Anyone got a Giant Trance 4 27.5? (or 3)

[jsr]

I'm getting back into MTBing after years away from the sport. I used to race XC when i was younger. Riding now will be trails and bike parks, some jumps. Generally having fun. I'm in Essex, so no need to some long travel DH bike!

Quite tempted by the Trance 4 but not sure about the Suntour forks and Giant shock. Would love to know how it rides.

For an extra £200 however, the Trance 3 specs Rock Shox fork and rear shock. Also has a modern 10 speed set up. Not worried about the low spec drivetrain as these always wear out and get upgraded, but it would be good to be 10 speed from the start.

When i was younger i used to ride a carbon fibre 23lb rigid Giant, yet still rode hard on downhills and jumps. I like to think my riding is smooth so the Anthem is also an option (like the idea of lightweight) but the Trance will prob be more fun.

Thoughts much appreciated,
James

[godzilla84]

I cant speak for the Trance 3 or 4 but I picked up a trance 1 27.5 a fortnight ago and its a very different animal to my Anthem that its replaced. Im not a smooth rider at all and the Trance suits my style of riding very well. Id also back up the statement that the dropper seat post is a genius invention. I would definitely spend the extra money and avoid the suntor forks. I have no idea how I convinced SWMBO that I needed the trance 1 but I wanted the 3 initially.

[richardxjr]

Get the RockShox. Between the 2, with masses of crossover as they are both very capable, it comes down to Anthem for climbing, Trance for descending.

[Mr Gearchange]

I've got a Trace 3 - the older one of 26" wheels.

The Giant shock is actually pretty good - it's actually quite 'plush' (man i hate that word) and progression is good for what it is - and although there isn't a pro-pedal/lockout it still pedals and climbs very well.

I don't know how they spec the new bike - but I would avoid the Suntour fork - I have the Rockshox TK Coil fork - it's ok but if possible I would go for an airsprung fork if you can..

I think the newer Trance's have a slacker head angle - which is a good idea.
I was out on my Trance last night and jumps which I hardly notice on my AM bike these days become an exercise in crash avoidance on my Trance!

[jsr]

Thanks everyone. Looks like I will be going for the rock shox Trance 3. Realised this week that I work not far from the Giant store near the Barbican in London. Will take a walk there one lunch time!

Thanks for your help and glad you are all enjoying your Trance's!