Rugged recreational hardtail
Written: Nov 12 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Rugged frame, good component selection and disc brakes.
Cons: Integrated headset - throw out the frame if it breaks.
The Bottom Line: I recommend this hardtail for all but competitive use. The bike is rugged, well-equipped and good-looking.
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| akshobhyavajra's Full Review: Giant Rainier SE |
The heart of the The Giant Rainier SE hardtail mountain bike is it's frame which is a TIG-welded ALUXX 6061 aluminum type with an integrated headset/headtube design. The baseball-bat size downtube is ovalized vertically at the head tube and horizontally at the bottom bracket to increase rigidity. A nice feature is the replaceable derailleur hanger.
What makes this relatively moderatly priced bike frame race-worthy is the longer top tube and lower stem, which keeps the wheel to the ground on climbs. In addition, the stiff chainstays improve acceleration (esp. on single-track trails) and tuck the rear wheel below the rider to increase traction when climbing.
The bike is available in large, medium, small and xsmall. The frame geometry is as follows: top tube length is 23.23"; frame angles are 71.0 head, 72.0 seat; chainstay length is 16.73" and the wheelbase is 41.34". The bike comes in silver/black or yellow.
The Rainier has a nice Marzocchi Z-5 Air, 4.0" fork which does not require an immediate upgrade unless you insist on doing 8 ft drops every day.
The component group consists of Shimano Deore 27 speed drivetrain (crankset: SR MD304, 22/32/44 teeth; rear cogs: 9-speed, 11 - 32 teeth) and Avid CPS mechanical disc brakes - not usually found on bikes with this price point. Rims are Weinmann Zac 19 with 26 x 2.00" WTB NanoRapto tires.
I've used this bike on technical single-track. The fork works well in the woods riding over roots and the drops associated with this type of track. The Shimano rapid shifters work flawless and the Deore LX rear derailleur responds well, especially when shifting before an approaching hill. Handling is quick and responsive in this terrain.
I have replaced the standard pedals with SPD type for added control. Overall I recommend the bike, but I have reservations about the theory of integrated headsets - since the frame becomes useless if it should break. Besides, it eliminates personal choice in upgrading the component.
I use this bike for fun and a change in routine, since I ride road bikes most of the time. As such it fits the bill perfectly. The bike is attractive, rugged and can be upgraded easily.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
akshobhyavajra
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Location: Boca Raton, FL
Reviews written: 31
Trusted by: 4 members
About Me:
~Carpe diem - vita brevis~
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