Trance X0

In my first couple of years of riding mountain bikes, I rode an inexpensive heavy hardtail.


In March last year, I broke into the piggy bank and upgraded to a Giant Trance X0. It was the 2009 model which had been retailing for $7,699. However it seems that Gian has a policy of heavily discounting superseded models to make way for the new seasons stock. So mine set me back about 4 grand. Still not cheap, but the component spec is quite amazing for the price. XTR running gear, Mavic Crossmax ST wheelset, Avid Elixir CR Carbon brakes, Fi'zi:k Gobi saddle with braided carbon rail and high end Fox suspension.

I've ridden it about 2,800k so far - pretty much all single track - through a wet and muddy Victorian winter. Here's what I've had to fix / replace in that time:

• Rear brakes had to be bled and reset in first few weeks (under warranty)
• Replaced both front and rear pads
• Replaced chain twice (with SRAM rather than Shimano XTR)
• Carbon rails of saddle snapped a couple of weeks ago! Replaced under warranty with latest model of same seat. We'll see how new one lasts.
• Replaced rear inner gear cable and section of outer. Due to mud getting in.
• Replaced rear wheel. Totally my own fault for being an idiot. Expensive. However by buying overseas I could get the next model up (Crossmax SLR) much cheaper than Aussie price for the ST.
• Replaced grips. I think I hang on too tightly!