Giant Talon 3 (2025)

Giant Talon 3 (2025)

The latest Talon 3 mountain bike is very different to what we've seen from Giant in the past. So much so that it's a completely different mountain bike.

In this preview, we'll explain what's changed with the MY25 Talon 3 and who should consider it.

What is the Talon 3?

The Talon is Giant's recreational mountain bike. There are 4 models in the range, with the Talon 4 being the entry point.

The Talon 3 is the mid-range build.

Think of the Talon 3 as an SUV. It'll happily spend time on rail trails and bike paths in and around suburbia. And it will also cross-over to (easy, beginner) mountain bike trails, fire access gravel roads and 4 wheel drive tracks.

Who should consider the Talon 3?

You should consider the Giant Talon 3, if you want a mountain bike that can be versatile.

You'll probably be spending more time on pavement or bike paths, but you want the freedom to be able to use it comfortably on unsealed trails.

Another reason to consider the Talon 3 is handling.

If you prefer stable, grounded and calm handling, then the Talon 3 will deliver.

You'll be using the Talon 3 for riding with mates, family and overall fitness.

You should not consider the Talon 3 if you're commuting daily; a more efficient bike, like a hybrid, would be a better option. It can do it but it's not ideal; you'll just be using more energy to push the wider tyres.

What's different about the new Giant Talon 3?

In summary, it's:

• Updated handling means it's calmer to steer.
• More stable at speed.
• Better ergonomics when seated for climbing up roads and trails.
• Better frame.

Here are the details.

Calmer steering is the result of tuning the front steering angle (or head tube angle). Think of this as the front wheel being moved further forward.

When you're sitting on the bike, you'll see more front wheel in front of you.

This calms the handling, making it much easier to control the Talon 3, especially on unsealed and loose, off-road surfaces.

The length of the Giant Talon 3 has increased (called the wheelbase) by up to 25mm.

The longer wheelbase makes the Talon 3 more stable at high speeds - especially on off-road trails. Cornering also becomes easier; the bike doesn't bounce around the trail as much.

When you're climbing up roads or trails, the new Talon 3 places your body over the cranks/pedals more. This allows riders to generate more power and puts a bit more weight over the front of the Talon to better steer uphill.

Lastly, frame improvements like a tapered head tube increases frame rigidity. Extra rigidity means better, more direct, handling because the frame isn't twisting. 

There's also a thru-axle connecting the rear wheel to the frame. Think of this as a strong hollow 12mm diameter bolt connecting the wheel and frame.

For comparison, the old Talon used a 5mm diameter quick-release. So it's now more than double the size.

The Giant Talon 3 build

The Talon 3 is the only build that uses 2 front gears (also called a double crankset). The reason why this is important is because it broadens the gear range.

It's ideal for riders who are spending time on pavement and potentially off-road trails. That's why we reckon it's a crossover SUV.

The larger front gear has a higher top speed that allows riders to carry good speed on suburban bike paths.

The 2 front chain-rings are paired to 8 back gears that are operated by Shimano's mid-range hardware, called Acera.

Hydraulic disc brakes deliver excellent stopping power and control in dry and wet conditions. Unlike mechanical brakes, hydraulic disc brakes need less maintenance, they are more robust and durable.

A note on wheel sizing

The SM frame size comes in both 27.5-inch and 29-inch wheels.

Some might be wondering why.

27.5-inch wheels are more nimble than 29-inch wheels. 29-inch wheels roll a bit more efficiently.

If you're at the bottom end of the small frame, consider going for the 27.5-inch wheels.It's easier to manage and the top of the frame is 31mm lower than the 29-inch version.