Giant Roam 2 Disc(2016) : ChooseMyBicycle.com Expert Review

The Giant Roam 2 Disc (2016) is made using Giant's in-house ALUXX technology, making the frame lightweight, yet uncompromising in terms of sturdiness and strength. Aluminium frames are known to be rigid and responsive _ this makes them great for long distance touring as well. It's longer chain-stays add pannier clearance and stability, making it a great bicycle for touring. Also, the frame has two mounting points for bottle racks, which are well-spaced. The overall proportions of the bicycle made for a comfortable riding position, especially for longer, endurance rides.

The bicycle comes with The SR Suntour NEX front suspension fork enabled with a suspension lock out. The suspension fork isn't the best in its category, primarily owing to it's 63mm travel. However, this isn't too much of a thumbs down as this bicycle is meant for terrains that do not require more than a 63mm travel.

Giant's bicycles are designed without pomposity, yet, they boast of sleek and elegant good-looks. And, they do turn heads while on the road. The Roam 2 Disc comes in one color variant, a slate grey with yellow accents. However, though stated as slate grey, the actual color seems to resemble a camouflage-green. No complaints here, it still manages to make the bicycle look incredible, with it's matte finish paint-job.

An upgrade to the drivetrain components of this bicycle is admirable. The Roam 2 Disc, 2016 model comes with 27 speed Shimano Acera front and rear derailleurs. The 3_9 Speed Shimano Altus shifters are lightning fast and impeccable.

The positioning of the shifters is especially commendable, as they are within a comfortable reach of the rider while riding, not requiring to shift one's hands on the handlebar to shift.

The Roam 2 Disc uses Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 160 mm rotors. They are extremely effective and responsive with feather light touch. They are sure to perform well in wet conditions. The brake levers can be pulled using a single finger and still perform efficiently.

The Giant Connect handlebar that the Roam 2 comes equipped with, is long and provides ample space to house various accessories such as a cycle computer, light and horn. The handlebar comes with a handle grip which is positioned in a manner that opens up the rider's chest.

The Giant S-RX4-X 700C X 40C Road Tires on the Roam 2 Disc are designed the same way as seen on road bicycles. The tubes and rims come fitted with a Presta valve which is different from the commonly used Schrader valves. This will need an adapter to convert it to the Schrader valves, in order to use a regular pump/pressure gauge on it.

The Giant Connect Upright saddle is a decent saddle, enabling a good riding position. However, comfortable only for shorter rides. It is stiff and can get uncomfortable on the sit bones with prolonged time on the saddle. The overall ride quality was extremely smooth and enjoyable, leaving very little room for complaints.