Giant Contend 2 (2019) - Review

by Simon Ananda Raj July 16, 2025 1 min read

Giant is a leading international bicycle brand and also one of the largest manufacturers of bicycles. Giant with its rich history has always been on top when it comes to technology, design and quality. We got the opportunity to test ride the Giant Contend 2 (2019) and here is what we thought. Weight: 1.5 kgs Usage: Fitness/Race/Touring

A lightweight, comfortable and performance focused road bicycle.

Simon Ananda Raj

Giant Contend 2 (2019)

Snapshot

3.9

Product Rating Out of 5

Performance 4.0

Design 4.0

Features 3.9

Value for Money 3.5
THINGS WE LIKE

✔ Lightweight Alloy frame

✔ Aesthetic design

✔ Smooth shifting

THINGS WE DON'T LIKE

✖ Tires

✖ N/A

✖ N/A
Frame

ALUXX-Grade Aluminium

There is a perfect strength to wait ratio for optimum handling
Fork

Hybrid Composite

The advanced grade Alloy composite fork on this road bicycle is bladed and absorbs a good amount of vibration from the surface.
Gearing

Shimano Claris 2x8-Speed

The Shimano Claris 2x8-Speed gear system was smooth in shifting.
Breaks

Tektro TK-B177

The Tektro Dual Pivot Caliper brakes were powerful and quick in braking.
Tires

Giant S-R3 700x28c

The stock 700x28C tires were fast rolling with a good tread pattern.
Battery

N/A

N/A

: The Giant Contend 2 (2019) is built on a lightweight ALUXX grade Alloy frame. ALUXX Alloy frames are forged in Giant's own factories. This technology makes sure material is used where it is necessary and ensures there is a perfect strength to wait ratio for optimum handling. The advanced grade Alloy composite fork on this road bicycle is bladed and absorbs a good amount of vibration from the surface.

The Giant Contend 2 (2019) Frame ensures there is a perfect strength to wait ratio for optimum handling
: The Giant Contend 2 (2019) is an entry-level road bicycle with Shimano gearing components. The front derailleur is a Shimano Claris 2-Speed, and the rear derailleur is a Shimano Claris 8-Speed. Shimano Claris 2x8-Speed paddle shifters control the gear system. This combination of the full Claris drivetrain provides smooth shifting and was ideal for sprints and climbs.

The Shimano Claris 2x8-Speed gear system was smooth in shifting
: The Contend 2 (2019) which I test rode came in a full Red primary colour on the frame with Black as the secondary colour. The gloss finish paint job was bright and shining. The overall design was simple yet elegant. The fork, saddle and rims are colour coded which enhanced the aesthetics of this road bike.

The Contend 2 (2019) comes in 2 colour variants; Red with Black and Black with Green
: The braking set up for the Contend 2 (2019) is the Tektro TK-B177 Road Caliper brakes. The Tektro brake set up has a strong yet sleek build and a deep dual pivot system. The dual pivot caliper allowed for consistent lever feel and generated excellent stopping power coupled with the soft compound pads with easy bolt on Allen key pad fixings to forged Aluminium arms. This improved braking quality allows the rider to ride with greater confidence on steep descents and quick turns.The Giant Connect drop handlebar on the Contend 2 (2019) offers a superb strength-to-weight ratio for uncompromised performance and exceptional comfort. This handlebar comes with a little drop and reach and it has also got a modern, ergonomic shape for an excellent and comfortable shoulder position.

The Tektro Dual Pivot Caliper brakes were powerful and quick in braking
: The Contend 2 (2019) rolls on a pair of stock Giant S-R3 AC 7x28C slick tires. These tires use a single compound which provides good grip during testing. These tires have a light tread pattern at the edge, which helps in traction on wet roads and on turns as well. The stock Contact Saddle has an ergonomic design with perfect amount of padding which makes it ideal for racing and long distance rides.

The stock 7x28C tires were fast rolling with a good tread pattern

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Quote
: This is an entry-level road bicycle built on a responsive and lightweight Alloy frame with a comfortable riding posture. The Shimano Claris gear set up along with Tektro Caliper brakes provide a fast and safe riding experience. Priced at Rs.62,999 (as on 14th November 219) the Giant Contend 2 (2019) is an ideal choice for anyone looking to buy their first ever performance focused road bicycle.Prices and Specifications/Components are subject to change by the brand, without due notice.