Giant Bikes majors on parts, accessories for 2016

<source media="(max-width: 320px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=160%2C208, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=320%2C416 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=480%2C624 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=640%2C832 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 375px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=190%2C247, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=380%2C494 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=570%2C741 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=692%2C900 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 425px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=215%2C279, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=430%2C559 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=645%2C838 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=692%2C900 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 768px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=295%2C383, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=590%2C767 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=693%2C900 3x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(max-width: 992px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=136%2C176, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=272%2C353 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C530 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=544%2C707 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <source media="(min-width: 993px)" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=155%2C201, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=310%2C403 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=465%2C604 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C806 4x" type="image/jpeg"> <img class="wp-image-248756 size-portrait_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-gallery-grid-src-image" src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3.jpg?quality=90&resize=295%2C383" width="295" height="383" data-crop-width="" data-crop-height="" alt="Giant's new ExoWrap and ExoBeam shoe technologies are just a small part of what's new for 2016 (Giant Surge road pictured)" title="1438157895025-yrbha9syvjx3-2fda2a3" style="width: auto; height: 100%;"> Giant’s new ExoWrap and ExoBeam shoe technologies are just a small part of what’s new for 2016 (Giant Surge road pictured) David Rome / Immediate Media

While the biggest news in Giant Bicycles’ range has been seen with the new TCR Advanced , disc-equipped budget Defy and a carbon downhill bike, it’s the component and soft goods side that has received the most extensive overhaul for 2016.

With this, Giant Australia has been showcasing in Melbourne a new range of footwear, saddles, performance road wheels, clothing, small accessories, and of course the recently announced helmet range – so we popped along this week. In total, even with a simplified range, Giant Australia says it now has just shy of a thousand product codes for its parts and accessories.

Before you read on, it’s worth mentioning two things. First, we don’t know just yet which of these items are going to be available in different regions of the globe. And second, we’ve got zero price information at the time of writing – though of course we’ll update you on this as and when it trickles in from BikeRadar ‘s various outposts.

Footwear <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248864 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823" title="1438157895041-15isim5j1luf7-1000-90-fc2c823"> Sitting at the top of the road shoe range, the new giant surge and liv macha (women’s) share the same aesthetic and design : sitting at the top of the road shoe range, the new giant surge and liv macha (women’s) share the same aesthetic and design The Surge (pictured) and similar looking Liv Macha have a distinctive aesthetic

While they’ve been available in Asian markets for a few years now, many of you are likely unaware that Giant offers shoes (yep, they are available in sizes other than Giant). All new and sitting at the top of the performance range are the Surge and Liv Macha (women’s) road shoes, which showcase two new intertwined technologies in the form of ‘ExoWrap’ and ‘ExoBeam’.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248866 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632" title="1438157895031-1hdrcud2psqse-1000-90-a6b6632"> The exobeam refers to the beam running down the length of the shoe. the idea is that it keeps the shoe stiff for pedalling, but adds a touch of lateral flex for greater comfort and joint relief : the exobeam refers to the beam running down the length of the shoe. the idea is that it keeps the shoe stiff for pedalling, but adds a touch of lateral flex for greater comfort and joint relief The upper starts at the sole

ExoWrap refers to how the shoe wraps the foot from the sole and upward. The sole is cut away and anchoring straps start at the bottom. It’s said to provide a custom fit every time you do up the shoe, because the straps work by pulling up and around your foot, giving arch support in place of specific footbeds.

Joining ExoWrap, the other technology that is seen on a handful of models both road and mountain is ExoBeam. In a similar logic to Scott’s new RC shoe , this technology aims to keep vertical sole stiffness high while allowing some level of lateral flex through the sole to relieve joint stress during the pedaling action. Giant claims that compared with systems that aim to achieve joint alignment in a fixed position, this one is more natural and forgiving.

The Surge and Macha feature full carbon soles, two Boa IP-1 dials (per shoe) and are claimed to weigh 470g a pair in size EU42.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248868 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558" title="1438157895046-91g3puks0wrk-1000-90-b244558"> For the mountain bikers, there’s the new amp (pictured) and liv salita (women’s): for the mountain bikers, there’s the new amp (pictured) and liv salita (women’s) Mountain bikers get the mid-priced AMP

On the mountain bike side, Giant Australia displayed the new AMP and Liv Salita shoes. Using a resin sole to keep the price down, these also feature the new ExoWrap and ExoBeam technology. Adding one more term to the mix, they offer ‘ExoFlex’ where a separated toe plate should allow for easier and more natural walking.

Saddles With the lowest contact point taken care of, Giant is also releasing a range of men’s and women’s saddles with its own fitting system – something we first tried at the 2016 TCR Advanced launch . It’s similar to that of Fizik’s fit system, which takes a riders’ position and flexibility into consideration, but Giant takes it a step further with a special fitting saddle that shows the user which model is best for them.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248871 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1" title="1438157895082-1mm5wb3stmipj-1000-90-195eeb1"> Giant dealers will be given a measuring tool to help replicate your current riding position with the special fitting saddle : giant dealers will be given a measuring tool to help replicate your current riding position with the special fitting saddle A tool purely to help replicate the position of the original saddle

For this, a dealer uses a fitting tool that measures the customers’ current saddle from the point it becomes 80mm wide. This measurement point is then used to replicate where to mount the special fitting saddle in relation to handlebar reach.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248873 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49" title="1438157895071-xhklein67yt3-1000-90-1459e49"> Also launched with the new tcr was giant’s new range of saddles and the associated fitting system (pictured) : also launched with the new tcr was giant’s new range of saddles and the associated fitting system (pictured) The fitting saddle just after it was ridden. The highlighted areas show where a rider places his/her pressure most

The special fitting saddle is then ridden on a trainer or outdoors for a few minutes, and afterward the saddle clearly highlights where the seating load is most prominent.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248876 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1" title="1438157895078-6po500n68mmp-1000-90-c6fd9a1"> Giant’s new saddle system offers a total of five shapes which are based on your pelvic position while riding : giant’s new saddle system offers a total of five shapes which are based on your pelvic position while riding Depending on what the fitting saddle shows, there’s a total of five shapes to choose from (three men’s, two women’s). There’s no additional choice of width

From here, a simple chart points out which one of three men’s saddles, or two women’s saddle shapes is most appropriate. These are upright, neutral and forward (aggressive) for the men, and upright or forward for women.

It’s quite simple in practice, and so the range of saddles is also kept reasonably small. Each of the five shapes is available in either a Contact SLR model with 9mm oval carbon rails or a Contact SL model with hollow stainless steel rails making up the performance range. These models feature what Giant dubs Particle Flow Technology, where free flowing two-pocket padding (think gel padding) is said to reduce pressure.

Recreational riders receive forward or upright options too (no neutral). These more heavily padded (and cheaper) saddles are available in a Contact range with Particle Flow Technology or absolute budget Connect options – both featuring carbon steel rails.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248879 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120" title="1438157895075-1srvgra21dl0b-1000-90-2cbb120"> The new range of five saddle shapes are available in either contact slr (carbon rail) or contact sl (steel rail) versions: the new range of five saddle shapes are available in either contact slr (carbon rail) or contact sl (steel rail) versions A premium SLR Forward model saddle

The new saddles will be coming on a huge number of 2016 Giant bikes, with such models as the TCR and Propel offering the Forward saddle as stock, while something like the Defy range will be given the Neutral model.

An argument against this saddle system would be that its recommendations will greatly depend and vary based on bike setup. And much like many other fitting tools, it’s up to the dealer’s correct usage to ensure success and that a saddle isn’t chosen based on poor setup.

New dropper <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248882 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c" title="1438157895089-1sx9i4hjacbz5-1000-90-d62da7c"> Giant has updated its dropper post with a new twin-bolt giant contact sl switch model: giant has updated its dropper post with a new twin-bolt giant contact sl switch model Stock on a number of 2016 mountain bike models is the new Giant Contact SL Switch dropper seatpost. With the option to run either internal (stealth) or external cable routing, the post is a wholly new design that is said to be smoother in action than its predecessors .

Gone is the single-bolt side clamp, replaced by a simpler and more secure dual-bolt clamp head. A bonus of this design update is that both round and oval saddle rails can now be used.

From the information given, it appears that only a 30.9mm diameter will be offered, with three length/drop options available including 350mm x 100mm, 395mm x 125mm or 440mm x 150mm.

Wheel systems <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248885 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a" title="1438157895057-1nmwcmjii4l72-1000-90-955098a"> Giant’s new rim-brake performance road wheels first launched on the 2016 tcr. available in a 30 or 55mm rim profile, they are now designed, manufactured and assembled by giant : giant’s new rim-brake performance road wheels first launched on the 2016 tcr. available in a 30 or 55mm rim profile, they are now designed, manufactured and assembled by giant New 55 and 30mm rim depths meet a 23mm external width profile

Despite Giant moving many of its endurance-platform road bikes to disc brakes in 2015, the brand has just released a whole new range of performance carbon clincher wheels for rim-brake equipped road bikes. These are also something we first looked at with the release of the 2016 TCR Advanced .

Where DT Swiss previously made Giant’s premium wheels, the new range is now made in-house, using Giant’s own carbon lay-ups and manufacturing for the rims.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248887 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e" title="1438157895067-4ltiiqnur8lp-1000-90-2b1318e"> The hub internals are still from dt swiss – a well proven and trusted design : the hub internals are still from dt swiss – a well proven and trusted design Hub internals are by DT Swiss, including the well proven Star Ratchet system

The hubs and spokes are still sourced from DT Swiss, but the hub shell is said to be specific to Giant, offering an ultimately wide spoke bracing angle for increased wheel stiffness, while a lot of work has been done on how the spoke heads sit at the flange. With this, Giant is using differing spoke tensions between the crossing driveside spokes in order to create even tension under power.

Much as we’ve seen from the likes of Fulcrum, Giant is using fewer spokes laced radially on the left side to evenly balance spoke tension, something that should lead to better spoke longevity.

At the top of the range sit the SLR 0 Climbing and SLR 0 Aero wheels. Both feature a 23mm width (external) tubeless-compatible rim design that’s said to offer market-leading heat management and brake performance when used with its own brake pad. These also feature DT Swiss 240s hub internals and Aerolight bladed spokes (16 front, 21 rear).

Featuring a shallower 30mm depth rim, the SLR 0 Climbing sit at a claimed weight of 1335g for the pair. Meanwhile the deeper 55mm-depth Aero model is said to weigh 1535g.

Using the same design as the SLR 0 models, the SL 1 Climbing and Aero wheels feature cheaper DT Swiss 350-level hub internals and use Sapim Race spokes for claimed weights of 1425g and 1,700g respectively.

The rest New clothing is a big part of the updated accessories range, with both new mountain biking and road garments for men and women.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248891 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100" title="1438157895100-nzotq4d69sga-1000-90-dc4d100"> New mountain bike transfer (left) and clutch (right) ranges were designed in australia, but is expected to be sold globally : new mountain bike transfer (left) and clutch (right) ranges were designed in australia, but is expected to be sold globally Clutch (left) and Transfer (right) are new mountain bike clothing options. Liv provides similar options for women

Designed in Australia, the Transfer SS jersey and shorts are designed for trail and enduro mountain bikers. Sold as an outer only (no chamois), the shorts feature a lightweight four-way stretch material. The even slighter Clutch shorts go one further with breathable stretch mesh panels at the thighs.

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=1000,562&background=white" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=940,528&background=white 940w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=728,409&background=white 728w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=556,312&background=white 556w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=355,199&background=white 355w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=340,191&background=white 340w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b.jpg?quality=90&lb=320,179&background=white 320w, " sizes="(min-width: 992px) 940px, (min-width: 768px) 728px, (min-width: 576px) 556px, calc(100vw - 20px)" width="1000" height="562" class="wp-image-248893 alignnone size-full img-container__image" alt="1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b" title="1438157895110-u54vnnzhzlo2-1000-90-e30f46b"> Four new ‘toolshed’ multi tools from giant. the ’12’ on the right features a co2 inflator : four new ‘toolshed’ multi tools from giant. the ’12’ on the right features a co2 inflator New ‘ToolShed’ multi-tools: the 12 model on the far right offers a CO2 inflator

As mentioned above, all product pricing is to be confirmed. Click or swipe through the gallery above for a closer look at some highlights from the new Giant Bicycles parts and accessories range.