I am referring to this Giant Cypress version; http://www.cycleman.com/bikes.htm

Giant makes two versions of Cypress SX, a $300- steel frame and a $600- aluminum frame version.

The aluminum frame version I bought 6 mo ago in New York City. Initially I was curious because Consumer reports recommended it so highly.

Handling:
I looked at it, took it for a test ride and decided that it was exactly what I needed for my 3-4x per week exercise and figured if it lasts 10 years its worth it.
It handles really well. Smooth rider! I have had no issues with the mechanicals, gears, shifts, breaks and so on. It all seems to be good and more or less error free.

Tires:
But the tires that came with were garbage. Lightweight fine, but I got a flat on my virgin ride and that's just into the 5th mile on a normal bicycle path. So buyers beware of the thin cheapo tires. The tires are really thin 1/32" thick tread. I got a new set of racing tires for added $, with a more robust/durable thread and no flats now for a few hundred miles. I see no excuse for a $600 bike to have such bad tires. So the price for the bike with new tires figure $60 to $100- more.

Details:
The wheel reflectors don't fit the 24 paired-spoke design and are off kilter or off center, as they are not made for this type of wheel. The reflectors tend to turn crossways and eventually hit the frame if I forget to align it. Why let such a cheapo component take away from the design?

Frame:
The frame is quite nice. Personally I don't like gadgety useless stuff like shock absorbers etc. But I like a straightforward design of just a frame. Parts of this frame are thicker toward the front as a matter of some styling curve, visually it makes the bike front-heavy, a racy look. This piece is very lightweight and easy to run up stairs and wherever with. Which of course affects handling during rides. You pick up speed really fast on this guy.

Styling:
Decal (graphic) design is just plain tasteless blobs, next to the otherwise really well styled black bike.

Saddle/handlebar:
The Selle Italia saddle is very comfortable. It is narrow and hasn't bothered me like some other saddles have (guys have a special problem here!). The handlebar is a bit hard to adjust and limited in adjustments.

Riding:
But riding the bike is the key of course. And I would recommend it as a quality lightweight hybrid bike, most parts are quality and work really well. I have had various bikes for 30 years and this one tops the others (in its own way). The whole bike is so sensitive and lightweight that during sidewind you really feel the wind catch. Hands free has great traction. Keep it free of extra junk. I don't even have a stand and it gives an amazingly beautiful smooth ride every time.

Recommended: Yes