With the Seek range, Giant have brought a range of 4 quick, urban commuter bikes to the market at a time when more and more cyclists are looking to use bikes around town. The call is for sturdy bikes that will stand up to the hard life on the streets, but are fast and fun to ride.
The Giant Seek looks to me to have all those qualities - It's robust, but not over-burdened with features that you don't need; quick but not so lightweight that it's vulnerable to damage. The range is big enough for choice but not overwhelming. There's no question of just putting models into the range for the sake of it - every member of the range is there on merit.
As you would anticipate, some features are shown by all bikes in the range:-
" Sleek hydroformed aluminium frame, with refined metallic finishes. The top tube has a stainless sleeve to protect the paintwork from wear.
" Aluminium forks on all models. No carbon is used - this is not really a disadvantage, as one of the foremost aims is a bike that will resist damage.
" Disc brakes throughout. For all-condition performance discs can't be beaten. Mechanical operation on the entry-level model, hydraulic on all the rest.
" Strong wheel rims, with 32mm tyres. 32mm tyres are fine for going off the road from time to time, but at the same time they are fairly easy-rolling on the tarmac.
" The pedals are flat, so fine for riding in trainers and the saddle is a good comfortable model. There's a good range of sizes as well.
What about the particular models in the Seek range?
" The Seek 3 is the entry-level bike. It has all the features listed above. There are 24 gears from sound Shimano components and Tektro mechanical discs. Finished in metallic grey enamel, the Seek 3 offers a great way into the range, and has all you need in a fast budget commuter bike.
" The Seek 2 offers hydraulic disc brakes - so much smoother control over the power. The gears are improved in quality, and an increase from 24 to 27 ratios. The handlebar is forged from larger-diameter tubing, and supported on a nicer stem. If you like to stand out from the crowd, you'll love the matt white finish.
" The next model up the range is the Seek 1. There are a number of upgrades here. Avid Elixir hydraulic disc brakes are well worth having, The gear components are picked from a better part of the Shimano range and the fork is hydroformed to go with the frame - it looks better and will be stronger too. These upgrades mean that there's a bit of a jump in price, but worth it I think.
" Top of the range is the Seek 0. In all respects but one, the Seek 0 is identical to the preceding model. The difference is in the gears. The drive is no longer derailleur-based, but now has an 8-speed internal hub by Alfine. A simple trigger selects the gears, the whole look of the bike is simplified and so the package looks ideal for high-quality no-frills urban cycling - where the last thing you need are distractions when your mind should be on the other traffic. The finish, in brushed silver is very smart too.
When you stand back and look at the options, the Giant Seek rangelooks to have ticked all the boxes. From a reasonably-priced entry-level bike which offers probably all you really need, through to the Seek0 at the top of the range, where quality and sophistication really shines through, there seems to be a model for everyone.
Author Resource:-
You can read more about the Giant Seek range together with alternatives such as the Scott Sportster at Tern Cycling Reviews.
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