29,9 kg (Manufacture’s Specifications) | € 5,799 | Manufacturer’s Website
With the new GIANT Explore E+, the world’s biggest bike manufacturer isn’t just unveiling the latest generation of its trekking hardtail first introduced in 2011, but an entirely new ecosystem: the new E+ System built around the proven SyncDrive Pro2 motor. The goal is clear: one bike for everything. From gravel roads to light trails to city traffic, the Explore is designed to handle every scenario while combining comfort, range, and everyday practicality. But does it truly pull off this balancing act, or does it remain just a claim on paper?
The sturdy alloy frame and different spec options are meant to turn this versatile concept into reality, making every outing an “exploring ride.” GIANT itself can point to a bit of heritage with the Explore: the first generation launched in 2011 with an external battery, while the second generation introduced a semi-integrated solution. Now, with the fourth generation, GIANT aim to redefine e-trekking – with more integration, smarter interaction, and the new E+ System at its core.
The Explore E+ is available with a classic diamond frame in sizes M, L, XL, and XXL, as well as with a trapeze frame with a lowered top tube in sizes S to XL. With this range, GIANT aim to cater to as many riders as possible – from commuters to adventurers. The top-spec version we tested retails at €5,799.
Integration und Nutzerfreundlichkeit – Das E+ System im neuen GIANT Explore E+
Integration and user-friendliness – nothing less is the ambition behind the new E+ System in the GIANT Explore E+. Borrowing from the term “infotainment,” more familiar from car design, GIANT now bring the concept to the bike world – but not with an oversized Tesla-style screen. Instead, it’s minimalist and neatly integrated into the cockpit. On the left and right sit the new RideControl Ergo 4 remotes, complemented by the fresh RideDash EVO 2.0, a 3″ LCD display positioned right on the stem.
The remotes are identical in design and feature three buttons with solid tactile feedback. The left unit lets you navigate the menu and change the motor’s support levels. Press and hold the top button, and the SyncDrive Pro2 motor switches to Auto mode – confirmed by a symbol on the display. The right remote handles shifting control and, depending on the spec, also operates the automatic mode, such as with the Enviolo Automatiq trekking hub.
The real work is done by the GIANT SyncDrive Pro2 motor, which has been in use for several years now. With 85 Nm of torque, it has plenty of oomph for a trekking bike. The system draws its power from the removable 800 Wh GIANT EnergyPak Smart 800 battery. For even longer tours, a 250 Wh range extender can be added to the diamond frame version. Due to the frame design, however, the step-through version has to do without the extra juice.
From the cockpit, we move to the new PowerButton GO2, which is meant not only to turn on and off the motor, but also to display the battery level – though that feature didn’t work on our test bike. Once the GIANT Explore E+ is registered in the GIANT RideControl app, you can secure it with E-Lock using a four-digit PIN code in addition to a physical lock. The motor remains inactive if the bike is moved – and an alarm goes off. Admittedly, it won’t drown out a JBL speaker in the park, but it’s enough of a deterrent. On top of that, there’s GPS tracking via Apple “Find My,” so you can locate your bike at any time. Nice!
Learn more about the GIANT Explore E+, its innovative technology, and who the bike is really made for in the detailed article on our sister magazine E-MOUNTAINBIKE.
Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: GIANT
