Liv Tempt 1 Review
- Price: $900
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: Kenda Booster 27.5 or 29×2.4″
- Gear: 1×10
What we like about it: It has a lower price and offers good value for the same configuration.
What we don’t like about it: The color is not very appealing.
Rating: (4.6/5)
To be honest, I rarely review bikes that are priced below $1000. After all, higher-priced bikes tend to perform exceptionally well.
However, Liv Tempt 1 pleasantly surprised me. It delivers the performance of a bike priced around $1500, all for just $900.
In the following analysis, we’ll examine the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Liv Tempt 1.
In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Off-road performance is a standout feature of this hardtail mountain bike. This time, I purchased my ticket and booked a hotel on Skyscanner, heading to the Big Bear Lake Trail Center.
Off-Road Riding
We chose the Big Bear XC Classic Beginner Course for our ride. The trail is winding and steep, with plenty of gravel and unavoidable potholes. Additionally, the narrow path is lined with trees, so many fallen branches were impeding our ride.
During the climb on the Big Bear XC Classic Beginner Course, the powerful Shimano Deore M5120 derailleur allowed me to smoothly shift to the lowest gear, maximizing power with minimal effort.
Thanks to the Kenda Booster’s robust tire tread, the bike exhibited excellent traction on soft surfaces, giving me the confidence to handle the gravel and fallen branches.
It’s worth mentioning that the Giant Sole-O grips enabled me to have a better grip on the Giant Connect Trail handlebar.
With a softer rubber surface design and excellent shock absorption in certain raised areas, these grips stayed securely in place even during intense vibrations, enhancing safety.
Furthermore, the 100mm of travel on the suspension absorbed a significant amount of vibration, making my ride more comfortable. The 2.4-inch-wide Kenda Booster tires performed well in navigating gaps without causing any mishaps.
In summary, having ridden this trail multiple times, I can appreciate how well this bike handles complex terrains. From my perspective, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Campus Riding
Although the Liv Tempt 1 is a hardtail mountain bike, it also delivers a fantastic riding experience on campus.
Riding on the wide roads around the campus is not challenging, but I want to emphasize that the Liv Tempt 1 handles narrow paths exceptionally well.
So even with a crowded path, I could easily control the Giant Connect Trail handlebar, swiftly maneuvering through the crowd.
However, I encountered some emergencies. But thanks to the Tektro HDC TKD 149 hydraulic disc brakes, I could promptly decelerate and avoid colliding with others.
In short, I found this bike to be highly adaptable to various road surfaces during campus riding.
Therefore, if you’re looking for a bike that excels in both everyday campus riding and off-road mountain terrains, I highly recommend the Liv Tempt 1.
Specification
The Liv Tempt 1 is a women’s XC hardtail mountain bike, ideal for off-road and campus riding (various types).
The Liv Tempt 1 features an ALUXX-grade aluminum frame that is lightweight yet sturdy. It is equipped with two different sizes of Kenda Booster tires, 27.5″ or 29×2.4″, providing riders with more options.
Furthermore, the Liv Sport saddle incorporates the Liv team’s longstanding 3F design philosophy. It is specifically designed for women and offers a highly comfortable riding experience.
Moreover, from XS to LG, the top tube lengths (542mm to 610mm) allow riders to better stretch out while riding.
The standover heights range from 663mm to 757mm, complemented by the Tektro HDC TKD 149 hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring rider comfort and safety in emergencies.
Video
Other versions
After numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this bike. It is an exceptional hardtail mountain bike.
However, many riders have their own performance or component requirements. Therefore, we found similar bikes for further investigation.
Liv Tempt 4
Both bikes share the same geometry and use the same materials for each component. However, in terms of price, the Liv Tempt 1 is $300 more expensive than the Liv Tempt 4. The differences may lie in the brakes and components.
The Tektro HDC TKD 149 hydraulic disc brakes equipped on the Liv Tempt 1 are more responsive and provide faster braking compared to the TKB-172 mechanical disc brakes on the Liv Tempt 4. However, the latter is easier to maintain.
Additionally, the Liv Tempt 1 features a Shimano Deore M5120 10-speed derailleur, offering smoother shifting and a wider gear range. It also has 2.4″ tires for a more stable ride.
On the other hand, the Liv Tempt 4 is equipped with a microSHIFT RD-M619 8-speed derailleur, which is relatively disadvantaged in off-road riding.
Therefore, if you prefer a lower price, the Liv Tempt 4 would be more suitable. If you value a wider gear range, I would recommend the Liv Tempt 1.
What do we like about it?
- Lower price compared to equivalent configurations, offering good value for money.
- ALUXX aluminum frame that is lightweight, durable, and powerful.
- Tempt series geometry that balances performance and comfort.
What don’t we like about it?
- Colors may not be very appealing.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How does its ability to go up and down hills compare to bikes in the same price range?
It has stronger uphill capabilities compared to bikes in the same price range, and downhill performance has its unique characteristics.
- How many sizes of tires are available for this bike?
There are two sizes: Kenda Booster 27.5″ or 29×2.4″.
- How to choose the right size?
The size chart is as follows:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size is best to try it on.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 150cm-163cm | XS |
| 158cm-169cm | SM |
| 164cm-175cm | MD |
| 170cm-181cm | LG |
Specs
Build
| Frame | ALUXX-Grade Aluminum, disc Tire Clearance: 2.4″ Colors: Liquid Metal; Ocean Wave |
| Fork | SR Suntour XCM, QR, steel steerer XS: 80mm travel (27.5) S: 100mm travel (27.5) / 100mm travel (29) |
| Rear Shock | N/A |
| Bottom Bracket | cartridge |
| Stem | Giant Sport, 7-degree XS: 40mm (27.5) S: 40mm (27.5) / 40mm (29) M: 50mm (27.5) / 50mm (29) L: 50mm (29) |
| Handlebar | Giant Connect Trail, 31.8mm XS: 670mm (27.5) S: 670mm (27.5) / 670mm (29) M: 750mm (27.5) / 750mm (29) L: 750mm (29) |
| Saddle | Liv Sport |
| Seatpost | Giant Sport, 30.9 XS: 300mm (27.5) S: 300mm (27.5) / 375mm (29) M: 375mm (27.5) / 375mm (29) L: 375mm (29) |
| Pedals | MTB caged |
| Grips | Giant Sole-O |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | microSHIFT Advent |
| Front Derailleur | N/A |
| Crank | ProWheel Charm, 30t XS: 165mm (27.5) S: 165mm (27.5) / 170mm (29) M: 170mm (27.5) / 170mm (29) L: 175mm (29) |
| Shifters | microSHIFT SL-M9295, 1×9 |
| Cassette | microSHIFT, 12×46 |
| Chain | KMC X9 |
| Brakes | Tektro HDC TKD 149, hydraulic, Tektro rotors [F]180mm, [R]160mm |
| Brake Levers | Tektro TKD 149 |
Wheels
| Rims | Giant GX03V 29 or 27.5, alloy, double wall, 21mm inner width |
| Spokes | stainless, 14g |
| Front Hub | alloy, ball bearing |
| Rear Hub | alloy, ball bearing |
| Tires | Kenda Booster 27.5 or 29×2.4″, wire bead |
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame material | Groupset |
| Cannondale Trail Women’s 7 | Click View | WTB Ranger Comp | 2×8 | Aluminum | microSHIFT Mezzo |
| Trek X-Caliber 9 | Click View | Maxxis Ardent Race | 1×12 | Aluminum | XT,SLX |
| Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29 | Click View | Fast Trak Sport | 2×9 | Aluminum | microSHIFT Marvo |
| Orbea ALMA H20 | Click View | Maxxis Ikon | 1×12 | Aluminum | Shimano Deore |
Liv Tempt 1 vs Cannondale Trail Women’s 7
In terms of the XS size, the Cannondale Trail Women’s 7 has 100mm of travel, which is longer than the Liv Tempt 1’s 80mm of travel. The longer travel can effectively absorb vibrations and enhance the rider’s cycling experience.
Furthermore, the Liv Tempt 1 features the popular 1×10 drivetrain, which prevents chain drops and provides smoother shifting.
On the other hand, the Cannondale Trail Women’s 7 is equipped with a 2×8 drivetrain, which is heavier and less advanced.
This is because modern mountain bikes have largely eliminated front derailleurs to reduce weight.
In summary, if you prioritize a more comfortable ride, the Cannondale Trail Women’s 7 would be your choice. If you prefer a lightweight bike, the Liv Tempt 1 would be a better option.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Trail 7 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Trail 7 Review]
Liv Tempt 1 vs Trek X-Caliber 9
The Trek X-Caliber 9 is equipped with the Shimano XT M8100 12-speed derailleur, which enhances the rider’s cycling experience. Whether it’s uphill, downhill, or on flat terrain, riders can choose the appropriate gear, making the ride more effortless.
Additionally, the Trek X-Caliber 9 features a RockShox Recon Gold RL 100mm suspension fork, while the Liv Tempt 1 has only 80mm of travel.
The former has a stronger suspension capability, providing a more comfortable riding experience.
Therefore, if you want a better cycling experience, the Trek X-Caliber 9 would be more suitable for you. If you prefer a lighter bike, the Liv Tempt 1 will fulfill your needs.
Learn More: Is Trek X-Caliber 9 Worth Buying? [Trek X-Caliber 9 Review]
Liv Tempt 1 vs Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29
The Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29 is equipped with Fast Trak Sport tires. These tires have lower rolling resistance and provide greater traction. They also have a durable casing that can handle various types of terrain.
The Liv Tempt 1 comes with Kenda Booster tires, which are XC tires validated through competitions. They are fast, lightweight, and offer excellent traction.
The Booster tires are made with a race compound that performs well on dry, loose sandy terrain or rough, rocky mountain trails. Additionally, these tires are tubeless, providing effective puncture resistance and enhanced safety.
However, the Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29 has 100mm of front travel, offering better suspension performance.
So, if you prioritize better suspension performance, I recommend choosing the Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29. If you value superior tires, the Liv Tempt 1 would be a better fit for you.
Liv Tempt 1 vs Orbea ALMA H20
Compared to the Orbea ALMA H20 with a stack/reach ratio of 1.437, the Liv Tempt 1 has a ratio of 1.49. The larger ratio means that this bike is very comfortable to ride, allowing the rider to have a more comfortable riding position.
However, the Orbea ALMA H20 has a taller standover height and excellent Shimano MT201 Hydraulic Disc brakes, enabling quick and stable stops without any mishaps.
On the other hand, the Liv Tempt 4 has a slightly larger head tube angle of 68.5° compared to the BMC Twostroke AL FIVE’s 68°. The larger head tube angle makes steering easier, making it a perfect choice for riding on winding roads.
Therefore, if you want a comfortable riding position, the Liv Tempt 1 would be a suitable option. If you prioritize a safer standover height, the Orbea ALMA H20 would be a better choice.
Learn more : Is Orbea LAUFEY H-LTD Splendid – [Orbea LAUFEY H-LTD Review]
Summary
Above is our review of Liv Tempt 1. This bike is a great hardtail mountain bike designed for women, providing a fantastic riding experience. In my opinion, the Liv Tempt 1 is a bike worth purchasing.
Taking everything into consideration, we give it a high rating of 4.6. If you want more information about bicycles, feel free to check out our related tests.
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