First Ride of the Year! Aventon Ramblas and Giant Trance X E+3

Setting the Scene and Introducing the Bikes

• Scott Hardesty and his friend Steve are at Alpine Valley Trail in East Troy, Wisconsin, gearing up to test the Aventon Ramblas and Giant Trance X E+3 bikes.
• They plan to start with Scott riding the Ramblas and Steve leading the way, as he’s more experienced having ridden bikes for about 30 years.
• The trail consists of challenging sections, with Scott mentioning it’s 72% Black Diamond, but Steve reassures him that these Midwest trails are not as difficult as others.

“Today we are going to put the Ramblas out on the trails and also we are using my giant out here on the trails as well. Steve hasn’t tried out any of these bikes yet, so first, we’re going to do the first lap with me on the Ramblas.”

Trail Experience and Bike Adjustments

• Scott opts for wider grips on the Aventon Ramblas, seeking a more comfortable hold for the ride.
• The duo plans for an 8-mile ride across challenging terrain, aiming for at least two laps, potentially extending the day by visiting another bike park.
• Scott reflects on the differences between the two bikes’ handlebar widths, considering potential adjustments based on his experience during the ride.

“The only changes I have made to this bike was switching out the grips. The ones that come stock with the Aventon seemed a little bit too thin.”

Riding Challenges and Revelations

• While tackling tricky terrain and obstacles, Scott expresses his increased comfort and confidence while riding the Giant Trance X E+3 compared to the Ramblas.
• He highlights that while extreme feats are seen on social media, average riders like him find joy and capability in bikes like the Giant for challenging trails.
• Scott humorously navigates obstacles, including a rock garden, showcasing the enjoyment and adventure of mountain biking for riders of all skill levels.

“With this bike, I feel more comfortable hitting stuff like that than I do with that one.”

Bike Adjustments on the Go and Group Experience

• During the riding session, a minor issue with the dropper post occurs, resulting in an impromptu fix using tools carried along for adjustments.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of having tools during rides for quick fixes and adjustments, showcasing the practical aspect of preparing for unexpected mechanical challenges encountered on the trail.
• The duo shares a light-hearted moment while addressing and rectifying the mechanical issue swiftly to resume the ride experience together.

“This is why you always take tools with you out on the trail so you can make adjustments.”

Bike Comparison and Issues

• The rider notes that the dropper post may have been slipping due to the weight on it and decides to adjust it.
• He appreciates the smooth movement of the seat and dropper seat post on the Aventon Ramblas bike.
• Despite facing a slight issue with the dropper post, the rider enjoys the biking experience on both the Aventon Ramblas and Giant Trance X E+3.
• Quote: “I love the seat and the dropper seat post on this bike. I mean, it just moves super smooth.”

The rider adjusts the dropper post due to a suspected issue with slipping and praises the smooth movement of the seat and post.

Climbing Experience and Performance

• The rider struggles with climbing against Steve on the more powerful bike and adjusts the assistance mode to match the terrain.
• Despite the challenge, the rider finds climbing enjoyable and comments on the fun experience with hardtail bikes on climbs.
• Quote: “You’re blowing me away on the climbs. It’s so fun on the climbs. It is. That’s wild. Probably one of the funnest hardtails there is out there.”

The rider finds climbing exhilarating, enjoying the challenge even while falling behind Steve and adjusting the assistance mode accordingly.

Trail Riding and Bike Comparison

• The rider completes two laps, each showcasing different aspects of the Giant Trance and Aventon Ramblas bikes.
• Steve provides feedback on both bikes, highlighting the differing riding experiences on each concerning power and agility on climbs.
• The rider plans to address issues with the dropper post on the Ramblas and considers potential changes to the tires for the trails.
• Quote: “When it comes to the Rambler, that might be the only weak part about this bike.”

The rider evaluates the bikes after multiple laps, discussing Steve’s feedback and potential adjustments needed, like fixing the dropper post issue.