The Glory bikes have always been a well put together package since they came on the scene
But the Glory is very much one of the favourite choices of the privateer racer. And this is because of that business-like, reliable specification. It’s almost full Sram componentry here and yet again, like nearly all our first choice bikes in the Dirt 100 feature the seven-speed Sram gearing and chainset. And even moving away from power delivery to holding the horses Giant have cleverly gone for the finest Sram Guide Ultimate brakeset, and it really is the best brake currently on the market providing not just reliable performance but consistent braking as you progress downwards.
Of course the Glory is as a machine for bigger intentions than its stable mate the Reign, a bike we seriously liked because of its pace and its angles but there are a couple of similarities, notably the Maestro suspension, well developed, robust and most importantly quick across the ground. Just take a look at Marcelo Gutierrez’s results at this years world cup series will testify to the ability of the Glory.
LIGHT, FAST, SIMPLE
The only problem with the Glory is now there are more options than ever, many riders will be looking at the Fox damped bike with Shimano Zee at £3699 but aluminium rear swingarm whilst others will still be considering the full aluminium Glory at just under three thousand pounds. And why not, we loved last year’s all-aluminium bike and both will need very little upgrading and come in at prices that are challenging the direct sales channel of sales.
Whichever you choose, the Glory is a quiet bike, a well- balanced bike in so many areas including its angles and component specification. Its one of the lightest production bikes currently available and this size large is only 35.01lb. But its the ride characteristic that we find so hard to beat, in fact after testing we find it to be not only one of our favourite downhill bikes of the year but possibly up there in the top three. This is because of the simple ride dynamic, super silent chassis and just the right amount of flex allowing a smooth, compliant ride.
A much-loved downhill bike, as it has been nearly every one of what is heading on for the past twenty years.
PRICE: £5299
GIANT UK 0844 245 9030
WWW.GIANT-BICYCLES.COM
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