Giant ATX Elite 26 -GI (2017) - Review

The Giant ATX Elite 26-GI 217 has been manufactured using Giant's in-house ALUXX-grade butted aluminium alloy. Aluminium has long been used to manufacture bicycles owing to its durability and lightweight. This bicycle has been ergonomically designed to handle the specific geometry demands of a 26 inch MTB. The riding position on this bicycle is relatively upright making for a comfortable, well-controlled ride. Equipped with an SR Suntour XCM HLO suspension fork, with 1mm travel, this bicycle handles bumpy roads, and trails efficiently. While on the test ride, we found that the 1mm travel worked well to absorb shock felt from extremely rough riding surfaces. However a challenging trail might require slightly more travel to be as effective.

The Giant ATX Elite 26-GI 217 comes assembled with a Shimano Altus front derailleur and a Shimano Alivio rear derailleur, commendable for their performance. Shimano SL-M4 rapidfire shifters control the 27 speed shifting. The shifting was incredibly smooth and efficient.

The first thing that catches your eye when you see this bicycle is the ‘ATX Elite’ branding clearly visible on the chain stays as well as the top tube. The Giant ATX Elite 26-GI 217 is available in two color combinations - A camouflage green with orange, yellow and white accents, and a black with orange yellow and white accents. The bicycle has been prominently branded with ‘ATX Elite 26-GI’, and takes away from the simple/funky design scheme that Giant generally uses while designing their bicycles. This however, is not a cause of concern whatsoever.

The Giant ATX Elite 26-GI 217 comes equipped with Tektro HD- M29 disc brakes with 16mm rotors. The braking was found to be extremely responsive and effective, requiring a feather light touch on the brake levers to bring the bicycle to a full stop. The braking mechanism is sure to work efficiently while riding in wet conditions. The Giant Alloy 31.8mm handlebar used on this bicycle ensures an open-chested grip and riding-position. The flat handlebar is optimum and ensures superior handling and control of the bicycle. The grips used on the handlebar are extremely comfortable, ensuring no pressure on the palms while riding for an extended period of time.

The Giant ATX Elite 26-GI 217 comes fitted with Kenda branded 26 inch tires that provide great grip while on challenging terrains and offer superior control and stability to the bicycle. Thus enabling an overall increased performance on a trail. The Giant Sport MTB stock saddle that comes fitted on this bicycle is commendable for its - be it on a short or long distance ride.