GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike Review
- Price: $650
- Frame: Aluminum
- Wheels: 26″ Aluminum
- Gear: 3×9
What we like about it: The comfortable mountain bike pedaling feel.
What we didn’t like about it: The performance wasn’t outstanding.
Rating (4.4/5)
The GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike is an off-road bike suitable for both men and women. It was released in 2013 as part of the GT Avalanche series. GT is a well-known brand in the cycling industry with a long history dating back to the 1970s. The Avalanche series has been around since the 1990s and has undergone many updates and changes over the years to keep up with the evolving needs and preferences of riders.
As for the 2013 GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike, it is designed for off-road cycling, usually involving a mix of climbing and descending on relatively smooth mountain trails with occasional obstacles like rocks and roots. The bike features a hardtail frame made of hydroformed 6061 T6 aluminum with a triple triangle design and 26-inch wheels. It comes in six sizes, ranging from XS to XXL, to accommodate riders of different heights and body types.
In the following, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components and specifications, and other versions of the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, follow us.
Riding Experience
As a regular city commuter, I always look forward to taking my GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike out to the nearby hills on the weekends. The bike is light and sturdy enough to handle all kinds of terrain with ease. The triangular design 6061 T6 aluminum frame is very stable and responsive on both climbs and descents.
On weekends, I often drive to nearby mountains to explore mountain roads. The first few miles are usually stable climbs, and the SR Suntour XCM-MLO front fork with 100mm travel provides ample suspension to absorb bumps and rocks along the way. The Shimano Alivio shifter and derailleur make it easy to shift gears and find the right climbing rhythm. As the altitude increases, the terrain becomes more gentle, and the bike’s lightweight frame and 26-inch wheels allow me to maintain a steady pace. Maxxis Sphinx tires provide excellent traction on dirt and gravel. The All Terra handlebars, stem, and seatpost kept me comfortable and in control.
After a few miles of climbing, I would reach the top of the hill to take a break and enjoy the amazing views. The descent is always the most thrilling part, and the Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable braking power as I weave my way through the winding hills. The hardtail frame allowed me to feel every bump and turn, giving me an adrenaline rush on the descent. After finishing my bike ride, I easily booked accommodation on Skyscanner. I can finally relax and rest well.
The GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike is also a reliable and efficient commuter bike in the city. The lightweight frame and 26-inch wheels make it easy to navigate through traffic and handle tight turns.
Specification
The GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike is an off-road mountain bike designed for professional riders and was released in 2013. It features a lightweight hydroformed 6061 T6 aluminum frame and triple triangle design with 26-inch wheels available in six sizes from XS to XXL.
The bike is equipped with an SR Suntour XCM-MLO front fork with 100mm of travel, and Shimano Alivio shifters and derailleur for smooth shifting. The Shimano Acera FD-M390 front derailleur and Shimano Alivio RD-M430 rear derailleur provide excellent drivetrain performance. The Tektro Htc-300 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors offer reliable braking power, and the All Terra handlebars, stem, and seat post provide comfort and control. It also comes with a KMC Z99 chain and Shimano CS-HG20-9, 11-34T, 9-speed cassette. The Alex MD17 double-wall rims have 32 holes, and the All Terra alloy hubs have front and rear quick-release features, with Maxxis Sphinx tires making the bike suitable for various terrains.
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What do we like about it?
- Lightweight: The hydroformed 6061 T6 aluminum frame and 26-inch wheels make the bike easy to handle and maneuver, whether on city streets or mountain trails.
- Durable: The sturdy construction of the frame and components ensures that the bike can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
- Responsive: The triple triangle design of the frame provides excellent stability and responsiveness, allowing the rider to move through different terrains with ease.
- Versatility: The bike is suitable for both male and female riders and comes in six different sizes, making it a versatile choice for riders of all heights and sizes.
- Smooth shifting: Shimano Alivio shifters and derailleurs allow for smooth and efficient shifting, making it easier for riders to maintain their pace.
- Reliable Braking Capacity: Tektro Htc-300 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors provide reliable and efficient braking capacity to ensure a safe and controlled ride.
- Great traction: Maxxis Sphinx tires are available in different front and rear sizes, providing excellent traction and stability, making it easier for riders to navigate rough terrain.
- Excellent suspension: The SR Suntour XCM-MLO fork with 100mm travel and locking, coupled with steel struts, provides excellent suspension that absorbs shocks and bumps along the way.
- Affordable: Priced at $650, the GT Avalanche 3.0 is an affordable option for riders who want a reliable and high-performance bike without breaking the bank.
What don’t we like about it?
- The performance is not outstanding.
FAQs
- Is the bike suitable for beginners?
The GT Avalanche 3.0 water bike is the perfect choice for beginners. It has a durable and lightweight frame, reliable components, and is easy to handle and maneuver.
- Is the bike suitable for different types of terrain?
The bike is designed for off-road riding, so it is suitable for a variety of terrain, including smooth trails, rocky roads, and steep climbs.
- Is this bike easy to assemble?
The bike is partially assembled and assembly instructions are provided. However, it is recommended that the bike be assembled by a professional mechanic for optimal performance and safety.
- What heights does the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike fit?
The sizing chart for the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike 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 best to go for a test ride.)
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’2″ – 5’8″ | SM |
| 5’6″ – 5’11” | MD |
| 5’10” – 6’3″ | LG |
GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike Specs
Build
| Frame | AluminumHydroformed 6061 T6 Aluminum Frame Triple Triangle |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCM-MLO, Steel Stanchions, Aluminum Leg, Mechanical Lockout |
| Rear Shock | N/A |
| Bottom Bracket | Tange Sealed |
| Headset | Tange Seiki Threadless, Zerostack |
| Stem | All Terra 1-1/8″ Threadless, 3D Forged, 4-Bolt with CNC Face Plate, 5° Rise, 31.8mm Clamp |
| Handlebar | All Terra 6061 Aluminum Riser, 685mm Width, 30mm Rise, 31.8mm Clamp |
| Saddle | All Terra Tacoma |
| Seatpost | All Terra Alloy Micro-Adjust |
| Grips | GT Slim Line Racing Wing with Waffle |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Acera, FD-M390 |
| Crank | SR Suntour XCM-T414 |
| Shifters | Shimano Alivio, Sl-M430, Rapid Fire |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG20-9, 11-34 Tooth, 9-Speed |
| Chain | KMC Z99 |
| Brakes | Tektro Htc-300 Hydraulic Disc, with 160mm Rotors |
Wheels
| Rims | Alex MD17, Double Wall, 32 Hole |
| Tires | Maxxis Sphinx, 26 “x2.10” Front, 26 “x1.95” Rear |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Frame material | Components | Click view |
| Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 | $629 | 3×7 | Aluminum alloy | Shimano Tourney TY300 | Click View |
| Specialized Rockhopper 26 | $650 | 2×8 | Aluminum alloy | microSHIFT Mezzo, microSHIFT Marvo | Click View |
| Giant Talon 4 | $600 | 1×8 | Aluminum alloy | microSHIFT Advent | Click View |
| Scott Aspect 770 | $530 | 3×7 | Aluminum alloy | Tourney, microSHIFT | Click View |
GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike vs. Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2
Both bikes are hardtail mountain bikes, compared to the Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2, which has a smaller wheel size for riders who are not very tall and for youth riders. The test bike is more suitable for taller adults.
The Trek Marlin 4 Gen 2 and the bike under review both use the relatively outdated 3X shifting system. But the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike has more speed options, allowing riders to get to the finish line faster.
Learn More: Is Trek Marlin 4 Worth Buying? [Trek Marlin 4 Review]
GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike vs. Specialized Rockhopper 26
Comparing the two bikes, you can see that the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike has a more advanced 16-speed drivetrain. Also, the mechanical disc brakes allow the rider to stop more efficiently.
The 80mm cushioned travel allows you to navigate the mountains with ease. The compressed geometry allows the rider to have a lower center of gravity, which can be more stable over high-speed bumps. Also, the lower standover height allows the rider to get on and off the bike more easily, making it perfect for novice riders.
Learn more : Is The Specialized Chisel Come Worth Buying? [Specialized Chisel Comp Reviews]
GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike vs. Giant Talon 4
Both of these bikes are very comfortable and suitable for beginner hardtail XC mountain biking. They both use the same front fork and have similar basic gearing. However, the Giant Talon 4 has chosen a 27.5/29-inch wheel diameter more suitable for adults.
The bike reviewed in this test, the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike with 26-inch wheels, is more suitable for youth mountain biking. However, with equal suspension travel, it is clear that the Giant Talon 4 is more capable.
Learn More: Is Giant Talon 4 Worth Buying? [Giant Talon 4 Review]
GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike vs. Scott Aspect 770
With a smaller wheel diameter and longer cushioning distance, the Scott Aspect 770 is a great choice for those new to the sport. It allows for a very stable experience in the mountains.
What’s more, the very affordable price makes it stand out on the list. But the affordable price also gives it a rather big disadvantage, which is the 3× drivetrain and the heavier overall weight. This may make the bike’s speed require a large degree of compromise.
Learn More: Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
Summary
Above is our test of the GT Avalanche 3.0 Hydro Bike. Its comfortable small frame and decent front suspension travel make it an excellent choice for novice riders. However, the compromised price also means that it doesn’t come equipped with the best components for the drivetrain, and the components are quite heavy.
If you want to try those high-end mountain trail bikes, feel free to take a look at our test about it.
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