Giant XTC 29-1
Starting at the mountain bike end is the new 29 inch. Bike Boy has a soft spot for 29er's as they provide the most versatility when combining an MTB with a commuter. Hints from my LBS are that it will be around $2K. Decent components (Avid brakes, Fi'zi:k saddle and Shimano deralieurs) help round out what has been a great bike in the 26 inch category so definitely something to consider if you're looking for a 29er.
We then move into some of the new urban/commuter options Giant are introducing this year.
Giant Seek S
The seek models seem to be "café racers" built for the weekend ride and occasional commute. The Seek S (S for single-speed) caught my eye in the no fuss daily commuter category. Cable discs, no deraileurs, posts for full mud guards and a rack etc. I'll be doing some more research on this model over the next couple of weeks, that's for certain.
Of a similar style to the Seek, although this time with an internal geared hub, is the City Speed. It looks like a new concept commuter with a stem and bars all in one piece along with hidden cable routing inside the frame and integrated lights fitted to the bike. Certainly some nice options on this one if you were after a dedicated commuter.
Giant City Speed CS
City Speed Features
Last is the Bowery, the one up there ^^
This year I think Giant are going after a different demographic. The 2009 Bowery range had 4 models and were all decent looking rides. They all still had the Aluminium frame but different paint jobs and set ups with a flat bar and or drops. The Australia only model was a gloss black but essentially the same as Bike Boy's 08 model. For 2010 Giant have 2 models for Australia, a white with red drop bar model and an absolutely hideous green and pink flat-bar option.
Possibly the most disgusting paint job I've ever seen, and my LBS tells me they've used time-trial style brake levers to increase the "poser" cred. At least you know no-one in their right mind would ever consider stealing such an abomination!
No comments:
Post a Comment