Giant ToughRoad SLR 2 - 2016

Giant ToughRoad SLR 2 - 2016

• Top-end ALUXX SLR-grade aluminium frame with D-Fuse seatpost
• Giant composite fork with an alloy steerer damps vibrations
• Giant SX-2 double-wall rims, Giant Sport Tracker disc-specific hubs
• Shimano 9-speed drivetrain
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Colour: Navy Blue/Green
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL

The Toughroads are great bikes. If you owned a Toughroad, you could use it for any type of riding. The frame is light, yet comfortable. The aluminium is drawn to create a really light, strong frame, then the seat post is designed to have a degree of flex so that it provides a comfortable ride, and take some of the impact when the road surface is poor. The forks have carbon blades, which again absorb impact and general vibration. The end result is an extremely lightweight bike that is comfortable to ride.

The versatility of this bike will impress many a rider. If you want one bike that can be ridden to work, go out trail riding or maybe take touring come holiday time, this could well be the bike. With a change of tyres it would be a fast commuter, or leave on the existing tyres and ride anywhere.

The Shimano Acera 27 speed gear system works well. Sure it's a better commuting set up than off-road, but it'll do the job (and quite well). But let's be fair, at $1299 for a light, comfortable 'do anything' bike there has to some form of compromise. If you manage to wear out any of tthe components, it can be easily upgraded.

The hydraulic disc brakes are pull the bike up easily, regardless of conditions or load. They simply are not going to be be a problem. The light wheels are strong and will handle tough terrain if required.

If I had only one bike, this would get my vote.