2.30 tires? Will 2.50 tire still fit?
I listed them in the description. Thanks
Still good to see people wanting to spend money on even cheaper bikes
Yea, it's been fun.
I don't ride every day and am enjoying it
Shimano SLX brakes are a nice upgrade!
Excellent point, and I've been feeling the urge to install a set.
Did the dropper post ever come? I have this bike, and the dropper post is gonna be my next upgrade.
Yes .. just have yet to install it. Hopefully soon. Enjoy the bike n ride safe. I need to get out on mine
When you upgrade your fork with suntour do you keep your old one and sell it to recuperate some more money?
You could. I didn't
Actually have the same bike, different color scheme... was looking to upgrade my front fork and was wondering if it was tapered or if it was a straight pipe...
Our Forks are Straight design, not the tapered. Suntour does offer an upgrade program as I mentioned if you want to get into an air fork , or if you were able to find a deal elsewhere. I would assume once you let them know the specs of the T3, which are available on the Giant site, they could fix you up .
@@dbest1aVlogs .. thanks for the followup.. !
Nice upgrades! Thanks for sharing. I have the same bike and I am running tubeless on the original tire and rim, neither of those are branded as tubeless. But hey, works.
I am looking to install a dropper post. Does anyone know if Talon 3 2020 support internal routing for dropper post? Any recommendations for a cheap one?
I am not going to upgrade many things on this bike. My plan is to ride till they break then upgrade.
And for my next bike hopefully I will know exactly what I want so no upgrades needed. :)
Happy biking
Enjoy ...
I am tubless on the front wheel too.
No , on the internal dropper.
@@dbest1aVlogs actually I have just finished installing a 125mm travel internally rerouted dropper post on my Talon 3. I shined light through the cable holes in the bottom tube and found that it's all connected. So there was no trouble to thread the cable to entirely within the frame and come out at the front, along with the front derailer line. I had to move the front gear shifter out if the way, but that's okay as it's not used often. I really love the dropper lost. Now there is a lot of room to move around for steep downhill runs!
Nice upgrades bro, that cassette should allow you to climb walls lol.
hahahah. Sometimes though I have to be mindful. AT times I go in it, and it backfires. I think it depends on the grade and terrain. Sometimes I stay 2 down and can stand and apply power, and retain some grip. I can't do that in the 52. Where I use it is variable . It's kind of nuts.
what type of tool did you use to remove the cassette
Mountain bike cassette / freewheel remover tool with chain whip. Search that and you will see what it looks like.
I have same bike but I want to upgrades what’s your recommendation I like going downhill but it’s a pain in the ass going uphill. It’s hard to go uphill what’s your recommendation for that and also should I change the fork I want better handling when you going downhill. Recommendation for better performance for both uphill and down hill thanks.
I'm not sure about what kind of downhill you mean . Bike park down hill (fast speeds) or rocky tech trail downhill. Both I don't have a lot of experience with, but I do know from my searching online this frames geometry is close to a xc style of bike. It's head tube isn't super slack, so you have to take that in mind when going downhill on super early stuff. Yes to the fork upgrade .. it helps with trails. If your looking to do serious downhill, I'd sell this and get a proper downhill set up , or build one. You also may run into an issue of overpowering the brakes too. So they would need to be upgraded.
wouldn't it of been cheaper just getting the talon 1?
I don't even see a price on one. With how it's spec , it would be at the level I'd start off at on the next bike.
Also remember, I had no clue what I was getting into or how much I'd like this hobby/sport.
So at this point yeah the bike is at/or past the level of a talon 1 right now. Or at least very close...
Everyone says that to get a higher end bike but what he actually did was pretty smart he might have paid slightly more than the giant one but like he said he didn't know he was actually going to love riding his bike so why would you spend over $1,000 on a bike. You're not even sure you're really going to like and you could kind of build it to your liking overtime I'm pretty sure the upgrades didn't come as soon as he bought the bike he probably used it for a little while he didn't like this didn't like that and he started custom making it to his liking I think that's smart and at the end of the day his bike is probably better than a Giant Talon 1 in my opinion I probably would have done the same thing
after all the changes. Whats your bike weigh now?
I never weighed it before, or after. The only time I noticed a difference was when I removed the front tube from the front tire. (Tubeless).
How much does it weigh before all the upgrades and after the upgrades?
I never weighed it. Compared to my road bike, I'm thinking 30 to 35 lbs..maybe less.
I just got one and love my Talon. How is it on the trails?
In stock form it wasn't bad. I mean you can get by, I never got out the small ring up front, and felt I didn't have enough gears out back for big climbs. Hence the 1x swap. The fork, just be mindful with. It has its limitations. I had to hang the maxxis icons up. I just couldn't get any grip here.
No matter what, get out and enjoy your trails.
I actually posted to videos of my riding it on the trails .
Here
th-cam.com/play/PLg95sYhvBAo5U0YHQLyrrtOwmdeqAXR4v.html
I do have some footage of riding it stock too, just not uploaded.
I use trailforks to find trails and track where I am going.
I think this is the bike in the same colour I'm picking up tomorrow :p has it got the ability to easily have a dropper post? Was the extra money worth spending compared to say selling it and upgrading the bike?
I have an external dropper post to install. I'm not sure if a internal would work, i didn't think it would. If i were to upgrade or change bikes, it would be either sell this with mostly stock components then sell the parts, or sell as a whole bundle at a decent price.
As it is ... i love it , just needs a dropper installed i guess 😅 for spoiled people like me.
Still its fun for a hardtail..
Fork tour 100mm or 120mm bro?
Stock 100
@@dbest1aVlogs thanks br
So it's basically a different bike now, LOL. What's that seat feel like? Looks kind of painful.
The seat is cool. But you spend a lot of time just a bit off of it.
If you have the dropper, you can drop the seat low when you hit some rocky areas, or going down slopes, and you have to get behind the seat so you don't go over the bars.
What does the seat feel like? haha you don't wanna know when you hit a rock and it flies up into you .. lmao ..
Sweet upgrades bike looks smooth bro. Have you ever tried or think of trying the bigger tires 29ers?
No I never have tried one. I know I'd have fun on one though. I am in the process of , almost, ordering a deopper post . Thats the one thing I really really want. Are you on a 29er.
No im not all stock 27.5 but i hear good things about the 29er, i am fairly new to mtb riding. I am appreciated for sharing your upgrades but im learning alot and your set up gives me some ideas maybe even copying them lol.
I agree, I've heard good about the 29ers too. Still I can't complain about the 27.5.
I've been debating on if I should go tubeless out back. I figured with the hard tail the tube would help prevent force punctures
What mods have you done to yours?
I need to learn to jump and manual.
Pedals?
I mean name
Rock bros flat pedals.
Love em..
www.amazon.com/dp/B07PDB92DN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabt1_UbATFbPJWR6AT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Click the link to amazon...
@@dbest1aVlogs thanks
@@Loro57575 Anytime .. I have been really happy with them. I have them on this bike, and my motobecane road bike.
Pls make an installation video of the dropper post
Ok . I will try.
can i use your group set on my giant talon 4 2021?
I am not sure about the 4 as this is a 3. You would need to cross check fitment somehow.
I got the same bike, and this video was exactly what I was looking for! I am curious though, did you have to get a new wheel hub or any other parts to put a new cassette on? I want to setup a 1x10 or something along those lines as well. It would make shifting so much better rather than having a front derailleur as well.
edit: subbed as well!
No . see some of the other comments. Just slid the cassette on . There is another youtube video where a guy does the conversion, and shows just sliding the cassette right on. Was pretty cool. The one by is really nice on the trails . My range is pretty wide. Only thing was it took some time to adjust to get it to shift good.
Bro suggest me between the Giant Talon 3 or the Trek Marlin 6.
I would say get out and ride them both. Then also research the geometry break down of both bikes. It will take some time and research. If you have a lot of hills, I'd go with a 1 by setup too. All depends on where your riding.
@@dbest1aVlogs Thanks for your advice. I went for the Marlin 6 2020. Really happy with it
Thx for the video !
Thank you for watching
how do you get the $100 towards a new suntour? what do i do?
All the info is on the suntour website in the upgrade section.
That can be a real work out after you're done
After yesterday and today .. I am ready to pass out. haha
Dang Bud you got some change tied up in that bike, I would have to put a bigger and more plush seat on it, and some ape hangers on it for me to ride it LoL 😂, hey I gots to be comfortable LoL 😂, it's a good looking bike brother, ride safe and ride easy 💯✌️😎
hahahahhaha. I'm dead . lol. lol. I am not counting the change .. lmao ..
@@dbest1aVlogs LoL you kill me Bruce 💯
Nice setup, seems like you are getting it tuned in! I keep looking at newer bikes but....I kinda need to ride the one I have to justify getting a newer one!..lol
You make a valid point. It really really depends on what you need. If your on trails that are decently smooth gravel... This and most FS bikes are overkill. When you get into the some more rough stuff, you either need a little bit better components on the bike, or change your technique up to suit.
I have been watching a channel Kev Central that reviews a lot of walmart bikes. Oddly some nice deals on there too. ( just needing some minor mods)
@@dbest1aVlogs Well, I got a free bike from my brother last November, it's like a 1996-1997 GT Saddleback, old school brakes, etc. It's a Hardtail, but I am not in need of a full suspension setup. So, I have a free bike, but if I am not riding it, why buy a new one..lol
Brakes n such you can refresh. Get better compound pads. Refresh the bearings in the crank n wheels with n ew grease. If the fork works good nice. Keep it, or see about a cheap fork upgrade n fit it up. GT MAKES great bikes.
Main thing is ride the trails to see your needs. This bike is made to get my lard but up these hills lol. If the area were flatter I'd not use the big chain rings out back.
Just outfit it to serve you.
@@dbest1aVlogs Thanks! I did go through and replace the brake pads, new tubes and tires, trued the rims, lubed it all up, etc. The bike had sat for....I bet a decade.
Awesome bro. Hope your enjoying it. A friend at work showed me some keto pancakes on amazon. I think I'm gonna try them out. Yeah I'm back to doing keto. Need to drop about 10 lbs . Then 10 more. Sitting at 222 right now . Last june was 207 at Americade ... yesh
looks good bro
Thank you very much . I hope to get it out soon.. been so busy
No way I'd make it on a peddle bike!! That the exact reason I bought one with a motor 😂 Beautiful bike tho!!!
So .. check this out .
I was riding all of 2018 doing 20 to 40 miles.... which helped me loose a lot of weight .. along with fasting and such.
Then 2019 ... didn't do much... Started to gain weight.
Then 2020 .. I decided to put the bike on a trainer, and ride . lol I couldn't make it 6 miles. I rode everyday on that trainer with zwift (a online program). I did that till eventually I could do 20 miles in the program.
Then got the mountain bike, and started riding trails in the winter.
Anyhow it is all progression. You don't, and should not just jump out there and try to ride 15 miles on the 1st day .
Start off with 2.. then 4 .. then 5 .. then 7 ..
You know what I mean .
Definitely if I could do it , anyone else could.
@@dbest1aVlogs that's so awesome man!! I guess it's all just about getting out there and doing it. You're an inspiration bro!!
Exactly.. you know you can even get an E bike ... Ride till you feel tired. Track your distance with fitting or apple watch. Whatever. Then use the E motor to get you back home.
Then watch your progress on whatever app , strava, Apple, fitbit. Then you can see your progression I stregth.
You will also see the difference in your physical appearance of your legs as the fat is burned off.
That's why I post some of these video, to hopefully inspire someone to even think about their health different.
I so appreciate you taking the time to watch.