This is where we are at today. $1800 is a beginner low end bike. I don't know many people that are willing to spend $1800 to get into mountain biking. I am trying to convince someone to spend at least $1000 and they are freaking out that it cost that much.
I just went thru this. Wasn't a beginner perse, I have an old 2003 Marin, and another MTB before that in the 90s. So I wanted a decent bike and my buddy just kept saying he regrets not getting FS, so I looked at a few and liked a Scott Spark 960. I wish he'd told me about better components as well...I would have probably saved longer or been more motivated to sell some stuff to step up a few levels on drive train, brakes, and the fork. Granted, my 960 is great for what I'm riding, but I demoed a Scott Genius 940 and the drivetrain, brakes, and hubs were notably better, as was the suspension, but they have different travel.
When I started looking into mtb bikes, I didn't know anything... so I got scared when I went to Bike Masters and they showed me an entry level hardtail that cost nearly $1K. I said no shit I'm spending that money on a bike LOL.. then I got into the walmart Mongoose Ledge X1that kev central raves about... I actually got one delivered last week, and after fiddling with it, I wasn't happy with everything except the frame and it's color. So I factored the cost of upgrading parts and I will end up spending more than a Giant Stance... so I went to Bike Masters and asked to see the Stance which they had a large one. I since then ordered online and waiting for delivery ($1900 including TAX). Now I got an entry level bike with full suspension. The mongoose is going back to wally world... :)
Levy: This bike doesnt feel connected front to back on the descents, has really out dated geometry Levy: I posted my fastest time descending on this bike
I'm a 57 year old dude who owns a modern hardtail (130mm) and a modern full squish. (130mm F-120mmR). You young guys talk about the geo. of older bikes as if riders were being killed every 30 seconds. The older bike geometry concentrated more on being precise and controllable. It's just a different focus, not better or worse. Also, the cross-country scene was all the shit back then, not enduro.
43 years old here. I personally also prefer precise and more stable control for safe riding. That twitchy feeling is too heavy to ride long term if not for racing.
Initial thought: "Why are the piling on to that poor Giant product manager and design team" Final thought: "Wow, that was diplomatic and reserved for the problems present on the bike"
I bought one based on the other reviews and must say it is an absolute blast. I weight 210 and feel no flex. It handles so nimbly in the trees but feels well stable while flying on it.
@@camerongardner4538205 here. Just bought a stance to replace my 24 year old giant carbon XC bike. Don’t care what the reviews say, this already a HUGE upgrade from my previous bike. Needless to say I’m happy
Sounds like they used pigtail for the descent. For those who don't know it, it's essentially a flow trail with berms and jumps, except for the first 100 feet, which has cobblestone on it. Not steep, very smooth, but definitely flow. Not hating on PB, just giving some context who think this bike may be blast on a traditional downhill trail. Pigtail is one of the smoothest trails on Sedona.
"Welcome to the 2020 Pinkbike Field Trip - Value Bike Edition" video sheds more light on what they have actually been riding. You have good point there Steve, but the timed trail wasn't the only one they rode and based their opinion on, which is pretty obvious too, even without intro video. Also some say a flexy bike has surprising advantage of not ripping the grip and much more gradually loosing it instead. I am however very surprised on QR rear axle on a full sus in 2020. But then... through axle was supposed to -among other things- eliminate disc rub. Bullshit of this era. Cornering rub is a standard on my stiff enduro hardtail, both rear and on 35mm Aion front fork. Both hubs boost through axle. So maybe Giant really is that capable. Maybe not as wear reasistant due to that flex? And brakes are todays "swap right off the bat" item just like tires used to be just a few years back.
You guys are spot on with this review. I bought the 2021 Stance 2 29 and have the same sentiments. The rear end is not very solid on even minor chunks. The geometry makes you feel like you're 10 stories in the air. Downhill with even minor chunks feel scary. I've outgrown this bike in 7 months. I'm ready to sell.
I'm not sure who selected the Stance 29 1 from Giant, but it seems like the Trance 29 3 for $300 more would have been a much better choice for the test. For the money you get a higher quality frame with better geometry and Maestro rear suspension with boost spacing. You also get better a better fork and shock, better brakes, and the same highly praised dropper lever.
Canyon Neuron Al would have been a good choice for this test. Horst link with Fox suspension, GX/NX Eagle drive chain, Maxxis Forecaster and Ardent race, tubeless ready wheels. All that for 2500 ish. Ive ridden the bike and its solid. Not poppy at all but solid.
@@smokedsalmon3907 120 rear and 130 front. I rode one stock and one with 140mm fork each for 2 days. I did mess with rear shock a ton but could never get it anywhere near as poppy as my personal bike (Gen 3 Tallboy). The Canyon has longish chainstays. Efficient and stable bike but not the most fun.
@@flyingnorseman ah gotcha. Sounds like you're used to that vpp twin pivot design too. Horst is supposed to be more planted and stable vs vpp more efficient and good for pedaling. Very interesting.
@@smokedsalmon3907 I rode a Titus Racer X for 5 years. Would try something new and kept going back to that bike for 6 hour races. I love the Horst Link for marathon type riding but VPP is far superior for goofing off fun.
Kinda glad to see you guys bash on this bike - cause I got the Stance 2 and was kicking myself that after extra accessories I could've had the 1. The only real benefit would've been the suspension upgrade over my S2. The brakes really do suck. I had my rear disc heat up on a moderate-fast downhill last week and fail to grab, which sent me careening out of control down a steep trail and almost hitting a tree to stop! I finally came to rest after bouncing over some dead logs and washing out, but not without messing up my knee pretty good.
I don't really have a huge of a problem with the descending capability on my Stance 2 but I do agree it does have some issues with steering working against me during the ascents.
I downhill over rock gardens on an upgraded walmart bike spent a total of 700 on it 70 mm rear travel 120 mm boost front fork shreds nicely never had any issues
Interesting Review guys. I have the 2019 model yr. & it Rips perfectly fine. I use to ride Specialized ht here in our Az trail system.... No problems slicing & dicing here... I watch many reviews, and it seems some reviews are stuck on $4k - 8k component systems, which most cases is complete overkill if your not racing or sponsered. " Stance 1, less is more! Keep up the reviews fellas
I got the 27.5+ 2019 model of this bike as a beginner bike last year. Got it for 1400AUD (847USD) brand new, felt pretty good on the trail. For the price, I thought it was a steal (and felt like it was a super capable bike). But after watching these field-trip episodes, I feel so bad for not doing the research and actually being willing to spend more on a decent bike. Have to deal with the regret for a while though, probably till I outgrow it to a size large.
I bet you'd love the new improved 2022 Giant Stance 1 ,,, its deffinatly an improved version over the first generation Stance. It would be interesting too see you folks test both of these back too back too find out if they got it right now... thanks for the test, ill test a new 2022 model against my custom 69'er mtb. Don from Western Canada 🇨🇦
My 2016 Trance had a rear QR but Giant offered a kit to convert it to thruaxle if you upgraded the wheels. This was ultimately the path I went down when I upgraded the wheels. I was really hoping this bike did better, my local bike shop is a Giant dealer and I like the idea of supporting the local guys when I can...
The Mike's rip on Giant for the stance but it's 2nd over for both of them. I think Giant knew EXACTLY what they were doing and who they were marketing the bike for.
The $1500 version is the Stance 2, which has Suntour suspension (at least it is an air fork), no dropper, and the same Tektro brakes that go on a typical $500 hardtail. The Trance 3 is probably one of the best values in MTBs right now, regardless of wheel size, but the 29 does have slightly better components, Bomber Z2 fork vs RS 35 Gold (which is still a great fork), SRAM 4 pots vs Shimano 2 pots.
@@larsborgman3443 wow... why'd they even bring the stance 1 to Germany then.. that is crazy... I'd be mad if I was new and a shop sold me a Stance and then I found out for 100 euro more I could have had the Trance 3.
Is the Stance 1 better than the Stance 2? I just bought the 2022 Stance 2 29er. I'm pretty excited to get back into mountain biking after dedicating 10 years of my life playing D1 soccer. Thank you in advance.
Only differences in the frame a build specs between this and my 2017 stance 2 are Larger wheels Wider tire support Internal cable routing Front derailleur frame mount 130mm fork
I got a 2015 Stance 0 (yes, there was a 0) as an entry level rider, which had a pretty great mix of components at the time. Fox Float 32 /130mm fork (Kashima coated), Fox Float rear 130mm, dropper post, Maxis Ardent tires, SLX brakes, a 2x10 drivetrain with SLX Fd, XT Rd. I for the life of me cannot see why they got rid of the "0" level, because it is far better equipped than the "1". As these guys say, it is a reliable trail bike. I, on the hand, have abused the F out it, taking on a lot of rough trail and significant descents. It served me well. The "Flex Point" rear 'suspension' however, which is a cost-saving measure, is pretty much a disaster. "Flex" apparently has its limits in aluminum, as I have brittle fractured 2 rear swing arms. Fortunately, Giant lived up to the lifetime warranty on the frame and provided the replacement part with no arguments. I have stubbornly kept with this bike a bit out of nostalgia and a bit my acceptance of its flaws and my ability to practice on it, building and rebuilding stuff. I added a chain retention device as I dropped quite a bit, but, as it (STILL) doesn't have ISG tabs, it was a bit of a bodge, requiring a bolt on clamp. Even though I still ride it, I would have to agree with others in this thread, spend a few $100 more and get into the Trance range. The Trance - and the Maestro suspension - are far better value for money.
I send this thing as hard as I can and I only weigh 90lbs so yea a little scary when the suspension launches me off the pedals anyway. I also don't have a ton of money and I think the bike is just fine. I am just upgrading the rear suspension to rockshox because I have the one that comes with 27.5 wheels and suntour rear suspension. I'm also throwing on some ODI grips and RaceFace Chesters on it. I had a GT Aggressor and I destroyed that thing because I was sending jumps on black diamond trails in Vermont at Slate Valley Trails sick place btw. also I'm 14 and don't have a job to fully pay for my bike so this is my Christmas and birthday gift. so I have to stick with this bike for a while and I'm perfectly happy with my decision of picking this bike up!
Its also hard to find decent bikes in my area that I can somewhat start to afford. I got mine from west hill shop and they only had one left and it was in the right color and size and the only other bikes they had were from like $3000 to $13000 and I don't have that much money to spend. so I think its pretty great even if the geometry is "old".
I feel like the stance is like the sample at the store to get you interested, but then you decide you need the Trance lol. Why even include a front derailleur mount?? Who's going to use that lmao. For $200 less, the Mythique beats the stance in literally every way. Except for the fact it's almost sold out.
Honestly if u know ur bikes... go used. I bought a 2019 Santa Cruz Tallboy xo1 cc for 1400. It was in super rough condition but I got it running really well with a few hours of work and about 300 bucks
Used is the way to go. Unless you're RICH. Buy from some poser with more money than skill and fitness and you'll get a good bike at the right price. Mtb has gotten ridiculous regarding money. I've watched this and motocross turn into a rich prick sport / sports
Mtb and biking in general is starting to feel very elitist. 1800 is a beginner bike.....? I know a very experienced rider who has been riding his stance 29r for years and he shreds...I am convinced the rider makes a huge part of the ride.
Dudes are (spending 70% of the review) talking about a 67 deg head angle as if it were 71 degrees. FYI -a 2020 Cannondale Scapel has 69.7 deg head angle.
Was gonna buy this bike as this is the only 2020 giant full-sus model available in India. I really want a Trance 3 29 2020. Now I definitely think I should wait for it. Would love a Pinkbike review on that one. Thanks for the amazing content. Love it!
@@modsquad8u In india, options are very limited. We kinda get all models a year late here. This time, not even that. Except Merida one twenty 600, there is absolutely no bike available with these spec and price. And again, trance 3 2020 is also not available anyways but I am willing to wait for it as at least, there is a dealership here who can get it even if later this year if I keep bugging them. Hope, Giant considers India as an upcoming market really.
Giant Marketing - Let's make an affordable bike that riders know isn't worth upgrading after a year, so they have to buy one of our more expensive bikes.
@@motron1845 yeah, but also 2 out of 3 mtbikers don't ride anything but a smooth forest road, the "real" mountain bikers though can greatly benefit from proper suspension, even if just for comfort.
I had a Giant Anthem what a piece of shit, flex in the wheels flex in the frame 9 dropperpost on warranty. (bikeshop did not see weld inside seat tube). No more Giant for me ever. Not to forget going bach 14 times for rearwheel bearing.
IDK guys... I'm thinking the bad feelings about this bike might have been set up related as a lot of the issues you've mentioned are things I've noticed on my bikes when I have the back too sprung/+rebound. Since you both said that it was the frame/geo but you did say the bike didn't feel connected front to back.. The back didn't seem to get very far into travel even while the fork was diving hard in your trail shots so that's my point. I realize these tests are constrained by the fact that you're going out for a short period of time and then the video has to get edited and posted. I'm not sure it's going to work for you guys but maybe a couple days per bike so you get more time to tweak the suspension towards ideal? I'm sure I'm not the only one who would really appreciate the tech points at the above about getting each specific bike into that sweet spot. I also realize that most riders are intimidated by the more technical aspects of performance driven maintenance, business is business so no worrries.
I bought a 2018 Norco fluid FS1 and it’s basically the same thing as this stance. I was pumped that I finally got a legit mountain bike but after a year and a half of riding I quickly outgrew the bike and found out how limiting it was to upgrade. Now I gotta figure out how to sell it. :(
What is the difference between low end brakes and mid range brakes? What makes the 400 better than the 200? I think that would make a great video for PB. You guys can really go into the actual physical details.. Like Metal compounds, piston strength, and so on. To really explain why some brakes are better than others. The stock brakes on my 2019 marlin stop me immediately when and where I want. They can lock up at full speed with full day trip gear on my back. In my opinion they are very powerful. What makes them worse than mid range setups.
One of my bikes is a 2018 stance 1. I love it. Came speced with Shimano SLX parts except for the brakes. Easy enough upgrade. Front tire is a Maxxis Ardent 2.4 and rear is 2.2 659b’s. This thing shreds my local after work trail that is pretty rocky with short punchy climbs. I’m in the south east, so maybe it works better for me because of my geography.
A bike like this would have been a flagship some years ago. Nothing wrong with it for basic trail riding and XC type stuff. Everyone is not riding at the level of these guys or what advertisements portray mountain biking to be. There are better values but there nothing wrong with this bike or older geometry.
@@AndersonTa Although the key question, which I wonder about in retrospect, is if you're going to spend another $300-400 upgrading brakes like I did, could you just by the Trance 3, and get better brakes and suspension at the same time.
Benjamin Hansen I got a pretty sweet deal on a returned Stance 1 at my local bike shop, so I’ve got some wiggle room before tipping over to “Shoulda just went w/ a Trance” territory. I’m leaning towards larger rotors if I do anything.
I agree with this review. I started taking mountain biking more seriously this summer and there are some things about this bike that are infuriating to me. I am 6’3 225 and going downhill I feel I can’t brake at all. Coming around corners feels scary as hell and I feel like I can’t go fast at all. Had a buddy ride it to confirm my suspicions and he said that it was sketchy at best.
Remember, the Trance is only $300 more expensive. The Trance 3 is only $2100 in both 27.5 and 29, with better components and the maestro link suspension. The Trance is also significantly more upgradeable. The Trance is also really poppy and loves getting airborne. I was looking at the Stance 1 myself and decided to get the Trance 3 instead.
Of all the videos and reviews I’ve seen in this bike you guys are the only ones bashing it... sounds like a sweet bike. Maybe try and keep your mindset on the values of the bike and not compare it’s to the 5-6 thousand dollar bikes! Just seems odd that everyone loves it and you guys are hating so harshly on it
The problem with those guys is , they are used to riding bikes for 10k, 😅 boutiques brands, so when they ride bikes less than 5k!! obviously they don’t like them. I bought a Trance 29, Giant and I do believe it’s an awesome trail/xc bike 😊 probably bc, I have a Ripmo AF, Norco Fluid Ht1 and Giant, Talon 1 so 😅 my bikes are less then 5k . I do believe the Stance is going to be a Good (enough) entry mtb bike. If you don’t have the money for double suspension, GO HARDTAIL, 80% of the trails doesn’t need more then that 😊 believe me 😅😊😊
The Giant product manager should be forced to have this thing as his ONLY personal bike, for at least 24 months. Alltho its questionable at this point weather or not he or she has actually ever ridden a bike before...
Love Giant bikes, I have the Anthem for XC and the Reign for crushing! So what other options are you recommending at this price point, what was that $1400 bike as well?
VitalMTB: We'd shred it, needs bigger rotors and a more front tire Pinkbike: (Puts small batch micro brew down) Not even with your d!ck Same bike. 🤷♂️
Yeah when Vitals review came out I was wondering what they were smoking. Based off spec alone their praise was a head scratcher. I'm not sure they even mentioned the quick release.
For 300 more would anyone pick a YT Jeffsey 29 base? About to buy my first trail bike and unfortunately I have to go with a XXL due to being 6’8”... no used for me which kinda sucks. Looking at this bike, Trek Fuel 5 and the jeffsey. Thanks! Feel free to suggest some great 29er full suspension bikes to pick up! I don’t want to spend more than 2300 or so.
I couldn't quite catch the name of the bike he recommended as a better option at 5:30 anyone knows which bike he was referring to? I'm new to mountain biking and I'm looking for an affordable full-suspension bike around this price bracket. thanks!
Hey guys, i have a question, i'm waiting on my Trance to arrive, should be here any day, I know its old geometry so i was hoping to change that, what i would like to know is what do you guys think of those Headset Bearing Kits to increase the Head tube Slack? I've been checking out a set, it's the Cane Creek Angleset, this particular set i'm eyeing increases the slack 2 degrees, I was thinking of having it installed and increase the Slack from 67 degrees to 65. What do you guys think?
Thanks for the straight up opinion on the bike. Grateful for the perspectives, it goes a lot further than eating a big bowl of boilerplate brochure bullshit. Honesty is hard work!. These fools better recognize.
Sounds like a good cheap bike for a mountain biker to get their partner if you know they won't ride very often but will have something that looks like a real mountain bike and works for the few times a year they want to get out and ride.
Same spec bike from Btwin is about half the price. You get NX instead of SX, and not as good a shock. But if you want a non-upgradeable bike (which this is), 1800 is a lot of dough.
The Stance frame is still way better than my Reid Vice 2.0 frame which cracked in 3 places and near snapped for no reason. Also the stance geo is better than the reid which is also focused at trail riding and has a 69 degree head angle
Giant dont give them free stuff so they talk shit. Its a trail bike n trail bike should not be 64 or 65 ht angle . Personally i had some aggressive bikes in past but after riding stance i immediately notice how comfortable n trail oriented this bike is and after every ride it put smile on my face
Mtb scene pushes a style turn over rate like no other, in landscaping they redesign the wheel barrow like once a decade. They redesign the mtb like every 2 days
I have a stance, it rips hard!! I fly through my local trails after work everyday with a smile on my face... and it didn't cost as much as a used BMW!
Amen to that! .
I have a stance and a trance and they both work great and about the same
I've seen some bmws for 1800
@@pinchpeak5203 lmao
@@jackiegshop they're shit boxes but they still drift
2 out of 3 mountain bikers will never need more than this bike.
I would argue there's a difference between mountain bikers and people who just happen to ride mountain bikes. When you look at it that way...
2 out of 3 will be happy with a hardtail
If any mountain were to be a biker, it would choose this bike 2 out of 3 times?
And 1/2 of those owners will realize how horrible this thing is
Brandon Lee is it actually bad?
This is where we are at today. $1800 is a beginner low end bike. I don't know many people that are willing to spend $1800 to get into mountain biking. I am trying to convince someone to spend at least $1000 and they are freaking out that it cost that much.
I just went thru this. Wasn't a beginner perse, I have an old 2003 Marin, and another MTB before that in the 90s. So I wanted a decent bike and my buddy just kept saying he regrets not getting FS, so I looked at a few and liked a Scott Spark 960. I wish he'd told me about better components as well...I would have probably saved longer or been more motivated to sell some stuff to step up a few levels on drive train, brakes, and the fork. Granted, my 960 is great for what I'm riding, but I demoed a Scott Genius 940 and the drivetrain, brakes, and hubs were notably better, as was the suspension, but they have different travel.
Well, put the Stance on your credit card--it'll be the best purchase of your life. That bike rocks my freakin' world
I was the same way until I rode a few trails. After that my budget magically increased 😂
@@chasekaneakua8874 shaka
When I started looking into mtb bikes, I didn't know anything... so I got scared when I went to Bike Masters and they showed me an entry level hardtail that cost nearly $1K. I said no shit I'm spending that money on a bike LOL.. then I got into the walmart Mongoose Ledge X1that kev central raves about... I actually got one delivered last week, and after fiddling with it, I wasn't happy with everything except the frame and it's color. So I factored the cost of upgrading parts and I will end up spending more than a Giant Stance... so I went to Bike Masters and asked to see the Stance which they had a large one. I since then ordered online and waiting for delivery ($1900 including TAX). Now I got an entry level bike with full suspension. The mongoose is going back to wally world... :)
My local track is a double black Dimond and I have not had one problem with the my stance braking or crash on the track. I LOVE MY STANCE!!!🤣
Ok fortnite kid
Your 1 local trail? Lol I would hope it can handle 1 trail
Same here bro don’t listen to the bad things they say
Levy: This bike doesnt feel connected front to back on the descents, has really out dated geometry
Levy: I posted my fastest time descending on this bike
Do they even mention the other bikes? WTF? Odd review, especially considering others pretty much have it top of the pack
I'm a 57 year old dude who owns a modern hardtail (130mm) and a modern full squish. (130mm F-120mmR). You young guys talk about the geo. of older bikes as if riders were being killed every 30 seconds. The older bike geometry concentrated more on being precise and controllable. It's just a different focus, not better or worse. Also, the cross-country scene was all the shit back then, not enduro.
So true!!
43 years old here. I personally also prefer precise and more stable control for safe riding. That twitchy feeling is too heavy to ride long term if not for racing.
59. Still racing moto and now MTB. The Stance 1 works for me! #oldguysrule
I like precision too. 47. Hate the dumptruk drivin feel of many modern bikes.
Initial thought: "Why are the piling on to that poor Giant product manager and design team"
Final thought: "Wow, that was diplomatic and reserved for the problems present on the bike"
I bought one based on the other reviews and must say it is an absolute blast. I weight 210 and feel no flex. It handles so nimbly in the trees but feels well stable while flying on it.
200 here, like hvy xc lighter on the rowgy- just bought this bike to replace 15 yr old carbon stumpy. Sounds right up my alley :)
@@camerongardner4538205 here. Just bought a stance to replace my 24 year old giant carbon XC bike. Don’t care what the reviews say, this already a HUGE upgrade from my previous bike. Needless to say I’m happy
Sounds like they used pigtail for the descent. For those who don't know it, it's essentially a flow trail with berms and jumps, except for the first 100 feet, which has cobblestone on it. Not steep, very smooth, but definitely flow. Not hating on PB, just giving some context who think this bike may be blast on a traditional downhill trail. Pigtail is one of the smoothest trails on Sedona.
"Welcome to the 2020 Pinkbike Field Trip - Value Bike Edition" video sheds more light on what they have actually been riding. You have good point there Steve, but the timed trail wasn't the only one they rode and based their opinion on, which is pretty obvious too, even without intro video.
Also some say a flexy bike has surprising advantage of not ripping the grip and much more gradually loosing it instead. I am however very surprised on QR rear axle on a full sus in 2020. But then... through axle was supposed to -among other things- eliminate disc rub. Bullshit of this era. Cornering rub is a standard on my stiff enduro hardtail, both rear and on 35mm Aion front fork. Both hubs boost through axle. So maybe Giant really is that capable. Maybe not as wear reasistant due to that flex? And brakes are todays "swap right off the bat" item just like tires used to be just a few years back.
You guys are spot on with this review. I bought the 2021 Stance 2 29 and have the same sentiments. The rear end is not very solid on even minor chunks. The geometry makes you feel like you're 10 stories in the air. Downhill with even minor chunks feel scary. I've outgrown this bike in 7 months. I'm ready to sell.
I’d love to see your 1 to 8 ranking of your favorite bikes at the end of the series! Love the content
Me watching this video with my $700 hard tail and them talking about how a rock shox recon front fork isn’t good😳
Imo statistics say a lot, and both riders got thier 2nd best overall time.. ? thats pretty damn quick bike
I’m just an ordinary rider, I’ve had one for 5 years, I honestly don’t know any better.
Bottom line: I love my bike!
I was going to get the 2019 stance but opted for the trance 3 instead. It has been a great bike so far!
Glad you guys are reviewing entry level bikes at a low price point. Can you guys review the Marin Hawk Hill?
got one it’s perfect
I use the giant stance for downhills, cross country, leisure, trails, uphill climb, and travel. Could I say more 👍😀💪
I'm not sure who selected the Stance 29 1 from Giant, but it seems like the Trance 29 3 for $300 more would have been a much better choice for the test. For the money you get a higher quality frame with better geometry and Maestro rear suspension with boost spacing. You also get better a better fork and shock, better brakes, and the same highly praised dropper lever.
Canyon Neuron Al would have been a good choice for this test. Horst link with Fox suspension, GX/NX Eagle drive chain, Maxxis Forecaster and Ardent race, tubeless ready wheels. All that for 2500 ish. Ive ridden the bike and its solid. Not poppy at all but solid.
Isn't the neuron their short travel trail bike? You think it would be pretty poppy and efficient unless you were using it with lower air pressure.
@@smokedsalmon3907 120 rear and 130 front. I rode one stock and one with 140mm fork each for 2 days. I did mess with rear shock a ton but could never get it anywhere near as poppy as my personal bike (Gen 3 Tallboy). The Canyon has longish chainstays. Efficient and stable bike but not the most fun.
Canyon looks great, but customer service in USA is terrible - they really don't care! Hope it's better elsewhere.
@@flyingnorseman ah gotcha. Sounds like you're used to that vpp twin pivot design too. Horst is supposed to be more planted and stable vs vpp more efficient and good for pedaling. Very interesting.
@@smokedsalmon3907 I rode a Titus Racer X for 5 years. Would try something new and kept going back to that bike for 6 hour races. I love the Horst Link for marathon type riding but VPP is far superior for goofing off fun.
Great review. I am actually interested in this bike as a returning Mountain biker doing more difficult but not challenging trails.
Kinda glad to see you guys bash on this bike - cause I got the Stance 2 and was kicking myself that after extra accessories I could've had the 1. The only real benefit would've been the suspension upgrade over my S2.
The brakes really do suck. I had my rear disc heat up on a moderate-fast downhill last week and fail to grab, which sent me careening out of control down a steep trail and almost hitting a tree to stop! I finally came to rest after bouncing over some dead logs and washing out, but not without messing up my knee pretty good.
got a stance back in 2018 and rode it up until last month it was amazing
I don't really have a huge of a problem with the descending capability on my Stance 2 but I do agree it does have some issues with steering working against me during the ascents.
I downhill over rock gardens on an upgraded walmart bike spent a total of 700 on it 70 mm rear travel 120 mm boost front fork shreds nicely never had any issues
Interesting Review guys.
I have the 2019 model yr. & it Rips perfectly fine. I use to ride Specialized ht here in our Az trail system.... No problems slicing & dicing here...
I watch many reviews, and it seems some reviews are stuck on $4k - 8k component systems, which most cases is complete overkill if your not racing or sponsered.
" Stance 1, less is more!
Keep up the reviews fellas
Amen to that!
I got the 27.5+ 2019 model of this bike as a beginner bike last year. Got it for 1400AUD (847USD) brand new, felt pretty good on the trail. For the price, I thought it was a steal (and felt like it was a super capable bike). But after watching these field-trip episodes, I feel so bad for not doing the research and actually being willing to spend more on a decent bike. Have to deal with the regret for a while though, probably till I outgrow it to a size large.
How did it feel riding it? Who care's about somebody's review if you it feels good on the trail.
cant wait for that torrent ✊✊✊
just download it, don't wait
I bet you'd love the new improved 2022 Giant Stance 1 ,,, its deffinatly an improved version over the first generation Stance. It would be interesting too see you folks test both of these back too back too find out if they got it right now... thanks for the test, ill test a new 2022 model against my custom 69'er mtb. Don from Western Canada 🇨🇦
The Calibre sentry pro would have been a good option for this test
Nk18 or even the bossnut
Charlie Seal bossnut is coming up
My 2016 Trance had a rear QR but Giant offered a kit to convert it to thruaxle if you upgraded the wheels. This was ultimately the path I went down when I upgraded the wheels.
I was really hoping this bike did better, my local bike shop is a Giant dealer and I like the idea of supporting the local guys when I can...
Probably the only review that knocks it--read all the others
The Mike's rip on Giant for the stance but it's 2nd over for both of them. I think Giant knew EXACTLY what they were doing and who they were marketing the bike for.
For $300 more you get a Giant Trance with a Marzocchi Z2... So this bike makes no sense.
Giant Trance is a sweet ride. Unlike this thing, apparently.
The $1500 version is the Stance 2, which has Suntour suspension (at least it is an air fork), no dropper, and the same Tektro brakes that go on a typical $500 hardtail. The Trance 3 is probably one of the best values in MTBs right now, regardless of wheel size, but the 29 does have slightly better components, Bomber Z2 fork vs RS 35 Gold (which is still a great fork), SRAM 4 pots vs Shimano 2 pots.
here in germany the stance is 100€ more than the trance 3😂
@@larsborgman3443 wow... why'd they even bring the stance 1 to Germany then.. that is crazy... I'd be mad if I was new and a shop sold me a Stance and then I found out for 100 euro more I could have had the Trance 3.
Here in belgium, the trance is €1000 more than the stance
1:28 poor Jason
The huck to flat got bigger this year. :( - Jason
Pinkbike xd
I WANT MORE VIDEOS LIKE THIS! its a good price for what you get, specially with a 31lb weight when I tried one at the store. More budget bikes please
Wtf! You’re comparing it with 10k bikes?
Is the Stance 1 better than the Stance 2? I just bought the 2022 Stance 2 29er. I'm pretty excited to get back into mountain biking after dedicating 10 years of my life playing D1 soccer. Thank you in advance.
I love when you guys review budget bikes. I have the stumpy st alloy 27.5 and love it!
Only differences in the frame a build specs between this and my 2017 stance 2 are
Larger wheels
Wider tire support
Internal cable routing
Front derailleur frame mount
130mm fork
I got the 2015 model which had really good upgrades and a carbon wheel set for £800
You guys should definitley look at the polygon sisikiu
t7 or the t8
1:28 Rip Jason!
I got a 2015 Stance 0 (yes, there was a 0) as an entry level rider, which had a pretty great mix of components at the time. Fox Float 32 /130mm fork (Kashima coated), Fox Float rear 130mm, dropper post, Maxis Ardent tires, SLX brakes, a 2x10 drivetrain with SLX Fd, XT Rd. I for the life of me cannot see why they got rid of the "0" level, because it is far better equipped than the "1". As these guys say, it is a reliable trail bike. I, on the hand, have abused the F out it, taking on a lot of rough trail and significant descents. It served me well. The "Flex Point" rear 'suspension' however, which is a cost-saving measure, is pretty much a disaster. "Flex" apparently has its limits in aluminum, as I have brittle fractured 2 rear swing arms. Fortunately, Giant lived up to the lifetime warranty on the frame and provided the replacement part with no arguments. I have stubbornly kept with this bike a bit out of nostalgia and a bit my acceptance of its flaws and my ability to practice on it, building and rebuilding stuff. I added a chain retention device as I dropped quite a bit, but, as it (STILL) doesn't have ISG tabs, it was a bit of a bodge, requiring a bolt on clamp. Even though I still ride it, I would have to agree with others in this thread, spend a few $100 more and get into the Trance range. The Trance - and the Maestro suspension - are far better value for money.
I agree that a good dropper post lever is unusually nice. They are so expensive to upgrade.
GRIM DONUT 🍩?! AHHHH
I send this thing as hard as I can and I only weigh 90lbs so yea a little scary when the suspension launches me off the pedals anyway. I also don't have a ton of money and I think the bike is just fine. I am just upgrading the rear suspension to rockshox because I have the one that comes with 27.5 wheels and suntour rear suspension. I'm also throwing on some ODI grips and RaceFace Chesters on it. I had a GT Aggressor and I destroyed that thing because I was sending jumps on black diamond trails in Vermont at Slate Valley Trails sick place btw. also I'm 14 and don't have a job to fully pay for my bike so this is my Christmas and birthday gift. so I have to stick with this bike for a while and I'm perfectly happy with my decision of picking this bike up!
Its also hard to find decent bikes in my area that I can somewhat start to afford. I got mine from west hill shop and they only had one left and it was in the right color and size and the only other bikes they had were from like $3000 to $13000 and I don't have that much money to spend. so I think its pretty great even if the geometry is "old".
I feel like the stance is like the sample at the store to get you interested, but then you decide you need the Trance lol.
Why even include a front derailleur mount?? Who's going to use that lmao.
For $200 less, the Mythique beats the stance in literally every way. Except for the fact it's almost sold out.
ba boop be boop
Honestly if u know ur bikes... go used. I bought a 2019 Santa Cruz Tallboy xo1 cc for 1400. It was in super rough condition but I got it running really well with a few hours of work and about 300 bucks
Used is the way to go. Unless you're RICH. Buy from some poser with more money than skill and fitness and you'll get a good bike at the right price. Mtb has gotten ridiculous regarding money. I've watched this and motocross turn into a rich prick sport / sports
Mtb and biking in general is starting to feel very elitist. 1800 is a beginner bike.....? I know a very experienced rider who has been riding his stance 29r for years and he shreds...I am convinced the rider makes a huge part of the ride.
7:57 close call!!!
BTW I love Forekasters more than DHFs. 2.6 and wide 35mm internal rims, you can throw at anything.
I appreciate that they used the word affordable and not cheap/budget
At the round table discussion, can you guys give your opinion on some Marin bikes like the Rift Zone? They seem to be excellent value bikes. Thanks!
Dudes are (spending 70% of the review) talking about a 67 deg head angle as if it were 71 degrees. FYI -a 2020 Cannondale Scapel has 69.7 deg head angle.
67 degrees is fine for a trail bike. There's a reason it rides fast on trails. The geometry for a short travel bike is in the sweet spot.
Was gonna buy this bike as this is the only 2020 giant full-sus model available in India. I really want a Trance 3 29 2020. Now I definitely think I should wait for it. Would love a Pinkbike review on that one. Thanks for the amazing content. Love it!
Way too many awesome bike companies to get hung up on Giant. There have to be others available that are better than this model.
@@modsquad8u In india, options are very limited. We kinda get all models a year late here. This time, not even that. Except Merida one twenty 600, there is absolutely no bike available with these spec and price. And again, trance 3 2020 is also not available anyways but I am willing to wait for it as at least, there is a dealership here who can get it even if later this year if I keep bugging them. Hope, Giant considers India as an upcoming market really.
better to stick w hardtail at this price point
Giant Marketing - Let's make an affordable bike that riders know isn't worth upgrading after a year, so they have to buy one of our more expensive bikes.
I mean... It works
2 out of 3 mountain bikers will never need more than this bike.
@@motron1845 yeah, but also 2 out of 3 mtbikers don't ride anything but a smooth forest road, the "real" mountain bikers though can greatly benefit from proper suspension, even if just for comfort.
@@piciu256 Exactly.
I had a Giant Anthem what a piece of shit, flex in the wheels flex in the frame 9 dropperpost on warranty. (bikeshop did not see weld inside seat tube). No more Giant for me ever. Not to forget going bach 14 times for rearwheel bearing.
I live in Florida. What do they mean by descent? 😁
Coming down a big hill
@@LiamMitchell5294 you didn't get it
Riding down from the DRY PARTS of the trail into the WET ones... :)
Us in florida dont get descents. Dyer park was built on a stink hill so it's got some down hills but they go right back up.
IDK guys... I'm thinking the bad feelings about this bike might have been set up related as a lot of the issues you've mentioned are things I've noticed on my bikes when I have the back too sprung/+rebound. Since you both said that it was the frame/geo but you did say the bike didn't feel connected front to back.. The back didn't seem to get very far into travel even while the fork was diving hard in your trail shots so that's my point.
I realize these tests are constrained by the fact that you're going out for a short period of time and then the video has to get edited and posted. I'm not sure it's going to work for you guys but maybe a couple days per bike so you get more time to tweak the suspension towards ideal? I'm sure I'm not the only one who would really appreciate the tech points at the above about getting each specific bike into that sweet spot. I also realize that most riders are intimidated by the more technical aspects of performance driven maintenance, business is business so no worrries.
I bought a 2018 Norco fluid FS1 and it’s basically the same thing as this stance. I was pumped that I finally got a legit mountain bike but after a year and a half of riding I quickly outgrew the bike and found out how limiting it was to upgrade. Now I gotta figure out how to sell it. :(
What is the difference between low end brakes and mid range brakes? What makes the 400 better than the 200?
I think that would make a great video for PB. You guys can really go into the actual physical details.. Like Metal compounds, piston strength, and so on. To really explain why some brakes are better than others.
The stock brakes on my 2019 marlin stop me immediately when and where I want. They can lock up at full speed with full day trip gear on my back. In my opinion they are very powerful. What makes them worse than mid range setups.
Can you please review the 2020 giant trance advanced 2? It’s a full carbon full suspension bike that’s way under 4,000$
Does it cost more to change the geo before they produced the bike?? A longer reach, slacker HT would go a long way...
Just sold my 2019 stance, it was a good bike for sure. Only thing that broke in over a year of hard trails was the chain,
One of my bikes is a 2018 stance 1. I love it. Came speced with Shimano SLX parts except for the brakes. Easy enough upgrade. Front tire is a Maxxis Ardent 2.4 and rear is 2.2 659b’s. This thing shreds my local after work trail that is pretty rocky with short punchy climbs. I’m in the south east, so maybe it works better for me because of my geography.
I use one finger with those brakes. I just upgraded the rotor sizes to 203f/180r.
A bike like this would have been a flagship some years ago. Nothing wrong with it for basic trail riding and XC type stuff. Everyone is not riding at the level of these guys or what advertisements portray mountain biking to be. There are better values but there nothing wrong with this bike or older geometry.
I love my Stance.
I upgraded my brakes. That made going fast feel more comfortable.
What’d you upgrade them to/with?
@@AndersonTa Shimano SLX. Larger rotors might have some the trick but I feel like the 201s are either on or off. Harder to feather.
@@AndersonTa Although the key question, which I wonder about in retrospect, is if you're going to spend another $300-400 upgrading brakes like I did, could you just by the Trance 3, and get better brakes and suspension at the same time.
Benjamin Hansen I got a pretty sweet deal on a returned Stance 1 at my local bike shop, so I’ve got some wiggle room before tipping over to “Shoulda just went w/ a Trance” territory. I’m leaning towards larger rotors if I do anything.
@@AndersonTa Depending on wear you live, you might change the tires. I switched the forekasters to minions to get more traction (I live in Oregon).
I agree with this review. I started taking mountain biking more seriously this summer and there are some things about this bike that are infuriating to me. I am 6’3 225 and going downhill I feel I can’t brake at all. Coming around corners feels scary as hell and I feel like I can’t go fast at all. Had a buddy ride it to confirm my suspicions and he said that it was sketchy at best.
Remember, the Trance is only $300 more expensive. The Trance 3 is only $2100 in both 27.5 and 29, with better components and the maestro link suspension. The Trance is also significantly more upgradeable. The Trance is also really poppy and loves getting airborne. I was looking at the Stance 1 myself and decided to get the Trance 3 instead.
When you realise you can get a nuke proof mega on sale for $2000 with a yari up front, I know it's not a trail bike but it's a bangin deal
Meanwhile in Canada :(
Of all the videos and reviews I’ve seen in this bike you guys are the only ones bashing it... sounds like a sweet bike. Maybe try and keep your mindset on the values of the bike and not compare it’s to the 5-6 thousand dollar bikes! Just seems odd that everyone loves it and you guys are hating so harshly on it
true--have not heard such complaints elsewhere
It is because these guys are mountain bike snobs. The Stance works well for a lot of people.
Anyone upgrade to 4 piston brakes in the rear? Which brand fits? Tried Magura but the caliper is too wide... thanks!
What do you guys think about the Giant Stance 2? I’m looking for something that’ll last with me for a while and is affordable and good.
The problem with those guys is , they are used to riding bikes for 10k, 😅 boutiques brands, so when they ride bikes less than 5k!! obviously they don’t like them. I bought a Trance 29, Giant and I do believe it’s an awesome trail/xc bike 😊 probably bc, I have a Ripmo AF, Norco Fluid Ht1 and Giant, Talon 1 so 😅 my bikes are less then 5k . I do believe the Stance is going to be a Good (enough) entry mtb bike. If you don’t have the money for double suspension, GO HARDTAIL, 80% of the trails doesn’t need more then that 😊 believe me 😅😊😊
I could you please, if you have the chance, review the Rocky mountain thunderbolt alloy 10. I love your vids😜
I have a 2021 Giant Trance 3 29er & was wondering if I could put new suspension on my bike to give me more travel?
I got a 2017 giant trance 3 on sale it ended up at just a hundred extra dollars and I love totally worth spending the extra and getting the trance
I have just got my trek bike stolen 1.6k down the drain so Im planning to save up and buy this affordable full suspension.
Hope they do the SC chameleon, a serious beast even though it's a hardtail.
Yeah and also extremely overpriced lol
@@raupenimmersatt6906 I got mine as a demo, so it was decent. I fucking love it.
The Giant product manager should be forced to have this thing as his ONLY personal bike, for at least 24 months.
Alltho its questionable at this point weather or not he or she has actually ever ridden a bike before...
I don't know why but 130mm doesn't sound enough for me.
Love Giant bikes, I have the Anthem for XC and the Reign for crushing! So what other options are you recommending at this price point, what was that $1400 bike as well?
@Billie Manimtim love it!!!
Wow! Very diplomatic, but the message is clear.
VitalMTB: We'd shred it, needs bigger rotors and a more front tire
Pinkbike: (Puts small batch micro brew down) Not even with your d!ck
Same bike. 🤷♂️
Yeah when Vitals review came out I was wondering what they were smoking. Based off spec alone their praise was a head scratcher. I'm not sure they even mentioned the quick release.
Thru axle is mandatory!
For 300 more would anyone pick a YT Jeffsey 29 base? About to buy my first trail bike and unfortunately I have to go with a XXL due to being 6’8”... no used for me which kinda sucks. Looking at this bike, Trek Fuel 5 and the jeffsey. Thanks!
Feel free to suggest some great 29er full suspension bikes to pick up! I don’t want to spend more than 2300 or so.
Will you ever review any XC bikes?
I couldn't quite catch the name of the bike he recommended as a better option at 5:30 anyone knows which bike he was referring to? I'm new to mountain biking and I'm looking for an affordable full-suspension bike around this price bracket. thanks!
Hey guys, i have a question, i'm waiting on my Trance to arrive, should be here any day, I know its old geometry so i was hoping to change that, what i would like to know is what do you guys think of those Headset Bearing Kits to increase the Head tube Slack? I've been checking out a set, it's the Cane Creek Angleset, this particular set i'm eyeing increases the slack 2 degrees, I was thinking of having it installed and increase the Slack from 67 degrees to 65. What do you guys think?
Thanks for the straight up opinion on the bike. Grateful for the perspectives, it goes a lot further than eating a big bowl of boilerplate brochure bullshit.
Honesty is hard work!.
These fools better recognize.
Sounds like a good cheap bike for a mountain biker to get their partner if you know they won't ride very often but will have something that looks like a real mountain bike and works for the few times a year they want to get out and ride.
Partners don't buy partner shit bikes...plus, I'd want one I could swap out parts on in an emergency, lol.
Is the Trance 3 29er in this test? It is a MUCH better bike for not too much more money.
1:28 PLEASE DON'T BREAK, PLEASE DON'T BREAK...
Witht that crap fork, the rider is the first to brake.
Overall 2nd... kind of makes all that talk sound like nonsense. If it’s so bad then why is it so fast? Not modern enough or not trendy enough?
Same spec bike from Btwin is about half the price. You get NX instead of SX, and not as good a shock. But if you want a non-upgradeable bike (which this is), 1800 is a lot of dough.
The Stance frame is still way better than my Reid Vice 2.0 frame which cracked in 3 places and near snapped for no reason. Also the stance geo is better than the reid which is also focused at trail riding and has a 69 degree head angle
Giant dont give them free stuff so they talk shit. Its a trail bike n trail bike should not be 64 or 65 ht angle . Personally i had some aggressive bikes in past but after riding stance i immediately notice how comfortable n trail oriented this bike is and after every ride it put smile on my face
Please get your hands on the Giant Trance 3 29! People are claiming it climbs like a mountain goat!
Such a bummer to hear that! The bike does seem really nice on paper...
No it doesn't....
Mtb scene pushes a style turn over rate like no other, in landscaping they redesign the wheel barrow like once a decade. They redesign the mtb like every 2 days
Can someone clarify on the brakes. Are they good or bad brakes?