Giant Defy Advanced & Liv Avail E+: A New Era in E-Bike Technology
Giant has launched its latest electric road bike lineups: the Defy Advanced E+ Elite and the Liv Avail E+ Elite. These all-new models incorporate an integrated power system that weighs a mere 2.3 kg, marking a significant advancement in e-bike technology.
Both the Defy and Avail E+ models build upon the success of Giant’s best-selling performance road bikes. By incorporating key features alongside motorized pedal assistance, Giant promises riders will experience “the excitement of traditional road cycling with the added power to travel further and faster.” In terms of aesthetics, both e-bikes blend seamlessly with conventional road bikes, making them suitable for group rides without raising any eyebrows. However, it’s the innovative technology beneath the surface that sets the E+ Elite models apart, as they are designed to be lighter, smarter, and safer than ever.
Introducing the SyncDrive Move Plus Motor
At the heart of both models lies the new SyncDrive Move Plus motor. Weighing in at just 1.7 kg (approximately 3.75 lbs), this rear-hub motor has been engineered specifically for e-road cycling. But what does this mean for the riding experience?
Giant emphasizes “seamless power” delivery, creating a ride quality that closely resembles that of a traditional road bike. When starting from a standstill, power is gradually increased to prevent the sudden surge often felt with e-bikes. Similarly, when the rider stops pedaling, the motor reduces assistance gradually, avoiding any jarring sensations or the feeling of the bike dragging. The motor’s positioning plays a crucial role in this natural pedaling sensation. Since it operates in conjunction with the rear wheel, the motor’s RPMs are synchronized with the wheel’s speed. As with all e-bikes, assistance levels are region-specific: 45 km/h in the U.S., 32 km/h in Canada, and 25 km/h in Europe.
The SyncDrive motor offers 30 Nm of torque, which Giant equates to about 75 Nm in a mid-drive motor. Riders can choose from five levels of support, including an automatic mode that adjusts output using advanced algorithms based on real-time conditions. The Power mode is particularly noteworthy; it provides an automatic boost when riding slowly yet pedaling hard, making it easier to tackle hills or combat headwinds.
Control is straightforward with a button integrated into the top tube of the frame, and riders can customize their settings through the Ridecontrol app.
Enhanced Battery Technology: The Energypak 400
Every motor requires a reliable battery, and the SyncDrive motor is paired with Panasonic’s Energypak 400. As the name suggests, this integrated 400Wh battery is housed within the down tube and weighs under a kilogram. The combined weight of the motor and battery is a mere 2.3 kg (5 lbs), allowing for a lighter overall design. Charging is facilitated via a discreet port, and riders also have the option of a 200Wh range extender, potentially increasing the bike’s range to an impressive 93 miles with optimized battery usage.
Featuring a 22700 cell type, Giant claims the Energypak 400 outperforms standard battery systems due to its lithium-ion cells, which are tailored to meet the demands of road cycling. The enhanced density, reduced weight, and higher volume contribute to better cooling performance—an essential feature when both bike and battery are under strain. Safety is paramount, and Giant has equipped the Energypak 400 with an aluminum casing for improved impact resistance. Additionally, it features temperature monitoring and individually cased cells to prevent overheating. Notably, these batteries are produced in a CO2-neutral facility, setting a new standard in the industry.
Frameset, Components, and Pricing
Both the Defy and Avail frames utilize Giant’s Advanced composite carbon, the same material found in their traditional counterparts, designed to strike a balance between stiffness and compliance while remaining lightweight. Riders will also benefit from D-Fuse handlebars and seatposts, which effectively dampen vibrations, a hallmark of Giant and Liv road bikes. With tire clearance of up to 38mm, these e-bikes are built for comfort and versatility.
Exclusively featuring SRAM AXS groupsets, the top-tier Elite 0 models are equipped with the high-end Red AXS, complete with handlebar blips. The entry-level options, including the Elite 2 and Elite AR, utilize the Force AXS groupset, with the all-road variant opting for a 1x setup instead of the traditional two-chainring system.
Pricing for the Giant Defy Advanced E+ Elite and Liv Avail E+ line begins at $6,500 / £5,999 for the AR models, reaching up to $11,000 / £9,999 for the Elite AR variants.
Curious about the new Giant Defy Advanced and Liv Avail E+ e-bikes? Check out their innovative features and share your thoughts in the comments below! What do you value most in an e-bike?
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Kristina Grant is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
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Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
