Josh was not the first rider, Cole Paton and Brendan Johnston were the first, with Brendan racing Unbound on 1 June on the prototype bike. Good story tho
@@DaveGrey-c8tyou are correct that they had ridden prototype bikes and at the sharp end of the lifetime grand prix. But I’m pretty sure mine was the first production model to be used.
At some point, if bike manufacturers continue to angle down the top tube, we'll end up with dutch style gravel bikes... (I wrote my comment before I saw Jimmy's 😅)
The revolt has been raced in the Life Time grand prix and other gravel races, and it was one of the most sold bikes when I was a mechanic for Giant. It fits many people's requirements; racers, enthusiasts and commuters alike.
YES, but it's too high on the front to be a truly versatile bike. I love the feeling, I love the concept, the innovation with the seat post, but I can't find my optimal riding position in a bike so upright when in my size
@@8paolo96 That can be said for any bike, certain geometries work better for certain body types. Find a bike that works for you, but to write it off as a race bike is a bit of a stretch when the results it's been ridden to have been quite impressive. The stigmata is inspired by progressive MTB geo, and its numbers aren't too far off from the Revolt's and it's a race winning bike. If anything the revolt is more versatile than a lot of other race specific gravel bikes.
It’s a perfect bike for me, love my advanced 2, I do a lot of rough off road stuff in Scotland … super compliant, I have 2024 with grx that I prefer over sram
@@8paolo96 Giant Revolts do feel upsized, but that doesn't mean you can't find a fast position on one. All bikes I've been a small. But I just bought a 2024 Revolt and I got to try small and XS and I went with the XS. Even in the XS there's no toe overlap at all and it fits me just as if it were a size small on a regular bike. Now in my XS I have slammed the stem and it's a fast, aero fit. Totally agree about the bars, size 42 on an XS feels ridiculous.
I also own a Revolt, and could not be happier. To me this is a versatile workhorse with focus on a simple "getting the job done" mentality. It does not really excel in any particular category, but what ever terrain and usage you throw at it like road bike, commuting, gravel, cross country, trekking, "light" MTB trails, the Revolt has your back. Basically all you need to do is switching wheel set, and you a clear to go to have fun.
I have a revolt e pro. It's the dog's. I love it. I have to say the D fuse technology works. I don't find my bar's too wide. I thought your review was a bit unfair, TBH. You always sem to give Giant a hard time. The Revolt is a phenomenal machine for a normal person, like me. Who just enjoys getting out in the fresh air.
To remove a Giant seatpost which uses the wedge, just a sharp thump with the palm of the hand on the back of the seatpost, knocking it forward, frees it. Loosen the bolt first🙄
Mate..... That's the most useful piece of information I've ever gotten. I travel with my Defy semi regularly and the seatpost can be a PITA. Will give that a go in a few days. Cheers so much.
LOL! Too upright! After watching nearly every bike fitTuesday video, I realised I was on the wrong bike. Fast forward and have bought the completely unsexy Giant Defy. Am super comfortable and I seem to be fast.....enough. This review gives me those vibes, unsexy but will be brilliant for the every-person. Would love to be riding a slammed Look 785 but I ride in the real world 😢. Is there such a thing as a sexy, short reach bike? Love your work 😊
I've just ordered a 2024 advanced 2, and when I was reading the specs/geometry, I was thinking the handle bars seem narrow, but I will admit, this is my first ever drop handle bar bike, I've only ever ridden mountain bikes, so if these are classed as wide, its probably a good thing for me as a starter bike.
I owned the previous design of the Revolt years ago. After the third snapped top tube they gave me a Toughroad (much sturdier frame and more suitable for riding with panniers, which seems to have caused the problems with the Revolt). Luckily I bought it new and benefitted from the lifetime warranty on the frame.
Tires. The good gravel tires (400-450 grams) are a tier above the 700 gram tires that the bike comes with. Which main function is to not flat, so the customer doesn't find out that the water based sealant doesn't actually work. The wheels can also be improved, 3. party from around $450 and up, are good upgrades. Asides from that, I have a Revolt too, and it's a great bike. Maxxis 120 tpi Velocita or Receptor (same with sideknobs) are good slicks. Tufo Thundero are good and fast gravel. Schwalbe G-One RS superrace 40 for a highend tire.
Ahhh, this is the Josh who was "Josh Cam" in Maddy's recent Migration video. Francis, you're right the handlebar sizes seem too big on the smaller sizes but also the crank length.
Love my Revolt. I bought a revolt 1, it had paint problems, giant sent me a Pro 0 frame as a replacement! Result! Fitted Rival axs and that’s been a game changer. Lovely bike!
Shit that's a thing? I have revolt 2 in matte gray and the paint rubbed off in so many spots because of the way they installed the cables. Never thought of of contacting them
I just bought a Trek Checkpoint ALR5 because it is a very simple bike. Surprisingly, for a Trek, it doesn't have proprietary anything. I'm not looking to race, and if I really want to ride off road, I'll take my Norco Sight.
I have turned my (previous model) Revolt Pro into a "fast" ultra-endurance bike and it really works great! I have kept the giant dropper post which really helps to relax a bit on the downhills, 50mm wheelset, and 40cm aero handlebars. I have also slammed the stem. Having taken part in multiple brevets and ultra distance events I 've never felt more confortable on a bike that can also go really fast. + I have also kept the stock wheelset with gravel tires. I really think that it is a perfect solution for someone that wants one bike to do it all! PS: Giant DOES honor their lifetime warranty (not like Cannondale).
I have last years Revolt, fits me perfectly and is a heck of a lot of fun to sling around. I've pretty much always ridden it with the flip chip on the shortest setting (unless I'm loaded up with bags), it feels more fun to me. The only annoyance I've found is the seatpost clamp cover, it pops off if you don't get the shim in the perfect place.
@@DarrenMansell I hate the combination of their Integrated Seat Clamp (6:45) and D-Fuse adaptor. It's always a pain for me to adjust the height, or to add/remove the rack adaptor.
In my experience the seatpost clamp is not that well designed because (as you saw in the video) there will be a lot of sand and dirt in the seat tube after some time. The rubber cover for the bolt is not sufficient to keep out all the dirt and thus the seatpost will start to creak after some time, especially after a lot of riding in the wet.
The DFuse seatpost is the only post that has a decent range without any moving parts. When I first saw it under my mate, I thought his post was cracked, it moved so much. 😮
Added a 6" dropper to mine so I didnt have to remove the seat post for packing. Downside is I lost the flex but it's so useful when riding MTB trails with 50's. I've also got long legs short body so the high front end just brings it back to normal endurance height when the road wheels go on. It's the bike that goes in the van for longer trips away where it can do a whole number of things well with a couple of sets of wheels rather than any one thing fantastically.
Looks like a nice all-round gravel bike I would consider. I like the stone guard under the downtube, and the storage compartment.... important features for me.
I brought the 2022 model. Love it! Have been on pretty rough single track in the New forest as well as the lovely gravel paths. I have put a 80mm zero angle stem on as I felt a bit squashed. Changed the handle bars to 38cm. I did look at the Liv, but the giant was a nicer colour (starry night) and the crank length was 170mm on the small, whereas the medium Liv was 172.5, which I didn't want
I have previous version and love it. Main thing I don't like is max front chainring in 1x is 43. Wish they would address that to fit a 46. I almost always ride in short wheel mode unless I throw in my 2.1 mtb tires for the chunky stuff. As for front end, I agree it is high but for me I was never real aggressive and I run almost slammed but with 1 spacer. I will say it is FAF on the road, on the gravel and everywhere in between.
Hello, I also have the previous model and I am able to run a 1x 46 on the front with no issues. It only needed the smallest crank spacer that SRAM provides (along with all the pre-installed spacers) and I never had any issues or play with it in the last 12.000km. You should give it a try!
@@robdemandt9296 according to Giant no, the difference is only 10mm. But do note that changing the position is not plug n play. You need also to change the position and re-adjust the brake caliper (it has 2 positions as well). Of course, if you change the chainring size the chain length will need to be adjusted.
@@robdemandt9296 I agree with you, especially when you use the biggest rear cog, but that is what the distributor told me. In the beginning I found it interesting fitting my 650b wheels straight from my mtb but given that the short position fits 50mm tires easily I just gave up and keep it short all the time 😅
This is hot tip as a future best in class roadbike then. "Too much mtb" normally translates to "will be roads latest best thing" in about 7 years time ;)
I get that you would want to test new bikes and this was a great Chance to do so. But could you also test some more affordable bikes? 1200-3000€? I specially like the pricepoint of the Radon R1 race Tiagra the Rose Blend. Both are hydraulic disc brake bikes for 1200€. And I also wouldnt mind some carbon frame bikes ~2000€ like the Radon SPIRE 7.0 or the Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7. Both are
Would love to see you guys having a look at Halfords' Boardman range especially with their huge discounts on the go at the moment! The Adv 8.9 with 10 speed GRX, and hydraulic discs currently under £900!
i feel sometimes on this channel the geo/bar width/frame size conversation is skewed more towards a road forward crowd. been around bikes and people who ride bikes for some time and have seen plenty of people on larger frames/wider bars then what is suggested on this channel. a more upright position is going to be more ideal for a beginner who doesn't have the core strength. gravel bikes are great beginner bikes. giant being placed in the market that it is... is going to be many people's first bike.
Why are gravelbikes great beginner bikes? I don’t agree with your opinion. Its just a different category, gravel instead of road, and maybe is gravel even a bit harder to ride.
I disagree that 42mm wide tyres is 'good enough' for most people and based on Dylan Johnson's recent testing I think that in a few years most people will be on 50mm or more. There's very few downsides to running much wider tyres for regular users. The aeo penalty of a wide tyre will be very small at recreational user speeds off road, and wider XC tyres have lower rolling resistance than gravel specific tyres which makes up for the aero losses. Upsides: much comfier, more capable, better puncture protection, less need for any suspension (so the bike is simpler).
Depends on the tire and surface for whether XC tires benefit in rolling resistance (for instance if you're a commuter 80% pavement / 20% dirt or gravel, then semi slicks are the obvious choice), but other than that, agreed. Most people would/should take the significant comfort and stability advantage from going bigger despite any potential marginal losses in efficiency.
I love your review. I believe this is the top revolt i think? I hope that you will have a video on the entry revolt line, because that's the one most of us can afford.
D-fuse seatpost, a struggle to keep this thing properly aligned... Carbon grease with beads help, but does not entirely solve the issue. But I confirm that it adds a lot of comfort and accept that my saddle is looking at the landscapes, just like I sometimes do because I'm not a racer and it's a great for me!!
Seems like it's a little heavier than the old Revolt, I wonder if that's because of the addition of the frame storage. Look's like a good N+1 bike tho!
As long as companies like Fairlight and Mason continue to provide well designed bikes, with no proprietary parts or integrated cable systems, then that's where my money will go. Failing that I'll just go custom steel. Simple, but no less modern designed metal bikes, are just easier to live with, which means more time on the bike, with more smiles per mile.
I wish they would go away from that D- Fuse seatpost system. Lots of complaints online (and from personal experience) of it developing a nasty creak. So far my fix has been putting a piece of electrical tape on the back of the shim
I can actually fit a 47mm Pathfinder Pro in the standard (short) flip chip setting with 5mm clearance on each seat stay tube. I'm on my second season racing it in local gravel events in the US.
Love my 21 revolt advanced 0. 2x grx mechanical but all carbon except the bars. This was the model before the flip chip came in. Bar width is the one thing i keep thinking about changing all the time too. I have 2 sets of rims and use it for road and gravel. While slower than a full on road bike its a good compromise as a 1 bike for all setup. I think they've gone all in on the grave gro now so I dont know with this new one if you could necessarily use it as a road bike too.
I agree that Giant specs with too wide bars. When I got my 2021 revolt size L I thought 46cm bars would be great for control but after 2 years of shoulder pain I finally switched to 42cm bars and the bike feels so much better. I think the 46 bars are better fit for a football player 😂 I also think that their d-fuse bard are highly underrated. They have a very noticeable flex which helps smooth the buzz on gravel. I definitely lost the compliance when switching to Easton AL bars.
the ONLY thing that puts me off giants is the proprietary steerer tubes on the forks, 1 1/8" top, 1 1/4" bottom, which means the lower headset bearing is a little difficult to get a replacement for (and thats even with me working at a shop with access to madison, zyro, windwave, extra, cycle division and silverfish)
Seems bit harsh. I ride the previous model - it’s great. Survived some hellish conditions without missing a beat. Not everyone rides in an aggressive TdF bike position! (Plus you never have to buy at RRP just get it in the sale next year)😀 But yes would be nice to spec all the component sizing especially at these prices but it’s the same with most brands and unlikely to change while people still buy as they are now. What’s more weird is why giant stores - who have access to all the components - can’t swap things around. Profit margins I guess.
I’ve said it before, these reviews are a great watch, fantastic to see a new format and style. Two opinions and a wide range of factors considered, plus the Cool Wall… all good.
Most would...and yet even people with 10k bikes don't get that choice. I agree...should be able to swap out cranks, bars and stem when buying any bike for the same type.
@@TerryNutkins3 Just had a look...they don't really allow you to change things entirely. They allow upgrading. At least this is what it looks like on the website. You can change brake rotar size...but you can't change stem length bar width etc....unless I'm missing something?
This 'review' is nonsense - "I don't know who this bike is for" - go watch The Ride with Ben Delaney who races gravel on a different bike each race, he calls this one of his favourite gravel race bikes.
Your review confuses the novice riders out there looking to get into Gravel riding. All you guys needed to say was “it’s a do it all bike and will get the job done on most gravel terrains but will not win you many races”. Thanks gents
Great review, Francis I starting riding after finding your channel a few years ago, living in the U.S. I wanted to find the most bike for the money near me and I found the Giant Revolt 2 which is an entry level version and have loved it. Yes I now know things I would like in a new bike moving forward as I grow as a cyclist however a thousand plus miles later the bike is still going strong and has been a great first bike for me. You provide something for all of us, new or pro we can all learn from your channel! Love it!
@@offsitearchive Well, to start the drivetrain is a basic Shimano sora 2x9 which is good for what it is however I feel that there are times where I’m just in between gears to the point where something seems lacking. So that would be an upgrade, hydraulic disk brakes would be something I would try to also have in my next bike. The geometry works for me regarding my seating position and never felt I needed a more racing seated position so maybe that’s something Francis is used to that may just be lacking in this bike for him. And finally I have the aluminum frame with carbon fork, honestly this has probably saved me a few times as I did have a crash or two but I would like an even lighter bike I think, I’m not into super aero this or that but just a bike that is full carbon, gravel, 1x11 drive, with hydraulic disks would be a next bike. I think that so many times I have said this is just my starter bike and start looking for something better but overall it’s been quite adequate and has me still content even though I think the wish list is more of a want not a need. I keep up with those around me and worked on making myself a better cyclist not trying to find a bike that makes me better.
Depends on your definition of gravel. I was running 44 bars on my gravel bike ( same as my road bike) and found the tops with levers cranked in too narrow so possibly need to go wider.Bear in mind i am 6'2" with a long armspan. Considering not everyone is racing and wider bars will give more control and leverage on these rougher tracks. Bar could be dropped with a minus stem and no spacers. But why would you? Unless you are chasing KOM or riding tame UCI gravel this position will give you more control and comfort! Not everthing needs to be a race bike!
Best out of available gravel bikes for me, more endurance frame geometry, enough tyre clearance for rough courses, mine is 8,5kg so pretty light, no weird suspension and converts pretty well to a road bike. Not sure which gravel bikes you’re putting above this 🤷🏼
They probably complain the most! 😊. But I am 187cm and typically need a 58 frame (or L in Giant) but my fitted bar size is 40cm so no proprietary build works…..a big challenge is that we are three dimensional (or even more) but the industry usually fits bikes on one dimension only. I know that Ribble, Fairlight et al do allow user specification but otherwise you are in the game of immediately customising a brand new bike, discarding components and needing to spend even more money. The industry gets away with this I guess because most people probably do not get a full bike fit and put up with a bike that is not sized properly because they do not realise.
It's not just short people. I'm 6ft4, long legs, short body. Most bikes I run all the spacers. For example my TCR has a 15cm drop from saddle to bars with all the spacers fitted.
The problem with buying a Giant is the appalling Warranty back up. There's numerous threads on Singletrackworld about it - basically one rider changed the cables themselves, and so Giant refused a frame crack warranty as not all work was carried out by a shop...
Agreed. Also when you putting on suspension like features you can just get a dropbar XC or hardtail straight away, having about the same weight & similar riding position
Its £5.5k and what XC bike can you get thats lighter and cheaper than this with full electronic groupset? Genuinely intrigued because a brief look suggests you can't.
Most people (in my opinion and experience) are riding around with a 2-3 spacers under the headset (or probably should be). So if with this bike they can remove those and saw off the chimney then the geo is probably about right. Not for everyone, though.
I've ridden 50mm on my Revolt with the chip on the "small" setting. Not a ton of clearance, but for a dry ride it was just fine. If conditions were muddy I'd want to flip the chip to add more clearance.
I'm a bit biased because I've got one but I don't see how you can't put the bike in at least proper good. Yeah the choice of bars should give you narrower options but there's nothing else wrong with it. Most people need comfortable geometry. Any closer to a road bike and it's a Defy.
For me, this bike is out of it’s place. It’s not racey enough in this format and doesn’t offer anything extra compared to other manufacturers. The DFuse stuff is good but not enough. There has been a monster gravel version of it with front suspension and a dropper post, that spec is well balanced. This is just a +1 in the see of gravel bikes these days.
internal cable routing for easy Maintenance ... oh wait do the hoses go through the headset Bearings ... that's a great idea .. can you service my headset yes that's 200 quid for what should be 60!!!
Boy's super review! I sold, pre and in the COVID period Giant, Trek and Canondale. All build by G! The comfort is great on the Revolt, but it Indeed feels a bit like a Dutch opoefiets (old school Dutchie transportation 😊). I agree the shiz of the smaller sizing, that they not pair it with shorter cranks and smaller handlebars. I changed because stock and willing to give service. I changed a lot off handlebars and stems , not only on xs and s sizes. Cranks are bit more complicated. 😉 Cheers again keep de Pcast rolling.
I think you're overstating the MTBness of this bike. I have a 2023 model and two sets of wheels; with road tires, it doesn't feel that different from my old road bike. Also, I'm 6'1" and ride a 56, so I'm able to get a reasonable amount of saddle to bar drop (though I have considered flipping to the stem to get even lower).
hope their using better bearings than the crap on my revolt advanced 2 2022, in first year i've replaced bb both wheel bearings and the freehub and now the headset has eaten its self..think they used any old crap they could get their hands on during part shortage
I wish there was any off-road "gravel" that was remotely close to what he was riding in Kenya. Everything in the great lakes/midwest region of the US that is gravel is like river rock that you tire just sinks into and is hard to ride on. vs packed dirt roads or white rock that can be smooth-ish and be ridden just fine.
![NOSFERATU - Official Trailer [HD] - Only In Theaters December 25](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nulvWqYUM8k/mqdefault.jpg)
check out Josh's video from the Migration Gravel Race HERE: ruclips.net/video/qhAuTY2SUJ4/видео.html
Josh was not the first rider, Cole Paton and Brendan Johnston were the first, with Brendan racing Unbound on 1 June on the prototype bike. Good story tho
@@DaveGrey-c8tyou are correct that they had ridden prototype bikes and at the sharp end of the lifetime grand prix. But I’m pretty sure mine was the first production model to be used.
At some point, if bike manufacturers continue to angle down the top tube, we'll end up with dutch style gravel bikes...
(I wrote my comment before I saw Jimmy's 😅)
With that more upright geometry, this would also make a good endurance bike for normal people.
Yes, I was thinking that as well and personally it's a plus. I'm not a racer, and have back issues that make being a bit more upright necessary.
The revolt has been raced in the Life Time grand prix and other gravel races, and it was one of the most sold bikes when I was a mechanic for Giant. It fits many people's requirements; racers, enthusiasts and commuters alike.
YES, but it's too high on the front to be a truly versatile bike. I love the feeling, I love the concept, the innovation with the seat post, but I can't find my optimal riding position in a bike so upright when in my size
@@8paolo96 That can be said for any bike, certain geometries work better for certain body types. Find a bike that works for you, but to write it off as a race bike is a bit of a stretch when the results it's been ridden to have been quite impressive.
The stigmata is inspired by progressive MTB geo, and its numbers aren't too far off from the Revolt's and it's a race winning bike. If anything the revolt is more versatile than a lot of other race specific gravel bikes.
It’s a perfect bike for me, love my advanced 2, I do a lot of rough off road stuff in Scotland … super compliant, I have 2024 with grx that I prefer over sram
@@8paolo96 Giant Revolts do feel upsized, but that doesn't mean you can't find a fast position on one. All bikes I've been a small. But I just bought a 2024 Revolt and I got to try small and XS and I went with the XS. Even in the XS there's no toe overlap at all and it fits me just as if it were a size small on a regular bike. Now in my XS I have slammed the stem and it's a fast, aero fit. Totally agree about the bars, size 42 on an XS feels ridiculous.
@@Dak3y The size dilemma. Ugh. What size are you? Height and inseam?
I also own a Revolt, and could not be happier. To me this is a versatile workhorse with focus on a simple "getting the job done" mentality. It does not really excel in any particular category, but what ever terrain and usage you throw at it like road bike, commuting, gravel, cross country, trekking, "light" MTB trails, the Revolt has your back. Basically all you need to do is switching wheel set, and you a clear to go to have fun.
I have a revolt e pro. It's the dog's. I love it. I have to say the D fuse technology works. I don't find my bar's too wide. I thought your review was a bit unfair, TBH. You always sem to give Giant a hard time. The Revolt is a phenomenal machine for a normal person, like me. Who just enjoys getting out in the fresh air.
I love the repairability segment. No other reviews do that.
I did my first bike review on here in 2010 and everyone since I mention how easy the bike will be to tune/repair.
To remove a Giant seatpost which uses the wedge, just a sharp thump with the palm of the hand on the back of the seatpost, knocking it forward, frees it. Loosen the bolt first🙄
Mate..... That's the most useful piece of information I've ever gotten.
I travel with my Defy semi regularly and the seatpost can be a PITA.
Will give that a go in a few days. Cheers so much.
I just can never get over how much the revolt frame looks like a mountain bike frame
It's always good to see some honest and critical reviews instead of what are little more than paid for promotions. Well done.
A video to confirm why you need a gravel bike and how to use it properly
"They are Giant bars so..." - this cracked me up
LOL! Too upright! After watching nearly every bike fitTuesday video, I realised I was on the wrong bike. Fast forward and have bought the completely unsexy Giant Defy. Am super comfortable and I seem to be fast.....enough. This review gives me those vibes, unsexy but will be brilliant for the every-person. Would love to be riding a slammed Look 785 but I ride in the real world 😢. Is there such a thing as a sexy, short reach bike? Love your work 😊
I've just ordered a 2024 advanced 2, and when I was reading the specs/geometry, I was thinking the handle bars seem narrow, but I will admit, this is my first ever drop handle bar bike, I've only ever ridden mountain bikes, so if these are classed as wide, its probably a good thing for me as a starter bike.
I owned the previous design of the Revolt years ago. After the third snapped top tube they gave me a Toughroad (much sturdier frame and more suitable for riding with panniers, which seems to have caused the problems with the Revolt). Luckily I bought it new and benefitted from the lifetime warranty on the frame.
300k subs - nice one folks
I recently got a 2022 revolt and have to say it’s my first grown up bike and I love it. Now I’m planning how to upgrade it
GRX 11 spd groupset. I just did it to my 2021 model 😊
Tires. The good gravel tires (400-450 grams) are a tier above the 700 gram tires that the bike comes with. Which main function is to not flat, so the customer doesn't find out that the water based sealant doesn't actually work. The wheels can also be improved, 3. party from around $450 and up, are good upgrades. Asides from that, I have a Revolt too, and it's a great bike.
Maxxis 120 tpi Velocita or Receptor (same with sideknobs) are good slicks. Tufo Thundero are good and fast gravel. Schwalbe G-One RS superrace 40 for a highend tire.
Ahhh, this is the Josh who was "Josh Cam" in Maddy's recent Migration video. Francis, you're right the handlebar sizes seem too big on the smaller sizes but also the crank length.
Love my Revolt. I bought a revolt 1, it had paint problems, giant sent me a Pro 0 frame as a replacement! Result! Fitted Rival axs and that’s been a game changer. Lovely bike!
Shit that's a thing? I have revolt 2 in matte gray and the paint rubbed off in so many spots because of the way they installed the cables. Never thought of of contacting them
I just bought a Trek Checkpoint ALR5 because it is a very simple bike. Surprisingly, for a Trek, it doesn't have proprietary anything. I'm not looking to race, and if I really want to ride off road, I'll take my Norco Sight.
I have turned my (previous model) Revolt Pro into a "fast" ultra-endurance bike and it really works great! I have kept the giant dropper post which really helps to relax a bit on the downhills, 50mm wheelset, and 40cm aero handlebars. I have also slammed the stem. Having taken part in multiple brevets and ultra distance events I 've never felt more confortable on a bike that can also go really fast. + I have also kept the stock wheelset with gravel tires. I really think that it is a perfect solution for someone that wants one bike to do it all!
PS: Giant DOES honor their lifetime warranty (not like Cannondale).
I have last years Revolt, fits me perfectly and is a heck of a lot of fun to sling around. I've pretty much always ridden it with the flip chip on the shortest setting (unless I'm loaded up with bags), it feels more fun to me. The only annoyance I've found is the seatpost clamp cover, it pops off if you don't get the shim in the perfect place.
do you need to change chain length going to the long position ?
@@robdemandt9296 Haven't felt the need to, there's just enough slack.
I have Revolt Advanced 2 from 2022 and I love it. Except the seatpost system.
Why? I've had two Defy's and never had a problem.
I've got a 2022 Revolt Advanced 2. What don't you like about the seatpost?
@@DarrenMansell I hate the combination of their Integrated Seat Clamp (6:45) and D-Fuse adaptor. It's always a pain for me to adjust the height, or to add/remove the rack adaptor.
@@AndriiA939 I get on with the seat post clamp fine but I'm very used to that style. Yes the rack adaptor is a pain.
My seat post creaks all the time and sometimes doesn’t hold up and drops an inch
In my experience the seatpost clamp is not that well designed because (as you saw in the video) there will be a lot of sand and dirt in the seat tube after some time. The rubber cover for the bolt is not sufficient to keep out all the dirt and thus the seatpost will start to creak after some time, especially after a lot of riding in the wet.
The DFuse seatpost is the only post that has a decent range without any moving parts.
When I first saw it under my mate, I thought his post was cracked, it moved so much. 😮
*considering the VCLS post with “moving parts” as it tends to creek.
Well done 🎉🎉
Added a 6" dropper to mine so I didnt have to remove the seat post for packing. Downside is I lost the flex but it's so useful when riding MTB trails with 50's. I've also got long legs short body so the high front end just brings it back to normal endurance height when the road wheels go on. It's the bike that goes in the van for longer trips away where it can do a whole number of things well with a couple of sets of wheels rather than any one thing fantastically.
That frame is huge even in XS. Equivalent Cannondale Topstone XS is 2cm shorter and 4cm lower (reach/stack figures)
Looks like a nice all-round gravel bike I would consider. I like the stone guard under the downtube, and the storage compartment.... important features for me.
I brought the 2022 model. Love it! Have been on pretty rough single track in the New forest as well as the lovely gravel paths. I have put a 80mm zero angle stem on as I felt a bit squashed. Changed the handle bars to 38cm.
I did look at the Liv, but the giant was a nicer colour (starry night) and the crank length was 170mm on the small, whereas the medium Liv was 172.5, which I didn't want
I have previous version and love it. Main thing I don't like is max front chainring in 1x is 43. Wish they would address that to fit a 46. I almost always ride in short wheel mode unless I throw in my 2.1 mtb tires for the chunky stuff. As for front end, I agree it is high but for me I was never real aggressive and I run almost slammed but with 1 spacer. I will say it is FAF on the road, on the gravel and everywhere in between.
Hello, I also have the previous model and I am able to run a 1x 46 on the front with no issues. It only needed the smallest crank spacer that SRAM provides (along with all the pre-installed spacers) and I never had any issues or play with it in the last 12.000km. You should give it a try!
do you need to change chain length going to the long position ?
@@robdemandt9296 according to Giant no, the difference is only 10mm. But do note that changing the position is not plug n play. You need also to change the position and re-adjust the brake caliper (it has 2 positions as well). Of course, if you change the chainring size the chain length will need to be adjusted.
@@PanosRafailidis but in chainlength it is 2*10 mm longer , so considerable
@@robdemandt9296 I agree with you, especially when you use the biggest rear cog, but that is what the distributor told me. In the beginning I found it interesting fitting my 650b wheels straight from my mtb but given that the short position fits 50mm tires easily I just gave up and keep it short all the time 😅
Phew! Looks like I dodged a bullet there: just got my 2023 Revolt from Giant Prudhoe. Thankfully it has NON-concealed cables.
Yeah, not a fan of those. Glad I got my Revolt when I did.
Have the Revolt 2 advanced. The wide handlebars were the first thing that needed changing even though I am 6'1 and have long collar bones.
good one Jimmy, giant bars lol
Cold for not including a category titled 'Mint'.
This is hot tip as a future best in class roadbike then. "Too much mtb" normally translates to "will be roads latest best thing" in about 7 years time ;)
I get that you would want to test new bikes and this was a great Chance to do so. But could you also test some more affordable bikes? 1200-3000€? I specially like the pricepoint of the Radon R1 race Tiagra the Rose Blend.
Both are hydraulic disc brake bikes for 1200€.
And I also wouldnt mind some carbon frame bikes ~2000€ like the Radon SPIRE 7.0 or the Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7. Both are
Yes! we were looking for some recommendations this is great
I agree. I've got a Boardman ADV 9.4. Great value, well specced bike costing £2,150, ticks all the boxes!
Would love to see you guys having a look at Halfords' Boardman range especially with their huge discounts on the go at the moment! The Adv 8.9 with 10 speed GRX, and hydraulic discs currently under £900!
No longer available.
i feel sometimes on this channel the geo/bar width/frame size conversation is skewed more towards a road forward crowd. been around bikes and people who ride bikes for some time and have seen plenty of people on larger frames/wider bars then what is suggested on this channel.
a more upright position is going to be more ideal for a beginner who doesn't have the core strength. gravel bikes are great beginner bikes. giant being placed in the market that it is... is going to be many people's first bike.
Why are gravelbikes great beginner bikes?
I don’t agree with your opinion. Its just a different category, gravel instead of road, and maybe is gravel even a bit harder to ride.
@@sanderstoffels603more grip with wider tyres and more relaxed geometry. Often have facilities for storage and racks so good for commuting too
"Single track; gnarly stuff; mud!"
Exactly why i got a Revolt for Scottish 'gravel' riding!
I disagree that 42mm wide tyres is 'good enough' for most people and based on Dylan Johnson's recent testing I think that in a few years most people will be on 50mm or more.
There's very few downsides to running much wider tyres for regular users. The aeo penalty of a wide tyre will be very small at recreational user speeds off road, and wider XC tyres have lower rolling resistance than gravel specific tyres which makes up for the aero losses.
Upsides: much comfier, more capable, better puncture protection, less need for any suspension (so the bike is simpler).
I use 60mm.
Depends on the tire and surface for whether XC tires benefit in rolling resistance (for instance if you're a commuter 80% pavement / 20% dirt or gravel, then semi slicks are the obvious choice), but other than that, agreed. Most people would/should take the significant comfort and stability advantage from going bigger despite any potential marginal losses in efficiency.
Might as well be on a MTB. LOL
as a guy who rides 33cm bars on the track 42s may as well be mountain bike bar widths. 40s or less unless youre riding it on crazy stuff
Beautiful new whip
I love your review. I believe this is the top revolt i think? I hope that you will have a video on the entry revolt line, because that's the one most of us can afford.
D-fuse seatpost, a struggle to keep this thing properly aligned... Carbon grease with beads help, but does not entirely solve the issue. But I confirm that it adds a lot of comfort and accept that my saddle is looking at the landscapes, just like I sometimes do because I'm not a racer and it's a great for me!!
If you like the flip chip, you need to get your hands onto a Polygon Tambora, they have flip chips front and rear
GT grade I think has it on the fork and not on the rear
Seems like it's a little heavier than the old Revolt, I wonder if that's because of the addition of the frame storage. Look's like a good N+1 bike tho!
It looks very similar to my most favorite bike of all - Giant TCR Advanced Pro/Liv Langma road race, which means for me it will be excellent.
As long as companies like Fairlight and Mason continue to provide well designed bikes, with no proprietary parts or integrated cable systems, then that's where my money will go. Failing that I'll just go custom steel. Simple, but no less modern designed metal bikes, are just easier to live with, which means more time on the bike, with more smiles per mile.
Kenya getting some love! Proud Kenyan here
I’ve got a 2021 version which I love but may have to upgrade to this 2025 model
If you upgrade, sell me your 2021. As Long as it’s carbon 😄
I wish they would go away from that D- Fuse seatpost system. Lots of complaints online (and from personal experience) of it developing a nasty creak.
So far my fix has been putting a piece of electrical tape on the back of the shim
I can actually fit a 47mm Pathfinder Pro in the standard (short) flip chip setting with 5mm clearance on each seat stay tube. I'm on my second season racing it in local gravel events in the US.
they were riding a 45 in the short version stating that 42 it's the max, so there's already something not sounding right
Can confirm also 45c Ramblers in “short” chip… loads of sketchy miles, zero clearance concerns.
@@RyanHicksWorks Same. 45mm Raddlers in short with loads of clearance left
Love my 21 revolt advanced 0. 2x grx mechanical but all carbon except the bars. This was the model before the flip chip came in. Bar width is the one thing i keep thinking about changing all the time too. I have 2 sets of rims and use it for road and gravel. While slower than a full on road bike its a good compromise as a 1 bike for all setup. I think they've gone all in on the grave gro now so I dont know with this new one if you could necessarily use it as a road bike too.
The frame storage is lowkey a big deal though! Being able to carry some essentials without having to use a big under-saddle bag is just very nice.
I agree that Giant specs with too wide bars.
When I got my 2021 revolt size L I thought 46cm bars would be great for control but after 2 years of shoulder pain I finally switched to 42cm bars and the bike feels so much better. I think the 46 bars are better fit for a football player 😂
I also think that their d-fuse bard are highly underrated. They have a very noticeable flex which helps smooth the buzz on gravel. I definitely lost the compliance when switching to Easton AL bars.
the ONLY thing that puts me off giants is the proprietary steerer tubes on the forks, 1 1/8" top, 1 1/4" bottom, which means the lower headset bearing is a little difficult to get a replacement for (and thats even with me working at a shop with access to madison, zyro, windwave, extra, cycle division and silverfish)
Seems bit harsh. I ride the previous model - it’s great. Survived some hellish conditions without missing a beat. Not everyone rides in an aggressive TdF bike position! (Plus you never have to buy at RRP just get it in the sale next year)😀 But yes would be nice to spec all the component sizing especially at these prices but it’s the same with most brands and unlikely to change while people still buy as they are now. What’s more weird is why giant stores - who have access to all the components - can’t swap things around. Profit margins I guess.
I think that this head tube size is because of giant's another bike TCX (which is more racing)
For Anyone wondering its the same frame as the Liv devote from 2024, they just had too many of the old revolt frames to ship this for 2024.
Hi Cade, is it time for another ep of Best entry level bike 2024 or Decathlon Cheap bike? I remember Triban 120 was suggested last year!
I’ve said it before, these reviews are a great watch, fantastic to see a new format and style. Two opinions and a wide range of factors considered, plus the Cool Wall… all good.
Been waiting for narrower bars to come into stock for my Defy for MONTHS!! It’s ridiculous. And I can confirm that my seat post is a mare to move too.
I've had two Defy's, currently have 2023 adv pro, never had a problem with the seatpost. Set and forget.
Thanks Francis , Jimmi , and Josh....I am a big fan already . Be well , eh ?
Ive still got the anyroad that came before this bike and im due to replace it, love the look of this its tempting 😊
If I spend 5K on a bike I'd like to be able to chose stem length, handle bar width and crank length for myself and then smash the order button.
Most would...and yet even people with 10k bikes don't get that choice. I agree...should be able to swap out cranks, bars and stem when buying any bike for the same type.
Orbea allow you to do that, you can even customise the paint job
@@TerryNutkins3 for all bikes in their range or specific ones?
@TerryNutkins3 so do Planet X !
@@TerryNutkins3 Just had a look...they don't really allow you to change things entirely. They allow upgrading. At least this is what it looks like on the website. You can change brake rotar size...but you can't change stem length bar width etc....unless I'm missing something?
I appreciate the direct, honest reviews; keep 'em coming.
This 'review' is nonsense - "I don't know who this bike is for" - go watch The Ride with Ben Delaney who races gravel on a different bike each race, he calls this one of his favourite gravel race bikes.
8:40 Jimmy's lenses match his jersey to a T!
Your review confuses the novice riders out there looking to get into Gravel riding.
All you guys needed to say was “it’s a do it all bike and will get the job done on most gravel terrains but will not win you many races”.
Thanks gents
Sounds like a bike for me then 🔥
Great review, Francis I starting riding after finding your channel a few years ago, living in the U.S. I wanted to find the most bike for the money near me and I found the Giant Revolt 2 which is an entry level version and have loved it. Yes I now know things I would like in a new bike moving forward as I grow as a cyclist however a thousand plus miles later the bike is still going strong and has been a great first bike for me. You provide something for all of us, new or pro we can all learn from your channel! Love it!
"I now know things I would like in a new bike" - what do you miss about Revolt 2 today?
@@offsitearchive Well, to start the drivetrain is a basic Shimano sora 2x9 which is good for what it is however I feel that there are times where I’m just in between gears to the point where something seems lacking. So that would be an upgrade, hydraulic disk brakes would be something I would try to also have in my next bike. The geometry works for me regarding my seating position and never felt I needed a more racing seated position so maybe that’s something Francis is used to that may just be lacking in this bike for him. And finally I have the aluminum frame with carbon fork, honestly this has probably saved me a few times as I did have a crash or two but I would like an even lighter bike I think, I’m not into super aero this or that but just a bike that is full carbon, gravel, 1x11 drive, with hydraulic disks would be a next bike. I think that so many times I have said this is just my starter bike and start looking for something better but overall it’s been quite adequate and has me still content even though I think the wish list is more of a want not a need. I keep up with those around me and worked on making myself a better cyclist not trying to find a bike that makes me better.
Depends on your definition of gravel.
I was running 44 bars on my gravel bike ( same as my road bike) and found the tops with levers cranked in too narrow so possibly need to go wider.Bear in mind i am 6'2" with a long armspan.
Considering not everyone is racing and wider bars will give more control and leverage on these rougher tracks.
Bar could be dropped with a minus stem and no spacers.
But why would you?
Unless you are chasing KOM or riding tame UCI gravel this position will give you more control and comfort!
Not everthing needs to be a race bike!
Sometimes narrow and low is comfort for some people
Descending a rocky singletrack without being sent over the bars is when you appreciate longer headtubes and wider bars
Best out of available gravel bikes for me, more endurance frame geometry, enough tyre clearance for rough courses, mine is 8,5kg so pretty light, no weird suspension and converts pretty well to a road bike. Not sure which gravel bikes you’re putting above this 🤷🏼
Good commuter bike for sure.
It seems only short people complain about bike sizes 😜🤣🤣
They probably complain the most! 😊. But I am 187cm and typically need a 58 frame (or L in Giant) but my fitted bar size is 40cm so no proprietary build works…..a big challenge is that we are three dimensional (or even more) but the industry usually fits bikes on one dimension only. I know that Ribble, Fairlight et al do allow user specification but otherwise you are in the game of immediately customising a brand new bike, discarding components and needing to spend even more money. The industry gets away with this I guess because most people probably do not get a full bike fit and put up with a bike that is not sized properly because they do not realise.
It's not just short people. I'm 6ft4, long legs, short body. Most bikes I run all the spacers. For example my TCR has a 15cm drop from saddle to bars with all the spacers fitted.
My Trek can only have specific Trek seatposts and it's SO annoying. Good job Giant for having an adapter.
Would love to see your take on the Felt Breed Advanced!
Giant makes the Defy for racing
My four year old Pinarello Grevil has a "cut out" seat post. Unfortunately, it won't fit a standard seat post. Thus no Redshift suspension seat post.
I have been looking at gravel bikes. The large XS sizes, oversized handlebar, make this a no go.
I feel like every gravel bike has to answer the question “Why not just get a Cervélo Aspero”
The problem with buying a Giant is the appalling Warranty back up. There's numerous threads on Singletrackworld about it - basically one rider changed the cables themselves, and so Giant refused a frame crack warranty as not all work was carried out by a shop...
A near enough £6k gravel bike that's both heavier and more expensive than a near pro level XC bike, it just doesn't make sense to me.😮
Agreed. Also when you putting on suspension like features you can just get a dropbar XC or hardtail straight away, having about the same weight & similar riding position
Its £5.5k and what XC bike can you get thats lighter and cheaper than this with full electronic groupset? Genuinely intrigued because a brief look suggests you can't.
i got the giant tcx.. its 3lbs lighter than this thing for about same price. of course diff bike feel and mechanical.
Most people (in my opinion and experience) are riding around with a 2-3 spacers under the headset (or probably should be). So if with this bike they can remove those and saw off the chimney then the geo is probably about right. Not for everyone, though.
What is Josh's height as I've seen him riding sized small Revolts. Thanks
Can't Giant manage to install UDH? No purchase without UDH!
I think 50 mm should be the bare minimum tire size a gravel must reach. Tire clearance of just 42 mm isn't enough for me
max tyre here it's 53 and giant it's quite generous with mud clearance
With the flip chip set to the rear you can fit a 53mm tyre. But on my bike I fitted 40s. Nothing like what Jimmy and Francis rode on around here, yet.
I've ridden 50mm on my Revolt with the chip on the "small" setting. Not a ton of clearance, but for a dry ride it was just fine. If conditions were muddy I'd want to flip the chip to add more clearance.
I'm a bit biased because I've got one but I don't see how you can't put the bike in at least proper good. Yeah the choice of bars should give you narrower options but there's nothing else wrong with it. Most people need comfortable geometry. Any closer to a road bike and it's a Defy.
For me, this bike is out of it’s place. It’s not racey enough in this format and doesn’t offer anything extra compared to other manufacturers. The DFuse stuff is good but not enough.
There has been a monster gravel version of it with front suspension and a dropper post, that spec is well balanced. This is just a +1 in the see of gravel bikes these days.
wide bars are good
internal cable routing for easy Maintenance ... oh wait do the hoses go through the headset Bearings ... that's a great idea .. can you service my headset yes that's 200 quid for what should be 60!!!
Boy's super review! I sold, pre and in the COVID period Giant, Trek and Canondale. All build by G! The comfort is great on the Revolt, but it Indeed feels a bit like a Dutch opoefiets (old school Dutchie transportation
😊). I agree the shiz of the smaller sizing, that they not pair it with shorter cranks and smaller handlebars. I changed because stock and willing to give service. I changed a lot off handlebars and stems , not only on xs and s sizes. Cranks are bit more complicated. 😉 Cheers again keep de Pcast rolling.
I think you're overstating the MTBness of this bike. I have a 2023 model and two sets of wheels; with road tires, it doesn't feel that different from my old road bike. Also, I'm 6'1" and ride a 56, so I'm able to get a reasonable amount of saddle to bar drop (though I have considered flipping to the stem to get even lower).
Unless you ride on pristine, smooth roads, then a Gravel bike is likely a better bet than an ultra fast, ultra stiff road race bike.
Nice 😊
Could they not put connectors on the cables so you can just take the handlers off without all the faff
Nothing wrong with it not being suited to Unbound. Almost nobody who buys one will ever do that event.
hope their using better bearings than the crap on my revolt advanced 2 2022, in first year i've replaced bb both wheel bearings and the freehub and now the headset has eaten its self..think they used any old crap they could get their hands on during part shortage
I wish there was any off-road "gravel" that was remotely close to what he was riding in Kenya. Everything in the great lakes/midwest region of the US that is gravel is like river rock that you tire just sinks into and is hard to ride on. vs packed dirt roads or white rock that can be smooth-ish and be ridden just fine.
There are road bikes with more comfortable geometry and options for wide tires.