Convenience seems to be a very important word among the general population. We all want to have things that make life easier and more bearable. So, when choosing a hybrid bike, which one between the Trek and Giant brands rules?
It was while in college that I got to appreciate the accessibility and convenience of owning a bike and I have never looked back since then.
Aside from it being a healthy activity for myself in keeping fit, I am also helping the environment by choosing a bike over a car which helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
A hybrid bike is a perfect balance between a road bike and a mountain bike because it retains the speed of the road bike and yet it can traverse terrains impassable by other means.
What is the difference between Trek and Giant Hybrid Bikes?
 |
Trek FX |
Giant Escape Disc 3 |
Fork |
FX carbon |
High tensile Steel |
Crankset |
Shimano MT210 |
Forged Alloy |
Derailleurs |
Shimano Acera T3000 |
Shimano Tourney |
Brakes |
Shimano Hydraulic Disc |
Tektro mechanical disc |
Saddle |
Bontrager H1 |
Giant Sport Comfort |
Tires |
Bontrager Hard-Case |
Giant S-X3 |
Availability |
Trek vs Giant Hybrid Bikes – How do they compare?
Frame and ForkÂ
Trek uses a lightweight Alpha Gold aluminum frame which is lightweight, sophisticated, sleek and better than the Giant hybrid’s aluminum frame.
An SR Suntour NEX fork is featured on the Dual Sport trek bike and the FX Carbon is what you will get on the FX bike.
This lockout feature provides efficient riding where you can close it on smooth pavement and open it on rugged terrain.
This carbon fork works effectively to provide the right amount of cushioning from road vibrations. Featured grippy handlebars make it perfect for control regardless of the terrain.
The Escape 3 is made of ALUXX Aluminum frame. It comes in sizes from small to the large and accommodates riders of varying heights from 5’3†to 6’5†tall.Â
These tubes are butted which refers to the removal of excess material from low-stress areas of the frame. This then reduces the weight without damaging their durability or ride quality.
These frame tubes make for stiff and smooth riding. Coupled with the Chromoly Steel fork, the bike gives you total control over the steering.
Because the fork is composite, it is strong and thus it can handle taking hard bumps on the urban road.
StemÂ
Trek bike’s stem features Bontrager Elite 31.8mm clamp while Trek boasts of the Satellite IsoZone Plus, Blendr compatibility for accessory integration, and 100mm on the FX.Â
This is the cool function that I think everyone should have the pleasure to try out. Keep up with the compatible system, you can add on fenders and rack mounts to help you carry any baggage you may have.
Seatpost is both represented by the Bontrager alloy 27.2mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length.Both grips have been ergonomically designed with grippy arms, it should be easy to keep maintenance.
Trek FX features the Satellite IsoZone Plus. Escape 3 has thin seat stays and chainstays make the bike look sleek and graphics were simple and neat.
GroupsetÂ
The Front derailleur for FX bike models is the Shimano Acera T3000 34.9mm with a clamp, top swing, and dual pull contributing to the many possibilities in moves.
The rear derailleur differs for the two where the FX spots the Acera T3000 and Escape 3 has the Shimano Tourney drivetrain. The 3×7 Speed Shimano trigger shifters were basic with their spring action.
Cranksets are the Shimano MT210 46/30 chainguard 175mm for FX, and the shifters are Shimano Acera M3000 in 9 speed. The Giant Escape 3 has entry-level derailleurs at the front and rear catering to commuting and fitness rides on the urban roads.
WheelsÂ
Rims on the Trek bike are Tubeless Ready Disc, 32-hole with Presta valve which are better than Giant’s double-walled aluminum rims.
You will find Bontrager GR1 Expert, hard-Case Lite, wire bead 60 TPI 700x40c tires on the Trek DS.The Hard-Case Lite, wire bead 30tpi 700x32c are spotted on the Trek FX.
On Escape 3, the wheels are 700c with the rolling speed and efficiency of a road bike. All models in this range have double-wall aluminum alloy rims which are strong in the face of damage.
These Giant SX-3 tires are wider than what is found on most drop bar bikes which is why they offer a little more cushioning for a smooth ride. The saddle is designed ergonomically and has lots of cushioning to keep the rider comfortable.
Trek vs Giant Hybrid Bikes – A comparison OverviewÂ
Trek Hybrid Bike ReviewÂ
Trek DS offers users a lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum frame and an SR Suntour NEX fork with a lockout feature. This lockout feature provides efficient riding where you can close it on smooth pavement and open it on rugged terrain.
The drivetrain is Shimano 2×9 offering 27-speeds and a wide range of gears meaning you don’t have to pedal hard or soft to get over hills. The brakes are hydraulic disc which is reliable in all weather conditions.
The tires are all-terrain LT2 Comp Hard-Case which are puncture-resistant and it comes with tubeless rims. Other features are the ergonomic handlebars and the DuoTrap S app for wireless ride data monitoring and reporting.
Pros
- Hydraulic lockout function
- Ease of accessorizing
- Wide gear range
- Internal cable routing
ConsÂ
- No kickstand
- Paint easily scratches off on gravel rides
Giant Hybrid Bike ReviewÂ
Built with an ALUXX Aluminum frame, the giant hybrid bike gives riders an upright position and is made of quality parts that make up a smooth and comfortable ride.
The Escape Disc is fun to ride and versatile and it features the D-Fuse Seatpost that works effectively to smooth out rough roads and absorb shocks and vibrations to give you a smooth and comfortable ride.
Disc brakes are all-weather so they can be relied on at any time and in any condition to safely halt any dangerous incidences.
Using the 700c wheels with Giant EasyRide Tubeless tires, that roll fast with little or no risk of flats. Tire clearance is available for tires as large as 45c that make it easier to get through rough roads.
Integrated mounts are part of the bike making for the convenient addition of racks and fenders.
ProsÂ
- Light alloy frame
- Simple and elegant design and graphics
- Powerful all-weather brakes
- Fast-rolling and well threaded 700×35 stick tires
ConsÂ
- No disc brakes availableÂ
Verdict: So, which is better – Trek or Giant Hybrid Bikes?Â
The Trek hybrid bikes are topping the charts here, ruling over the Giant hybrid bikes. This is because they offer the hydraulic lockout function, easy accessorizing, and a wide gear range.
The Trek FX is the bike to go for if you are a beginner looking for a lightweight design that works both for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
FAQ
Where are Giant Bikes manufactured?
While some are assembled in the Wisconsin State of the United States of America, most have been made in Asia.Â
Is the Trek bike suitable for both men and women?
Yes, it is. However, if you like to be bike specific, there is a women’s version as well but the only difference is that it is lighter in weight and it features a slightly different saddle.       Â