Giant Talon
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Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Giant Talon. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
10 reasons to buy
- The Talon comes in three builds: 1 (Shimano CUES 1x10), 2 (microSHIFT 1x9), and 4 (microSHIFT 1x8).
- Giant offers the Talon in six sizes with size-specific suspension travel, crank lengths, cockpits, and wheels.
- Experts agree the geometry provides a comfortable fit and stable, confidence-inspiring handling that's ideal for new mountain bikers.
- Reviewers say this bike is great on rail trails and flowing singletrack.
- Testers are pleased to see a dropper post included with the Talon 1.
- The 12x142mm rear thru axle, UDH hanger, 1.5” tapered head tube, and 30.9mm seat tube provide scope for upgrades to the fork, drivetrain, and an internally routed dropper post.
- Experts praise the shift quality and smoothness of the Shimano CUES drivetrain (Talon 1).
- The frame has mounting points for fenders, a rear rack, and a kickstand.
- The cables are frame-integrated for a sleeker look.
- Giant provides a lifetime warranty on the frame.
5 reasons not to buy
- The basic coil suspension forks on all builds are the most limiting ingredients in the Talon recipe.
- The Talon 4’s SR Suntour XCE fork is quick-release, which isn't as stiff or robust as the thru-axles typically used on off-road bikes.
- One expert dislikes the narrow handlebar and another finds the shape "weird."
- The non-Boost rear axle somewhat limits options for upgrading the wheel or drivetrain.
- The Talon 1's dropper is an up or down design with no ability to stop partway.
Bottom line
Giant’s Talon has long been one of the most popular entry-level MTB bikes on the market, and the latest generation continues that tradition, with updated geometry and a slick-looking frame with internal cable routing. Shimano CUES and microSHIFT drivetrains provide reliable shifting and decent gear ratios, and the top build includes a basic dropper. The Giant Talon makes for a decent rugged commuter or first foray into MTB, but much like the Trek Marlin, the lacklustre suspension fork means buyers with mountain biking ambitions might consider spending a little more to get a cross-country MTB with greater potential.Expert Reviews
81/100 based on 2 rated expert reviewsI Rode the Giant Talon 1… and It Destroyed the Competition
2025 Giant Talon 1 Review | A Gateway to the Good Stuff
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