Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Review
- MSRP: $2,400
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: 700x38c
- Drivetrain: Shimano GRX-RX400 2×10-speed
- Brakes: Shimano GRX RX-400 Hydraulic
What we like about it: Super cost-effective and user-friendly enough.
What we don’t like about it: The heavier components pull up their weight.
Rating (4.8/5)
The new Giant Revolt Advanced 3, built to top manufacturing and competition performance standards, will take you over more varied terrain and road conditions and unlock more of life’s wildest pleasures.
Lightweight and strong carbon frame with updated gravel geometry, backed by proven technology. There is no doubt that the Revolt Advanced 3 will meet all the requirements of today’s market for a gravel road bike. So whether it’s gravel riding or daily commuting, it’s a no-brainer.
Here’s a breakdown of the ride, key features, components, and specs of the Giant Revolt Advanced 3, as well as other versions.
If you want to know more, please remember to follow us, we will keep updating more useful bike reviews.
Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Gravel Riding
As is the case with every gravel bike owner. After getting the Giant Revolt Advanced 3, I couldn’t help but take it out on the gravel trails around town to test it out.
When I first got on the Revolt Advanced 3, I wasn’t quite comfortable with it because it was a little low on the front end. But after I rode it around the gravel roads of the town, I loved it. Because of its OverDrive tapered steering tube, the design is unique and allows me to steer very easily and quickly, very nimbly.
Honestly, the first impression I got from the Revolt Advanced 3 was that it was fast. After just a light pedal, the grass and trees on both sides of the road disappeared in the afterglow.
This feeling was even stronger on the uphill. I just sat and accelerated the pace of pedaling, but the bike was like a motor installed, very lightly and quickly scampered up the hill.
Of course, the Shimano GRX-RX400 drivetrain gets a huge amount of credit. But I’d rather say the Giant Contact XR D-Fuse’s Handlebar feels great to operate and plays an equally important role. And it was thanks to a good cockpit system that I was able to play properly.
To its credit, the Seatpost (Giant D-Fuse) is good at comforting me on gravel trails. It is almost difficult to feel the vibration as well as the bumps if not accelerating or encountering extremely harsh surfaces.
At the same time, the Saddle (Giant Approach) with an ergonomic Cut-Out design is very breathable and comfortable. I can feel a greater contact area between my buttocks and the cushion, and the body weight is evenly distributed, very comfortable.
Giant Revolt Advanced 3 General Riding
In addition to gravel trails, the Revolt Advanced 3 is a solid performer on the road. Since I occasionally ride it for my daily commute or outings, it feels fast and comfortable to me.
First of all, the near upright riding position is friendly enough and very relaxed for me, a person whose daily work requires sitting at a computer desk.
Secondly, both the power and braking systems of the Shimano GRX-RX400 are very simple and fast. When shifting gears I only need to flick a flick and I can quickly reach the gear I want.
Likewise, braking can quickly stop the bike even with a small amount of force.
In addition, I like the water bottle holder and the rack mounting holes on the bike. Because they allow me to completely free both shoulders and also support me to travel further. After finishing my bike ride, I easily booked accommodation on IHG Hotels & Resorts. I can finally relax and rest well.
Main Features
Frame Group
Advanced-Grade Composite’s carbon frame and forks are the sources of Giant Revolt Advanced 3’s confidence.
This lightweight composite material is not only 160g lighter than the previous model, but also can effectively absorb bumps and vibrations. Undoubtedly, it can help the rider to push the limit on the changing terrain.
To its credit, Giant claims a two-year manufacturer’s warranty on carbon parts whenever the bike is purchased in the United States. So Revolt Advanced 3 users can show off their skills with confidence.
In addition, the integrated D-Fuse Handlebar and Seatpost can not only effectively reduce the vibration, but also ensure that the bike has good compliance during the ride.
It is praiseworthy that the design of the internal alignment saves the bike from too many tangles, making the bike more concise and beautiful.
Finally, the detailed “Smart mount system for racks and accessories” allows users to be on top of any gravel riding task.
Geometry
The disciplined Giant never misses an opportunity to make the rider feel comfortable. This is shown in the geometry design.
First, the ingenious FLIP CHIP design (which produces both Short Position and Long Position geometries) allows the rider to adjust the wheelbase and tire clearance to achieve a position more suited to the terrain and riding style.
In addition, the design of the rear fork moving down can increase the deformation of the seat tube. Therefore, not only can improve the shock absorption ability of the bike, but also improve the compliance of the frame.
Secondly, the 16.7″ (Short Position) Chainstay Length allows the bike to track the route better when riding on rough downhill sections.
In addition, the steeper Seat Tube Angle (73.0°, ML) with Head Tube Angle (72.0°, ML) is also a regular operation for road bikes.
In addition, the lower BB height (Short Position 3.2″, Long Position 3.1″) and longer Reach (15.4″, ML) are ideal for acceleration as well as climbing.
Equally important, the ultra-high Stack/Reach Ratio (1.54, ML) ensures that there will be a more upright riding position. This means a broader view of the complex gravel surface.
Components and Specifications
Shimano GRX-RX400 2×10 Drivetrain
The Revolt Advanced 3 has a speed advantage over other bikes in its class, both on gravel and regular roads. This is also inseparable from its Shimano GRX-RX400 2×10-speed drivetrain.
Keen to combat rough terrain, the Shimano GRX-RX400 offers, through its integrated chain stabilization, quiet and precise, reliable shifting on mixed terrain. Of course, it works equally well for riding on smooth surfaces.
To its credit, the Rear Derailleur is a chain tension device with an ON/OFF switches to better suit the terrain.
In addition, the Cassette (Shimano Tiagra) has a dense gear ratio and a wide range of gears. It offers a smooth combination of gear ratios in the 10-speed range to keep the bike on the move.
Shimano GRX RX-400 Hydraulic Braking System
Once a bike has excellent drivetrain performance, the braking system is even more important. And the Shimano GRX RX-400 hydraulic lives up to everyone’s expectations. It is easy to operate, quick to brake, and especially good at handling tough gravel roads.
In addition, when riding on steeper, and sudden descents, the rider gently pushes hard enough to have sufficient braking force, as well as proper speed control.
The Shimano GRX RX-400 with upgraded technology is praiseworthy for its good heat dissipation performance. Also, there is a bleeding system for easier cleaning and a hose joint system (J-kit) for easy setup and maintenance.
As you can see, there is no trouble for the user in either use or maintenance.
Giant CrossCut AT 1 Tires
Surprisingly, with the help of the Giant P-X2 Disc wheelset and Rims with Hub, the Giant CrossCut AT 1 tires rolled fast on gravel, loose sand, and road.
In addition, Giant’s technology has matured and equipped it with X-Shield Puncture Protection, which improves sidewall puncture resistance and durability in harsh environments.
In addition, a silica-based compound with a centre line wear indicator is very soft. It not only has a very low resistance but also provides the rider with great traction.
And the vacuum tires are designed to allow the tires to operate at lower air pressures while improving grip and comfort.
Other versions of Giant Revolt Advanced
If say you want a carbon frame gravel road bike and have more budget. If and want a more advanced groupset configuration, you can reconsider the other models of the Giant Revolt Advanced.
All models of Advanced have the same Advanced-Grade Composite frame and fork, but as they get more expensive, their groupset gets upgraded as well.
The top-of-the-line Revolt Advanced Pro 0, priced at $6,400, comes with a 2 × 11 ElectronicShimano GRX RX-815 Di2 drivetrain, Shimano GRX RX-810 hydraulic and Maxxis Receptor composite wheelset.
Giant has taken into account the needs of all levels of users, and the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 is our hero today.
In addition, if you appreciate the speedy performance of the Giant Revolt but don’t have much of a budget, Giant also offers a cheaper aluminum frame with a carbon fork in the Giant Revolt 2 for riders to choose from.
If you are also interested in the other models I mentioned above, you can follow us. We will keep updating other models and more interesting bikes for the actual testing.
What we like about it
- Lightweight, strong, and shock-absorbing carbon frames at your fingertips.
- The geometry of the gravel allows the rider to move quickly and comfortably on any surface.
- The Giant D-Fuse Seatpost and Giant Contact XR D-Fuse Handlebar provide excellent shock absorption and increased rider comfort.
- Shimano GRX-RX400 2×10-speed drivetrain with Shimano GRX RX-400 hydraulic braking system gives you freedom of movement.
- The detail-filled smart mount system for racks and accessories gives riders more riding tasks.
- With Giant CrossCut AT 1 tires with puncture protection, your ride will be more reckless.
What we don’t like about it
- The not-so-high-end components make it look a bit bulky.
FAQs
- What is the drivetrain of the Giant Revolt Advanced 3?
The Giant Revolt Advanced 3’s drivetrain is the Shimano GRX-RX400 2×10 speed.
- What are the tire sizes for the Giant Revolt Advanced 3?
The Giant Revolt Advanced 3 has a 700x38c tire size, which is not only good for gravel riding but not bad on the road either.
- Is the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 worth buying?
Yes, I think it’s very good value for money. For $2,400 you can have a carbon frame, which is more competitive than any other bike in its price range. The key thing is that its speed performance is better than other bikes in the same category. In addition, its damping effect is also worth expecting.
If you’re looking for a carbon gravel bike and don’t want to overburden yourself, the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 would be a great place to start.
- What size Giant Revolt Advanced 3 should I get?
This is the size chart I found on the official website, you can refer.
| Rider Height (cm) | Rider Height (in) | Frame Size |
| 155cm – 166cm | 5’1″ – 5’5″ | XS |
| 159cm – 171cm | 5’3″ – 5′ 7″ | S |
| 169cm – 181cm | 5’7″ -5’11” | M |
| 174cm – 186cm | 5’9″ -6’1″ | ML |
| 179cm – 191cm | 5’10” -6’3″ | L |
| 189cm – 200cm | 6’2″ – 6’7″ | XL |
Giant Revolt Advanced 3 Specs
Build
| Frame | Advanced-Grade Composite, 12x142mm thru-axle, disc, flip chip dropout BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Colors: Terracotta; Carbon |
| Fork | Advanced-Grade Composite, full-composite OverDrive steerer, 12mm thru-axle, disc |
| Rear Shock | N/A |
| Bottom Bracket | Shimano, press fit |
| Stem | Giant Contact, 8-degree XS:50mm, S:60mm, M:70mm, M/L:80mm, L:80mm, XL:90mm |
| Handlebar | Giant Contact XR D-Fuse, 31.8mm XS:42cm, S:42cm, M:44cm, M/L:44cm, L:46cm, XL:46cm |
| Saddle | Giant Approach |
| Seatpost | Giant D-Fuse, composite, 14mm offset |
| Pedals | N/A |
| Grips | Stratus Lite 3.0 |
Wheels
| Rims | Giant P-X2 Disc wheelset |
| Spokes | Giant P-X2 Disc wheelset |
| Front Hub | Giant P-X2 Disc wheelset |
| Rear Hub | Giant P-X2 Disc wheelset |
| Tires | Giant CrossCut AT 1, 700x38c, tubeless |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano GRX-RX400 |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tiagra |
| Crank | FSA Omega, 32/48 XS:170mm, S:170mm, M:172.5mm, M/L:172.5mm, L:175mm, XL:175mm |
| Shifters | Shimano GRX RX-400, 2×10 |
| Cassette | Shimano Tiagra, 11×34 |
| Chain | KMC X10-1 |
| Brakes | Shimano GRX RX-400 hydraulic, Giant MPH rotors [F]160mm, [R]160mm |
| Brake Levers | Shimano GRX RX-400 hydraulic |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Frame | Gear | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Marin Gestalt X11 | $2,369 | Aluminum | 1 × 11 | Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc | 700Cx40c | Click view |
| BMC URS ONE | $2,999 | Carbon | 1 × 11 | SRAM APEX HRDHydraulic Disc | 700Cx40c | Click view |
| Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed | $1,899 | Aluminum | Single-speed | TRP Spyre-C Flat Mount, Mechanical Disc | 700Cx42c | Click view |
| Specialized Diverge Comp E5 | $2,500 | Aluminum | 1 × 11 | SRAM Apex, hydraulic disc | 700x38c | Click view |
Marin Gestalt X11 vs Giant Revolt Advanced 3
The Marin Gestalt X11 has a higher-end groupset frame, but it is significantly heavier and uses a poorly damped aluminum frame. To be honest, this is a bit disappointing to me.
To its credit, it comes with a Dropper Seatpost, making it easier for the rider to ride either climbing or descending. However, the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 frame also supports the replacement of the lift seatpost.
So, all things considered, the Revolt Advanced 3 still impresses me more. You know, no one can say no to a carbon frame.
Learn more : Top 10 Best Road Bikes Under $1000 – Great Value For Money
BMC URS ONE vs Giant Revolt Advanced 3
I have to admit that the BMC URS ONE with the same carbon frame and fork is very appealing because of its lighter mass.
But on the groupset, the BMC URS ONE doesn’t strike me as having an advantage. Perhaps the SRAM APEX 1 is better in terms of handling. But in terms of drivetrain, the 11-speed APEX 1 and the 2×10-speed Shimano GRX-RX400 are not to be compared.
But the reason I’m most attracted to the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 is not just speed, but cost-effectiveness. With a price difference of nearly $600, I think the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 is a better deal.
Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed vs Giant Revolt Advanced 3
To be honest, I don’t quite understand why the Salsa Stormchaser Single Speed costs $1,899.
Although the aluminum frame with a carbon fork is quite passable, the Race Face groupset does not have a shifter set. This is hard for me to accept.
Because it means that not only is the bike slow enough, but the rider loses the experience of climbing and descending more easily. Needless to say, this is undoubtedly fatal.
In addition, its mechanical disc makes it completely lose my attention. If a bike only cares about weight without considering the user’s pursuit of speed and handling, it will hardly have followers.
Although the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 is a little more expensive, the relatively simple and expansive 2×10 drivetrain makes me willing to pay a little more for a relatively better riding experience.
If performance and drivetrain are more important to you, I think the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 is a worthwhile option for those riders who prefer more speed options.
Learn More: Salsa Stormchaser GRX 810 1x SUS Review
Specialized Diverge Comp E5 vs Giant Revolt Advanced 3
Although the Specialized Future Shock 1.5 Fork only has 20mm of travel, it does give Specialized Diverge Comp E5 users a bit more comfort. However, the more aggressive geometry certainly defeats the goodwill it has built up again.
Also, the 700x38c tires don’t give the Specialized Diverge Comp E5 the edge it needs to enter the mountain circuit. So as a gravel bike, it could have given the rider a more comfortable geometry for long gravel rides.
So if you prefer a more comfortable riding position as well as faster speeds, the Giant Revolt Advanced 3 may be more your speed.
Learn More: Specialized Diverge Comp E5 Review -A Multifunctional Bike That Gives You More Fun
