@@JSC131 yes it's definitely Elan Valley - the top end of Craig Goch reservoir, just below the junction with the mountain road to Cwmystwyth. The first (immediate) upgrade I'd make to either bike: replace the one-piece brake pads with Kool-Stop cartridge pads.
Thanks for your feedback! Cheaper bikes have not been easy to get hold of in recent times due to shortages of stock, but we hope we can review more bikes around this price in the future. Enjoy your Contend! - Felix
A nine speed drivetrain used to be mid level, and a 10 speed drivetrain used to be premium. A Trek Madone in 2012 came with a 10 speed Ultegra. Not exactly a cheap bike. Shimano group sets have just gotten better. As the group sets have improved, so has the expectations. Plus with a new bike, you're not buying someone else's problems. Replacement of group set parts is not cheap. Definitely getting that sweet carbon frame fixed is not cheap either. Buy what makes you happy, just beware.
Yes because everyone knows that a bike can only be good if the groupset is the highest available in any given price point... Have you considered what you used to be able to buy in the way of houses 10 years ago Vs today for a given price.... In short, things are getting more expensive, and if you listen to people on the internet then a full carbon tour de France level bike for £1000 would be way too expensive if they had nothing to compare it to...
Even entry level groupsets are good now. I saw a comparison recently that showed a modern Sora against a Dura-Ace from a generation ago and the Sora did very well by comparison.
I am so sick and tired of hearing this. It's no longer the early 2000's. Inflation and covid changed everything. These are now the new prices. The numbers are bigger because the currency is worth less. That's what happens when you print money out of thin air.
@@rsx101who said anything about the early 2000s? I’m talking only a few years ago. Stop getting so upset over nothing. It’s my opinion and the last time I looked I’m entitled to my opinion. If you want to pay £1000 for claris be my guest, but I’m not. The whole industry is overinflated and overpriced!
In my country where big 3 Giant, Trek and Specialized always closely compete with each others. With same similar quality level, Specialised always the most expensive, Trek come next and with Giant you can always get best value deal.
I would take the Trek as the geometry would fit me better. I would spend just a little more money at the get ALR2 disc. The 8 speed wouldn't bother me as I remember when my 8 speed DuraAce was considered the best there was. It would be easy to slowly make upgrades to the trek as you figure out what is really needed to make improvements.
Recently bought a giant contend ar2 and I love it. It’s sheer fun to ride, corners well, accelerates quickly and is an all round gear bike for the price. It’s also more than possible to uprate the components so I’m well chuffed with my buy. Don’t be afraid to shop around and ask for discounts - I live in Poland and the dealer was very fair.
Isn't it weird how, in a few short years, 23c tyres at high pressures appear to be a thing of the past and much more sensible wider tyres and lower pressures have come in..... Both bikes look upgradable.....that always gives good vibes when you're a home mechanic.....Use the stock parts until they are knackered and then get better components....Saying that, I'd possibly upgrade the brakes straight away... Good vid again.
As technology has improved many aspects of cycle manufacture, less expensive bikes have much to offer. For context, in 1996 my first proper bike was steel 501 frame and fork, 16 speed Shimano Rx 100 , not as good as Clara's is today. Still managed 25 minute 10 mile time trial and 200 km audax rides . In the end its about getting out there enjoying cycling and an expensive bike doesn't make it any better.
On a pretty flat local 60km route rode my 1979 Moser (10+kg, reasonably mild stem -v- saddle drop with down-shifters and running Michelin Dynamic Classic tyres with butyl inner tubes). Rode my Trifox X16 (sub 7kg, slammed at the front end with GP 5000s and Tubolito inner tubes). Similar conditions both rides (weather, tyre pressure and rider) - under 10% in performance difference. Moral of the story: get out there and enjoy it for what it is and leave the marginal gains to the pros.
24 miles per hour for 10 miles is impressive, especially on an old bike. I average 15 miles per hour for 10 miles on a mid level hybrid. You are absolutely right about the drivetrain. Cheap today in a lot of cases beats expensive a decade or two decades ago. I was watching this video, because I am looking for a good commuter. Although both of these two bicycles may be inferior to road racing, they are probably excellent for commuting. Getting a thousand dollar bike stolen would really hurt, but not as bad as a 5,000 dollar bicycle. I think that most people that make the argument for upper level accessories and frame sets, have no clue what they really want.
Nice review. I would recommend anyone looking for an old school, rim brake bike, get one of these soon, before they disappear entirely from existence! I just purchased a Specialized Allez Elite and not only did I get rim brakes, but a threaded BB. Get 'em while you can.......................
Funnily enough, I was looking at 2012 TCR Composites, 2020 TCR Aluxx SL2s but after a little bit of budget issue, I was looking at the contend since it looks like something I'll be able to ride at the National Championships (after a groupset and wheelset change ofc). This is definitely a good video for reference.
This is great, one request - could you also do a comparison between high grade aluminum road bikes? and maybe one carbon model to understand how they differentiate in terms of performance, fit and comfort.
On one end, the contend has better tire clearance and more gear choice/smoother shifting with 9 speed Sora. On the other end, the domane has external cable routing for easier maintenance and rear rack mount. As a bike commuter/ leisure rider, I’d say the domane would be my pick for the edge in versatility
Grab yourself a BARGAIN and decent spec 1st road bike or winter bike spare. Yesterday I ordered a NEW 2022 Giant Contend 1, rim bike from Winstanley Bikes of Wigan. With 40% off the RRP I've paid just £599, normally £999. I spoke to staff on phone who said its on its way from the warehouse. Equipped with Shimano Sora 50/34 and 11-34 cassette, Sora levers and Tektro rim brakes. At around 9.5kg I think whilst this is clearly a starter road bike, it represents superb value for money and receives good reviews. I have no affiliation with Winstanleys, check availability over phone.
i just bought an Cannondale CAAD Optimo 1. its around 500€ more expensive than those two bikes, but dammn i love it. you barely dont even notice that it isnt made out of carbon when you ride it. probably one of the best frames ever on an "cheaper" aluminium bike. they saved money on the wheels tho... i am upgrading them in the future.
Budget as gone in three years from 600 to 1000, not a good time for buying a new bike, I would put in these comparisons a decathlon triban 540, significantly cheaper with Sora, carbon fork and disc brakes, it's not difficult to make the choice...
Grab yourself a BARGAIN and decent spec 1st road bike or winter spare. Yesterday I ordered a new 2022 Giant Contend 1, rim brake bike from Winstanley Bikes of Wigan. With 40% off the RRP of £999, I paid just £599. Spoke to staff on phone who said its on its way from the warehouse. With Shimano Sora 50/34 and 11-34 cassette, Sora levers and Tektro rim brakes at around 9.5kg I think whilst this is a starter road bike spec, it represents great value for money and receives good reviews. I have no affiliation with Winstanleys, suggest you check availability over phone, as I did.
I chosen Contend AR2, my buddy have Contend 1. There is no big difference in ride feel on same 28mm tires. Wheels are bit gentle though, be carefull not to get water in hub bearings and check spoke tension regularly. Great entry level bike.
I had the 2021 Giant Contend 3 and it was a much faster and different machine once i got a 47t chainring instead of the 50t but it was way quicker at accelerating and i was able to go faster in top speed too i did 38.5 mph on a flat and 47 mph down a hill and it wasn't even the steepest hill or the longest hill either but i was really impressed and surprised that it was able to achieve those speeds for how little money you spend and if i was on a much longer hill and steeper hill it definitely would of gone over 50 mph 😂 but im getting a new 2023 giant contend 3 and now im really gonna upgrade it and get the onyx road bike hubs with hybrid ceramic wheel Bearings and instant engagement and im gonna lighten the bike and see how much faster it goes😂❤
I just received a contend 3 as a birthday gift. it is great! But, as I peruse the comments; yep the cycle community is still plagued by elitism. It’s more about fun and fitness and the adventure of riding. Not what brand……..🧐
Better save your money and go for a used bike first. There are so many used good bikes out there at this price point with better drivetrains and components. Or go with a new Rose Pro SL 105 which currently is up for sale at 1099 Euros. Absolute smash.
"Neat, smooth, alloy welds"? Come on, let's be serious. Both my (probably) 20 year old alloy frame and my cheap alloy track frame have far smoother welds than that. And while the aesthetic of a weld is not indicative of its quality, you could've just left that detail unmentioned and nobody would have complained.
Really love it. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA Read all the reviews before I bought it and posted some questions myself. I hesitated for two weeks as I wasn’t sure if I should go with the 3-spoke or regular spoke tires. I’m not an expert but would assume 3-spoke tires would be rather used inside like in a velodrome because I immediately noticed that cross winds DO have an effect on it while riding. I bought the 3-spoke mostly for the look but did think after my first ride I should have taken the regular spoke tires instead. After 150 miles on the bike I either don’t notice the difference anymore, have been able do adjust to it or had simply no cross winds anymore because I don’t seem to notice the discomfort I was first noticing. So yes: I enjoy every ride and I’m glad I bought it. I’m no expert by ride my bike about 20 miles every day. I don’t regret this purchase.
How do they ride? And which budget bike is worthy of your money? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Allez and Contend
Probably a Ribble and is that the Elan valley your testing the bikes?. Both bikes look great but I would choose the giant great review.
@@JSC131 yes it's definitely Elan Valley - the top end of Craig Goch reservoir, just below the junction with the mountain road to Cwmystwyth.
The first (immediate) upgrade I'd make to either bike: replace the one-piece brake pads with Kool-Stop cartridge pads.
Nice to see you reviewing some cheaper end bikes , I got a contend a couple of years ago as my winter bike and it’s been really good
Thanks for your feedback! Cheaper bikes have not been easy to get hold of in recent times due to shortages of stock, but we hope we can review more bikes around this price in the future. Enjoy your Contend! - Felix
I can’t believe how little you get for £800-£1000 these days! Claris & Sora wowzer! Watching this makes a good case to buy second hand.
A nine speed drivetrain used to be mid level, and a 10 speed drivetrain used to be premium. A Trek Madone in 2012 came with a 10 speed Ultegra. Not exactly a cheap bike. Shimano group sets have just gotten better. As the group sets have improved, so has the expectations. Plus with a new bike, you're not buying someone else's problems. Replacement of group set parts is not cheap. Definitely getting that sweet carbon frame fixed is not cheap either. Buy what makes you happy, just beware.
Yes because everyone knows that a bike can only be good if the groupset is the highest available in any given price point... Have you considered what you used to be able to buy in the way of houses 10 years ago Vs today for a given price.... In short, things are getting more expensive, and if you listen to people on the internet then a full carbon tour de France level bike for £1000 would be way too expensive if they had nothing to compare it to...
Even entry level groupsets are good now. I saw a comparison recently that showed a modern Sora against a Dura-Ace from a generation ago and the Sora did very well by comparison.
I am so sick and tired of hearing this. It's no longer the early 2000's. Inflation and covid changed everything. These are now the new prices. The numbers are bigger because the currency is worth less. That's what happens when you print money out of thin air.
@@rsx101who said anything about the early 2000s? I’m talking only a few years ago. Stop getting so upset over nothing. It’s my opinion and the last time I looked I’m entitled to my opinion. If you want to pay £1000 for claris be my guest, but I’m not. The whole industry is overinflated and overpriced!
In my country where big 3 Giant, Trek and Specialized always closely compete with each others. With same similar quality level, Specialised always the most expensive, Trek come next and with Giant you can always get best value deal.
I would take the Trek as the geometry would fit me better. I would spend just a little more money at the get ALR2 disc. The 8 speed wouldn't bother me as I remember when my 8 speed DuraAce was considered the best there was. It would be easy to slowly make upgrades to the trek as you figure out what is really needed to make improvements.
Recently bought a giant contend ar2 and I love it. It’s sheer fun to ride, corners well, accelerates quickly and is an all round gear bike for the price. It’s also more than possible to uprate the components so I’m well chuffed with my buy. Don’t be afraid to shop around and ask for discounts - I live in Poland and the dealer was very fair.
Ring brake never die! Although I bought Giant 2023 new propel disc brake, SRAM Etaps early last month
Isn't it weird how, in a few short years, 23c tyres at high pressures appear to be a thing of the past and much more sensible wider tyres and lower pressures have come in.....
Both bikes look upgradable.....that always gives good vibes when you're a home mechanic.....Use the stock parts until they are knackered and then get better components....Saying that, I'd possibly upgrade the brakes straight away...
Good vid again.
Contend 3 owner here. I love it. Paid around $930 I prefer rim brakes due to easier maintenance.
I have it too. Contend 3 here in the Philippines is only 650 usd 😎
As technology has improved many aspects of cycle manufacture, less expensive bikes have much to offer. For context, in 1996 my first proper bike was steel 501 frame and fork, 16 speed Shimano Rx 100 , not as good as Clara's is today. Still managed 25 minute 10 mile time trial and 200 km audax rides . In the end its about getting out there enjoying cycling and an expensive bike doesn't make it any better.
for sure! that being said, if you're gonna spend 900 you can also just get a used carbon bike.
On a pretty flat local 60km route rode my 1979 Moser (10+kg, reasonably mild stem -v- saddle drop with down-shifters and running Michelin Dynamic Classic tyres with butyl inner tubes). Rode my Trifox X16 (sub 7kg, slammed at the front end with GP 5000s and Tubolito inner tubes). Similar conditions both rides (weather, tyre pressure and rider) - under 10% in performance difference. Moral of the story: get out there and enjoy it for what it is and leave the marginal gains to the pros.
24 miles per hour for 10 miles is impressive, especially on an old bike. I average 15 miles per hour for 10 miles on a mid level hybrid. You are absolutely right about the drivetrain. Cheap today in a lot of cases beats expensive a decade or two decades ago. I was watching this video, because I am looking for a good commuter. Although both of these two bicycles may be inferior to road racing, they are probably excellent for commuting. Getting a thousand dollar bike stolen would really hurt, but not as bad as a 5,000 dollar bicycle. I think that most people that make the argument for upper level accessories and frame sets, have no clue what they really want.
@@johnflynn4923 Well spoken!
Love the attention to cheaper models
Thanks for feedback 🥰
Booked the Contend 1 today. My first road bike. Thanks for this.
How is your experience on contend 1 ?. I'm looking for my first riadbike so confuse between trek and giant
@@siddantsahu6739 I love my contend. Very easy enjoyable ride.
I use the Domane AL 2, 2019 model. I threw some 30mm pirelli types on a Reynolds 41mm wheelset. Rides so smooth at a lower tire pressure!
Nice review. I would recommend anyone looking for an old school, rim brake bike, get one of these soon, before they disappear entirely from existence! I just purchased a Specialized Allez Elite and not only did I get rim brakes, but a threaded BB. Get 'em while you can.......................
Threaded BB is a good mask for sloppy tolerances in the frame can't hide that shit with a PF.
Funnily enough, I was looking at 2012 TCR Composites, 2020 TCR Aluxx SL2s but after a little bit of budget issue, I was looking at the contend since it looks like something I'll be able to ride at the National Championships (after a groupset and wheelset change ofc). This is definitely a good video for reference.
I had a Trek Domane AL. It’s a wonderful and very comfortable road bike. The geometry suits me very well.
This is great, one request - could you also do a comparison between high grade aluminum road bikes? and maybe one carbon model to understand how they differentiate in terms of performance, fit and comfort.
On one end, the contend has better tire clearance and more gear choice/smoother shifting with 9 speed Sora. On the other end, the domane has external cable routing for easier maintenance and rear rack mount. As a bike commuter/ leisure rider, I’d say the domane would be my pick for the edge in versatility
Grab yourself a BARGAIN and decent spec 1st road bike or winter bike spare. Yesterday I ordered a NEW 2022 Giant Contend 1, rim bike from Winstanley Bikes of Wigan. With 40% off the RRP I've paid just £599, normally £999. I spoke to staff on phone who said its on its way from the warehouse. Equipped with Shimano Sora 50/34 and 11-34 cassette, Sora levers and Tektro rim brakes. At around 9.5kg I think whilst this is clearly a starter road bike, it represents superb value for money and receives good reviews. I have no affiliation with Winstanleys, check availability over phone.
Why didn't you compare like for like? Giant also make a contend equipped with Claris...
For similar cash to the Giant you can buy the disc brake Domane meaning the poor braking criticism is overcome.
i just bought an Cannondale CAAD Optimo 1. its around 500€ more expensive than those two bikes, but dammn i love it. you barely dont even notice that it isnt made out of carbon when you ride it. probably one of the best frames ever on an "cheaper" aluminium bike. they saved money on the wheels tho... i am upgrading them in the future.
Budget as gone in three years from 600 to 1000, not a good time for buying a new bike, I would put in these comparisons a decathlon triban 540, significantly cheaper with Sora, carbon fork and disc brakes, it's not difficult to make the choice...
Bike prices have gone down now. The Trek seen here is now $999
Does the Trek need a full brake calliper upgrade or just pads? You state the brakes feel good but the pads don’t grip… maybe just upgrade the pads
Thanks for the information
Grab yourself a BARGAIN and decent spec 1st road bike or winter spare. Yesterday I ordered a new 2022 Giant Contend 1, rim brake bike from Winstanley Bikes of Wigan. With 40% off the RRP of £999, I paid just £599. Spoke to staff on phone who said its on its way from the warehouse. With Shimano Sora 50/34 and 11-34 cassette, Sora levers and Tektro rim brakes at around 9.5kg I think whilst this is a starter road bike spec, it represents great value for money and receives good reviews. I have no affiliation with Winstanleys, suggest you check availability over phone, as I did.
I chosen Contend AR2, my buddy have Contend 1. There is no big difference in ride feel on same 28mm tires. Wheels are bit gentle though, be carefull not to get water in hub bearings and check spoke tension regularly. Great entry level bike.
I had the 2021 Giant Contend 3 and it was a much faster and different machine once i got a 47t chainring instead of the 50t but it was way quicker at accelerating and i was able to go faster in top speed too i did 38.5 mph on a flat and 47 mph down a hill and it wasn't even the steepest hill or the longest hill either but i was really impressed and surprised that it was able to achieve those speeds for how little money you spend and if i was on a much longer hill and steeper hill it definitely would of gone over 50 mph 😂 but im getting a new 2023 giant contend 3 and now im really gonna upgrade it and get the onyx road bike hubs with hybrid ceramic wheel Bearings and instant engagement and im gonna lighten the bike and see how much faster it goes😂❤
Allez and Contend are the only bikes worth looking in this segment.
I’d go with the trek and put some disc breaks on it , but that’s just because that’s what most of the dealers around me carry.
Can someone tell me what maximum tire width the Giant Content 1 can actually offer? Will 33mm also work?
4:02 A small 50mm difference in reach you say?...
Good spot, our apologies for the mistake. The actual difference is 15mm not 50mm! Thanks for watching, from all at BikeRadar
My vote is for the Content. Really interesting video.
I was looking to buy Contend AR 1.
Which do they outfit these bikes with such wide handlebars!
As beginner. Im satisfied wd domane al 2 2022
Giant contend was my first bike, i loved it!
Felix venturing beyond the wall.
🤣🤣🤣
I just received a contend 3 as a birthday gift. it is great!
But, as I peruse the comments; yep the cycle community is still plagued by elitism.
It’s more about fun and fitness and the adventure of riding. Not what brand……..🧐
Better save your money and go for a used bike first. There are so many used good bikes out there at this price point with better drivetrains and components. Or go with a new Rose Pro SL 105 which currently is up for sale at 1099 Euros. Absolute smash.
What about Kona bike? 🤔
Since when "budget friendly road bike" means 1000/1100? Better choices out there.
For a long time actually.....
Giant 👍
That's was Osm🚲🚲❣️❣️
carbon wheels and fast tires and they are just as fast and light as the carbon models tjat cost arm and a leg
"Neat, smooth, alloy welds"? Come on, let's be serious. Both my (probably) 20 year old alloy frame and my cheap alloy track frame have far smoother welds than that. And while the aesthetic of a weld is not indicative of its quality, you could've just left that detail unmentioned and nobody would have complained.
ORBEA !!!!!!
These bikes aren't worth this artificially inflated price, buy them second hand for half this price, the way to go....
This cost 1750 euro this is a budget lol
Just go buy a Decathlon bike with a better frame and everything else.
Because Decathlon are ugly looking bikes.
@@gary094 well what can I say, just a childish opinion!
@@nelsonsilva6842but he's not wrong...😂
Really love it. th-cam.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA Read all the reviews before I bought it and posted some questions myself. I hesitated for two weeks as I wasn’t sure if I should go with the 3-spoke or regular spoke tires. I’m not an expert but would assume 3-spoke tires would be rather used inside like in a velodrome because I immediately noticed that cross winds DO have an effect on it while riding. I bought the 3-spoke mostly for the look but did think after my first ride I should have taken the regular spoke tires instead. After 150 miles on the bike I either don’t notice the difference anymore, have been able do adjust to it or had simply no cross winds anymore because I don’t seem to notice the discomfort I was first noticing. So yes: I enjoy every ride and I’m glad I bought it. I’m no expert by ride my bike about 20 miles every day. I don’t regret this purchase.