Trek vs. Giant is a great bike rivalry that has benefited everyone who loves bikes. If you need to decide between the two, you will have to compare the components of their respective road bikes, gravel bikes, and e-bikes. Warranty and customer service also need to be discussed. Let’s do this.
When compared to each other, Trek vs. Giant bikes results in a pretty close race. Giant is generally cheaper with more high-quality components on their bikes, whereas Trek tends to be more innovative in its designs. Both brands deliver high-quality bikes in different categories.
It could be a difficult choice when you are in the bike shop, and you need to choose between a Trek or a Giant model. As I will explain in the article, Giant is generally cheaper, but if you’re looking for a high-performance bike, then Trek leads the way. Choosing one over the other is a win-win situation, as both brands are fantastic.
Contents
Trek vs. Giant Bikes: Comparison
Giant is the world’s largest manufacturer of bicycles, and Trek is the leader, most popular, and respected bike brand in the American market. Both of these bike manufacturers offer models in most categories, price points, catering for all types of cyclists.
When comparing Trek vs. Giant bikes, it’s like comparing Chevrolet and Ford vehicles. Both are hugely respected and liked brands, with solid reputations to boot. Ask a thousand people to choose between the brands, and it may be split down the middle of a clear win for one.
Ask another thousand people, and the results could be different. I’m trying to get across that both brands are very well supported. There are some minor differences between the brands that can help you decide whether you want a Trek or a Giant bike.
Trek vs. Giant: Product Range
As mentioned earlier in the article, Trek is the leader in the American market. They have the broadest range of bicycle options; whether you are looking for an entry-level bike or a high-performance bike used by professionals, Trek has you covered.
Giant also boasts an impressive selection of anything bike; however, they lack behind Trek in their product range. An interesting fact about Giant is that in some cases, they can manufacture bikes designed by competitor brands, as their team has excellent bike manufacturing facilities across the world.
Trek vs. Giant: Design
Trek road bike designs are flashy and cutting edge, geared towards research and development, focused on making their bikes look and feel better when on the saddle. More people tend to go for a Trek Road bike when money isn’t a problem.
Giant road bike designs are less flashy and more geared to adding quality parts to the design than turning heads on the road. Giant tend to merge the practicality of their bikes’ with added performance by going with their general design, whereas Trek’s models seem to be more streamlined every year.
Trek vs. Giant: Innovations
Both brands have played an instrumental role in incorporating innovative ideas in bike manufacturing, changing the way we build and ride bikes.
Trek Innovations
Here are some of the revolutionary technologies developed by Trek over the years:
- OCLV Carbon
- Alpha Aluminum
- Active Braking Pivot
- RE:aktiv
- Full Floater
- Trek IsoSpeed
Giant Innovations
Here are some of the innovative technologies developed by our friends at Giant:
- Cadex
- Compact Road Design
- OverDrive
- Comax Composite Technology
- Maestro Suspension
- Dfuse Technology
Both of these manufacturers have played a massive part in the evolution of the bicycle, and long may it continue.
Today, both brands are still at the forefront of innovative designs, revolutionary accessories, and yearly improvements on the bikes we have grown to love. Deciding who gets your money may rest on what technologies are present in the model you’re looking at.
Trek has proved its worth regarding the production of award-winning reliable racing bikes, where Giant is all about the comfort of the ride and producing affordable quality bikes for everyone.
Trek vs. Giant: Overall Price
Trek bikes are generally more expensive than Giant. The main reason for this is that Trek bikes are manufactured in the United States, where the components cost more than in Taiwan, where the components cost less.
Giant bikes are less expensive than Trek bikes, mainly because they are manufactured in Taiwan. The island contains a closely interweaved supply chain incorporated with mature manufacturing technology.
The parts are cheaper, allowing Giant to add extra accessories within a reasonable price frame.
Everything is closely situated, from the suppliers to the OEM companies, this results in lead times in materials, manufacturing, and design being shortened. Giant differentiates itself from competitors that, from ideation to raw materials to the finished product, is all controlled in-house (whole process.)
Giant produces bikes almost half the time it would take in the United States and brings them to the market at a much lower cost. Lower cost, in this case, does not mean lower quality, as Giant prides itself on delivering quality products to the market at the best possible price.
With any product, the more expensive ones tend to be the best manufactured, best-performing ones. These bike brands offer some more affordable bikes and some pretty expensive ones.
Trek vs. Giant: Frame Material
Trek Road Bikes have been referred to as indestructible, and if you have ever owned one, this will make perfect sense to you. They use only the strongest OCLV Carbon fiber in constructing their road bikes.
Some of Trek’s models are made from Alpha Aluminium, and through the process of Hydro Foaming, creates a frame that’s not as stiff as aluminum frames of old, giving the frame:
- Reduced Weight
- Reduced Stiffness (in critical areas that produce a harsh ride quality)
Some of their frames are tested in wind tunnels to help with optimum aerodynamics, and they love to produce a stiff, typically rugged frame compared to that of the opposition.
When engineering quality carbon, it’s crucial to minimize voids – spaces between the layers of carbon that can compromise the frame’s durability and strength. Trek’s OCLV Carbon exceeds aerospace standards; your bike frame will literally survive when launched into space!
Giant Bike Frames are made from an Advanced Grade Composite (Raw carbon), which features an excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio, that is both light and highly durable.
For some models, they employ what they call Modified Monocoque Construction, where the front triangle is molded and assembled as one piece without reducing:
- The quality of the ride
- Strength of the frame
- Stiffness of the frame
Giant also produces frames from aluminum alloy, which is light in weight yet durable. However, these frames may need regular servicing to keep them in perfect condition and avoid rusting.
One thing to remember is that Giant started as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), making frames for their bikes, even some bikes for their competitors like Trek were their thing.
If your main aim is to enjoy the act of cycling, then a cheaper aluminum frame could work for you. If you aim to be super-competitive and train to win, you should spend your money on a carbon fiber frame.
Trek vs. Giant: Suspension and Gears
Trek is a master when it comes to suspensions. Trek fits their models with the following suspension systems, each one playing a significant part in one of the essential areas of any bike, the suspension:
- Full Floater – This allows for an extraordinarily responsive and nimble suspension that gives you the feeling of bottomless travel.
- IsoSpeed – This road bike suspension system decouples the seat tube from the top tube, decreasing driver fatigue.
- RE:aktiv – This suspension system adapts to the terrain with affective dampening and low shaft velocity.
Giant’s suspension systems are also top-notch and are of high-technological quality:
- Maestro Full Suspension – This suspension system is used on their mountain bikes; it utilizes four tactically placed pivot points connected to two linkages, creating a single floating point that minimizes suspension compression.
- Flexpoint Suspension – A suspension system that offers the same benefits as a multi-link system without the added cost/need for regular maintenance.
In some of their higher-priced models, both Trek and Giant use SRAM RED eTap AXS Groupset, expect Shimano kits on the mid-range models. Trek uses higher gear ratios in their bikes, whereas Giant prefers to go with lower gear ratios in similar models.
Trek vs. Giant: Brakes
Trek revolutionized the biking industry by releasing their patented Active Braking Pivot or ABP system. Manufacturers struggled for years with breaks and the suspension system, as braking would lock up the suspension.
That was until Trek unleashed the ABP, which allowed the suspension system to function at its best while braking, resulting in:
- Less Unintentional Skidding
- Less Chatter
- Driver Confidence (On or off the brakes)
Trek and Giant Road bikes use hydraulic disc brakes on their road bikes, although you might find rim brakes on some older or specific models. Hydraulic disc brakes are a way more effective braking system and hardly get damaged when put to the test.
Both have a wide range of brakes that they use on different types of bikes, but it’s usually hydraulic for road bikes, which is considered the most efficient braking system available.
Trek vs. Giant: Pro-Cycling Wins
If you are into competitive racing, you probably have a hero that you follow religiously. When looking at some pro-cycling wins for each of the respective brands, it looks like Trek nails it with regards to producing high-performance bikes in the pro-cycling circuit!
| Year | Trek | Giant |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Wins | 39 | 14 |
| 2020 Wins | 34 | 21 |
| 2019 Wins | 41 | 26 |
| 2018 Wins | 39 | 14 |
| 2017 Wins | 26 | 41 |
Trek vs. Giant Bikes: Road Bike
When comparing two brands, it’s best to compare their top-of-the-range models with each other. Have you heard the saying that goes that you are only as good as your last bike?
When you compare Trek’s Émonda SLR 9 eTap vs. Giant’s Propel Advanced Pro Disc 1, the slight differences are usually found in the different technologies used by the specific manufacturer, a different part here or there, both bikes are of high-quality and worth the price.
Trek’s Émonda SLR 9 eTap won the Best Road Bike of The Year award, which comes as no surprise to Trek lovers.
Trek vs. Giant Road Bikes: Performance
Trek bikes are ideal for the serious, heavy-duty racer and heavier than the average rider. Trek is known for its superior rear suspension, making mincemeat any terrain without feeling bumps or ruts.
When used in urban areas, giant road bikes are typically more geared for the average rider. Giant likes to give the user a very comfortable ride compared to a Trek bike where performance is everything, and people sometimes refer to Giant bikes as “souped-up” tourist bikes.
That being said, Giant is no slouch when it comes to producing high-end road bikes. They have been doing it for many years, maybe just not as regularly as Trek does.
Trek vs. Giant: E-bikes
Some manufacturers design e-bikes that use a twist throttle to engage the electronic drive system, where you are not required to pedal for the motor to engage, but not Trek or Giant. They only produce pedal-assist e-bikes that deliver power according to driver input.
You will notice that Trek has a wider variety of e-bikes models under each respective category, compared to Giant, servicing a larger consumer base:
- Verve+
- Allant+
- Vale Go!
- Powerfly Electric Mountain Bikes
- Powerfly Equipped Electric Mountain Bikes
- Rail
- E-Caliber
- Domane+ HP
- Domane+ LT
- Domane+ ALR
- Townie Go!
- Townie Path Go!
- Attitude Go!
Giant’s e-bike range is also one of great variety, matching client expectations regarding options. The difference is the number of models under each category of e-bike (:
- FastRoad E+ EX (2022)
- Revolt E+ (2022)
- Roam E+
- Trance X Advanced E+
- FastRoad E+ EX Pro
- Talon E+ 29 3
- Trance X E+ Pro 29
- Revolt E+ Pro 28mph
- Stance E+
- Explore E+
| Description Of E-Bike | Trek | Giant |
|---|---|---|
| Motors | Bosch – Mid-driveFauza – Mid-driveHydrive – Rear Motor | Yamaha |
| Power Output | 85 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Speed | 20-28 mph | 20-28 mph |
| Battery Power | 625Wh | 750Wh |
| Technology | OCLV Carbon Iso Speed Aluminum | Trek Bikes (GB) IsoStrut. | Smart Assist Energy Pak Battery Systems SyncDrive Ride Control Energy Pak Chargers Ride Control Go Ridecontrol App RideDash Display Units |
There is little that separates both brands regarding their respective e-bike line of models. Your decision may rest on the price and functionality of the bike also what technology is used in the design.
Giant recently released a model – Reign E+ 0 (2022) that features a 750Wh battery – whereas, until last year, the most powerful battery used was 650Wh by both Trek and Giant.
They both produce bikes in the following categories:
- City
- Hybrid
- Mountain
- Road
- Recreation
The guys at Bicycling.com and Outsideline.com concluded that Trek’s E-Caliber 9.9 XTR won the e-mountain bike of the year award in 2021. Another feather in Trek’s hat, a full hat, I might add.
Trek vs. Giant: Gravel Bikes
Gravel bikes are designed to perform on gravel paths and tarmac, a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure bike.
Trek again has a broader range of models for gravel bikes, and their new model Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap has taken the gravel bike scene by storm.
Giant’s Revolt Advanced Pro (2022) is a cheaper option, with less technology involved, but still a fantastic ride.
When you can’t afford the top-of-the-range models, you will always find a model from either company that gives you value for money. Finding the right bike for you is all about personal riding preference, your budget, and what you expect to get out of the bike.
Giant VS Trek Mountain Bikes
Both are major mountain bike brands and leaders in the industry, for the right price you get an awesome bike. Some Trek MTB frames are in fact from Giant! Both make great bikes and crappy bikes depending on the price range, anything over $800 is often far superior to a $600-$700 bike.
If you’re a very fast rider or rather heavy don’t get a Giant. Giant’s MTB suspension have long and flexible lower link which is less comfortable at high speeds and heavy riders might consider it a bit too flexible. Your weight might compress the suspension too much wasting energy and performance.
Only just a couple of years ago Trek had better geometry and suspension design but nowadays there’s hardly any noticeable difference. The most important part is the frame, both offer great frames but with a few small differences. Most of the components come from Shimano or SRAM.
Price
Giant offers the best bang for your buck, they recently even cut prices where Trek did the opposite. From a value proposition, Trek is less attractive, with the recent difference in prices, this is where Giant stands out. Unless you’re able to get a discount on a Trek, budget-wise Giant is the better choice.
Frames
Giant is the largest manufacturer in the world and makes bikes for every brand, their frames are top quality and even Trek sometimes has Giant frames (check the photos from the Giant bike factory in Taiwan).
Other people report that they find Giant’s frames not stiff enough, but it depends on what you like best and it’s less relevant when it comes to mountain biking. If you’re not the racing type or break bikes occasionally, get a Giant.
Others find Giant’s frame angles less progressive compared to Trek. When it comes to hydraforming (a process using fluid and high pressure to shape the tube), Trek is doing trickier stuff to gain strength and stiffness.
Most of the time Trek does a better job optimizing frames when it comes to the strength-to-weight. In doubt and if you feel they are equal, check which of them offers the best warranty.
Trek vs. Giant MTB: Performance
Both perform excellent depending on the bike and your personal preference or body type. Heavyweights and racers will often be better off with a Trek because of the differences in suspension.
Trek is often considered like a plow bike and Giant is more playful, this also depends on how you set up your bike. The more you pay the better the performance and this goes for every reputable brand.
A $500 mountain bike performs a lot worse compared to a higher-end $1500 bike. You get what you pay for and sometimes saving a little bit more is really worth it if you’re looking at a lower range bike. I’d stay away from the cheaper models if you can unless you only plan to use it on roads and pavements.
Components
Here’s a big difference, you often get better quality components when you buy a Giant MTB considering you’re comparing bikes at the same price range. Like mentioned before, Giant can get their parts cheaper because they own many of the factories and buy in bulk.
The components often don’t have anything to do with the brands, they buy them from other manufacturers but the price makes a difference.
Design
Both make great designs and this is really a personal preference. It’s all in the eye of the beholder but often people like Trek designs better. This also might have to do with the brand’s status. Giant is less shiny/flashy, like the Toyota of mountain bikes. They’re reliable, more affordable but not the sexiest.
Giant’s focus is on the quality of the parts and Trek is more into research and development trying to innovate and make better bikes. Suspension layout, for example, is a bit different on Trek bikes.
Trek vs. Giant: Warranty And Customer Service
A warranty is a manufacturer’s guarantee that the product you buy from them is of good quality and doesn’t contain manufacturing defects from their side.
It gives the consumer (you) the legal right to ask for help from the manufacturer, should any problems arise with their product, according to their terms and conditions.
Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Cover
Both Trek and Giant offer lifetime warranties on their frames and forks, with Trek offering a two-year warranty on:
- Parts
- Accessories
- Apparel
- Rear Suspension Linkage Components – Rocker link, bearings, accompanying hardware, and components
- Bontrager wheels (with alloy rims)
- Decals
- Paint
Trek allows ownership to change from the original owner to a buyer, offering the new owner a warranty on frames and forks. Trek’s Carbon Care Warranty allows customers to get a discount on frame repairs for non-warranty damages.
Giant’s warranty is for one year on the following and only applies to the original owner of the bike:
- All original components and the paint finish, all Giant repair parts, accessories, and replacement parts are warranted to be free from defects in workmanship and material for one year from the original date of purchase.
Trek vs. Giant: What Their Warranties Don’t Cover
- Normal wear and tear
- Corrosion
- Improper maintenance
- Improper assembly
- Installation of any components, accessories, and parts not originally intended for or compatible with the bicycle when sold
- Damage or failure due to misuse, accident, abuse, or neglect
- Labor charges for the replacement of parts or changeover
- Non-proprietary products – any other original component or part – covered by the original manufacturer’s warranty
Any modification of the bike’s frame, fork, or any of the components will void the warranty in its entirety. The warranty will be valid from the purchase date and is expressly limited to the replacement or repair of defective items at the manufacturer’s discretion.
All bikes must be registered when bought by the manufacturers to place the bike under warranty. Spending lots of cash on a bike and not registering it for a warranty is negligent. Please remember to register your new bike immediately.
Trek vs. Giant: Customer Service
Both manufacturers offer excellent customer service, as you would expect from industry leaders, such as themselves:
Having the most retail outlets and service centers, Trek might edge Giant in this department regarding faster service delivery.
Conclusion
If you are stuck with a set budget, then Giant may be the bike for you. If your finances allow for it, and you like flashy things, then Trek is the easier choice. High-performance road bikes are Trek’s domain at the moment. A Giant will do just fine for the average rider looking for a comfortable, more playful ride.
When it comes to Trek vs. Giant, one will always bring out a better model than the other, placing the ball in the other’s court. The thing is that the rival always responds with innovation and upgrades, which is why the bicycling industry is in such a healthy state.
It all comes down to personal preference, and the whole world can tell you what’s best, but until you get on the saddle of the bike, it’s all just noise. Try both brands at least once, and make your choice from personal experience.
I always had a thing for cycling sports and love almost anything that involves bikes and boards. I work part-time as a designer in the tech industry and work on my blogs whenever I can.