Giant is a remarkable brand for mountain bikers looking for cross-country bikes, with excellent choices like the Talon model. However, let’s narrow down your options by comparing Giant Talon 2 vs Giant Talon 3 to see how they compare.
Giant Talon 2 and 3 have many similarities but differ in other ways, like the frame, rims, wheels, saddle, suspension fork, and price. Giant Talon 2 is suited for aggressive riding. On the other hand, Giant Talon 3 is made for entry-level riders looking for the least financial commitment.
I’ll detail their similarities, differences, and suitability to help you differentiate Giant Talon 2 from Giant Talon 3. This will also help you pick the model that you prefer.
Giant Talon 2 Vs Giant Talon 3: Specs Comparison
| Part | Giant Talon 2 | Giant Talon 3 |
| Bike Type | Cross-Country Mountain Bike | Cross-Country Mountain Bike |
| Frame | ALUXX-Grade aluminum | ALUXX-Grade aluminum |
| Brakes | Tektro TKD143 disc brakes (hydraulic) | Tektro HDC M275 disc brakes (hydraulic) |
| Fork | 27.5 or 29” SR Suntour XCT 30 | 27.5” SR Suntour XCT 30 |
| Tires | 27.5 or 29 x 2.2 Kenda Booster, wire bead | 27.5 x 2.2 Maxxis Ikon, wire bead |
| Cassette | MicroShift Advent, 9 speed | Shimano CS-HG200-8, 12X32 |
| Handlebars | Giant Connect Trail, 31.8 | Giant Connect Trail, 31.8 |
| Saddle | Giant Sport Custom | Giant Custom |
| Rims | Giant GX03V double-wall alloy, 27.5 or 29 inches | Giant GX03V double-wall alloy, 27.5 inches |
| Spokes | Stainless | Stainless |
| Shifter | MicroShift Advent | Shimano Altus |
| Front Derailleur | N/A | microSHIFT FD-M282 |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Alivio | Shimano Acera |
| Chain | KMC Z8.3 | KMC 8.3 |
| Pedals | Platform | Platform |
Note, the specs may differ depending on the model year.
Giant Talon 2 Vs Giant Talon 3: Feature Comparison
Here are how Giant Talon 2 and 3 are similar and their differences.
The Similarities
These mountain bikes have the following things in common.
1. The Frame
Both bikes have ALUXX-Grade aluminum frame, which is robust, lightweight, and offers the aspects you’d like to see in a solid mountain bike. This frame material makes these bikes easy to carry and able to withstand harsh impacts.
2. Suspension
Since these bikes are hardtails, they have front suspension, which helps soak-up vibrations and bumps to make the ride more comfortable.
3. The Brakes
Giant Talon 2 and 3 are fitted with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, which offer crisp braking despite the riding conditions because they are powerful and responsive.
4. Handlebars
They feature Giant Connect Trail flat handlebars, which are simple, thus making steering precise and predictable.
Flat bars are a gem for cross-country cyclists because they allow you to lean forward easily, improving leverage during climbs. Moreover, your weight shifts to the front when you lean forward, making the tires grip to the road more.
5. Spokes And Rims
These Talon bicycles have stainless spokes and double-wall alloy rims that work together to strengthen the wheels. These durable, strong components are built to withstand intense abuse and support your weight without breaking or collapsing.
6. Pedals
They have platform (flat) pedals, which are easy to get accustomed to and provide good foot positioning. In addition, you don’t need to footwear with cleats when riding, so you can cycle in comfortable shoes like sandals.
They also let you quickly put your leg on the ground when you are about to lose control during a ride to regain control.
The Differences
Below is how Talon 2 and Talon 3 differ.
1. Drivetrain
on the one hand, Talon 2 has an 18-speed drivetrain, while on the other, Talon 3 features a 16-speed drivetrain. For this reason, you have more gear ranges on the Talon 2, meaning you have more gears to choose from for different situations.
You can get more speed and smooth gearing from a Giant Talon 2.
2. Frame Color
Talon 2 gives you two color options- metallic black/orange and pure red or silver. On the other hand, Talon 3 comes in black/olive green and blue/black.
3. Fork
Talon 3 has SR Suntour XCT30 fork with 100mm travel, while Talon 2 features SR Suntour XCT30 fork with 100mm or 80mm travel. In addition, the RockShox XC30 provides more effects for vibration-dampening.
Their travel is sufficient to soak up shocks and bumps and let you tackle obstacles comfortably. In addition, the travel range provides better handling, which is critical, especially on rough terrains.
4. Tires
Talon 2 has 27.5 or 29 x2.2-inch Kenda Booster tires, while Talon 3 has 27.5×2.2-inch Maxxis Ikon tires. However, they both have the same width and offer proper traction since both are wire bead tires.
5. Wheel Size
You can get both bikes in 27.5-inch wheels, which provide a balance between control and speed. However, the Talon 2 also comes in much bigger 29-inch wheels.
Giant Talon 2 Vs Giant Talon 3: Price
Both bikes are relatively affordable, making them suitable for beginners and riders on a budget looking for reliable cross-country bikes.
However, the Giant Talon 2 costs more than the Giant Talon 3, with the models going for $720 and $550, respectively.
Giant Talon 2 Vs Giant Talon 3: Target User
These bikes are designed for both female and male riders.
However, Giant Talon 2 suits a novice mountain biker serious about conquering dirt roads and trails and looking to improve their skills. This bike handles challenging terrains better than Talon 3.
On the other hand, Giant Talon 3 befits beginner cyclists who don’t want to make a substantial financial commitment by getting an expensive bike. It is better suited for less aggressive trails like light gravel paths and biking trails.
Is The Giant Talon 2 Or 3 Better?
The Giant Talon 2 is a more improved version of the Talon models than the Giant Talon 3 as it is more equipped for more aggressive riding and terrains. Moreover, Talon 2 has better components and offers an option between 29-inch and 27.5-inch wheels.
However, Talon 2 will cost you more than Talon 3.
If you are looking for an alternative for these bikes, check out the Schwinn Bonafide (View on Amazon) It has a front suspension, 29-inch wheels, an aluminum frame, 24 speeds, and double-wall alloy rims.
FAQs
1. What Is A Giant Talon?
Giant Talon is a mountain bike line from Giant Bicycles made for cross-country cycling. The models in this line are the Giant Talon 1, 2, 3, and 4.
2. Is The Giant Talon 3 Tubeless?
Giant Talon 3 features a tubeless tire system, which lowers the tire weight, minimizes the rolling resistance, and gives better traction.
3. What Is The Difference Between Giant Talon 2 And Giant Talon 3 2021?
Giant Talon 2 and Giant Talon 3 differ in the drivetrain, tires, fork, and price. The Talon 2 has an 18-speed drivetrain, 27.5 or 29-inch tires, and 80 or 100 travel.
Talon 3 has a 16-speed drivetrain, 100 travel, and 27.5-inch tires, and it is also cheaper than Talon 2. Additionally, Talon 2 performs well on more rugged terrains, while Talon 3 is better suited for lighter trails.
4. Is Giant Talon 2 Tubeless-Ready?
Giant Talon 2 is tubeless-ready like the other bikes in the Giant Talon line, meaning you can easily switch your tires from tubed to tubeless.
5. Is Giant Talon 2 A Good Bike?
Giant Talon 2 is a quality hardtail for cross-country that’s well-suited for aggressive riding. It boasts excellent components and construction, featuring a robust aluminum frame, capable drivetrain, and good suspension.
6. Is Giant Talon 3 A Good Bike?
Giant Talon 3 is a good hardtail mountain bike for cross-country riding. It is suited for entry-level cyclists looking to ride on lighter trails and cheaper than the Talon 2.
Conclusion
I hope this Giant Talon 2 vs Giant Talon 3 post helps you differentiate these two decent bikes. You can get good service from both models, but the Giant Talon 2 is a better option if you ask me because of its better components and suitability for aggressive riding.
However, remember that Talon 2 will cost you more, but you’ll get a worthy, reliable machine.
