I just bought my Giant Revolt 2, and I love it. It’s great on tough hills, and very smooth on both road and gravel. I’m 76 years old and haven’t ridden regularly in 40 years, but I love it now and ride every day!
This is really honest straight forward review. I've done a bit of bike packing and the issues you raise like cables getting in the way are true. The lower end sora gears are a negative. I ride in Colombia and gear ratio is critical. The gear inch is a useful measure but you need a deep cage derailleur to achieve below 20 gear inches. Colombia is insanely steep and so gear ratio/ range is a really important consideration in choosing a new bike. Btw the first bike packing tour I did was in New Zealand in1990 on 3x7 26" mountain bike ( no suspension in those days). Great review.
I have the SAME bike and it made me fall in love with riding again too. When I first got it I had them put the 105 components on it. I commute on it. I did a gravel race on it. Right now it's mounted to my Kickr. I have even done some awesome single track on it. It's such a fun bike. This summer I'm going to take it Bikepacking. Once I started jumping with it, I decided to pick up a hardtail. I'm with you on the tires. Now that I have a Hardtail, I might get some more street orientated tires for it. But then again, it's so fun in the dirt
Did you put a 10 speed cassette on it? What was the largest cog (number of teeth). The Revolt 2 2022 has a 34 in the back (Shimano CH-HG400, 11x34) and a 32 on the small ring in the front (FSA Vero Pro, 32/48) -- Note that is different than what the 2020 version had. 32/34=0.94117647058 -- That is way better than what most road bikes have with a 34 on the front and a 32 or 24 on the rear. Plus you wont have to spin out riding in a pace line if you do road riding, 48/11 is fair. My road triple gives me slightly better range on the high and low ends.
I just got a Revolt Advanced 2 (carbon, GRX, hydraulic brakes) after a decade of riding a twitchy skinny-tired road bike. It’s incredible how much more comfortable the Revolt is. But the thing that blows my mind is, it’s just as fast! In every Strava segment I check, my times on the Revolt are right in line with my recent times on the old 700x23-equipped Motobecane Sprint. I don’t have a power meter so It’s possible I’m working a little harder on the Revolt just out of sheer enthusiasm. But I don’t see myself buying a skinny race tire bike again.
Excellent review! I just bought me a Giant Revolt 2 and love it 🚴. My 1st drop bar bike experience was purchasing a GMC DENALI road bike from Wal Mart back in 2017. I had that bike til 2023 In which I gave it away and replaced it with 3 vintage drop bar road bikes. I own a 1984 Fuji Espree, 1981 Schwinn Continental, & a 1980 Schwinn World Sport. Now 2024 I added the Giant Revolt to my drop handlebar bike family.
Love the review. My first bike was a Raleigh Flyer, got it from my brother. Now that bike was heavy, fortunately, we have no mountains in the Netherlands. Over the years and many upgrades I found there is always somebody faster, no matter what bike you are riding. Have fun with your Revolt, I might get one myself after seeing your review 👍🏻
This must be the only video that actually represents bike riding from a beginner bike perspective. I'm in that category and it's good to know that people can be serious cyclers and work their way up from somewhere.
Great review, and I would've anyway but, the dog made me give a thumbs up. I'm almost 56 years old and my first bike as an adult which I bought only about 1 1/2 months ago, was a Trek FX 2 disc. I've since upgraded to the Specialized Sirrus X 3.0. I love it, and like you, have decided that I enjoy road biking a little bit more. I may move to a more road capable bike in the future.
So not to feed the flames, but I bought a proper road bike about a month ago, and its been awesome! There is a noticeable difference. I have a full video in the works, it'll probably be out toward the end of November.
Well, I think tires are probably the biggest upgrade you could make to a bike. Greater then a rim or a frameset. Tires like GP 5000, Shwelbe Pro One, Goodyear tires, would just make you have a totally different feeling on the bike. (I used to ride a PR2 tire and now I run High Roads. Whoh, it's a night and day difference. )
I am basically you on this - I bought the exact same bike model a month after you and agree with almost everything you say. I ride in the U.K. where it just rains all the time and have found that a lot of the components aren’t fit for this. I have had to change the headset completely, the FSA crankset completely gave up the ghost and I’ve swapped it and the BB for hollowtech which is immensely better and I agree that Sora is not great, although having two extra gears wouldn’t add them at the top or bottom end, they’d be in the middle somewhere so I don’t think you need more, it just needs to be better - it constantly needs tinkering and adjusting etc, I really wish I’d spent a couple of hundred more on the 105 set. I bought a pair of giant SR1 wheels second hand and put Schwalbe Marathon 28mm tyres on and use those almost exclusively as like you, I found a love of the road! I have a bar bag and it fits just fine with the brake system - I’ve had no problems with it. Good work, nice review - keep on riding!
Thanks for watching! So interesting, I had to replace the BB too--pretty much right after making this video. Glad to hear I'm not alone in my thoughts. Ride on 🤘
Got a Revolt 1. It's sooo good. And if it's your first real bike e.g. if you are not a bike-nerd :) it's the lightest you ever bought so don't break your head about +/- 500 g
Dude great review! I am looking to get into road/gravel riding. I am also in LA so would love to hear about any good spots to ride. Also do you know where we can buy locally?
I just got a new bike at Velo Pasadena. They have a good selection of Giant, BMC and a few other brands. Giant of Santa Monica is good too if you’re on the west side. As for rides, you can check out my Strava, it’s in the vid description. I love all the climbs in Griffith Park. Chevy Chase up through La Cañada is always a good ride too.
As „fancy“ as carbon frames sometimes can look, I also do think that apart from road racing bikes carbon frames are too sensitive for bikes ridden in rougher terrain (mountain bikes and to a degree also gravel bikes). One tends to crash more often on bumpy grounds and I would hate to x-ray my carbon frame to be sure that it doesn’t suddenly break away under my a*se in any situation. Metal frames (titanium, aluminum or even stainless steel) are best for rougher applications!
Did the hydraulic brake converter come in stock? Weird that they discontinued this feature since I have Revolt 2 '21 and it has the mechanical brakes. Maybe Giant realized that it's not profitable for them to offer this feature at this price point for their entry level gravel bike
It did come as stock. When I went to my local bike shop to have it serviced they had never seen it before 😅 I think you're spot on--I imaging Giant realized it wasn't worth the hassle for an entry level bike and discontinued the converter.
Can you do bikepacking or touring on this bike? Are there any front mounts for bags? I'm sure this bike is mainly designed for road and gravel (and can beef up tires as appropriate, etc). I'm also sure it can take a rear rack for panniers etc, so technically you can tour on it and I already have panniers, but just curious, from what you know of the bike now, how you'd expect it to hold up in a 2 week bikepacking trip, or a 1-3 month bike tour across mixed road quality? Also know that steel frames usually recommended for touring.... Thanks! also, the 2x10 or 2x11 groupset would be nicer than the 9 one... for touring up big hills with luggage.
Hi Darius! I no longer have this bike so I’m working off memory, but as I recall, there are tons of mounts for any kind of rack you want. I’m sure a steel frame might be a little more compliant, but I never found the Revolt to be uncomfortable. I think it would be a great touring bike.
Looking for my 1st gravel bike - under $1,500.., but, I want to stick w/ Giant, Trek, or Specialized. I have been told the Domane is not a "real" gravel bike, though. WHICH SHOULD I GO WITH???
Go to offline bike shops and at least sit on those bikes. Revolt, Domane, and Diverge (not sure if Diverge has any models under 2900 though...) have their pros and cons, all of which are more or less important for different people with different riding styles, and particular frames can be more or less comfortable for different people. From what I've seen online, Domane is road oriented but can be set up as a gravel bike with a road-ish accent, so I personally wouldn't discard it just because of the label.
I just got the Giant Revolt advanced pro 0.....I was trying to adjust the seat post and lowered it to low now I can't get it back up...I removed the black screw thing but still can't get it up....its carbon so i know i need to be careful...any advice would be great..thanks
If you’re unsure about it, I’d rec bringing it back to the bike shop so they can help you. Sometimes the carbon can get stuck… that said… on my BMC Roadmachine I sometimes have to give my seat a solid WHACK to knock the seatpost loose.
Update. Got the M! Can't wait for some warmer weather because I'm still under a ton of snow. Your video absolutely sold me on this bike. But we'll definitely be taking on the trans Canada trail this year and looking to double the amount of KMs put in last year.
Nope! There is a little “deadcat” wind over over the mic. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how well it works. When I’m going really fast, it picks up a bit of wind, but for the pair part it makes pretty clean audio.
This might be a slighty stupid question: he changed the saddle "so that one day he could have children"?? I get the joke, but are the original saddles from "The Nutcracker"?
The original saddle is okay, it's just more of a traditional road saddle. I prefer the short nose saddles with the cutout because I find it a bit more comfortable.
@@MitchBoyer have you had any problems with the bike? im talking to a couple people on youtube who say they cant stop getting issues and one guys frame broke 2 months into riding it, this is the carbon model im talking about, maybe i should get the alu frame instead
Thank you for making a video for beginners. I bought this bike last year and did NOT put on 3400km on it, but I feel way more confident asking questions and fitting up this bike for myself now. Thank you!
Can’t believe the tires were at 3400… also that the video is that good but it’s one of your oldest. (Then I found the unlisted videos list in one of the descriptions)… cheers, rider in SF
It's not really the weight that's slowing you down (10 vs say 7 kg) ... it's more the tyre width (more increases friction). As you noted, get road tyres 👍
ya.... i always get a bit.... confused..... about weight-picking people's logic. Let's say it's 10 vs 7kg....... 3kg difference is.... 30% lighter (or 50% heavier)... but on a 85kg guy (me) that's like... not even a factor worth talking.
It’s been proven that wider tires that previously thought can actually be faster. Type of tire will help, smooth as you can go for the terrain you ride, but a short and wide contact patch is proven to be better than a long skinny one. They have also found that the vibrations through the bike caused by hard narrow tires leads to slower times and less power put down to the road. Wide (to a degree) and soft tires are now the way to go.
@@cchanggive seen tests that have pretty much proven that just changing the weight of a bike (ex 10kg vs 7kg) the difference in speed would be exactly the percentage difference between both total system weights, so at 85kg you're looking at maybe a 3% difference which dont get me wrong, is significant for pros, but really not for us who could gain to lose a couple kilos anyways
Hi! The Giant Revolt 2 was my first real bike too. I still have it and like to ride gravel the most. I’m saving money to switch groupset and lighter wheels, but still loving it✌🏽
Looks like a fun bike, appreciate the honesty. Keep on pedaling buddy! I definitely recommend narrower tyres from my own experience. I can ride gravel trails on 28s without an issue, and the reduced rolling resistance makes a huge difference from the more of road suite tyres I've had before.
Great review, especially the negatives as well as the positives. In your 30’s! I’m 68 and doing 25 mile runs regularly, now looking to buy an entry level gravel bike for part gravel/ part road use. I used to run marathons etc but these days cycling is the perfect form of exercise. I can work hard at it without knackering my knees.
Nice review, thx! I have the Revolt 2 carbon version with the GRX gear, which cost way more than your model but I’d recommend, when money is not the constraint, because it’s so much lighter and the additional bevel wheels matter in a lot of situations.
I looked at that option, and you are right. The difference though, is like $2,000 . GRX is the obviously best for gravel that Shimano has. Sora is the lowest (entry level) Shimano component, heavier by 200 grams from 105's and -- well less perfect. (I'm from the Ultegra road bike world, and I can tell the difference). But what do you expect for uner $1500.
Interesting coincidence - I got back into cycling in Jan 21 with a revolt 0, I can relate to everything you just said! Such a joyful bike (also my first drop bar bike).
A couple of comments (fwiw) 1) Your tires look great...especially after 3400 miles. My rear Bontrager GR1 Comp tire is _bald_ after just 2200 kms. 2) Shedding a couple kg of bike weight isn't likely to make a whole lot of difference when considering total rider+bike weight. Really. 3) Going from 9 to 11 speeds won't necessarily help you from 'running out of gear'. Rear cassettes whether Sora, 105, DuraAce, etc, come with different gear ranges. Ie. 11-34, 11-28, 12-25, etc. You can also get different cranksets with different tooth combinations. Figure out what you have, and see if a more appropriate range exists for your needs. My 7 speed 90s bike had pretty much the same _range_ as my 11 speed 105. On the other hand, if your issue is that you don't have enough range and the jumps from one gear to the next are too large, that's something that going to 11 speed could resolve, but will cost a pretty penny. Glad you're enjoying your bike. It was among the ones I was considering.
Really nice review. Thanks so much. I’ve got a Revolt 1 coming next month, and can’t wait. Sold my MTB and nice road bike (which I stopped riding once I had kids years ago - back roads with trucks going by at 100km/h too stressful) as I think gravel will have me enjoying riding again.
Nice review. Similar story here, rode gravel the past 2 years, but doing mostly road cycling now. After joining a local road bike club, had to switch tires, from the stock 38mm to slick 28mm tubeless on hookless rims, so to keep up with the other riders. My rims inner width is 25mm (giant px2 @ 622x25) and the continental gp5000 str fits perfectly. Big difference in speed, awesome tires, comfortable setup on the gravel bike’s geometry. Cheers.
@@cooltwittertagI’ve had no issues keeping up with the group, occasionally some do get dropped towards the end. Not interested in investing on any upgrades right now, rather saving to get a lightweight road bike.
My first “real” bike was a Giant Ranier hard tail MTB. My only bike is currently a 2007 Rocky Mountain Solo CX. Thinking about a Revolt, but probably will just stick with my Rocky. I liked your review. Thanks for the cute dog content.
You're not going to pass fit roadies uphill on a gravel bike. Possible but when I'm on my road bikes which weigh around 16lbs I'm considerably faster on the road.
You're experience is soooo similar to mine , got a Trek Chechpoint AL3 with the shimano sora 😬 let's just say lesson learnt! Running out of gears while climbing with a 10kg bike hurts 😫
Agree with you - It is a perfect choice for someone new to gravel biking and good value/money. Once you ride it and get to know things you grow out of it. Then it becomes cheaper to buy a new bike rather than trying to upgrade it.
@@bikemike1118 it all depends on preferences of the rider. Carbon/alu/titan frame, higher class groupset 1x or 2x, any specific features like mounts , suspensions and etc. Only you can answer that question.
It might only be 4 pounds difference. The problem is your gearing. I ride the advanced 2 and it really isn't much faster than my hardtail mtb. Nice review. Ride safe.
I appreciate this review, man. Went to a shop for a new helmet and gloves, asked about starter road bikes and got recommended the revolt 2, and here I am just finishing the video. Think I'll seal the deal once I fly back home, looks like a genuinely fun bike!
10:20 No need to say "ya'll" since you aren't from the south. You can just say "curious to know what you guys ride: It's fine to say it. No one will hunt you down.
I’m 187cm (6ft 1in) tall. I rode the size L Revolt in this video. I’ve since given this bike to my Dad and it fits him as well. He is a little shorter (6ft) than I am.
Yo cuz-o I’ve been wanting to get back into working out, and oddly enough thought about getting a bike. What are things I should really look for as someone who’s interested in getting into this?
yooo! yeah buddy! it depend on what you wanna ride trail start with something like the Canyon Grand Canyon, if you wanna ride road, get a proper road bike, and if you're indecisive like me... a gravel bike lol. Net time I'm in UT let's ride 🤘
Great Review Mitch. My first real bike was a Trek FX2 Hybrid. It’s now my sons bike. It has the same CrossCut 2 tyres but not tubeless. I realised I liked speed and road biking so I bought a 2006 Orbea Onix and fell in love with Orbea. I still really like Giant and am thinking of upgrading the Orbea to a Gravel bike hence I saw your review. I think the weight is what puts me off your bike and the propriety components. The price is great for what you get. Thanks!
Hi, since this was your first bike, I’m just wondering if you had at least a basic bike fit prior to purchase? I still have my first proper bike from 2016 that’s just sitting by the corner, gathering dust. I don’t really ride it as much mainly because the bike fit is off on that one. I’d get saddle sores after riding it. Not sure if I want to get rid of it or get a bike fit and dial in on that bike. I also have an Orbea Orca (seen on GCN) that I got a proper bike fit prior to purchasing it. It rides like a dream! But I mainly use that bike to train (structured) on. Then the usual social rides on the weekends.
thanks for the very detailed honest feedback. I just scored my first "real" bike and I am happy to say its a Giant Revolt 2 2022 Gravel\Road (Black Diamond)
For new tires. You should look at the specialized pathfinder pro. I just put some 32 mm Michelin power road tires on my road bike. I would bet those could do some light gravel too.
If you get a new bike you should change that bike up a as a backup ride in some fashion. I have a 2015 Giant Revolt 1 (same as the Revolt 2 now) that I just converted into a 1x7 flatbar commenter. It really turns out these bikes are wonderful no matter how you configure them. ❤
I recently got a Specialized Diverge Elite e5 as my first real bike. My previous was a heavy city bike with a steel fork so the weight is never a complaint, and the grx400 groupset really does everything I want. Sadly I given poor advice by my local bike shop and ended up with a frame thats a size too small making it difficult to pedal out more than 30km non stop without pains forming. Overall I really like the bike but it just feels a little too 'safe', jack of all trades and a master of none. I'd definitely consider a revolt next for the more endurance style geometry (and the paint job)! Great video, really captured a lot of the feelings that I have recently gone through as a complete beginner :)
This is the best genius review I ever seen, Giant should really fund you for this review. No braging, low price range bike, and you love it, makes me wanna buy this.
Your review made buy one just a week ago (used, in very good condition). Didn't have a chance to get a full ride yet however, since it's winter. The frame size confuses me though. I am 182 cm, frame size is "M 2" as the sticker shows, but there is no mention of such size on the Giant's official website. Top tube and seat tube measurements however correspond to size "S" 🤷♂️ But the guy I bought it from is 185 cm and said the bike fit him pretty well. I've noticed your bike has an "L 2" sticker on frame, wonder how you measure that?
This bike was really easy to assemble ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA and required very few adjustments out of the box. The wheels did not require any truing/adjustments. The frame had some small scratches, but nothing major.I did replace the seat though - the seat it came with was very uncomfortable. The tires need to be re-inflated every 4-5 days, but this appears to be quite common for the narrow 700x25 tires.Overall, in my opinion, this bike looks and rides like a much more expensive bike.
I am a heavier rider (270 pounds), I ride trail bikes and I am looking to get my first gravel bike, but I am not able to find whats the weight limit this bike can handle, by any chance do you have an idea that that is? this is on e of the options I am considering
I’m 6’1” (187cm). The size L fit me pretty well. I’ve since ridden a size 56 on several road bikes and a size L on the BMC URS gravel bike, and it fits me well. Hope that helps!
I just bought one - 2022 model. By the way we have the same dog. I like the fact the new bike doesnt have the rats nest of hydrolic cables. I had a mtb previously with the same type of tektro disk brakes, no problem they work. Hydraulic brakes are overrated IMHO. BTW the real reason people pass you on carbon bikes is not the frame material. The GIANT aluminum is very strong and thin, and comparable to a heavier carbon job. Maybe you don't want carbon on a MTB except on the fork. I never broke a fork, but I did crack a steel cromaly cross bike frame. it cracked near the hole for the internal cable routing. Since then most makers dont just drill a hole, and the aluminum or steel is better. I think the Sora Shifters are sort of a less than perfect, (heavier) than 105's by about 20 grams. There are various ways to save weight but it doesnt matter unless you are in competitive races. What matters is how it feels. This bike feels very solid, the wheels are built to take the potholes and the stock tires are solid, as you mentioned, with the other bonus of them being tubeless.
I just bought my Giant Revolt 2, and I love it. It’s great on tough hills, and very smooth on both road and gravel. I’m 76 years old and haven’t ridden regularly in 40 years, but I love it now and ride every day!
THANK YOU! I hope to do as well as you.
This is really honest straight forward review. I've done a bit of bike packing and the issues you raise like cables getting in the way are true. The lower end sora gears are a negative. I ride in Colombia and gear ratio is critical. The gear inch is a useful measure but you need a deep cage derailleur to achieve below 20 gear inches. Colombia is insanely steep and so gear ratio/ range is a really important consideration in choosing a new bike. Btw the first bike packing tour I did was in New Zealand in1990 on 3x7 26" mountain bike ( no suspension in those days). Great review.
I have the SAME bike and it made me fall in love with riding again too. When I first got it I had them put the 105 components on it. I commute on it. I did a gravel race on it. Right now it's mounted to my Kickr. I have even done some awesome single track on it. It's such a fun bike. This summer I'm going to take it Bikepacking. Once I started jumping with it, I decided to pick up a hardtail. I'm with you on the tires. Now that I have a Hardtail, I might get some more street orientated tires for it. But then again, it's so fun in the dirt
Did you put a 10 speed cassette on it? What was the largest cog (number of teeth). The Revolt 2 2022 has a 34 in the back (Shimano CH-HG400, 11x34) and a 32 on the small ring in the front (FSA Vero Pro, 32/48) -- Note that is different than what the 2020 version had. 32/34=0.94117647058 -- That is way better than what most road bikes have with a 34 on the front and a 32 or 24 on the rear. Plus you wont have to spin out riding in a pace line if you do road riding, 48/11 is fair. My road triple gives me slightly better range on the high and low ends.
I just got a Revolt Advanced 2 (carbon, GRX, hydraulic brakes) after a decade of riding a twitchy skinny-tired road bike. It’s incredible how much more comfortable the Revolt is. But the thing that blows my mind is, it’s just as fast! In every Strava segment I check, my times on the Revolt are right in line with my recent times on the old 700x23-equipped Motobecane Sprint.
I don’t have a power meter so It’s possible I’m working a little harder on the Revolt just out of sheer enthusiasm. But I don’t see myself buying a skinny race tire bike again.
Excellent review! I just bought me a Giant Revolt 2 and love it 🚴. My 1st drop bar bike experience was purchasing a GMC DENALI road bike from Wal Mart back in 2017. I had that bike til 2023 In which I gave it away and replaced it with 3 vintage drop bar road bikes. I own a 1984 Fuji Espree, 1981 Schwinn Continental, & a 1980 Schwinn World Sport. Now 2024 I added the Giant Revolt to my drop handlebar bike family.
Love the review. My first bike was a Raleigh Flyer, got it from my brother. Now that bike was heavy, fortunately, we have no mountains in the Netherlands. Over the years and many upgrades I found there is always somebody faster, no matter what bike you are riding. Have fun with your Revolt, I might get one myself after seeing your review 👍🏻
Wise words :) I'd recommend it, it's a great bike!
This must be the only video that actually represents bike riding from a beginner bike perspective. I'm in that category and it's good to know that people can be serious cyclers and work their way up from somewhere.
Great review, and I would've anyway but, the dog made me give a thumbs up. I'm almost 56 years old and my first bike as an adult which I bought only about 1 1/2 months ago, was a Trek FX 2 disc. I've since upgraded to the Specialized Sirrus X 3.0. I love it, and like you, have decided that I enjoy road biking a little bit more. I may move to a more road capable bike in the future.
So not to feed the flames, but I bought a proper road bike about a month ago, and its been awesome! There is a noticeable difference. I have a full video in the works, it'll probably be out toward the end of November.
Well, I think tires are probably the biggest upgrade you could make to a bike. Greater then a rim or a frameset. Tires like GP 5000, Shwelbe Pro One, Goodyear tires, would just make you have a totally different feeling on the bike. (I used to ride a PR2 tire and now I run High Roads. Whoh, it's a night and day difference. )
REALLY -- TRUTH. I wont be riding this much on roads except to get to trails,
I really enjoyed the video, I share your sense of humor
you are a good communicator
greetings from Chile
Thanks, Felipe!
My first real bike is also the giant revolt 2020. Big fan, am looking forward to riding it some more over the Uni holidays
My first rear bike goes back to 1976 a Halfords Olympic (uk). My current bike Giant Roam 2 2015. But looking at getting the Revolt 2.
I am basically you on this - I bought the exact same bike model a month after you and agree with almost everything you say. I ride in the U.K. where it just rains all the time and have found that a lot of the components aren’t fit for this. I have had to change the headset completely, the FSA crankset completely gave up the ghost and I’ve swapped it and the BB for hollowtech which is immensely better and I agree that Sora is not great, although having two extra gears wouldn’t add them at the top or bottom end, they’d be in the middle somewhere so I don’t think you need more, it just needs to be better - it constantly needs tinkering and adjusting etc, I really wish I’d spent a couple of hundred more on the 105 set. I bought a pair of giant SR1 wheels second hand and put Schwalbe Marathon 28mm tyres on and use those almost exclusively as like you, I found a love of the road! I have a bar bag and it fits just fine with the brake system - I’ve had no problems with it. Good work, nice review - keep on riding!
Thanks for watching! So interesting, I had to replace the BB too--pretty much right after making this video. Glad to hear I'm not alone in my thoughts. Ride on 🤘
Thankkku so much!! this video was very helpful to me!!
Great video buddy!!!
thanks for including the stuff you dont love :D
Got a Revolt 1. It's sooo good.
And if it's your first real bike e.g. if you are not a bike-nerd :) it's the lightest you ever bought so don't break your head about +/- 500 g
Dude great review! I am looking to get into road/gravel riding. I am also in LA so would love to hear about any good spots to ride. Also do you know where we can buy locally?
I just got a new bike at Velo Pasadena. They have a good selection of Giant, BMC and a few other brands. Giant of Santa Monica is good too if you’re on the west side. As for rides, you can check out my Strava, it’s in the vid description. I love all the climbs in Griffith Park. Chevy Chase up through La Cañada is always a good ride too.
Great review. Thank you. Never say you have not had a flat. You will get one soon😝
nice. I will buy one IF Giant managed to figure out to hide that external cable.
As „fancy“ as carbon frames sometimes can look, I also do think that apart from road racing bikes carbon frames are too sensitive for bikes ridden in rougher terrain (mountain bikes and to a degree also gravel bikes). One tends to crash more often on bumpy grounds and I would hate to x-ray my carbon frame to be sure that it doesn’t suddenly break away under my a*se in any situation. Metal frames (titanium, aluminum or even stainless steel) are best for rougher applications!
I ended up buying a carbon bike, and you’re totally right-the anxiety is real!
@@MitchBoyer are you zooming past people now? lol
@@luis0tube lol I am! The new bike helps, but it’s mostly from getting stronger and training with a coach.
Can the tubeless tyres be replaced with tubed tyres?
You now say lever correctly. Now just work on ‘aluminium’😆🤙🏻. Great review, I’m looking at one of these at the minute v a mountain bike.
Did the hydraulic brake converter come in stock?
Weird that they discontinued this feature since I have Revolt 2 '21 and it has the mechanical brakes. Maybe Giant realized that it's not profitable for them to offer this feature at this price point for their entry level gravel bike
It did come as stock. When I went to my local bike shop to have it serviced they had never seen it before 😅 I think you're spot on--I imaging Giant realized it wasn't worth the hassle for an entry level bike and discontinued the converter.
Can you do bikepacking or touring on this bike? Are there any front mounts for bags? I'm sure this bike is mainly designed for road and gravel (and can beef up tires as appropriate, etc). I'm also sure it can take a rear rack for panniers etc, so technically you can tour on it and I already have panniers, but just curious, from what you know of the bike now, how you'd expect it to hold up in a 2 week bikepacking trip, or a 1-3 month bike tour across mixed road quality? Also know that steel frames usually recommended for touring.... Thanks!
also, the 2x10 or 2x11 groupset would be nicer than the 9 one... for touring up big hills with luggage.
Hi Darius! I no longer have this bike so I’m working off memory, but as I recall, there are tons of mounts for any kind of rack you want. I’m sure a steel frame might be a little more compliant, but I never found the Revolt to be uncomfortable. I think it would be a great touring bike.
@@MitchBoyer Thank you for the response! Very helpful.
Love the into
Looking for my 1st gravel bike - under $1,500.., but, I want to stick w/ Giant, Trek, or Specialized. I have been told the Domane is not a "real" gravel bike, though. WHICH SHOULD I GO WITH???
Go to offline bike shops and at least sit on those bikes. Revolt, Domane, and Diverge (not sure if Diverge has any models under 2900 though...) have their pros and cons, all of which are more or less important for different people with different riding styles, and particular frames can be more or less comfortable for different people. From what I've seen online, Domane is road oriented but can be set up as a gravel bike with a road-ish accent, so I personally wouldn't discard it just because of the label.
I just got the Giant Revolt advanced pro 0.....I was trying to adjust the seat post and lowered it to low now I can't get it back up...I removed the black screw thing but still can't get it up....its carbon so i know i need to be careful...any advice would be great..thanks
If you’re unsure about it, I’d rec bringing it back to the bike shop so they can help you. Sometimes the carbon can get stuck… that said… on my BMC Roadmachine I sometimes have to give my seat a solid WHACK to knock the seatpost loose.
very entertaining
What is the box that convert the mecanichal to hydraulic brake called?
I'm not sure exactly--it's proprietary to Giant. I believe its called their conduct system
I see that you're using a L frame. I'm just wondering what your height is. we're looking at this bike and I'm 5'9. Not sure if i should go M or go L.
Probably worth checking out a M. I’m 187cm (6’1”) and felt a little too stretched out on the L frame.
Update. Got the M! Can't wait for some warmer weather because I'm still under a ton of snow. Your video absolutely sold me on this bike. But we'll definitely be taking on the trans Canada trail this year and looking to double the amount of KMs put in last year.
how did you film your voice without any environment sound?
There is a Tascam lavalier mic under my cycling jersey just below my right collarbone 🎤
@@MitchBoyer and you using any noice reduction in post?
Nope! There is a little “deadcat” wind over over the mic. I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how well it works. When I’m going really fast, it picks up a bit of wind, but for the pair part it makes pretty clean audio.
30s? WTF! I'm 54!
This might be a slighty stupid question: he changed the saddle "so that one day he could have children"?? I get the joke, but are the original saddles from "The Nutcracker"?
The original saddle is okay, it's just more of a traditional road saddle. I prefer the short nose saddles with the cutout because I find it a bit more comfortable.
@@MitchBoyer right. That makes sense. Thanks. I guess if I were to buy a bike like this, I'd give the saddle a go.
In my 50ys can i still buy this bike lol
I'm in my 40s am i to old for this? 😂
w e e n
⚖️
man that 30 year old comment really hits me
haha I feel your pain dude 🤘
@@MitchBoyer have you had any problems with the bike? im talking to a couple people on youtube who say they cant stop getting issues and one guys frame broke 2 months into riding it, this is the carbon model im talking about, maybe i should get the alu frame instead
What if I’m in my 40s !!? 🤣
Thank you for making a video for beginners. I bought this bike last year and did NOT put on 3400km on it, but I feel way more confident asking questions and fitting up this bike for myself now. Thank you!
Glad it helped!
Can’t believe the tires were at 3400… also that the video is that good but it’s one of your oldest. (Then I found the unlisted videos list in one of the descriptions)… cheers, rider in SF
It's not really the weight that's slowing you down (10 vs say 7 kg) ... it's more the tyre width (more increases friction). As you noted, get road tyres 👍
ya.... i always get a bit.... confused..... about weight-picking people's logic.
Let's say it's 10 vs 7kg....... 3kg difference is.... 30% lighter (or 50% heavier)... but on a 85kg guy (me) that's like... not even a factor worth talking.
It’s been proven that wider tires that previously thought can actually be faster. Type of tire will help, smooth as you can go for the terrain you ride, but a short and wide contact patch is proven to be better than a long skinny one. They have also found that the vibrations through the bike caused by hard narrow tires leads to slower times and less power put down to the road. Wide (to a degree) and soft tires are now the way to go.
@@slickster3211so you don't want them too thick nor skinny. I'd say 32 - 35mm would be best.
@@cchanggive seen tests that have pretty much proven that just changing the weight of a bike (ex 10kg vs 7kg) the difference in speed would be exactly the percentage difference between both total system weights, so at 85kg you're looking at maybe a 3% difference which dont get me wrong, is significant for pros, but really not for us who could gain to lose a couple kilos anyways
Hi! The Giant Revolt 2 was my first real bike too. I still have it and like to ride gravel the most. I’m saving money to switch groupset and lighter wheels, but still loving it✌🏽
"Nice cutout so I can one day have children" I literally burst out laughing! Nice video, Mitch!
Haha ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
LMAO yes. Definitely feeling my youth seeping away from me. 😂
Looks like a fun bike, appreciate the honesty. Keep on pedaling buddy!
I definitely recommend narrower tyres from my own experience. I can ride gravel trails on 28s without an issue, and the reduced rolling resistance makes a huge difference from the more of road suite tyres I've had before.
Thanks for watching and for the recommendation-I’ll try some narrower tires!
Great review, especially the negatives as well as the positives. In your 30’s! I’m 68 and doing 25 mile runs regularly, now looking to buy an entry level gravel bike for part gravel/ part road use. I used to run marathons etc but these days cycling is the perfect form of exercise. I can work hard at it without knackering my knees.
Nice review, thx! I have the Revolt 2 carbon version with the GRX gear, which cost way more than your model but I’d recommend, when money is not the constraint, because it’s so much lighter and the additional bevel wheels matter in a lot of situations.
I looked at that option, and you are right. The difference though, is like $2,000 . GRX is the obviously best for gravel that Shimano has. Sora is the lowest (entry level) Shimano component, heavier by 200 grams from 105's and -- well less perfect. (I'm from the Ultegra road bike world, and I can tell the difference). But what do you expect for uner $1500.
Interesting coincidence - I got back into cycling in Jan 21 with a revolt 0, I can relate to everything you just said! Such a joyful bike (also my first drop bar bike).
The Revolt 0 is an awesome bike! 🤘
A couple of comments (fwiw)
1) Your tires look great...especially after 3400 miles. My rear Bontrager GR1 Comp tire is _bald_ after just 2200 kms.
2) Shedding a couple kg of bike weight isn't likely to make a whole lot of difference when considering total rider+bike weight. Really.
3) Going from 9 to 11 speeds won't necessarily help you from 'running out of gear'. Rear cassettes whether Sora, 105, DuraAce, etc, come with different gear ranges. Ie. 11-34, 11-28, 12-25, etc. You can also get different cranksets with different tooth combinations. Figure out what you have, and see if a more appropriate range exists for your needs. My 7 speed 90s bike had pretty much the same _range_ as my 11 speed 105.
On the other hand, if your issue is that you don't have enough range and the jumps from one gear to the next are too large, that's something that going to 11 speed could resolve, but will cost a pretty penny.
Glad you're enjoying your bike. It was among the ones I was considering.
Thanks for watching, it's a great bike! I ended up giving it to my dad after I bought my BMC Roadmachine-went full roadie 😱😜
Really nice review. Thanks so much. I’ve got a Revolt 1 coming next month, and can’t wait. Sold my MTB and nice road bike (which I stopped riding once I had kids years ago - back roads with trucks going by at 100km/h too stressful) as I think gravel will have me enjoying riding again.
Great job man. You’re really a natural when presenting videos.
*Subscribe from me.
Greetings from Australia.
Thanks Matto!
Greetings from Australia to you too
Nice review. Similar story here, rode gravel the past 2 years, but doing mostly road cycling now. After joining a local road bike club, had to switch tires, from the stock 38mm to slick 28mm tubeless on hookless rims, so to keep up with the other riders. My rims inner width is 25mm (giant px2 @ 622x25) and the continental gp5000 str fits perfectly. Big difference in speed, awesome tires, comfortable setup on the gravel bike’s geometry. Cheers.
Do you feel like you can keep up? And how much did getting and extra pair of wheels cost?
@@cooltwittertagI’ve had no issues keeping up with the group, occasionally some do get dropped towards the end. Not interested in investing on any upgrades right now, rather saving to get a lightweight road bike.
My first “real” bike was a Giant Ranier hard tail MTB. My only bike is currently a 2007 Rocky Mountain Solo CX. Thinking about a Revolt, but probably will just stick with my Rocky. I liked your review. Thanks for the cute dog content.
You're not going to pass fit roadies uphill on a gravel bike. Possible but when I'm on my road bikes which weigh around 16lbs I'm considerably faster on the road.
You're experience is soooo similar to mine , got a Trek Chechpoint AL3 with the shimano sora 😬 let's just say lesson learnt! Running out of gears while climbing with a 10kg bike hurts 😫
the struggle is real 🥲 one day, we'll upgrade!
I think for the tires, you'd better be off with continental GP5000 32mm. Nasty quick (saves you about 15 watts) and can still handle some gravel.
Agree with you - It is a perfect choice for someone new to gravel biking and good value/money. Once you ride it and get to know things you grow out of it. Then it becomes cheaper to buy a new bike rather than trying to upgrade it.
What would you buy after experiencing this „new-to-gravel“ bike?
@@bikemike1118 it all depends on preferences of the rider. Carbon/alu/titan frame, higher class groupset 1x or 2x, any specific features like mounts , suspensions and etc. Only you can answer that question.
@@bikemike1118 I bought higher level of this Revolt model with GRX 11speed groupset, changed wheelset to lighter aluminium version and tyres.
@@k.alibek ..okay, I see. Thank you
군인인데 휴가 나가서 리볼트2 사서 탈 겁니다!
Exceptional video!: )I loved it to absolute bits! :)
Thanks!
It might only be 4 pounds difference. The problem is your gearing. I ride the advanced 2 and it really isn't much faster than my hardtail mtb. Nice review. Ride safe.
I think some extra gears (or even a dif ratio) would definitely help! Thanks for watching 🤘
I appreciate this review, man. Went to a shop for a new helmet and gloves, asked about starter road bikes and got recommended the revolt 2, and here I am just finishing the video. Think I'll seal the deal once I fly back home, looks like a genuinely fun bike!
Haha, glad it was helpful!
10:20 No need to say "ya'll" since you aren't from the south. You can just say "curious to know what you guys ride: It's fine to say it. No one will hunt you down.
You can start the video like we used to "Hey guys" I promise you won't get banned from youtube. Let's stop with the nonsense.
Great review, im thinking about buying this model. What size are you riding and how tall are you? /Jakob
I’m 187cm (6ft 1in) tall. I rode the size L Revolt in this video. I’ve since given this bike to my Dad and it fits him as well. He is a little shorter (6ft) than I am.
Great review. I bought this bike as well, and it opened up my city (Chattanooga) to me. It’s a joy to ride.
Right on!
I’ve ordered the same bike at the beginning of the year. This is going to be my first legitimate bike as a beginner and I can’t wait to go on my ride!
Nice! Congrats on the new bike!
I very much appreciate the real world review 😎
Yo cuz-o I’ve been wanting to get back into working out, and oddly enough thought about getting a bike. What are things I should really look for as someone who’s interested in getting into this?
yooo! yeah buddy! it depend on what you wanna ride trail start with something like the Canyon Grand Canyon, if you wanna ride road, get a proper road bike, and if you're indecisive like me... a gravel bike lol. Net time I'm in UT let's ride 🤘
@@MitchBoyer heck ya!
holy, i ride fixie and thinking about buying this exact bike, this is destiny i guess
Great Review Mitch. My first real bike was a Trek FX2 Hybrid. It’s now my sons bike. It has the same CrossCut 2 tyres but not tubeless. I realised I liked speed and road biking so I bought a 2006 Orbea Onix and fell in love with Orbea. I still really like Giant and am thinking of upgrading the Orbea to a Gravel bike hence I saw your review. I think the weight is what puts me off your bike and the propriety components. The price is great for what you get. Thanks!
Hi, since this was your first bike, I’m just wondering if you had at least a basic bike fit prior to purchase?
I still have my first proper bike from 2016 that’s just sitting by the corner, gathering dust.
I don’t really ride it as much mainly because the bike fit is off on that one. I’d get saddle sores after riding it. Not sure if I want to get rid of it or get a bike fit and dial in on that bike.
I also have an Orbea Orca (seen on GCN) that I got a proper bike fit prior to purchasing it. It rides like a dream!
But I mainly use that bike to train (structured) on. Then the usual social rides on the weekends.
Will I not be able to have children if I use the wrong seat ?
Thank you that was great! I'm looking for one of these, I'm in westLA, maybe we can go for a ride somday!
bags on gravel bikes or any bikes makes me puke
thanks for the very detailed honest feedback. I just scored my first "real" bike and I am happy to say its a Giant Revolt 2 2022 Gravel\Road (Black Diamond)
For new tires. You should look at the specialized pathfinder pro. I just put some 32 mm Michelin power road tires on my road bike. I would bet those could do some light gravel too.
If you get a new bike you should change that bike up a as a backup ride in some fashion. I have a 2015 Giant Revolt 1 (same as the Revolt 2 now) that I just converted into a 1x7 flatbar commenter. It really turns out these bikes are wonderful no matter how you configure them. ❤
I recently got a Specialized Diverge Elite e5 as my first real bike. My previous was a heavy city bike with a steel fork so the weight is never a complaint, and the grx400 groupset really does everything I want. Sadly I given poor advice by my local bike shop and ended up with a frame thats a size too small making it difficult to pedal out more than 30km non stop without pains forming. Overall I really like the bike but it just feels a little too 'safe', jack of all trades and a master of none. I'd definitely consider a revolt next for the more endurance style geometry (and the paint job)! Great video, really captured a lot of the feelings that I have recently gone through as a complete beginner :)
This is the best genius review I ever seen, Giant should really fund you for this review. No braging, low price range bike, and you love it, makes me wanna buy this.
Your review made buy one just a week ago (used, in very good condition). Didn't have a chance to get a full ride yet however, since it's winter.
The frame size confuses me though. I am 182 cm, frame size is "M 2" as the sticker shows, but there is no mention of such size on the Giant's official website. Top tube and seat tube measurements however correspond to size "S" 🤷♂️
But the guy I bought it from is 185 cm and said the bike fit him pretty well.
I've noticed your bike has an "L 2" sticker on frame, wonder how you measure that?
This bike was really easy to assemble ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA and required very few adjustments out of the box. The wheels did not require any truing/adjustments. The frame had some small scratches, but nothing major.I did replace the seat though - the seat it came with was very uncomfortable. The tires need to be re-inflated every 4-5 days, but this appears to be quite common for the narrow 700x25 tires.Overall, in my opinion, this bike looks and rides like a much more expensive bike.
I am a heavier rider (270 pounds), I ride trail bikes and I am looking to get my first gravel bike, but I am not able to find whats the weight limit this bike can handle, by any chance do you have an idea that that is? this is on e of the options I am considering
Dedicated Road wheelset! I will eventually have 2 sets for my bike. You’re not dated, I’m dated lol 😂
Since I throw away all the gearing for custom gearing on every new bike I wish bikes would come without cassettes and chainrings..
J'ai regarder ta video et je viens de l'acheter .... belle présentation
Excellent, thorough video, thank you very much! I also appreciated the humour! :-D
It's because of the location. It's more road Avenue Google available to you. Get a few scares from the cars you consider gravel.😮
What if I am in my 50's, I know my youth is gone, and I am worried my fitness is slipping away, can I still watch the video?
Continental gp5000 TR 700x32 or Gravel King semi-slicks
I'm a bit late on asking this, but what is your height (in comparison with your bike size)?
I’m 6’1” (187cm). The size L fit me pretty well. I’ve since ridden a size 56 on several road bikes and a size L on the BMC URS gravel bike, and it fits me well. Hope that helps!
That bit about being in your 30s and feeling like your youth is slipping away speaks to me
Yes the goo always goes where the hole is. Lol very nice review by the way I’m looking at this one or contend ar
What is the normal average speed on road? Can it maintain on 40kph speed?
I just bought one - 2022 model. By the way we have the same dog. I like the fact the new bike doesnt have the rats nest of hydrolic cables. I had a mtb previously with the same type of tektro disk brakes, no problem they work. Hydraulic brakes are overrated IMHO. BTW the real reason people pass you on carbon bikes is not the frame material. The GIANT aluminum is very strong and thin, and comparable to a heavier carbon job. Maybe you don't want carbon on a MTB except on the fork. I never broke a fork, but I did crack a steel cromaly cross bike frame. it cracked near the hole for the internal cable routing. Since then most makers dont just drill a hole, and the aluminum or steel is better. I think the Sora Shifters are sort of a less than perfect, (heavier) than 105's by about 20 grams. There are various ways to save weight but it doesnt matter unless you are in competitive races. What matters is how it feels. This bike feels very solid, the wheels are built to take the potholes and the stock tires are solid, as you mentioned, with the other bonus of them being tubeless.
It’s definitely a great bike, thanks for watching! Say hi to my dog next time you see her 😜
I am 52 bought a bike like yours and love it and I am in it for excercise not to race.
I think I see the Rose Bowl loop in some shots. And of course a lot of Griffith Park.
You had me sold at arc de soleil. Local shop has one of these and I think I'll get it.
schwalbe g-one all round tubeless - good grip and fast rolling
I ride a Giant Contend AR 3. Is like the Revolt but more road oriented.
Haha 30 and feel like your yout is slipping away 😂 oh sheesh thats me too 😂
😂
That intro. Didn't realise I'd left my webcam on.