trail bike

Giant’s Trance model has been the go-to trail bike in its lineup for well over a decade, and regular updates to both its Maestro suspension platform and accompanying geometry have kept it a competitive option in the broadly defined category.

After spending a few weeks riding the redesigned Trance X 29, we found that this X marks the spot for modern trail bikes.

As with any trail bike with a 150-millimeter fork, it won’t be an ideal choice for cross-country racer types, and the Trance X isn’t going to be appropriate for regular bike park use.

Specialized cut weight from this 150-millimeter-travel trail bike by using a less powerful motor and a smaller battery.

Short-travel trail bikes should handle like rally cars, not tugboats, and this generation of the Following hits the sweet spot.