First Look: The 2023 Giant Reign Gets More Travel, Adjustments, & Storage

Dec 1, 2022
by Matt Beer  
EWS Loudenville France
Whether you’re an enduro racer tackling all-day events or a freerider blasting huge bike park jumps, riders are asking a lot from their long-travel bikes these days. Giant have delivered a new Reign that caters to aggressive riding with highlights including in-frame storage and a three-position flip-chip that allows it to accept a 27.5" rear wheel.

The Reign family varies from a base model at $3,600 USD with an aluminum frame and dual 29” wheels, to a full carbon enduro race bike, and all the way to the Reign SX with mixed wheel sizes and a dual-crown fork. A Reign Advanced Pro 0 will sit at the top of the price range and is set to launch later in March, 2023. All other models will be available in late February.

Visually, the new carbon frame looks stouter, with sharper lines and square tubing on the front triangle. Bright colors and huge logos are nowhere to be seen either. Instead, you'll find neutral tones and metallic flake in the paint with limited branding.
2023 Giant Reign Details
• Frame: Carbon or aluminum models
• Travel: 160mm (165mm on the SX model)
• Wheel size: 29" or MX option
• Seatstay geometry flip-chip
• Head tube angle: 63.5 - 64.2º
• Seat tube angle: 77.3 - 78.0º
• Reach: 430-510mm
• Chainstay length: 443mm
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 14.94 kg / 32 lb, 15 oz (Advanced Pro 1, size MD, no pedals)
• Pricing: $3,600 - 6,800 USD (TBD for Ad. Pro 0)
• Availability: Late February 2023
• More info: giant-bicycles.com

Compared to its predecessor, both the geometry and rear wheel travel have changed substantially. Giant called upon their Factory Off-Road Team members Youn Deniaud and Mckay Vezina for input on how to improve the Reign for enduro racing. The head tube angle can now tip back to 62.76 degrees in the slackest setting and a longer stroke shock boosts the travel from 146mm to 160 while still employing the Maestro, dual-link suspension design.




photo
photo
photo

Frame Details

Following suit with their Trance trail bike series, Giant has designed the frame to hide tools, snacks or extra layers inside the downtube using a latched door that the water bottle cage bolts onto. While that’s not a huge surprise, this is the first time that Giant has incorporated storage into their aluminum frames.

Another feature that Giant has expanded on is the use of their flip-chip that lies in the seatstay and rocker link pivot. Instead of the usual two-position chip there are now three settings; low, mid and high. On the Advanced Pro models, Giant’s title for their carbon frames, the rocker link is also made from the composite material. Most riders will find that flip-chip settings will work best in the low and mid settings for a 29” rear wheel, while the mid and high will suit the smaller 27.5” option. However, the alloy Reign SX model is dedicated to a mixed-wheel setup and uses a tube set that is built for the rigors of a dual-crown fork.

Giant stuck with a press fit BB92 option, 148 Boost rear hub spacing, and adds a universal derailleur hanger to the frame specs. The usual rubber protection treatments are found under the downtube and on the chainstay and the cable management runs internally. All of the models come equipped with a chainguide and skid plate - a wise addition for those that choose the lower flip-chip positions.




photo
photo

Suspension Design

Giant doesn’t look to be deviating from their Maestro design anytime soon. They’ve been fine tuning that system for some time to produce a near vertical axle path.

The amount of travel has also been increased to 160mm using a 62.5mm trunnion mount shock and aligns nicely with a 170mm single-crown fork. However, the SX model is aimed at gravity riders which sees the rear shock get boosted by 5 mm in stroke length to produce 165mm of travel via a Fox DHX2 coil shock.




photo

Geometry

Adaptability is the underlying theme here, with six possible combinations between two rear wheel choices and three flip-chip settings. When a 29” rear wheel is used, the head angle and seat tube angle begin at 64.2 and 78.0 degrees, dropping roughly 0.4 degrees each time the flip-chip is lowered, going all the way down to 63.5 and 77.3-degrees. However, with the smaller rear wheel placed in the dropouts, the angles start at 63.46 and 77.26 respectively.

In terms of BB drop, the high setting places the crank spindle 25mm below the axle of the 29” rear wheel and 19mm lower than the 27.5”. Lowering the BB further results in 5mm and 10mm more drop.

One surprise with the sizing is that Giant has not expanded the number of sizes to include a XXL. This means that the XL frame tops out at a reach of 510mm in the mid-29er setting. The other reach numbers start at 430 for a size small frame in that same setting and move up to 460mm on the medium and 480 on the large. The chainstays are not adjustable here and sit at a length of 443 across the size range.




photo
Reign 1 - (Not available in USA or Canada) / $5,699 AUD / £3,999 GBR / €4,499 EUR

photo
Reign 2 - $3,600 USD / $4,299 CAD / $4,399 AUD / £3,499 GBR / €3,599 EUR
photo
Reign SX - $4,600 USD / $4,899 CAD / $6,199 AUD / £4,699 GBR / €4,699 EUR

photo
Reign Advanced Pro 1 - $6,800 USD / $7,999 CAD / $8,999 AUD / £6,599 GBR / €6,999 EUR
photo
Reign Advanced Pro 2 - (Not available in USA) / $5,699 CAD / $6,599 AUD / £4,699 GBR / €5,299 EUR

Specs

The Reign family is split between three Advanced Pro carbon models and three aluminum frame builds that begin at $3,600 USD. Depending on what part of the world you live in though, not all six models will be available. The Reign 1 will be excluded from the lineup in North America and the Reign Advanced Pro 2 from only the USA.

Stocked with Fox Performance Elite suspension, the Reign Advanced Pro 1 also comes with Giant carbon wheels and handlebars, a SRAM GX drivetrain with Shimano SLX brakes, plus, Maxxis EXO+ and DD tires for $6,800 USD or 6,900€.

Moving into alloy frames, the Reign 1 uses the same Fox Elite suspension, but with Shimano SLX/Deore/Praxis drivetrain mix, Giant alloy wheels and a Contact Switch dropper post. Sitting at €4,499 EUR, this is one of the models not available in the United States. The Reign 2, which consists of a similar components mix is offered at a price of $3,600 USD, but instead swaps the Fox suspension for a RockShox Yari RC and Super Deluxe Select+ rear shock.

Then there’s the $4,600 USD / €4,699 EUR Reign SX that is focused on bike park riding with a Fox 40 fork that is set to 190mm of travel, a DHX coil shock, compact gearing, and a solid seat post. Again, there’s a mixed drivetrain of Shimano Deore and Praxis parts, Giant alloy wheels, and SRAM Code R brakes with a 220mm front rotor that round out the freeride focused bike.

Pricing and components for the top end Reign Advanced Pro 0 are still being worked out with a launch planned in March 2023.




Author Info:
mattbeer avatar

Member since Mar 16, 2001
360 articles

216 Comments
  • 294 1
 Giant, grounding pricing madness with a 40 equipped, dhx2 coil sprung, bike for under $5k. Cheers from the Pinkbike comment value dept
  • 26 73
flag malca (Dec 1, 2022 at 9:38) (Below Threshold)
 Lol 3600 euro for alu frame with yari and non pigy back shock is not a good price.
  • 137 10
 Yeah if you hate on Giant you hate on biking. They have been producing high quality good value bikes for years. I don't own one but admire their ability to make good bikes and not over market themselves.
  • 21 0
 Yah that really is a solid build for the price.
  • 22 1
 Considering how many other brands bikes they make I don't think they have the same set of price rules as their competitors...Also they make pretty rad bikes
  • 12 40
flag notthatfast (Dec 1, 2022 at 11:44) (Below Threshold)
 It's good value but it's gone up in price by at least $1000 since last year and it's still a Giant...
  • 7 0
 @malca: that's not even the bike chrismac is referring to.
  • 27 0
 @foggnm: my boy’s been beating on a glory from 17 for 5 years, although she aint the prettiest girl at the ball, lemme tell ya that dog still hunts
  • 6 16
flag malca (Dec 1, 2022 at 13:27) (Below Threshold)
 @Lebmartin: It was in response to giant grounding pricing madness with a niche bike while upping the price of entry level build by 37%. Giant was a great value brand and I just don't see that anymore. For 3700 euro you would expect to at least get mid level suspension.Yari is crap and it has no place on a bike at this price. Same with inline shock.... But hey atleasrt it is not RS Gold 35 so props to them
  • 18 0
 On top of it, they never let the users do the beta testing by going to market early like the "cool" brands. Also , best quality control/ assurance in the frame business.
I've never owned one, but it's a no bs company.
  • 5 0
 @malca: Don't poopoo the new inline shocks. That RS Deluxe gets the job done 100%!
  • 4 7
 @foggnm: I broke a reign frame, I don't hate giant. But not sure on high quality. Let's say decent quality.
  • 3 15
flag pugafi (Dec 1, 2022 at 17:20) (Below Threshold)
 @foggnm: it is cheap when your design dept cost near to none... no real or significant changes in a decade has to mean savings...
  • 6 0
 I really want to throw a wide range casette and a dropper on the SX ... that could be really, really fun.
  • 11 1
 No headset or stem cable routing???....... I'm out.
  • 3 0
 @pargolf8: are you mixing up your idioms there now?
  • 5 0
 That’s why Giant is the biggest bike manufacturer in the world period, they represent bike culture for everyone around the globe. More people riding bikes is what really matters and most companies can’t set the same retail price because they aren’t as massive as giant (no one is) .
  • 1 0
 @sspiff: si amigoo
  • 2 0
 I have to disagree with you, 5k is quite a lot for what you get. Not sure any of the components would be something I would chose, and however, I have never spent 5k for a bike
  • 1 0
 @chrismac they're still in time to change their minds like they did a couple months ago when they released the 2023 Propel, they literally went up almost USD 2K just to be in line with other bikes also recently released by the competition.
  • 2 0
 @foggnm: I agree
  • 1 1
 I agree, but why spec a DH bike with a wide range cassette? I feel bad for calling them out on it
  • 2 0
 I got mine Reign SX 2021 for 3200 euros in Germany last November. Has Fox 38 Grip 2, DHX2, SLX brakes, NX drivetrain
  • 1 0
 @pargolf8: wish i could say the same. i sent a jump deep and snapped my frame in half right behind the head tube. i loved that bike but idk if i could go with another giant.
  • 1 0
 @Beaconbike: same. where’d yours break?
  • 3 1
 @foggnm: Yea, the bike snob that bashes Giant is probably the one that bought a bike that was thousands more, loves the hell out of it but found out one day that it is made by Giant....
  • 4 3
 @phamdeleon:
Lol I've owned plenty of Giant bikes, and they're good for what they are, but just because X brand is manufactured by Giant doesn't mean they can't put more money into the moulds, fittings, layups, materials etc.
Giant bikes are cheap for a reason
  • 4 1
 @notthatfast: They are cheap because they control the whole manufacturing process with no middle man. I remembered back in the day when my now wife found out that her Specialized Myka was made by Giant! Oh the horror on her face! Priceless!
  • 1 0
 @CamLamson: bottom of the tube/ weld where the top tube and seat tube meet.
  • 4 1
 @malca: go ride your blue flow trail buddy
  • 3 6
 @phamdeleon:
Having owned and more importantly worked on literally hundreds of specialized and giant bikes, among a shit ton of others, I can tell you that marketing hype and ‘the middle man’ are not the only reasons for the price difference. Giant frames are lesser quality, no two ways about it.
  • 3 0
 @lloydyb: Not everyone use uplift, some people just ride theirs way up.
  • 2 0
 @notthatfast: Well dude, this is a no brainer here! Specialized & most of the other so-called 'boutique' brands charges triple the price for their bikes so I hope that the quality should be better! Again, Giant is in the business of making bikes and for the bottom line!
  • 1 0
 @malca: Yari is definitely mid-level? There's bikes out there with comparable price with less desirable builds and geo.
  • 3 1
 @notthatfast: I don't believe you.
  • 2 2
 @Busted-Up-Biker:
10 years as a mechanic wrenching on Giants for most of those and high end Santa Cruz/Pivot etc the last 3. Believe me or not, but I know what I know from experience working on literally thousands of bikes.
  • 82 1
 That Reign SX looks like an absolute park weapon
  • 31 0
 its been quite a while since I wanted a giant
  • 4 0
 Wide range cassette but no dropper (at least in the photo) interesting, but cool!
  • 3 2
 With a huge cassette for a Park bike...?
  • 8 2
 @bbachmei: could be because Giant don't throw dollars the way of MTB promoters (such as PB)
  • 1 1
 @Chridel: has compact cassette
  • 3 2
 @gramboh: the bike on the picture has a long derailleur and a big cassette for a Park bike. 11-23 or close would be a park worthy drivetrain... The one in the picture is minimum 42 or 46...
  • 16 0
 @Chridel: I think the intention was to give the bike a serviceable amount of climbing capabilities (Just like freeride bikes from 10+ years ago). i.e: fireroad climbs, a short pedal to get to that out of bounds dh trail, etc
  • 4 4
 @JakeMartell: But no dropper post for climbing or slamming on the downs? Also, I don't know if they updated the linkage or use a different rear end but if they don't the geo on the SX with 27.5 wheel and 190 dual crown will be a mess.
  • 2 3
 Probably a more capable DH bike than the current glory...
  • 10 87
flag philip92 (Dec 1, 2022 at 14:04) (Below Threshold)
 The color is gay
  • 29 4
 @philip92: Are you 13
  • 10 63
flag philip92 (Dec 1, 2022 at 17:52) (Below Threshold)
 @N-60: Are you gay
  • 34 8
 @philip92: Get out a here with that homophobic sh*t!
  • 5 24
flag jtnotsure FL (Dec 1, 2022 at 21:27) (Below Threshold)
 @philip92: lol
  • 7 50
flag jtnotsure FL (Dec 1, 2022 at 21:28) (Below Threshold)
 @stevie-joe: how is saying a color is gay homophobic? Gay means shitty now, are you living in 2008?
  • 2 0
 @JakeMartell: The article mentioned them fine tuning the Maestro suspension. I'm a solid 220 pound guy, with above average lower body strength. The one thing about the Maestro suspension is I don't need to lock out the suspension ever, on any climb. I can't imagine them making it better.
  • 50 3
 I’m loving the dual crown forked enduros
  • 17 6
 Sit down, it's a park bike.
  • 7 3
 @nozes: because it has a double crown fork ? Lol don't assume that bike gender based on one attribute hey !
  • 7 0
 @Balgaroth: because it's not running a dropper
  • 2 1
 @nozes: not without full 27.5 it isnt. you know what? only bikes that are single speed dual crown enduro bikes are park bikes
  • 1 1
 @Larkey1: And yet it has a wide range cassette. It's not like they removed the access port to fit a dropper. Not fitting one means not over charging all the renthal fleets that will use this bike in the Alps as they already use current Reigns in many places and for final customers that plan on buying it you can just buy one for roughly 120€, you already have the expensive which is the wide range transmission.
  • 1 0
 @nozes: not with that range on cogs. Seems enduro to me. Maybe to cut cost and being on the fence between dh and enduro they ditch dropper.
  • 32 0
 Reign SX has me sweating. Oooof.
  • 32 2
 Giant has always made good bikes, never realized Giant hate existed until seeing these comments. Bunch of label whores on pinkbike it seems.
  • 27 2
 Giant, best bang for your buck anywhere.
  • 12 7
 Marin is giving them a run for their money
  • 9 1
 In which world? Cause 7k for the pro 1 is nuts
  • 1 0
 @NicolaZesty314: I had a 2016 Advanced Pro 1, and the 2023 Advanced Pro 1 is >50% price increase over what I paid for it back then, comparable-ish spec. Loved the bike, but $8k CAD is nuts.
  • 22 0
 Never thought i'd actually want a giant. Also paint job on the carbon frameset only is insane!
  • 4 10
flag Rabbuit (Dec 1, 2022 at 11:35) (Below Threshold)
 I feel sick, I want so bad, but Giant….
  • 15 0
 @Rabbuit: bike snobs everywhere
  • 3 0
 @Larkey1: Lol, 100% accurate. Just never looked at a Giant and thought yes, that is where my money is going. But that frameset.......ooffttttt.
  • 3 0
 Is there a link please to the frameset? Unless I’m being thick I can’t see one listed
  • 1 0
 @jeremyk: Flow or Vital had pics of the frameset. WOW!
  • 2 0
 @OzarkBike: found it thanks, looks awesome!
  • 7 0
 @jeremyk and anyone else wondering, this thing looks insane. Cant believe they left it out the article: www.giant-bicycles.com/global/showcase/reign-advanced-pro-frame
  • 5 0
 all their framesets only are looking absolute mint!
  • 4 0
 @patpatpat: came here to say that. Their framesets are all extremely unique and on point this year. My local Giant shop owner texted me a picture of the new Trance X Advanced Pro 29 frameset, and I can't stop staring at it. The geometry looks legit, as well. Very tempted by this: www.giant-bicycles.com/us/trance-x-advanced-pro-29-frame
  • 3 0
 @opetruzel: that’s awesome!
  • 22 1
 Look at that revolutionary cable routing! I hope the other builders follow suit!
  • 25 3
 the people's bike.
  • 21 0
 New bike and no headset cable routing. Pinkbike rejoice!
  • 5 0
 I like Giant (have a 2020 Reign SX) but you can't deny they move slowly. If they have only just started doing in-frame storage we probably have a couple years before they start doing headset cable routing and return to threaded bottom brackets.
  • 5 0
 @PhillipJ: thank God for them being behind the curve on cable routing
  • 6 0
 @PhillipJ: The Reign 2015s and 2018s geometry was miles ahead of f.ex. the Santa Cruz Nomads of that time, etc.

Thank god that they´re long time FSA partner, not part of the Acros plastic cable routing headset mafia.
  • 14 0
 I wish the Reign 1 alloy would be brought into the US.. More upspeced alloy bikes would be nice... But, the big 3 have been beating the carbon drum for too long to do that..
  • 10 0
 So let me get this straight, for us buyers in the states we only have the choice of the top spec carbon model or the bottom spec alloy model? What the hell Giant? If you sold the alloy 1 model here I’d buy one immediately.
  • 6 0
 I agree. Its exactly the model Id be interested in. Ive been wanting to consolidate my Trance Advance and Trek Session and just have one bike. The alloy 1 would be perfect.
  • 4 0
 There will be more options available next year. Just need to right-size supply after the covid cluster F.
  • 8 1
 I've sold Giant for decades. The high end aluminum models just do not sell. Anyone remember the traffic cone aluminum reign from a few years ago? Sick build but aluminum so we didn't sell a single one. People have been sold on carbon frames. From the consumer stand point they could pay x for heavy old antiquated not cool metal frame with some nice bits they won't use or they could pay x for CARBONIUM! THE MATERIAL OF THE FUTURE!

And they're not totally wrong to think that. The frame IS the most expensive bit. So if they were going to get a bike and were planning for future upgrades, having the 'nicer' frame makes economic sense.

And as an industry guy, Id opt for the lower specced carbon frames versus a nicer equipped aluminum frame thinking purely about resale.
  • 2 0
 @gbones: I feel like the tables are turning on that though. Weight is less of a factor now on big burly enduro bikes that climb well thanks to modern geometry. Plus alloy-first brands like Commencal are surging in popularity and making people realize the value in higher spec’d alloy bikes.
  • 2 0
 @bforwil: I think the only other options coming in the pipeline are the super-premium 0 models. This isn’t a new thing for Giant leaving North America high and dry on top spec alloy models. I have the 2021 Trance X 29 2 model which was the highest spec offered here, we never got the 1 model.
  • 3 0
 Conversely, the Norco Sight aluminum bikes with higher spec have sold pretty well around here, and there are Commencals everywhere. Given the choice of top tier brakes, decent suspension etc and a quality aluminum frame, or 'meh' components on a carbon frame that other than a bit lighter doesn't really give any performance advantages, I know which I'd chose (and have). Maybe consumers just need better educating? There is zero logic in buying a carbon bike with NX, Guide R brakes, cheap wheels and the like.
  • 3 0
 @wake-n-rake: so essentially zero logic in buying anything from Santa Cruz that retails for less than $8k lol

Jokes aside, I completely agree. Give me alloy with better components any day.
  • 2 0
 @WY228: I agree with you on the top spec alloy point, but there will be another version of the carbon model aside from the 0 & 1, later in '23.
  • 2 0
 @gbones: yup. I got a 2017 SX (flat black and orange with Fox suspension) for a steal in 2018. I still regret selling that bike…
  • 7 0
 Normal headset routing FTW. This is only one out of 3 bikes released in the last few days here with normal cable routing. Its odd that normal routing should be listed as a pro... but in this case I think its justified.
  • 8 2
 How is GIANT as a brand? Same as everyone else or worst? I see in field test from 2019 - 2020 GIAT frames were getting pretty low scores from reviewers. On the other hand, I have a friend on 2016 Reign, he absolutely rips, hits everything from a simple single track to a serious DH park, services it once at the end of the season and the whole thing is ging strong for the last 5 - 6 years.
  • 8 0
 Wait, didn't the Trance in the 2019 field test fare really well? Most reviews were really positive at the time.
  • 22 1
 Most everyone i have met with a giant rides it for about 5 years with almost zero maitnenance then snaps it in half. And they all absolutely shred. I think its just a lifestyle tbh
  • 5 0
 own two, no complaints. Broke the frame on my 2020 Anthem back in May and they sent me a completely new frame (front and rear triangles) free of charge.
  • 5 0
 I had a Trance for 6 years. I loved it. Their carbon wheels were also bombproof.
  • 3 0
 Still have my 26" Anthem X I bought on Ebay, ridden it thousands of miles, commuting, offroad etc. In fact I have some fox 32s on it and I have never serviced them ever and everything still holds up. Perfect for the riding I do, mainly XC, trail.
  • 2 0
 @edummann: can second this comment on their carbon wheels. Have a pair on my 2017 XTC Adv. hardtail. Have over 6,500 miles on them...never broke a spoke and never trued them, still going strong.
  • 2 1
 Had a few giant bikes as a LBS always had them at a good discount. They are not sexy. They are not innovative but they work well and hold up. I can only speak for the alluminum versions. Had to warranty a frame once and it was straight forward - no bullshitting. But it seems that they fell of a cliff over the last five years in terms of design (except the trance x) and price point.
  • 4 0
 @edummann: 100% Been beating the absolute shit out of my 2020 Trance Advanced Pro 1 and they are still dead straight with not loose spokes.
  • 6 0
 I have a Giant TCR carbon road bike. Got some hairline cracks in the paint around the seat clamp. Maybe to do with me being right on the upper edge of the ML size, so the seat tube is right on the limit line. Warranted the frame without question, got a new model year frame and matching fork. Took ages to arrive (but I carried on riding the old one), but that was during the worst of the "no bikes, no parts" issues of the last couple of years, so they get a pass for that. Would buy again
  • 4 0
 Had a aluminum Trance 2 for 8 years,not a single issue with the frame,even with less than ideal maintenance.
  • 4 0
 I've been flogging my 2020 Advanced 1 for 3 seasons now and it's been flawless. Nothing stock left on the bike but the fork/shock. These new ones look great but I think I'm going to stick with my current 2020 for another season. I have a longer travel bike and like the snappiness of the 146/160 I currently run is super fun!
  • 4 0
 I've been beating on a 17 Trance for 6 seasons now. Going strong. I put an angleset in it and it still feels great.
  • 25 1
 Think of Giant like Toyota. Big and conservative. They get value from mass production economies of scale versus trying to lead niche designs. They make only proven designs that will sell in the mass market. Thus, bulletproof reliability and great value for money.
  • 7 0
 I had a 2009 reign X1, smashed it hard in bike parks all over BC for 10 years (yes, really), only thing in broke was due to crash damage which was all componentry. Upgraded to a 2020 Reign 2 late 2019 and its a do everything solid bike, not the lightest, not the best components, but I don't give a shit about having the latest/greatest, I care that it holds together and puts a smile on my face. It does that very well.
  • 4 0
 I've had a Talon HT, Fathom HT, Trance, Anthem, hybrid, Defy road bike and a Fathom HT e-mtb. Never had a failure and the Anthem was the dodgy 2012 frame. Been riding the ebike for 3 years now, thrashing the guts out of it, and no issues. As for the bike snobs, Giant probably make the frames of the bikes they are riding...
  • 1 0
 @mountainsofsussex: I had a friend with the same exact hairline fracture on two different carbon Giants, a 2017 trance advance and a 2019 carbon Defy.
  • 3 0
 @Ktron: I like that point of view. Had experience working with a sexy, super duper advanced SPesh Enduro that was 10 years old and proprietary shit was not available for purchase anywhere. Great bike, was still great being 10 years old but what is the point if you cannot fix stuff when it brakes or needs to buy some aftermarket shit that cost close to new bike Big Grin

I am always looking for the value, best value my money can bring... don't care about flashy a super cool looking stuff anymore. Giant seems to fit the bill
  • 1 0
 Had a 2016 Advanced 1, up until last year. Bike is still going. Needed 1/5th of the maintainence my new one does, uncomplicated design. New bikes are somehow even slacker, but the bike would ride anything it was the rider that held it back.
  • 5 0
 The Advanced 1 is basically the same as my 2017 Advanced 1 but with bigger wheels, burlier fork, and better geometry. This is the first Reign I've found desirable since I bought mine. Everything in between has had worse geometry, less travel, and a worse spec.
  • 3 0
 Yeah, this is finally a legit successor for the 2015-2020 27,5 Reigns which were great.
  • 1 0
 That price though, woof.
  • 7 0
 That SX looks sexy. Wish Giant would bring that Alloy Reign 1 29 into the U.S. though.
  • 5 1
 The Aussies need a break though, paying 1300 bucks more for the Sx even though our dollars have always been about the same. Let em have the Reign 1. It's tough out there in the ocean.
  • 8 0
 Ok cool. Now release a new Glory, damnit!
  • 5 0
 Great pricing and a brand that delivers good support, even forgoing the horrible monstrosity that is headset cable routing! Thank you Giant for being one of the few sensible bike companies lately!
  • 5 0
 The reign sx maybe the fastest dh bike of all time. Less travel than dh, lighter than DH, stronger than a typical enduro, more stable than enduro, more nibble than DH. And with maestro pedal efficiency of a xc bike.
  • 4 0
 Really hope they change the builds/availability for the US. The SX build is sick and a great value, but the non-SX Reign is either $3,600 for a starter build/spec (for an Enduro bike) or the next build up is $6,800 for an Advance Pro 1 build. There needs to be something in between with a mid-level build kit. The Reign 1 looks pretty decent, but no US/Canada availability
  • 7 0
 I'll forever be a giant fanboy. Looks sick as.
  • 3 0
 I have a 2018 Reign (27.5 only) that I brought to the Giant tent during Crankworx Whistler this year. It's beefy, with Z1 coil, Super Deluxe Coil, CC link, phat tires, inserts, big brakes, etc. The product manager was keen on it and they were hinting at something new coming out soon. Now that we have it, compared to the 27.5 models:

Pros:
+ Front triangle got a much-needed update
+ Adjustable geo
+ Pricing is hard to beat
+ Rear end is a smidge longer

Cons:
- No full 27.5 option, especially for the SX
- SX should maybe be its own model? It sounds like it has a unique front triangle
- The chainstay is same size across all sizes, still
  • 4 0
 could you not simply put 27.5 on there? I see the issue going from 27.5 to 29, but not the other way around.
  • 1 0
 @SATN-XC: That’s definitely an option, although I’m not sure if you could maintain the HTA with 27.5 and single crown up front. The fork would have to be at least 180mm travel to keep BB height similar, etc.
  • 6 0
 @SATN-XC: Almost like they set the fork at 190mm, so you can go 200mm and 27.5"
  • 1 0
 @SATN-XC: It drops the bottom bracket enough to cause pedal strikes. All the flip chip shenanigans would allow 27.5 in the front to be otherwise acceptable though.
  • 5 0
 Nice downtube protector, actually makes it to the edges of the tube down by the "belly".
  • 6 0
 No headset cable routing, that's a dealbreaker for me...
  • 1 0
 haha you got that wrong
  • 4 1
 It makes total sense for a park bike, but I wish you could option the SX with a wide range mech/cassette. I pedal up an access road to my DH-level terrain and the SX looks like the ideal type of bike for that type of stuff.
  • 3 0
 It comes with an 11-46, should be enough for fireroad grinding
  • 3 0
 @cscholz13: Does it? Oh nice. That's plenty for me, esp with a 27.5 rear wheel. When they said "compact gearing" I was imagining a DH style (possibly 7 speed) cassette). 46 teeth is more than I ever had until maybe two months ago.
  • 4 0
 I wanted to put a boxxer on my 07 Reign x way back and everyone thought I was crazy. My how the tables have turned
  • 2 0
 Lots of people put boxers on that first gen X. I did!
  • 3 0
 They make half the worlds frames, so they all charge more. This way Giant can price their brand cheaper and look like the hero
  • 3 0
 Giant makes a fantastic bike. I've had recent versions of the Trance and Reign and they were awesome bikes... just not when it came time for resale.
  • 7 1
 Yup, that's why I love buying used Giants. Easy to get for a steal.
  • 4 0
 @Adamrideshisbike: sorry, accidental down vote...

Agree, giant bikes usually can be found for good deals!! Usually ride as good as the competition, but the fanboi's pass them buy to get yeti and SC... Smile
  • 2 0
 @Adamrideshisbike: Bang on the money. I don't really have any brand loyalty but I do like to find a good deal. I usually end up looking at a bunch of used bikes in the category I want and making a spreadsheet. In the last year and a half I have ended up buying 3 Giant bikes because they won based on the almighty spreadsheet.
  • 2 0
 Bikes are getting too expensive
( in general )
I got 2022 regin sx 29er it rips
Can only imagine how it would be like with 160mm
  • 4 1
 If you have a Large or Extra Large you don't need to imagine, you can just remove the stroke limiting spacers from the shock.
  • 1 0
 @PhillipJ: i dont think that would do it
I already got a rs super deluxe 2023 ultimate with 62.5 stroke which makes it go to around 152mm but the leverge curve is linear/regressive in the last 15% of travel
So if you add more travel i thenk the bike kinematica are going to continue being regressive

I have this bigger stroke .. you can definitely feel it

Im just wo dering about the new regin leverge curve
  • 3 0
 Anybody with good reasoning on the choice to withhold models from different regions? Makes no sense to me.
  • 3 0
 High end alloy doesn't sell in some places. Giant have been doing something similar for years.
  • 2 0
 @PhillipJ: Huh. Strange. Makes sense from a manufacturer perspective, but I'm surprised North Americans don't want a high end spec on an aluminum bike. That's what the riders I know would want.
  • 3 0
 each country and market is quite diferent, so each Giant distributor decide the best line up option for them. Of course never is 100% agree for everbody
  • 4 0
 Unrideable...no headset routing
  • 3 0
 Pop a QR clamp on that Reign SX and you have the most capable commuter you could ever want
  • 1 0
 Especially in Canada Giants pricing is great. The only issue I run into is the seat tube e fry being long comparatively to other brands. So I either have to get a shorter dropper or go down a frame size.
  • 1 0
 In comparison to other manufacturers perhaps. Bike pricing as a whole is out of control. They are going to find out this year that the pandemic is over, and the used market is going to probably be pretty robust, you can already see this starting to take root in the latest Shimano financials.
  • 1 0
 I have a 2020 giant rein 29r advanced pro that I can't give away for $2500 with dhx2 coil and pushed front fork the resale value is garbage
  • 2 0
 I'm puzzled why people hate on Giant Frames yet give Norco frames a pass, they're both decent.
  • 5 1
 what a huge reveal
  • 3 0
 I f*cking love the sx. dual crowns are sick. 100% cool
  • 3 0
 Waiting for a Giant Anthem review please!!
  • 3 0
 FLOW did a great review
  • 3 0
 I would pay a little bit more if Giant can put a dropper post on that SX.
  • 3 0
 put a TranzX also sold as PNW, etc or a OneUp onto it and you´re good.
  • 2 0
 Wow, this looks really sick! I think I just found my next bike. Looks like Giant is cool again!
  • 2 0
 reign sx be looking good right now . . . .
  • 2 0
 The Alu models look better than the carbon and that SX is the shiz.
  • 1 0
 I'd love to see a bump up in travel on the Trance X 29, 135 rear just seems too conservative for the bike's intentions.
  • 6 0
 Find yourself a 2022 Reign 29?
  • 4 0
 Have mine with a 160 lyric and think the 135 rear combo makes it a great ride anywhere ride...
  • 1 0
 @PhillipJ: that just seems a bit hefty though, 145-150 in the rear I feel would be a good happy medium for more aggressive trail riding/enduro-ish kinda stuff. I did get to test ride one this season and it didn't feel quite as composed on repetitive chunky stuff on descents, almost as if I was getting too far into the travel too easily. Maybe the shock needed a bit more tuning, but compared to the gen 6 Trek Fuel Ex, the Fuel Ex felt like it had a bit mor support and stability in the rear end. Haven't tried a Reign at all, but idk how much fun it'd be climbing techy stuff and on flats.
  • 1 0
 If I was in the market for a new bike, this and the marin would be at the top of my (value based) list
  • 1 3
 I see the aluminum still have the design flaw. Where the top tube meets the seat tube. Need to come in straight and have a gusset. Mine cracked across the weld on the bottom side. Well that's one spot. Rear triangle had a small crack too. Bummer. Be weary if your big or ride really aggressive, or really weary if you are both.
  • 4 0
 Giant´s aluminium frames are often about as light as other companies carbon offerings.

Their warranty is somewhat good as well, so no need to worry?
  • 2 0
 Surprised it weighs 32.9lbs. It looks like it would weight 40lbs.
  • 2 1
 Tooo late giant!
I waited years and you didn’t have what I wanted so I bought elsewhere.
May consider next time though.
  • 1 0
 Uglier than previous version??? Miss that 2014 edition with barelli. That was the glory age
  • 2 0
 Almost looks like a modern bike. Good job giant!
  • 2 0
 I sold my 2005 Reign this past year. Long live Giant...and external cable!
  • 1 0
 Might get the aluminium version for my dad. Never had a Giant before, do they make good quality alloy frames?
  • 1 0
 Any picture about the new bike?
  • 1 0
 Why is there so much material between top tube, down tube and head tube??
  • 2 0
 Maybe they're all ready for a dual crown fork?
  • 1 0
 Google the Liv Intrigue of 2015/2016 if you want to see a strong headtube conjunction:

s14761.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Liv-Intrigue-SX-2016-Review-016.jpg
  • 2 0
 @JohSch: I just threw up in my mouth
  • 1 0
 Looks like the BB height on the mullet is super low is that correct?
  • 1 0
 That hump in the top toob has me thinking "Looks like a Haibike". Eeek.
  • 2 1
 I still think if I were to go with a value brand I'd choose Marin.
  • 1 1
 Cant hate on Headset internal routing, Giant is always late to the party anyway.
  • 1 0
 If I had to ride a Giant this wouldn't be a bad way to go.
  • 2 1
 and most importantly it's no longer the ugliest bike on the market
  • 2 1
 Why pressfit though? What’s good about it?
  • 1 0
 I’m not a mechanic or engineer, but in theory it is lighter. Besides the tools you need to install there absolutely nothing wrong IF you can build a frame with correct tolerances (right size, actually round and both sides lines up). If you can’t build the frame right you’ll get creaking (which to be fair will be the case even with threaded bottom brackets).
  • 1 0
 That double crown should be reserved to Glory
  • 1 0
 Thanks for the cable routing !!!
  • 2 1
 Looks like a Slash
  • 2 1
 Reign goes Kona Process
  • 1 2
 So the Advanced model will ship with the trunnion Fox Float X2, which currently still has a design flaw?
  • 1 1
 Look like a Slash
  • 1 4
 Good comedy
Below threshold threads are hidden







Copyright © 2000 - 2024. Pinkbike.com. All rights reserved.
dv42 0.069142
Mobile Version of Website