Sneaking past media attention and straight onto dealer floors, Giant Bicycles in Australia is already selling much of its 2016 recreational bicycle range.
Traditionally, Giant Australia handpicks certain models from the brand’s larger international line-up and so such models as the Defy 0 and 2 are missing from the Aussie range. Despite this, we can still see some common trends of what’s to come globally.
While much of the range continues with minor component and colour revisions from last year; the addition of disc brakes to the highly popular Defy 1 road bike is a standout. We suspect the Defy 0 has received a similar update, but await confirmation from other international markets.
Defy and Avail alloy gets discs
Following the introduction of disc brakes to the Giant Defy and Liv Avail Advanced ranges in 2015, it appears the entry-level models have received a similar update.
Stopping with TRP’s brilliant Spyre mechanical disc brakes, the Defy 1 Disc and women’s Liv Avail 1 Disc (AU$1,799) should be hugely popular bikes for 2016. Both men’s and women’s models will offer a mountain-easing 11-32t cassette matched to compact gearing, with shifting handled by Shimano 105 components.
The 2016 Liv Avail 1 Disc
Looking at the pictures, the Defy 1 Disc and Avail 1 Disc appear to be using standard quick release axles front and rear. The frames are full alloy, with carbon-bladed, tapered steerer forks up front.
While we’re unsure on disc brake status for the Shimano Tiagra equipped Defy and Avail 2, we can confirm that the Defy/Avail 3 (Shimano Sora) and Defy/Avail 4 (Shimano Claris) will remain with rim brakes for 2016.
TCX SLR 1 in green
2016 Giant TCX SLR 1
Priced at AU$2,200, the TCX SLR 1 looks to be a solid entry for cyclocross racing. TRP’s Spyre mechanical disc brakes appear once again, along with a combination Shimano Ultegra/105 11-speed drivetrain.
2016 Liv Brava SLR
Sitting a little cheaper at AU$1,699, there’s the women’s Brava SLR. It bears a pretty close resemblance to the TCX SLR 1, but offers a cheaper wheelset, FSA crankset and Shimano 105 rear derailleur.
Click on through the gallery above for a look at a handful of other new models.