Bike of the Week: Giant XtC Composite 29er 1

Big wheels keep on turnin'.

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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Who said hardtail mountain bikes are dead? While the familiar 26" wheeled version may be relegated to delivery bike status, the big brother 29er has emerged as a cross-country contender. Giant offers two different composite 29ers — this $2,500 model being the lesser of the two. Not that it's any kind of slouch. The drivetrain is SRAM X7 2x10, the fork is Fox, the brakes are Avid Elixir hydraulic discs, the steering and seating are all in-house Giant products, as are the rims. The composite frame features a massive downtube for stiffness, and a grey, white and neon scheme that evokes the classic Air Max 95. And of course the 29" wheels will allow you to roll over all obstacles and — fitted with slicks or city tires — cross-train on the road when the trails are too muddy.

Buy it here.

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