GIANT Trance X E+ 3

The "Trance X E+ 3" model from GIANT, released in 2023, is a high-performance e-mountain bike designed for challenging trails and a wide range of uses. Priced at 5199 EUR, it offers a good balance between performance and features.

The Trance X E+ 3’s frame consists of an AluxX SL main frame and a Maestro rear triangle with Flip-Chip geometry. This is complemented by a carbon swingarm and an integrated speed sensor. The frame offers 140 mm of travel and is fitted with an SRAM UDH derailleur hanger, ensuring additional robustness and compatibility. The bike is EnergyPak Plus-compatible, which can extend its range with an additional battery.

The braking system comprises Shimano Deore BR-M420 (4-piston) brakes with 203 mm discs, which ensure reliable braking performance. The brake levers are Shimano Deore BL-M410, I-spec EV, which allow for precise control. Gear shifting is handled by a Shimano Deore M6100 Shadow+ 12-speed system, combined with a Shimano Deore M6100 shifter, also I-spec EV. An MRP 1X HD2 chain guide ensures additional security and stability for the chain.

Front suspension is provided by a RockShox 35 Gold RL DebonAir fork with MotionControl damping and 150 mm of travel, which is specially optimised for e-bikes. The rear shock is a RockShox Deluxe Select R, DebonAir, fitted with a TrunnionMount attachment and individual tuning.

The bike is fitted with flat pedals and features a Praxis e-Cadet+ crankset with a Praxis Wave 36T chainring. The cassette is a Shimano Deore HG-M6100 with a range of 10–51T, offering a wide variety of gear ratios. The drivetrain is complemented by a KMC e.12 Turbo chain with an EcoProteq coating, which is specially optimised for e-bikes.

The cockpit consists of a GIANT Contact 35 Trail handlebar with a 20 mm rise, GIANT Tactal Pro single lock-on grips and a GIANT Contact SL 35 stem. The wheels feature GIANT AM 29" rims, tubeless-ready with an internal width of 30 mm, fitted with Maxxis Minion DHF and Maxxis Dissector tyres in size 29 x 2.6", which are also tubeless-ready.

The hubs are Shimano MT410 models and the spokes are a combination of Sapim Race and Sapim E-Lite. The saddle is a GIANT Romero model and the seatpost is a GIANT Contact Switch Vario seatpost, which offers different travel lengths depending on frame size (S: 125 mm, M: 150 mm, L/XL: 170 mm).

Additional equipment includes a tubeless kit comprising sealant, valves, tyre levers, a valve core remover and instructions. The motor is a GIANT SyncDrive Pro2 with 85 Nm of torque, developed by Yamaha. The battery is a GIANT EnergyPak Smart Integrated 750 Wh model, compatible with the EP Plus RangeExtender. The display is SG & ANT+ compatible and the charger is a GIANT EnergyPak SmartCharger with a 6A charging current.

Overall, the GIANT Trance X E+ 3 offers a well-thought-out combination of powerful electric assistance, robust construction and high-quality components, which should appeal to both beginners and experienced mountain bikers.