Product Information

Giant Talon 0 29er

The ride qualities of Twenty Niners sees them becoming a real force in mountain biking, with their soaring popularity becoming a factor in a greater number of models being made available each year. Before getting too involved with the 2012 Giant Talon 0 29er, let's answer one very frequently asked question. 

What exactly is a 29er?
At the most basic level, a “29er” refers to a mountain bike with a larger wheel diameter than a “traditional or regular” mountain bike. The “29” is actually a bit of a misnomer though, as it refers to the approximate 29" diameter of the entire wheel (with a tyre mounted), whereas a regular mtb is approximately 26” in diameter. To be more specific about rim size, the 29er uses rims of the exact diameter of a road bike or hybrid rim, usually referred to as “700c.” This larger wheel diameter reduces rolling resistance by some 10% while simultaneously reducing hub bearing resistance and wear and tyre wear also by at least 10%. Stability when rolling over obstacles is enhanced both while climbing and descending enhancing your feeling of safety and well being. Following a longer ride most riders will feel less fatiqued due to the improved comfort. Grip and cornering balance is increased and traction, especially when climbing on loose surfaces is also improved enabling more saddle time before you feel the need to get off and walk to the summit. It also seems that pinch flats are a less common occurence when using a 29er.

Not all is gold at the end of the 29er rainbow though as a 29er is heavier by 300-400g  when compared to a comparably equipped 26" bike. This extra weight decreases acceleration rates by around 2%, and the extra mass will have a similar effect on braking. Bike control in technical situations is a little less nimble and wheelies or front end lifts over ruts etc is more difficult, but wheel stiffness and strength is improved and a greater range of tyres and tubes are available for the more common 26" wheel.

For most people though the benefits and rideability of a 29er far outweigh these small negative points. Many International riders competing in World Cup and World Championship events choose to ride 29ers because of the momentum that the larger wheels provide, but the benefits of being able to roll over many obstacles without having to lift the front of the bike makes for faster riding over rougher terrain even by less skilled riders.

The 2012 Giant Talon 0 is available in a great range of sizes from 16" upward, so only very short riders won't be able to benefit from the 29er experience. For everyone else the Talon is a real option and taller riders will finally feel like they have a bike that is proportion to their build. The Talon 0's frame is crafted from the super light ALUXX aluminium tubing which has been hydro formed providing strengthening shapes and gussets for increased frame strength and reduced weight. A great basis from which to start and to which a nice range of commensurate components, such as Avid hydraulic brakes, SRAM X5 drive train, Sun Tour lock out forks and matching front wheel with a 15mm through axle have been fitted. The result is a really great bike that is fast and fun to ride and a bike that will be encouraging to the rider and a little forgiving where another bike may not be.      

Giant Talon 29er– 27 Speed

Be the first to review this product!

Price: $1199.00

• Tell a Friend
• Write review / comment