Liv Alight DD Disc 2 Review
- Price: $750
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tire: Giant S-X2, 700x38c
- Gear: 2×8
What we like about it: The use of a lightweight frame design allows for better comfort.
What we don’t like about it: It doesn’t suit taller women.
Rating: (4.7/5)
Liv has always had a unique understanding of bicycle design, and the Liv Alight series has gained popularity among riders. It must be acknowledged that the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 is a comfortable commuting bike. It offers a women-specific overall frame and components at an affordable price.
In the following sections, we will analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Liv Alight DD Disc 2. Additionally, we will compare it to several other top bicycle models in the latter part of this article. If you’re interested in learning more about bicycle reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Commuter Riding
During my daily commutes, which involve longer distances, I used to rely on public transportation. However, everything changed once I got my hands on the Liv Alight DD Disc 2. Honestly, the performance of this bike during rides surprised me.
On the way to work, there are very many people and vehicles. But the bike has very good steering ability and I was very nimble in weaving through the crowd. I like the excellent maneuverability and it gives me a good feeling.
I had an experience where a pedestrian quickly crossed my path, and I was able to stop the bike smoothly and safely. This is all thanks to the Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic brakes, which greatly enhance my sense of security.
During the ride, there is a section with a long uphill and downhill stretch, and it performs exceptionally well in this regard. It can reach speeds up to 58km/h on uphill sections, which is quite impressive.
Additionally, the 2×8 Shimano Altus drivetrain offers smooth shifting, making the ride less strenuous. The bike also performs admirably on downhill sections, providing a smooth and secure experience compared to similar bicycles.
Daily Riding
The Liv Alight DD Disc 2 is a pretty standard female commuter bike. Besides being used for daily work rides, I prefer to ride this bike on weekend outings.
When I took the bike out on a winding trail, I held the Giant Sport XC 31.8mm handlebars to better control the whole bike on the curvy roads.
The road surface on these paths can be rough, but the Liv Sport Comfort saddle ensures a relatively stable ride. With its support, my hips feel comfortable without excessive pressure. It’s worth mentioning that Liv places a high priority on riding comfort.
In the past, when I rode other bikes on excursions, I was often concerned about the quality of the tires. However, this bike dispelled my worries with its strong grip.
The puncture-protected 700x38c Giant S-X2 tires provide a smooth ride, offering a greater sense of safety and freedom. I feel that this bike provides me with a perfect excursion experience.
Specification
This bike is designed to meet the daily commuting needs of women while also considering weekend excursions. And the Liv team has always adhered to its 3F design philosophy, which encompasses fit, form, and function.
Moreover, the Liv team collected body size data from women around the world to design the most suitable bicycles for women. The Liv Alight DD Disc 2 exemplifies the 3F design philosophy.
With sizes ranging from XS to LG and stack measurements from 554 to 601, the bike allows riders to sit in a more upright position, providing a significant emphasis on comfort. The reach measurements from 371 to 406 are perfectly balanced, avoiding excessive forward lean or difficulties in maintaining balance.
The hydraulic disc brakes offer efficient and precise control, ensuring high levels of safety.
Additionally, the Shimano Altus rear derailleur and Shimano Tourney front derailleur create a 2×8 drivetrain, offering riders greater versatility during rides.
Furthermore, the performance of the Tektro hydraulic brakes in this price range is excellent. Coupled with the puncture-protected 700x38c Giant S-X2 tires, riders can experience a great sense of security.
Video
Other versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike, and it proves to be an excellent option for daily commuting.
However, many riders have their own performance requirements or component preferences. Therefore, we have explored other bikes in the same category for further investigation.
Liv Alight 3
Both bikes share the same overall frame design, but they differ in components. Firstly, the Liv Alight 3 features a more versatile 3×7 drivetrain, while the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 has a 2×8 drivetrain.
Secondly, the former uses rim brakes, which are not as secure as the hydraulic disc brakes on the latter. Although the Liv Alight 3 is lighter in weight, it sacrifices some stability.
However, the Liv Alight 3 is $200 cheaper than the Liv Alight DD Disc 2. When making a choice, we recommend riders select based on their personal preferences.
What do we like about it?
- The frame is easy to get on and off.
- The cushion maximizes comfort and the cutout in the saddle helps reduce pressure on the soft tissues.
- With powerful disc brakes for a good riding experience in wet or dry conditions.
- Equipped with shock-absorbing grips for more comfort while riding.
- Better performance than similar bikes, both uphill and downhill
What don’t we like about it?
- Taller women cannot pick the right bike for them.
FAQ
- Can this bike be fitted with a luggage rack?
Yes, you can. This bike is equipped with rear forks for luggage racks, fenders or panniers.
- Is it suitable for beginners?
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 is well-suited for both.
- Is it made by Giant specifically for women?
Yes, this bike meets most of the needs of women for cycling.
- If you want to go riding in well-known terrain or special terrain, where is the most convenient place to stay?
You can book your accommodation on Skyscanner, which is not only rich in variety but also easy to operate.
- How to choose the right size?
The sizing chart 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 |
| 148cm-163cm | XS |
| 158cm-169cm | SM |
| 164cm-175cm | MD |
| 170cm-183cm | LG |
Specs
Build
| Frame | ALUXX-Grade Aluminum, disc Tire Clearance: 42c Colors: Purple Ash; Eucalyptus |
| Fork | alloy, disc |
| Rear Shock | N/A |
| Bottom Bracket | cartridge |
| Stem | Giant Sport, 15-degree, 31.8 XS:80mm, S:80mm, M:90mm, L:100mm |
| Handlebar | Giant Sport XC, 31.8 XS:60cm, S:60cm, M:64cm, L:64cm |
| Saddle | Liv Sport Comfort |
| Seatpost | Giant D-Fuse, alloy XS:350mm, S:350mm, M:350mm, L:350mm |
| Pedals | platform |
| Grips | Dynamic Comfort XS: 31mm, S:31mm, M:31mm, L:34mm |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Altus |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tourney |
| Crank | Shimano TY-501, 30/46 XS:170mm, S:170mm, M:170mm, L:170mm |
| Shifters | Shimano Altus, 2×8 |
| Cassette | Shimano CS-HG318, 11×34 |
| Chain | KMC X8.3 |
| Brakes | Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic [F]160mm, [R]160mm |
| Brake Levers | Tektro hydraulic |
Wheels
| Rims | Giant GX Disc wheelset |
| Spokes | Giant GX Disc wheelset |
| Front Hub | Giant GX Disc wheelset |
| Rear Hub | Giant GX Disc wheelset |
| Tires | Giant S-X2, puncture protect, 700x38c |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Kona Dr Dew | Click View | WTB Horizon Road Plus Comp w/ Puncture Protection 650x47c | 1×12 | Steel | Shimano Deore, FSA |
| Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger | Click View | Bontrager H2 Comp 700x40c | Belt Drive, Internally Geared Hub | Aluminum | Shimano Alfine |
| Marin Muirwoods | Click View | Schwalbe Citizen, 700Cx40mm | 1×10 | Steel | microSHIFT Advent X |
| GT Transeo Sport | Click View | GT Pavement, 700 x 40c | 3×7 | Aluminum | microSHIFT |
Liv Alight DD Disc 2 vs Kona Dr Dew
The fork of the Kona Dew is made of steel, which is less common compared to the aluminum used in the Liv Alight DD Disc 2. It’s not the commonly used aluminum or carbon, nor the expensive titanium. However, it’s important to note that steel adds more weight to the bike.
It must be acknowledged that the 650b wheel of the Kona Dew lacks the stability of the 700c wheel found on the Liv Alight. Additionally, the 1×12 drivetrain on the Kona Dew offers a narrower gear range compared to the broader range provided by the 2×8 drivetrain on the Liv Alight.
However, the stack height of the Kona Dew is higher than the Liv Alight DD Disc 2, and the reach is greater as well. This allows riders to have a more upright and extended riding position.
It’s important to understand that the saddle is crucial for female riders. The WTB Volt saddle on the Kona Dew is not specifically designed for women like the WTB Koda saddle. While the WTB Volt saddle is comfortable, it may not be the best fit for a female rider’s anatomy. In contrast, the Liv Sport Comfort saddle is designed specifically for women, providing a better riding experience.
Therefore, if you are a female rider, I would recommend the Liv Alight DD Disc 2. If you have a taller stature, the Kona Dew might be more suitable for your body size.
Learn More: Is Kona Dew Worth Buying? – [Kona Dew Review]
Liv Alight DD Disc 2 vs Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger
The Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger is a stylish high-end urban commuter bike. Its belt drive and internally geared hub are more durable and easy to maintain compared to standard chain drives.
The Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger is more suitable for longer travel. It comes equipped with lights, fenders, a kickstand, and a rear rack, making it practical for carrying luggage. However, in terms of price, the Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger is $1000 more expensive than the Liv Alight DD Disc 2.
However, the swept-back handlebar can make it more challenging to control the bike during climbing or at slower speeds. It can reduce riding speed and require more effort to control the handlebars. Compared to the Liv Alight DD Disc 2, this bike may not provide a comfortable experience for urban riding.
It must be noted that the choice between these two bikes depends on the specific needs of the rider.
If long-distance travel with luggage is a consideration, the Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger would provide a better experience. However, if comfort during the ride is the priority, I believe the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 would be a better choice for you.
Learn More: Is Trek District 4 Equipped Worth Buying? [Trek District 4 Equipped Review]
Liv Alight DD Disc 2 vs Marin Muirwoods
Obviously, the Marin Muirwoods has an elegant appearance. However, unlike the Liv Alight DD Disc 2, it features a steel frame and fork. Nevertheless, their wheel size and brakes are the same. The Marin Muirwoods has a 1×12 drivetrain, which lacks some of the versatility compared to the Liv Alight DD Disc 2’s 2×8 drivetrain.
It must be acknowledged that the Marin Muirwoods is well-suited for cruising on flat city roads. However, on uneven terrain, the swept-back handlebar can only offer a relatively upright riding position.
Additionally, when it comes to maintaining stability during straight-line riding, it may require more precision than other similar bicycles. This handlebar configuration does not provide the same level of comfort as the Liv Alight DD Disc 2, which may reduce the enjoyment of the ride.
In summary, if you frequently cruise on urban roads, the Marin Muirwoods would be more suitable for you. If you desire a superior riding experience, the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 can fulfill your needs.
Learn More: Is Marin Presidio 3 Worth Buying? – [Marin Presidio 3 Review]
Liv Alight DD Disc 2 vs GT Transeo Sport
From a structural standpoint, there are some differences between the two bikes. The Liv Alight DD Disc 2 has an aluminum fork, which is heavier than the steel fork used in the GT Transeo Sport.
The former is equipped with Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic brakes, which offer better safety performance than mechanical disc brakes. However, in terms of maintenance, the GT Transeo Sport is easier to repair.
Additionally, the GT Transeo Sport (3×7) has a wider gear range compared to the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 (2×8), providing riders with more smooth gear options.
It’s worth noting that the Liv Alight provides a greater sense of safety compared to the GT Transeo Sport. The former features Giant S-X2 700x38c tires with puncture protection, which helps prevent tire punctures during high-speed rides.
On the other hand, the GT Transeo Sport uses GT Pavement 700x40c tires that are wider, offering better stability.
In summary, if you prioritize safety during your rides, the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 will suit you well. If you desire more gear options, the GT Transeo Sport would be your best choice.
Learn More: Is GT Transeo Elite A Good Bike? [GT Transeo Elite Review]
Summary
The above is our complete review of the Liv Alight DD Disc 2, a bike designed to enhance women’s riding experience. Its excellent climbing and descending abilities make uphill and downhill rides easy, while its smooth road performance allows you to enjoy the freedom of your daily journeys.
In our opinion, the Liv Alight DD Disc 2 is a bike worth considering for purchase. For more bike information, feel free to explore our other bike reviews.
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