Giant Talon E+ 3 Review
- Price: $2900
- Frame: Aluminum
- Wheels: 29″
- Gear: 1×9
What we like about it: Efficient electric power assist, stable mountain experience.
What we don’t like about it: The greater weight.
Rating (4.8/5)
Giant bikes is a Taiwanese brand that has been around since 1972. It has become one of the world’s leading bicycle manufacturers, constantly innovating and creating high-quality bikes to meet different riding styles and preferences. One of their most popular series is the Talon, which was first introduced in 2008. This series of hardtail mountain bikes are designed to be versatile, durable, and affordable, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
The Giant Talon E+ 3 was awarded for its performance and value, with a starting price of just $2900. Using Giant’s 50Nm SyncDrive Core motor, paired with the RideControl remote and a 500Wh EnergyPak battery, it can provide up to 300% adjustable support while exploring the trails.
Now, to meet the increasing popularity of electric bikes, Giant has released the Talon E+ 3, an electric-assisted version of their popular hardtail mountain bike. The Talon E+ 3 retains many of the features that make the Talon series a favorite among mountain bike enthusiasts, such as its lightweight ALUXX aluminum frame and stable yet responsive handling. However, the Talon E+ 3 also has several key differences and advantages that make it stand out from its non-electric counterparts.
Overall, the Giant Talon E+ 3 is poised to provide an exciting and enjoyable riding experience for both new and experienced electric mountain bike riders. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Riding Experience
Climbing Experience
Before setting off, I also booked accommodation through Skyscanner to give myself ample space to rest and prepare. As I continued to ride the Giant Talon E+ 3, I was amazed at how powerful the electric assistance was in helping me climb. The motor was both powerful and quiet, allowing me to focus on my pedaling technique and maintain a steady pace. I was able to easily tackle steep hills and challenging terrain, with the responsive motor quickly adapting to changes in gradient. Even as I pushed myself harder, the bike performed flawlessly, providing a smooth and effortless journey.
Descending Experience
One of the most impressive aspects of the Talon E+ 3 is how it provides comfortable and stable riding on descents. As I accelerated, the weight and sturdy frame of the bike gave me a sense of confidence and control, while the 120mm travel suspension fork absorbed any impacts from uneven terrain. The suspension system was perfectly tuned, providing an ideal balance of stiffness and cushioning, allowing me to maintain my momentum and direction even on the most challenging mountain roads. The hydraulic disc brakes were also a standout feature, giving me the ability to quickly slow down and maintain control in any situation.
Giant Bicycles is a Taiwanese brand that has been around since 1972. It has become one of the world’s leading bike manufacturers, constantly innovating and creating high-quality bikes to suit different riding styles and preferences. One of their most popular series is the Talon, which was first introduced in 2008. This line of hardtail mountain bikes is designed to be versatile, durable, and affordable, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Component Quality
The quality of components on the Talon E+ 3 is excellent, adding to the overall performance and riding experience. The Shimano drivetrain provides smooth and reliable shifting, allowing me to easily adjust speed and pedaling frequency. the Maxxis tires provide excellent grip and traction on dirt and gravel roads, giving me the confidence to take on downhill and technical terrain. The comfortable saddle and ergonomic grip ensure that I can ride for long periods without discomfort or fatigue.
In addition to its exceptional performance on mountain trails, the Talon E+ 3 also features a range of advanced functions and technologies. Its advanced motor system allows me to customize assist levels and optimize battery usage, ensuring I can ride longer without needing to recharge. The bike also boasts a stylish and intuitive display screen, providing real-time information on my speed, distance, and remaining battery life. This makes it easy for me to track my progress and make wise decisions about my riding strategy.
Overall, my experience with the Giant Talon E+ 3 has been fantastic. Its advanced power system, sturdy frame, and responsive suspension make it a joy to ride on any terrain. Whether I’m tackling challenging climbs or fast and technical descents, this bike provides an exciting and beneficial experience that leaves me eager to explore more trails and terrain around me. Whether you’re an experienced mountain biker or a beginner looking to start riding, the Giant Talon E+ 3 is a must-try bike that is sure to exceed your expectations.
Specification
The Giant Talon E+ 3 is an impressive electric hardtail mountain bike, featuring a lightweight and durable ALUXX aluminum frame. Its beautiful blue-gray color looks great on mountain trails. The bike is equipped with a Shimano Alivio 9-speed rear derailleur and Shimano Altus shifter, providing smooth and efficient shifting. It uses an FSA Comet E-Bike crankset with FSA MegaTooth Direct-mount 1X steel 36T, offering a reliable and efficient transmission system. The Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes with 160/180mm rotors provide outstanding stopping power and control. The brake levers are also Tektro HD-M275.
The electric components include a SyncDrive Core motor powered by Yamaha with 50Nm of torque. The bike is equipped with an EnergyPak 400Wh battery, providing ample power for long rides. This impressive electric hardtail mountain bike features top-quality components and advanced electric functions. It is designed for riders who want to easily handle challenging terrain and enjoy the thrill of an electric mountain bike. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a sports novice, the Giant Talon E+ 3 is an excellent choice for your next adventure on mountain trails.
Other versions of the Giant Talon E+ 3
We tested a highly practical electric-assist hardtail mountain bike, the Giant Talon E+ 3, with a high-capacity battery that ensures long rides. The integrated battery also maintains the bike’s integrity. The nature of a hardtail mountain bike makes it easy to conquer various trails in the mountains.
Indeed, this is a high-end and comfortable hybrid power mountain bike. For this reason, we also found a similar version, the 2021 Giant Talon E+ 29 3. This is the previous version, with the same price and configurations, with the only difference being the geometry design. The new version has a reduced reach and increased stack, making the ratio increase from 1.48 to 1.5, making the overall ride more comfortable and the riding posture more upright.
Follow us to learn more.
What do we like about it?
- Electric Power-Assist – The 50Nm torque SyncDrive core motor supplied by Yamaha provides smooth and powerful assistance when needed, making challenging climbs easier and more enjoyable.
- Lightweight and durable frame – The ALUXX aluminum frame is both lightweight and durable, providing a sturdy base for the bike and allowing for quick and easy maneuvering on the trails.
- Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes – Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes with 160/180 mm rotors provide excellent braking power and control in any situation.
- Shimano Alivio 9-speed rear derailleur – The Shimano Alivio 9-speed rear derailleur provides smooth and efficient shifting, making it easy to adjust speed and cadence on the fly.
- Maxxis Rekon Tires – Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4″ Wire Bead 60TPI tires provide excellent grip and traction on any terrain, providing confidence and control on mountain roads.
- Advanced electric features – The RideControl Dash with a full-color LCD screen and EnergyPak 400Wh battery make it easy to monitor your ride and optimize your battery usage for longer rides.
- Giant Connect TR Riser handlebar – The Giant Connect TR Riser 31.8×690~750mm handlebar provides a comfortable and stable grip for easy control of the bike on the trails.
- FSA Comet E-Bike Crankset – The FSA Comet E-Bike crankset features the FSA MegaTooth Direct-mount 1X steel 36T, providing a reliable and efficient drivetrain for optimal power transfer.
- SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil Fork – The SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil 29″ fork with 100mm of travel and a tapered 1½-1⅛” fork provides a responsive and smooth ride that absorbs shocks and bumps from the terrain.
- EnergyPak Quick Charger – The EnergyPak Quick Charger makes quick charging easy, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time on the trails.
What don’t we like about it?
- It is heavier than a regular commuter bike and cannot be carried up the stairs.
FAQs
- What is the maximum range of the battery?
The Giant Talon E+ 3’s EnergyPak 400Wh battery has a maximum range of 70 miles on a single charge, depending on factors such as terrain, rider weight, and the level of assistance used.
- Can I ride my bike without the use of an electric assist device?
Yes, you can ride the Giant Talon E+ 3 without using an electric assist. the bike has a pedal-assist system, which means the motor only assists when you pedal.
- How long does it take to fully charge the battery?
The Giant Talon E+ 3 comes with an EnergyPak fast charger that can charge the battery from 0% to 100% in about 3.5 hours.
- Is this bike suitable for beginners to ride?
The Giant Talon E+ 3 is for the beginner rider who wants to get into electric mountain biking. Designed to be user-friendly and easy to ride, this bike has top-of-the-line components and advanced electric features.
- What heights does the Giant Talon E+ 3 fit?
The size chart for Giant Talon E+ 3 is as follows:
These sizes are only a general guide, the true fit may vary from person to person, and the easiest way to find your size is the best way to go for a test ride.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’3″ – 5’8″ | S |
| 5’6″ – 5’11” | M |
| 5’9″ – 6’2″ | L |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | XL |
Giant Talon E+ 3 Specs
Build
| Frame | ALUXX Aluminum, Overdrive 1½ – 1⅛” head tube, integrated KS18 kickstand mountColor: Blue Ashes |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil 29″ 100mm travel, Tapered 1½ – 1⅛” steerer |
| Rear Shock | – |
| Bottom Bracket | N/A |
| Stem | Giant Contact |
| Handlebar | Giant Connect TR Riser 31.8×690~750mm |
| Saddle | Giant Sport |
| Seatpost | Giant 30.9mm, 2-bolt Micro Adjustable, Forged Aluminium |
| Pedals | Aluminum Platform |
| Grips | Giant Sole-O Grip |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Alivio, 9-speed |
| Front Derailleur | – |
| Crank | FSA Comet E-Bike crank arm set FSA MegaTooth Direct-mount 1X steel 36T |
| Shifters | Shimano Altus |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG200, 11-36T, 9-speed |
| Chain | KMC e.9 Sport, e-bike optimized |
| Brakes | Tektro HD-M275, hydraulic disc, 160/180mm |
| Brake Levers | Tektro HD-M275 |
Wheels
| Rims | Giant GX03V |
| Spokes | Stainless steel |
| Front Hub | Giant eTracker Sport, [F] 9mm QR [R] 135mm QR |
| Rear Hub | Giant eTracker Sport, [F] 9mm QR [R] 135mm QR |
| Tires | Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4″ Wire Bead 60TPI |
Electric Components
| Motor | SyncDrive Core, 50Nm, Powered by Yamaha |
| Battery | EnergyPak 400Wh |
| Remote | RideControl Dash, full-color LCD screen |
| Charger | EnergyPak Fast Charger |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Frame material | Battery | Motor | Click view |
| Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0 Step-Through | $3250 | 1×9 | Aluminum | Specialized 530Wh | Specialized 250W 50Nm mid-drive | Click View |
| CUBE REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE, 500 ALLROAD | $2847 | 1×9 | Aluminum | Bosch 500Wh | Bosch 250W 75Nm mid-drive | Click View |
| Kona El Kahuna | $3099 | 1×10 | Aluminum | Shimano 504Wh | Shimano 250W 60Nm mid-drive | Click View |
| Surface 604 Shred XS | $2599 | 3×9 | Aluminum | 672Wh | Bafang 500W 65Nm hub-drive | Click View |
Giant Talon E+ 3 vs. Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0 Step-Through
The two bikes are both high-performance bikes with advanced electric features. The Giant Talon E+ 3 has an ALUXX aluminum frame, a SyncDrive core motor with 50Nm of torque, Tektro HD-M275 hydraulic disc brakes, and Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4″ tires.
The Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0 Step-Through has an M5 premium aluminum frame, a Specialized 2.1 motor with 90Nm of torque, Shimano BR-MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, and Ground Control Sport 29×2.3″ tires.
Both bikes offer smooth and powerful rides, with advanced electric features making for more efficient and enjoyable rides. The Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0 Step-Through has a more powerful motor and slightly better components, making it the better choice for riders who want more speed and power.
However, the Giant Talon E+ 3 is lighter in weight and offers a more comfortable and stable ride, with excellent traction and control on any terrain. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on personal preferences and riding style.
Giant Talon E+ 3 vs. CUBE REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE 500 ALLROAD
Both bikes are high-performance bicycles with advanced electric features. The Giant Talon E+ 3 is a specialized electric hardtail mountain bike designed for challenging terrain, while the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE, 500 ALLROAD is a versatile e-bike with front and rear fenders and lights, suitable for commuting and everyday use.
The CUBE REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE, 500 ALLROAD is powered by a Bosch Performance CX Gen4 motor with 85Nm of torque, while the Giant Talon E+ 3 is driven by a SyncDrive Core motor with 50Nm of torque.
Both bikes offer efficient batteries and advanced electric features, with the CUBE REACTION HYBRID PERFORMANCE, 500 ALLROAD equipped with a Shimano Deore 1×12-speed groupset and Schwalbe Smart Sam 29×2.6″ tires, while the Giant Talon E+ 3 features a Shimano Alivio 9-speed rear derailleur and Shimano Altus shifters, equipped with Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4″ Wire Bead 60TPI tires. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on personal preference and intended use.
Learn More: Is CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 Worth Buying? [CUBE REACTION HYBRID PRO 500 Review]
Giant Talon E+ 3 vs. Kona El Kahuna
Both the Giant Talon E+ 3 electric hardtail mountain bike and the Kona El Kahuna electric mountain bike are high-quality bikes with advanced electric features. However, the Kona El Kahuna is a more serious electric mountain bike designed for more challenging terrain, while the Giant Talon E+ 3 is designed for beginner and intermediate riders.
Both bikes are made with durable aluminum frames and are equipped with advanced electric systems. The Giant Talon E+ 3 uses a SyncDrive Core motor with a torque of 50Nm, while the Kona El Kahuna uses a Bosch Performance Line CX motor with a torque of 85Nm and more power.
Both bikes have efficient batteries and advanced electric features. The Kona El Kahuna has an external battery, while the Giant Talon E+ 3 has an integrated battery. The Kona El Kahuna also has better suspension with a RockShox Recon RL Solo Air front fork, while the Giant Talon E+ 3 has an SR Suntour XCM ATB Coil front fork.
Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on personal preference and intended use. If you’re looking for a more serious electric mountain bike for challenging terrain, the Kona El Kahuna is a better choice. However, if you’re a beginner or intermediate rider looking for an affordable electric hardtail mountain bike for easier trails, then the Giant Talon E+ 3 is a solid choice.
Learn More: Is Kona Wo Worth Buying? [Kona Wo Review]
Giant Talon E+ 3 vs. Surface 604 Shred XS
The Giant Talon E+ 3 electric hardtail mountain bike and Surface 604 Shred XS electric hardtail mountain bike are both high-quality bikes with advanced electric features. Surface 604 Shred XS is designed for smaller riders with a 26-inch wheelset, making it more suitable for children. Giant Talon E+ 3, on the other hand, is designed for adults and larger riders.
In addition, the Giant Talon E+ 3 has an ALUXX aluminum frame, while the Surface 604 Shred XS has a more generic aluminum frame. Both bikes are equipped with an efficient and powerful electric system. The Talon E+ 3 has a SyncDrive Core motor with 50Nm of torque, while the Surface 604 Shred XS has a Bafang M400 motor with 80Nm of torque and more power.
In terms of performance, the Surface 604 Shred XS is designed for smaller riders and offers a more affordable option, with a less powerful motor and lower-end components. On the other hand, Talon E+ 3 is designed for adults and larger riders, offering a more powerful motor and better components.
Ultimately, the choice of these two bikes will depend on the size and intended use of the rider. If you are a smaller rider looking for a more kid-friendly electric hardtail mountain bike, the Surface 604 Shred XS is a good choice. However, if you are an adult looking for a more powerful and capable electric hardtail mountain bike, then the Giant Talon E+ 3 is a better choice.
Summary
These are our tests of the Giant Talon E+ 3. An electric-assisted bike can save most of the energy you need to ride and thus get more enjoyment out of riding. And it greatly increases your confidence when hitting the trails. If you’d like to try a higher-end commuter bike, feel free to take a look at our related tests.
Finally, if you like our content feel free to share it with your friends! If our content is helpful to you, you can click the email subscribe button below!
Learn more : Top 11 Best Electric Bikes Under $1500 – Cheap And Practical
