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Love this review
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2 months ago
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Solid value package of frame, fork and components make for a light entry level hardtail.
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Like many hardtails, the XTC 1 responds to every bump in the trail. Not ideal for all day riding.
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Good entry level hardtail with all that brings: acceleration and easy climbing on the one hand, but more temperamental handling on the other.
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The Giant XTC 1 is an entry level hardtail mountain bike with a racing edge. The Giant frame on the bike is made from ALLUX SL alloy. The material provides very stiff and responsive ride qualities as manufactured, and remains surprisingly lightweight for the price. The component packages in the XTC line are competitive in this segment of the market, and Giant put together an excellent combination for the money in the XTC 1.
Shifting is smooth and accurate with SRAM X-5 shifters - found on bikes twice this price - and a SRAM X-7 rear derailleur. Up front is a Shimano Deore derailleur coupled with a TruVativ 5D 3.1 crankset. There were no issues with the drivetrain on several test rides, and the cranks performed well and remained straight despite bashing off an odd rock or two.
The front suspension on the XTC 1 is provided by a Marzocchi MZ Race fork with 100mm of travel. The fork allows you to lock out the front suspension when you don't need it, or on climbs when you need every ounce of power to transfer to the cranks.
The XTC 1 is most at home on flowing singletrack, where it is nimble and responsive. Its relatively low weight means acceleration is quick, and the XTC performs well in the hills, especially when compared to comparably priced full suspension bikes that tend to be heavier. The Giant XTC 1 is a good value package for the trail rider, and will also serve you well at local mountain bike races.
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