Test 2016 off-road racer: Giant Anyroad - Everyday bike: Giant Anyroad on test

The question arose when looking at the frame with the long head tube, which lifts the handlebars almost to saddle level. Longer practical experience and, above all, many positive reader reactions to the bike, however, drew attention to the fact that it is often subjective criteria that decide whether a bike is good or not.

If you come from a racing or cross bike background, you may find the riding position on the Anyroad difficult. This was also the case for the three test riders, for whom the bike simply lacks a sporty character. The fact that a real racing bike feeling doesn't quite materialise is mainly due to the small vertical and horizontal distance between the saddle and handlebars, which forces the rider to sit in an upright position. From another perspective, however, it is precisely this design that makes the bike interesting. Anyone who struggles with the bent racing bike position will find the posture on the Anyroad more comfortable. The bike therefore appeals to older riders, beginners who want to familiarise themselves with how a road bike works, and occasional cyclists who are still looking for a bike with a sporty look.

As you sit on it with a straight back, you have a better overview in traffic. The Anyroad would cut a fine figure as an everyday and commuter bike; eyelets for mounting mudguards are available. In this context, the weight of just under eleven kilos would also be put into perspective. Trekking bikes for this purpose are often much heavier.
Another argument in favour of the bike is the low price of 1,200 euros. In return, the Anyroad offers an exceptionally well-made aluminium frame with a fabulously springy carbon seat post and functionally flawless equipment. The drivetrain and gears come from Shimano's Tiagra groupset, which has just been completely overhauled. Until now, the Tiagra was regarded as an entry-level groupset below the 105, but this could change with the visually significantly upgraded current version. The biggest noticeable difference to more expensive Shimano groupsets is the lack of an eleventh sprocket. But even with "only" 20 gears, the bike offers a wide, sufficiently finely graduated gear menu. The additional brake levers on the pleasantly shaped upper handlebars, which can be reached from several grip positions and operate solid mechanical disc brakes, are not only interesting for beginners.

32 millimetre wide, slightly profiled tyres suggest that rough terrain is not the terrain of the Anyroad. However, the target group would probably not want to ride there either. On the other hand, switching between tarmac and well-prepared forest and field paths is effortless. With this design, the Anyroad - nomen est omen - makes an interesting, independent contribution to the topic of "a bike for all occasions". However, you should definitely take a test ride to find out whether you can cope with the design and riding position.

PLUS Very relaxed riding position, brakes easily accessible from all grip positions, top workmanship, favourable price
MINUS heavy, takes some getting used to

Info www.giant-bicycles.com
Frame material/sizes Aluminium / XS, S, M, ML, L, XL
Price/weight 1,200 euros (complete bike with Tiagra groupset from Shimano) / 10.7 kilos

WHAT THE TEST DRIVERS SAY

Jens Klötzer " A good fitness bike for riders who want to exercise without calling it 'training'. Too cumbersome for real off-road use."

Christoph Allwang " The bike seems extremely robust. However, I didn't really enjoy riding it."

Thomas Musch " The geometry doesn't seem conclusive to me."

Alternatives Specialised AWOL (with steel frame)

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