With a reengineered composite frameset featuring adjustable geometry, this new 29er boasts versatile singletrack capabilities with a focus on speed and efficiency Giant, the world leader in cycling technology, unveiled the all-new Trance Advanced Pro 29 featuring a reengineered composite frameset that features adjustable frame geometry and an updated Maestro suspension system.
Designed for all-around trail performance, the latest addition to the Trance range pairs smooth control on technical trails with improved climbing and pedaling efficiency. One of the key updates to the Trance Advanced Pro 29 series is a flip chip that lets riders fine tune the bike’s handling to their individual riding style and terrain. Overall geometry has been updated with a longer reach and steeper seat tube angle, and a new rear suspension setup adds 5mm of travel for added control on rugged singletrack.
The product development team worked closely with riders including Giant ambassador Adam Craig to add more trail-specific features and functionality to the Trance Advanced Pro 29 while staying true to its core strengths as a progressive short-travel trail bike.
“This is a bike that wants to rip on all the different types of terrain that make up a typical trail ride,” said Craig, a former pro XC and enduro racer who has been riding Maestro-equipped Giant bikes for over a decade. “You don’t have to make compromises.
The new geometry makes it feel more alive on the climbs, and that little bit of added rear travel gives it even more control on the rowdy stuff. And it’s fun to be able to choose from the two different settings to make it work best for how and where you ride.”
ADJUSTABLE FRAME GEOMETRY A flip chip on the Maestro suspension rocker arm lets riders choose a steeper or slacker head tube and seat tube angle. There are two settings, high or low. The high position puts an emphasis on efficiency and is ideal for riding slower, tighter singletrack terrain. A head angle of 66.2 degrees and a bottom bracket drop of 35mm produce quick handling with more pedal clearance to help avoid pedal strikes. The low setting is recommended for faster, more open terrain. Switching to low makes the head tube angle slacker (65.5 degrees), which places the front wheel a bit farther out in front of the rider. This gives it a confident feel on steeper terrain and drops. An increased bottom bracket drop (45mm) lowers the center of gravity, producing a more planted feel for confident handling on hard-charging descents.
29ER CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL Both the geometry and suspension setup of the new Trance Advanced Pro 29 are optimized for its 29-inch wheels. The frame has been updated with a slightly longer rear-center measurement (2mm longer than previous generation), which increases rear tire clearance to offer a maximum width of 2.5 inches. A longer reach and steeper seat tube angle (77 degrees) put the rider in a more powerful pedaling position, which improves overall climbing capabilities. These updates complement the stability and speed of the bike’s lightweight 29-inch wheels. The result is a versatile, efficient machine that rolls over rough terrain with balance and stability.
PROGRESSIVE TRAIL DESIGN An updated Maestro rear suspension system now has 5mm added travel compared to the previous generation. The result is a smooth, active feel that gives riders 120mm of rear suspension paired with 130mm up front for maximum control on technical singletrack terrain. From chunky descents to steep, rocky climbs, it offers just the right blend of speed and control. The frameset also has new trail-riding functionality including integrated downtube storage. By opening a latch on the downtube, you can store essential items including an inner tube, CO2 cartridge, tire levers, snacks or a multi-tool, all wrapped in a water-resistant bag. All frames are engineered with enough space for a water bottle (650ml/21oz) inside the front triangle. They also feature new cable ports with a cleaner look and performance to eliminate any cable rattling or noise. Other trail-specific features include integrated protection on the drive-side chainstay and underside of the down tube. There’s also an ISCG-05 interface to mount a chain guide or bash guard.
For more information, including all the details on features and technologies, go to: https://www.giant-bicycles.com/au/trance29
With its updated Maestro suspension system and adjustable frame geometry, the new Trance Advanced Pro 29 combines added control on technical trails with improved efficiency on the climbs. Cameron Baird photo
Giant ambassador Adam Craig, a former pro XC and enduro racer, rides the new Trance Advanced Pro 29 on his home trails in Maine. Cameron Baird photo
Craig tested the new Trance Advanced Pro 29 on a variety of terrain including the rocky, technical trails of New England. Cameron Baird photo
The updated Maestro suspension system now delivers 120mm of smooth, active rear travel.
The upper rocker arm of the Maestro suspension system has a flip chip that lets you choose a steeper or slacker head angle and seat tube angle depending on your riding style and terrain.
The down tube features an integrated storage system to carry essential tools or snacks. A clean, simple latch closure opens it up, and a water-resistant bag inside protects your gear.
New integrated frame ports for derailleur, brake and dropper post cables offer a clean look and helps eliminate any noise or rattling.
Frame details include integrated protection on the drive-side chainstay and underside of the down tube.
The Trance Advanced Pro 29 0 features a Fox Float X Factory rear shock and Fox 34 Factory fork with 130mm of travel. It also includes the new Contact SLR composite handlebar and stem, a superlight integrated system with adjustable stem length and positioning.
The Trance Advanced Pro 29 1 features a Fox Performance Elite Live Valve rear shock and Fox 34 Performance Elite Live Valve fork with 130mm of travel. It’s built up with a Giant TRX 2 Carbon 29 WheelSystem and Shimano Deore XT drivetrain components.
The Trance Advanced Pro 29 2 features a Fox Float DPS Performance rear shock and Fox 34 Float Rhythm fork with 130mm of travel. It’s built up with a Giant TRX 2 Carbon 29 WheelSystem.
About Giant Giant is the world’s leading brand of high-quality bicycles and cycling gear. Part of the Giant Group, which was founded in 1972, the brand combines craftsmanship, technology and innovative design to help all riders unleash their full potential. Through its products, people and retail partners, Giant delivers a full ecosystem of bikes and gear to optimize the cycling experience and grow the community. For more information, go to giant-bicycles.com.