GT Avalanche Sport Review
- MSRP: $860
- Frame: Aluminum
- Fork: Suntour XCT 100mm Travel
- Tires: 29″ x 2.25″ and 27.5″ x 2.25″ in two sizes
- Drivetrain: 2×9
What we like about it: It’s the first choice for riders on a budget, but want to be confident enough to pursue that mountain thrill.
What we don’t like about it: Without too high-end groupset, riders can demand fast and practical, but not a fine handling experience.
Rating (4.75/5)
The tried and tested Avalanche, a GT mountain bike series Avalanche is an old employee.
For riders to fully enjoy mountain riding, the GT Avalanche Sport features the new “Triple Triangle w/ Floating Seat Stays Frame Design” with a soft enough aluminum frame for a super fun riding experience.
Here’s a breakdown of the GT Avalanche Sport’s ride, key features, components, and specs, as well as other versions.
If you are interested in mountain bikes, please remember to follow us, we will keep updating more real bike reviews.
GT Avalanche Sport Off-road Riding
I took the GT Avalanche Sport to Snowmass Bike Park for a fun and exciting trip to the mountains to review it. Overall, its performance in the mountains as a hardtail bike is appreciated. By the way, to clarify, I am 6’1″ tall and purchased 29″ tires, size L.
When I first sat on it, I was attracted to its geometry. The near-straight riding position made me feel very comfortable.
Of course, it GT All Terra Alloy Riser’s Handlebar (720mm Width) also feels like it was custom-made for me. So I can operate with both hands open and breathe more smoothly.
To get used to the bike, I first picked a section of dirt trail.
However, the WTB Ranger Comp has wide tires and feels relatively soft. Still, it didn’t spin slowly, and after a few feet, I saw long rutted marks on the ground. Also, it was quiet, and I basically couldn’t hear any sound.
As the tires started rolling down the gravel path, the sound came with it though. But instead of being loud, it was kind of like an accompaniment, which was fun.
And at this point, its 100mm Travel’s Fork came into play, and I could feel the front tires bouncing rhythmically, which was fun and comfortable. And as the bike moved up and down, it also effectively consumed the bumpiness from the vibration. I can still feel it, but the little bumps don’t bother me at all.
So, I like its grips (GT Statement) as well as the saddle (GT MTB) because they have comfort for me. It also made me feel just a little bit of vibration in both my arms and hips, but no pain.
Cross-country Climbing
When I encountered an uphill road, I specifically locked the travel of the SR Suntour XCT-DS fork to reduce the amount of letdown.
At the same time, I could feel that the microSHIFT shifting system helped me a lot. Because after shifting to a lower gear, the climbing was very fast and effortless, and I was climbing the hill in no time.
To their credit, Prowheel’s Crank and GT Slim Line Flat Pedals are the perfect combinations to keep my legs flying. After finishing my bike ride, I easily booked accommodation on IHG Hotels & Resorts. I can finally relax and rest well.
Main Features
Frame Group
The stable and durable GT 6061 T6 Aluminum Frame features a clean internal alignment design. Therefore, it is very beautiful and stylish with either Wet Cement Orange Fade or Blue.
And, it is a complex shape formed by hydraulics (a technique that deforms the tube by applying hydraulic pressure) that is both strong and comfortable.
The best part is that the hydroformed tube (a technique that deforms the tube by applying hydraulic pressure), makes Floating Seat Stays through a triple triangle frame design, increasing the rider’s comfort while enhancing the fun of riding.
The design of the top tube’s bend is worthy of praise. It not only effectively absorbs the impact of the road surface on the rider, but also successfully maintains its strength and rigidity.
Therefore, GT Avalanche Sport users can not only fully enjoy the exciting and fun off-road riding, but also the city roads are a good venue for it to perform.
Equally important, the GT Avalanche Sport frame is left with holes for water bottle cage mounting. This means that the rider is protected from thirst for as long as he or she wishes.
Geometry
When it comes to the geometry of the GT Avalanche Sport, I have to talk to you about it. The bike is divided into two sizes with tires – 29″ (S, M, L) and 27.5″ (XS, S, M, L).
Therefore, their geometry varies slightly with the size, but the overall difference is not significant. Here is an example in size 29″, L.
First, the soothing Stack/Reach Ratio (1.43) also gives the rider a more upright riding position and a greater sense of balance.
Secondly, the Seat Tube Angle of 74.5° is also quite steep, which is common in mountain biking. Combined with the more moderate Head Tube Angle (67.5°), it ensures the stability of the mountain bike’s speed.
Finally, the moderate wheelbase (118.2cm) guarantees stable maneuvering without losing speed.
Components and Specifications
MicroSHIFT RD-M36L 2×9 Drivetrain
The microSHIFT groupset is not as well known as Shimano or SRAM, but it is no less impressive in terms of drivetrain and shifting.
First of all, there is the Cassette with a wide range of gear ratios, as well as an all-steel construction and multi-stage heat treatment. As a result, they can withstand any harsh terrain and implement the fastest drivetrain.
Secondly, the ideal microSHIFT Mezzo RD-M36 Rear Derailleur is not only durable but also smooth shifting. With its reliable, fast, and efficient shifting performance, it can be the first choice for mountain cross-country and XC bikes.
Finally, the ergonomically designed Thumb Tap Shifters 2×9 – TS39 is easy and lightweight to operate. It also comes with an easy-to-read gear indicator, making it easy for novices to check the gears at hand at all times.
Tektro M275 Hydro Disc Brake System
The Tektro M275 Hydro Disc is not high-end, but it does have a proven track record of braking. And its standard extension lever makes operation simple.
Whether it’s city roads or mountains, it will stop you in your tracks as fast and as gracefully as you want.
In addition, it is also very easy to take care of, the cylinder cover is sealed very well and does not leak oil. Moreover, the single oil circuit design not only makes refueling easy but also makes it less likely to have air bubbles remaining in the oil circuit. Therefore, even under high temperatures, there is no need to worry about gas set safety accidents.
WTB Ranger Comp Tires
In addition to the drivetrain and braking system, the excellent WTB Ranger Comp tires (29″ x 2.25″) also add to the GT Avalanche Sport’s excellent performance.
First of all, the wide tire diameter makes the tires fully in contact with the ground, so you will feel a strong grip. At the same time, the shock generated by the collision is absorbed together with it.
Of course, the strong grip doesn’t affect how well it rolls. Because during the real ride, you will find that it rolls lighter than expected.
Secondly, the tread pattern design not only makes it easy to cross all kinds of harsh roads but also will easily escape from the mud and get rid of the mud wrapping.
Finally, the SG2 puncture protection on the tire will provide stable support without affecting the tire’s speed. Such tire protection technology makes punctures and blowouts impossible.
Therefore, you can completely let your bike, with you and enjoy the beauty and diversity of the mountains and rivers.
Other versions of GT Avalanche
In addition to the Avalanche Sport, which focuses on the pursuit of excitement and fun, the GT AvalancheGT series also features the Comp, Elite, and Expert models, which are more expensive but offer a superior experience and performance.
They are all hardtail trail bikes as well. However, the components have been upgraded for the needs of various types of riders to give the user a more detailed riding experience.
Take the GT Avalanche Comp for example. The upgraded gearing system not only makes the bike lighter but also gives the rider a finer handling feel.
While the microSHIFT M851, 10-speed is not as fast as the Avalanche Sport, the simplified 1×10 drivetrain allows for smoother, easier shifting. As a result, the rider can devote more attention to observing the terrain or enjoying the scenery.
If you want to experience a more advanced groupset, the GT Avalanche Comp is sure to give you a more advanced operating experience.
If you are also interested in other models mentioned above, you can follow us. We will continue to update more interesting bicycle real-life tests.
What we like about it
- Reasonably priced and very friendly to newcomers who want to pursue the thrill of the mountains.
- Triple Triangle w/ Floating Seat Stays is designed with a lightweight GT 6061 T6 Aluminum Frame, which is not only strong but also more shock absorbing.
- The hidden internal alignment is designed to make the frame look neat and orderly.
- The hardtail cross-country design will lead riders to experience the fun of mountain riding with confidence.
- The fork with locking function (SR Suntour XCT-DS, 100mm) allows the bike to be ridden on dirt trails or during climbing without the problem of a letdown.
- The microSHIFT RD-M36L 2×9 speed drivetrain and Tektro M275 Hydro Disc braking system work seamlessly together, allowing the rider to be more at home.
- WTB Ranger Comp tires are not only durable but also provide traction and lighter pedaling with great grip.
- From handlebar, grips, and saddle to pedals, everything is available right out of the box.
What we don’t like about it
- The components are not high-end, but they are reasonable and do not give the rider too refined a riding experience.
- You can’t ask for it, and it performs well in extreme terrain.
FAQs
- What is the drivetrain of the Avalanche Sport?
The Avalanche Sport’s drivetrain is the microSHIFT RD-M36L 2×9-speed drivetrain.
- What are the tire sizes for the Avalanche Sport?
The Avalanche Sport is available in 29″ x 2.25″ and 27.5″ x 2.25″ tire sizes.
- How do I buy the Avalanche Sport?
I bought it from the GT website, which is very convenient.
Avalanche Sport Specs
Build
| Frame | GT 6061 T6 Aluminum Frame, Triple Triangle w/ Floating Seat Stays, Internal Cable Routing, Dropper Post Routing, Boost 141 Forged Drop-outs w/ Disc Brake Mounts, Zero Stack Tapered 1 1/8″- 1.5″ Head Tube, 27.5/29″ Wheels |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCT-DS, 100mm, Hydraulic Lockout and Preload adjust, Coil |
| Bottom Bracket | Cartridge, Square Taper |
| Headset | Semi-integrated, Sealed Cartridge, Tapered |
| Stem | GT All Terra, 6061 Alloy, 31.8, 8° |
| Handlebar | GT All Terra Alloy Riser, 25mm Rise, 8° Sweep, 6° Rise, 720mm Width |
| Saddle | GT MTB |
| Seatpost | GT All-Terra Micro Adjust Alloy Seat Post, 30.9mm |
| Pedals | GT Slim Line Flat Pedal |
| Grips | GT Statement |
Wheels
| Rims | WTB SX19, 32h |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel, 14g |
| Front Hub | Alloy Disc, QRx100 |
| Rear Hub | Alloy Disc, QRx141 |
| Tires | WTB Ranger Comp, 27.5/29 x 2.25″, DNA Compound |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | microSHIFT RD-M36L |
| Front Derailleur | Microshift FD-M392B |
| Crank | Prowheel RAID-501-TT 36/22 |
| Shifters | microSHIFT TS39-29, 9-speed |
| Cassette | microSHIFT, 11-36T |
| Chain | KMC Z9, 9-speed |
| Brakes | Tektro M275 Hydro Disc, 160/160mm Rotors |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 | $1073.33 | 1 × 10 | Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc | 27.5 “x2.40” or 29 “x2.4” | Click view |
| Bianchi Magma – 9.2 – Alivio | $1086.08 | 2 × 9 | Shimano BR-MT200 Hydraulic Disc | 29″ x 2.20″ | Click view |
| BMC Twostroke AL SIX | $1,049 | 1 × 10 | Shimano BR-MT200 Hydraulic Disc | 29″ x 2.25″ | Click view |
| Scott Aspect 940 | $949 | 2×9 | Shimano MT200 / Hydr. Disc | 29″ x 2.4″ | Click view |
Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3 vs GT Avalanche Sport
The Trek Marlin 7 Gen 3, also available in two sizes of wheelsets, uses the higher grade Shimano Deore groupset, but it doesn’t have an advantage in terms of speed.
In addition, the 80mm travel fork is not as effective in damping as the Avalanche Sport.
So if you expect a better groupset, then the Trek Marlin 7 Gen will indeed satisfy you. But if you want faster speed as well as a more comfortable riding experience, Avalanche Sport will be more professional. Because the 2×9 gears and the 100mm travel will make you more satisfied.
Learn More: Trek Marlin 7 Review – Great Value Versatile Hardtail Bike?
Bianchi Magma – 9.2 – Alivio vs GT Avalanche Sport
The Bianchi Magma – 9.2 is a bit similar to the Avalanche Sport. They both have aluminum frames with Suntour XCM 100mm Travel forks, and 2×9 shifting systems.
But in terms of tires, the Avalanche Sport is a little thicker. Therefore, GT users will be more confident when facing rough mountain roads.
Its triple triangle frame design itself is more shock-absorbing.
Therefore, off-road riders who are afraid of bumps can venture into the GT Avalanche Sport.
BMC Twostroke AL SIX vs GT Avalanche Sport
I always thought the BMC Twostroke AL SIX didn’t quite justify its $1,049 price tag.
Because the Stack/Reach Ratio of 1.31 (LG) tells me that it has an aggressive geometry. The position of bending too much in the mountains is good for showing off, but again, it makes the rider less comfortable.
In addition, it does not come with Pedals, making users have to spend extra money on Pedals. this is something I do not understand and am not satisfied with.
Therefore, I don’t think it’s good enough to impress me with its value for money.
What’s more, with the GT Avalanche Sport’s almost identical set, I’d be more than happy to save a buck and be able to make some upgrades to it.
learn more：BMC Twostroke AL 24 Review – A Bike Designed For Kids
Scott Aspect 940 vs GT Avalanche Sport
Although the Scott Aspect 940 is fast and has a comfortable riding position, its performance in the mountains tells me that it is too stable and lacks a bit of agility.
In the review, I have tried to ride it through a single-track trail. But its performance did not satisfy me very much, because its steering was not flexible.
But it’s also a nice bike, just not very good at single-track trails.
If you want a little more country fun on your bike, the GT Avalanche Sport might be a better fit than that. Because its geometry is prepared for agility.
Learn More: Scott Scale 940 Be A Good Cost Performance Hardtail Bicycle? [Review]
