Our worries were unfounded. The wheels held up well to a beating (albeit on soft UK terrain, not rocks). In fact, this was a bike that excelled on the steeper tracks.

This year we knew the workhorse frame was matched with as good kit as last year, a much improved fork and some of Giant’s own carbon wheels. Confident from the first ride, we knew Giant were only improving a consistent winner.

“The best use of a Monarch Plus we’ve found”

Driven by the stellar Maestro suspension system, this is a bike that just looks “up for it”. An 800mm bar as standard and a low bottom bracket offers a confidence inspiring position on the bike. We really like the shock tune as well. There are very few rides where you won’t feel like you have brought wasted travel, but also you’ll never feel out of your depth with it either – both lively and supportive, it’s the best use of a Monarch Plus we’ve found.