Giant Revolt 2 (2014)

New go anywhere adventure bike from Giant

Pros

- Versatility
- New Claris groupset
- Looks the bomb!

Cons

- Is it too versatile?

Review

Giant's new Revolt is a great looking bike aimed at the "gravel grinding" crowd. The Revolt 2 is the entry level model, and with two others existing at higher price points, Giant isn't messing around with this versatile platform.

Although this is a versatile platform, the irony is that it is also very specialized: It's not a mountain bike, or a cyclocross bike or a commuting bike....it almost feels like Giant decides we need a new category, and then creates it. If we build it they will come? I'm sorry but my garage is only so big!

This may sound harsh, but the Revolt actually is a top bike. It looks the goods, runs the new entry level Shimano Claris 8 speed groupset, and typically for Giant, is quality throughout. The stock 35mm tires are bang-on for grinding, although if using this bike for "mountain passes" as Giant suggests, perhaps some wider rubber would be wise.

If you are an enthusiastic cyclist that wants to give cyclocross a go, or you love adventurous touring or just hammering out the miles on the gravel this is a great choice; it will be undeniably reliable, and the source of much riding joy!