I have 2 giant bikes. A 2011 defy advanced and a 2020 revolt advanced. For the price point I am considering to get this bike. $3600 with a power meter is a bargain!
It certainly is. I also own a revolt 0 and 2020 defy advanced pro. Check out those videos as well. Please, like and subscribe. Ill be making more videos as the weather gets nicer
I switched to 28mm GP5000S TR. Ohh man! Night and day. On the stock tires it felt like someone was pulling me back. Also, now it feels like I'm riding on marshmallows.
Hey Tony, thanks for reviewing this bike. There are tons of videos out there for the disc brake version of this bike. Nice to have a review of the forgotten rim brake version! Everyone in the cycling world seems to have given up on the rim brake and is willing spend an extra $1200+ on a new disc brake bike. I know disc brakes have better braking performance and you won’t wear out the carbon rims but rim brakes still get the job done on flatter terrain, and you can get more bike for your money.
I'll be honest. I like the rim brake better. True, disk work better, but remember. It only works as well as the tire can hold the ground. Once traction breaks thats it. And I never wore out a rim yet. There's a place for disk, but it's not needed on road yet. But I'm sure there are riders out here who would argue based on reviews and team riders that have sponsors. But fir the regular guys.... rim can win
@@blkbelttony I prefer rim brake too. Getting harder to find. Heard some great reviews of Direct Mount rim brakes but it doesn't appear your TCR has them.
Hi Tony, nice clip and your bike is absolut cool - realy unique! One ,I think, interesting point: you are with the hookless-cardex rims bound to wheels of Giant and Cardex. Did you have until now any punctures or other larger problems with this wheelsets or significant experience? And second: As I understood you from the comments below right: the TCR is still halfway comfortable for long term rides, and not too bumpy? Greetings from Europe/Germany
Thanks for the great review. As far I as can tell, the only difference between this version and the Pro 1 Disc are rim versus disc brakes? And $1000!!! $3500 versus $4500 for the bike with disc brakes.
Hi Tony, Thanks for excellent review. Quick questions since you have a lot of TCR experience. I have a 2018 Giant TCO Advanced pro 1, and whenever in the big chain ring, when riding in almost every cog in the rear, the chain is quite noisy. I have tried many different lubes, including wax and Chain-L, I have even replaced the original supplied KMC with a Shimano Ultegra chain. Regardless of What I have tried, still got the chain noise when using the big chain ring up front. Did you ever experience this with your TCR's and if so were you able to resolve the issue?? Thanks in advance. PS the gold accents look totally awesome, also those new Giant hookless wheels are beautiful and I may need to consider getting a set once they become available, or maybe sell my 2018 TCR and get the 2021. Take care.
Thanks for watching and comments. Have you replaced the large chain ring? Perhaps its worn out? I have never had an issue with the drive train on any of my tcr's. Some lubes are going to help with noise. Let me know how you make out.
@@blkbelttony Hey Tony, Thanks for the reply. Actually my TCR has very few miles ridden, the chain rings are new as I recently replaced the originally supplied 52/36 with a an Ultegra 50/34. Lots of big climbs out here in the San Francisco Bay Area, and for me at least the lower gearing is helpful trying to keep up with those young guys.... I recently cleaned the chain and applied the new Silca chain wax, and was surprised that the drive train is much quieter with the wax lube. Anyway, I checked with a friend who has a TCR and my perception of "noisy" is actually typical. I was comparing to my Giant aluminum Contend with 105, which is absolutely silent. A couple of friends also suggested that carbon frames and carbon wheels could contribute to an impression of a noisy drive train. Really love my TCR and always enjoy your vids and well produced reviews. Take care back there.
Great review Tony. I’ve got the TCR Advanced Pro Disc 0 2017 which is a great bike, I’ve squeezed 28mm Conti 5000 tyres on there for added comfort, our roads in the UK sound on par with yours in NJ. I’ve got my eye on the 2021 Defy Advanced Pro 2, although this video and your others on the new TCR have also got me thinking about ‘Whch Bike Next?’. So, if you had to lose all but one of your bikes, which one would stay?
That’s true. And with the 28mm GP5000s it’s plenty plush enough for 40 miles or so. Anything longer I’ve got a nice Burls Ti with Campy Chorus, that rides beautifully.
Do you think the pr2 wheels really bog a bike down? I heard there the heaviest rims and there stock. I have a 2018 Giant TCR ADVANCE DISK KOM colors black and orange. Still have the stock pr2 wheels on it. I heard once I upgrade them I should feel a big difference. I have a xsmall. I'm only 5'5
Hi Tony, what’s your view on this vs equivalent propel? Most of my rides are sub 60km and it’s flat where I live. Should I go with light or aero? Thanks for your input
To be honest I can't compare the 2. I never rode the propel for a long ride. I have 2 friends that do and use them for 100 mile rides all the time. If I had to guess the aero advantage won't matter unless you can hold faster speeds. They both bought the propel based on looks but have no regrets. So I'd buy the bike that calls to you the most and just enjoy it. FYI. My fastest average speeds on flats are with my 2020 defy advanced pro 2 on 32c tires and Reynolds wheels. Sometimes comfort makes you faster
I am thinking about getting that bike. Does the bottom bracket creak? Also, I heard that spacers are scratching the frame on that bike. Is that true? I am mainly concerned about the bottom bracket cuz it is a press fit. I am a new to cycling and all the CZcams reviews say that press fit is hit or miss and I am concerned about it. Anything else you think is of concern, I would surely appreciate it.
I've had many giants with press fit. I'm over 200lbs and put out almost 1600 watts on a sprint. On bikes with lower quality control press fit can be a pain. As far as the spacers go. Yes, it will rub if you use an aftermarket stem. It needs to be trimmed if you gi that route. 2 minutes with a dremmal. Never had any other problems. I absolutely love this bike.
Defy is a very comfortable bike. The 32c tires let it roll smoothly over many surfaces. You can feel the extra weight, but it still moves. Riding position is obviously more upright and feels like a larger bike. The tcr feels very light , fast and loves to be sprinted. It rolls way smoother than you would expect from a race bike. So to answer your question... both smooth and comfortable but the defy is an edge better in those departments. Tcr is faster
@@blkbelttony I'm planning to buy small, my height is 5'8" is that perfectly fit mine? and if ever could I suggest to them to change my crank to my preferred length of crank arm? I like 172.5 though hehe
Hello sir, when you bought your bike is the giant neostrack speed sensor included? And did you cut the steerer tube at the store? I'm about to pick up my bike same as yours, tomorrow. Thank you in advance
No, the speed sensors is not included. The power meter on the cranks will also give cadence but speed is by GPS. I cut the steerer myself at the store.
5'11" and brakes work great. Disk brakes are cool and feel smooth, but if rim brakes still work for the pros they are just fine for us. Let me put it this way. The brakes will easily over power the tires. You will skid if you pull them all the way. Even on damp mornings my bike will stop
@@blkbelttony Thanks man! One more, how would you compare this bike to your defy? I'm trying to decide between the two, but I'm leaning towards the TCR.
@@Samdroid7 the 2021 tcrs are very comfortable. I sold my 2018 because I wanted comfort. I missed the tcr so I went and bought this one. Now I wish I never bought the defy. Thats not putting down the defy.its a great bike fir the person who wants to tour. Im a sprinter at heart
hi does anyone know the tire clearance of thi model? if it is the same frame as the disc version could I assume it will have the same tire clearance of 32 mm? (maybe changing the brake calipers)
@@blkbelttony Hi Tony, thanks for your answer. I was referring to the space in the frame. I'd like to know if swapping the brake calipers for bigger ones I could be able to fit a larger tire than 28 mm.
@@blkbelttony and stiffness wise? Do you think it lacks any stiffness? I might pull off the tigger so literally checking all reviews available! Thanks a lot for taking the time and replying to me. Means a lot, mate.
@@mostafaradwan3457 this bike is very stiff on the sprints and climbs, but handles bumps very well. I believe it's the second stiffest bike in its class or stiffest and 2nd lightest in its class. You will love it.
adv has aluminium steerer tube with standard 1 1/8 diameter, adv pro has carbon steerer tube with larger 1 1/4 diameter (which limits selection of stems a bit). The frame itself is the same.
Hello sir, I just got my giant tcr advanced pro 1, I'm so disappointed to the bike shop who built my bike, they didn't accommodate me well, the customer service was so so bad. They forgot to give me my power meter charger and the worst scenario was they didn't give me anything that comes with the giant tcr bike after they build it, like you will feel that they just want me to get the bike and leave the store. How was your experienced when you got your bike sir from the dealer? What did they gave you that comes from the giant? So I have an idea if I'm missing something. Thank you so much in advance
I'm very sorry you had a bad experience with your bike shop. Your bike should come eith the charger and all the spare frame plugs and reflectors. It is possible that the shop just forgot to hand them over. Also included is giants basic owners safety manual. Ask them for all this. I actually built my own bike at my local shop so I'd have no one to blame for missing parts.
And if you don't mind, when you got your bike did you order it at the giant dealer and you are the one who told them to get it build? Because If I just knew I build it on my own as well. Because the frame box that should be there they disposed it.
TCR Giant, are the best road bikes in world.
Smooth
Sharp
Handles like a dream, like a missile.
Those gold decorations 🔥🔥🔥
your reviews on this bike convinced me on getting this bike soon, great review buddy...
That's great to hear. Im glad I could help you out. Let us know what you think when you get yours
Very nice! Finally a rim brake version review! Just got one myself. Had a 2005 T Mobile, a 2017 Pro and now 2021 Adv 1 Pro. Beautiful!!
Thank you for watching
Absolute stunner fella, black and gold combo is a classic🤙🏼
Thank you
Fantastic bike, Tony!
Thanks joe
very nice dude - lovely detailing - i'm picking the same bike up in small today
Awesome, you will love it im sure.
Were you able to get yours? What was the weight on size Small?
This is the One! One focus One Vision the Giant with One Eye, Cyclopian Perfection. Nailed it with this video Tony, you def Ride Da Kine !
Thank you for watching
I have 2 giant bikes. A 2011 defy advanced and a 2020 revolt advanced. For the price point I am considering to get this bike. $3600 with a power meter is a bargain!
It certainly is. I also own a revolt 0 and 2020 defy advanced pro. Check out those videos as well. Please, like and subscribe. Ill be making more videos as the weather gets nicer
I like the bling Tony. Not over the top. Good work.
Thank you
16pounds that i want hear thanks!👍
Looks great, love the gold ( maybe add gold chain) I love my TCR
Thank you.. Look at 1:35. I went with a gold and black chain. It stands out really nicely in the sun. Perfect contrast. .
Can’t u see the gold chain u must not have watched the video fully 😂amazing bike and video hats off to u sir
I switched to 28mm GP5000S TR. Ohh man! Night and day. On the stock tires it felt like someone was pulling me back. Also, now it feels like I'm riding on marshmallows.
Hey Tony, thanks for reviewing this bike. There are tons of videos out there for the disc brake version of this bike. Nice to have a review of the forgotten rim brake version!
Everyone in the cycling world seems to have given up on the rim brake and is willing spend an extra $1200+ on a new disc brake bike. I know disc brakes have better braking performance and you won’t wear out the carbon rims but rim brakes still get the job done on flatter terrain, and you can get more bike for your money.
I'll be honest. I like the rim brake better. True, disk work better, but remember. It only works as well as the tire can hold the ground. Once traction breaks thats it. And I never wore out a rim yet. There's a place for disk, but it's not needed on road yet. But I'm sure there are riders out here who would argue based on reviews and team riders that have sponsors. But fir the regular guys.... rim can win
@@blkbelttony I prefer rim brake too. Getting harder to find. Heard some great reviews of Direct Mount rim brakes but it doesn't appear your TCR has them.
@@stevehambley55 no, direct mounts are not available on a tcr, but I can say the brakes are strong enough to stop me and I'm over 209lbs.
Hi Tony, nice clip and your bike is absolut cool - realy unique! One ,I think, interesting point: you are with the hookless-cardex rims bound to wheels of Giant and Cardex. Did you have until now any punctures or other larger problems with this wheelsets or significant experience? And second: As I understood you from the comments below right: the TCR is still halfway comfortable for long term rides, and not too bumpy? Greetings from Europe/Germany
No problems at all with the wheels or tires. Perfect so far. Bike is very comfortable
Beautiful bike
Thank you
Thanks for the great review. As far I as can tell, the only difference between this version and the Pro 1 Disc are rim versus disc brakes? And $1000!!! $3500 versus $4500 for the bike with disc brakes.
Very true.i rode both bikes.disk is just slightly and unnoticeable heavier.
Great video Tony. You have both a TCR and Defy. What bike would be your choice as an all-arounder (non-gravel)… TCR or Defy ?
Tcr if it's 2021 . Pre 21 was a hard ride
Hi Tony, Thanks for excellent review. Quick questions since you have a lot of TCR experience. I have a 2018 Giant TCO Advanced pro 1, and whenever in the big chain ring, when riding in almost every cog in the rear, the chain is quite noisy. I have tried many different lubes, including wax and Chain-L, I have even replaced the original supplied KMC with a Shimano Ultegra chain. Regardless of What I have tried, still got the chain noise when using the big chain ring up front. Did you ever experience this with your TCR's and if so were you able to resolve the issue?? Thanks in advance.
PS the gold accents look totally awesome, also those new Giant hookless wheels are beautiful and I may need to consider getting a set once they become available, or maybe sell my 2018 TCR and get the 2021. Take care.
Thanks for watching and comments. Have you replaced the large chain ring? Perhaps its worn out? I have never had an issue with the drive train on any of my tcr's. Some lubes are going to help with noise. Let me know how you make out.
@@blkbelttony Hey Tony, Thanks for the reply. Actually my TCR has very few miles ridden, the chain rings are new as I recently replaced the originally supplied 52/36 with a an Ultegra 50/34. Lots of big climbs out here in the San Francisco Bay Area, and for me at least the lower gearing is helpful trying to keep up with those young guys.... I recently cleaned the chain and applied the new Silca chain wax, and was surprised that the drive train is much quieter with the wax lube.
Anyway, I checked with a friend who has a TCR and my perception of "noisy" is actually typical. I was comparing to my Giant aluminum Contend with 105, which is absolutely silent. A couple of friends also suggested that carbon frames and carbon wheels could contribute to an impression of a noisy drive train. Really love my TCR and always enjoy your vids and well produced reviews. Take care back there.
U need to re wrap the bars, clamps showing through on the hood
Curious what Cat are you?
Sweet rim brake 👍
Thank you
@@blkbelttony I have the regular advanced. Currently considering the SL frameset as an upgrade 😁
Tony, when you decided to change your tires what brand and model you’re buying
I'm sticking with giant tires. Probably the cadex line. I never had issues with any giant tire after 2018
Hello sir. Good review! May I ask where did you buy your road bike? I'm planning to buy one. Thank you in advance.
All my bikes come from giant of jersey city, grove street bicycles
Jersey city, New Jersey
can i ask what sealant you use for the tyres? and what has been your experience with punctures thus far?
I run regular stans sealant. Fingers crossed no flats so far. I run 82 to 85 psi.
Great review Tony. I’ve got the TCR Advanced Pro Disc 0 2017 which is a great bike, I’ve squeezed 28mm Conti 5000 tyres on there for added comfort, our roads in the UK sound on par with yours in NJ.
I’ve got my eye on the 2021 Defy Advanced Pro 2, although this video and your others on the new TCR have also got me thinking about ‘Whch Bike Next?’.
So, if you had to lose all but one of your bikes, which one would stay?
Actually if I had to keep only one bike it would be my gravel bike. But between my defy or tcr... tcr.
I’ve just been to my Bike Cave, looked over my TCR and thought ‘nah, give it another year’
Plus that black with orange on your bike looks great
That’s true. And with the 28mm GP5000s it’s plenty plush enough for 40 miles or so. Anything longer I’ve got a nice Burls Ti with Campy Chorus, that rides beautifully.
nice!
Where did you get the gold 1 on the wheels? Looks great!👍
I bought gold vinyl sticker sheet and cut it out myself. Sheet came from a craft store
@@blkbelttony ha! Clever idea!
Thank you
Do you think the pr2 wheels really bog a bike down? I heard there the heaviest rims and there stock. I have a 2018 Giant TCR ADVANCE DISK KOM colors black and orange. Still have the stock pr2 wheels on it. I heard once I upgrade them I should feel a big difference. I have a xsmall. I'm only 5'5
Yes, get carbon wheels.they will make a difference. Lighter, stiffer, and faster
Hi Tony, what’s your view on this vs equivalent propel? Most of my rides are sub 60km and it’s flat where I live. Should I go with light or aero? Thanks for your input
To be honest I can't compare the 2. I never rode the propel for a long ride. I have 2 friends that do and use them for 100 mile rides all the time. If I had to guess the aero advantage won't matter unless you can hold faster speeds. They both bought the propel based on looks but have no regrets. So I'd buy the bike that calls to you the most and just enjoy it. FYI. My fastest average speeds on flats are with my 2020 defy advanced pro 2 on 32c tires and Reynolds wheels. Sometimes comfort makes you faster
I am thinking about getting that bike. Does the bottom bracket creak? Also, I heard that spacers are scratching the frame on that bike. Is that true? I am mainly concerned about the bottom bracket cuz it is a press fit. I am a new to cycling and all the CZcams reviews say that press fit is hit or miss and I am concerned about it. Anything else you think is of concern, I would surely appreciate it.
I've had many giants with press fit. I'm over 200lbs and put out almost 1600 watts on a sprint. On bikes with lower quality control press fit can be a pain. As far as the spacers go. Yes, it will rub if you use an aftermarket stem. It needs to be trimmed if you gi that route. 2 minutes with a dremmal. Never had any other problems. I absolutely love this bike.
I’m debating between this and the Defy. If there a big difference in the comfort/ ride quality?
Defy is a very comfortable bike. The 32c tires let it roll smoothly over many surfaces. You can feel the extra weight, but it still moves. Riding position is obviously more upright and feels like a larger bike. The tcr feels very light , fast and loves to be sprinted. It rolls way smoother than you would expect from a race bike. So to answer your question... both smooth and comfortable but the defy is an edge better in those departments. Tcr is faster
Thanks for the feedback!
I believe you mentioned you are using a black and gold chain. What is the name of the other all gold chain?
Both are kmc-sl 11speed chains
Hi Tony..I'm planning to get the same bike...how long do the rims last?
Like any carbon wheel. Keep it clean, use the right pads, and they will be fine
@@blkbelttony thank you buddy.. Appreciate it.👌🏻
Hi Tony, I'm planning to buy also Giant tcr advanced pro 1, may I ask what's the crank arm length of your bike? Thank you!
My bike comes with 172.5 . But that will change depending on what size frame you buy
@@blkbelttony I'm planning to buy small, my height is 5'8" is that perfectly fit mine? and if ever could I suggest to them to change my crank to my preferred length of crank arm? I like 172.5 though hehe
when you climb out of saddle does the head tube where the cables run out, rub on your legs? was that an issue?
Not at all. I have 32" inseam and it never hit. Once you ride the bike those cables disappear
Hello sir, when you bought your bike is the giant neostrack speed sensor included? And did you cut the steerer tube at the store? I'm about to pick up my bike same as yours, tomorrow. Thank you in advance
No, the speed sensors is not included. The power meter on the cranks will also give cadence but speed is by GPS.
I cut the steerer myself at the store.
Can you comment on the braking performance? And how tall are you?
5'11" and brakes work great. Disk brakes are cool and feel smooth, but if rim brakes still work for the pros they are just fine for us. Let me put it this way. The brakes will easily over power the tires. You will skid if you pull them all the way. Even on damp mornings my bike will stop
@@blkbelttony Thanks man! One more, how would you compare this bike to your defy? I'm trying to decide between the two, but I'm leaning towards the TCR.
@@Samdroid7 the 2021 tcrs are very comfortable. I sold my 2018 because I wanted comfort. I missed the tcr so I went and bought this one. Now I wish I never bought the defy. Thats not putting down the defy.its a great bike fir the person who wants to tour. Im a sprinter at heart
hi does anyone know the tire clearance of thi model?
if it is the same frame as the disc version could I assume it will have the same tire clearance of 32 mm? (maybe changing the brake calipers)
28 max due to brake calipers
@@blkbelttony Hi Tony, thanks for your answer. I was referring to the space in the frame. I'd like to know if swapping the brake calipers for bigger ones I could be able to fit a larger tire than 28 mm.
I'd say probably not. I just looked at pics of my bike and it looks 28 would be the biggest I'd put in
Do they brake good? I have now a tcr disc brake and I have a lot of problems with the braking system so yeah
Rim brakes can easily over power the tires, so yes, it stops very well.
@@blkbelttony are the rubbers on the shifters sometimes a litte bit loose?
@@Maxovico not sure what you are referring to. The rubber hoods? If so, not mine feel very tight.
Hello sir, may I ask what is your pedal? Is it already included when you bought the whole bike? Thank you in advance 👊
It's shimano ultegra 8000. No,it does not come with pedals
@@blkbelttony thank you sir. How will you rate your Giant Neostrack? Is the speed sensor or details accurate?
@@rupsdelson I love that computer. It seems to be very accurate
@@blkbelttony Btw I like how you reviewed your bike sir 👊. Thank you so much. Always ride safe and more vlogs to follow! 🙂
Bling! Bling!
Hey Tony, could i know the weight of the whole bike ?
My bike with the parts on it comes in at 15.9 lbs
thank you.
Where can I get those skewers?
www.ezbikestore.com/
Did you encounter any speed wobble with this bike?
Never. Bike is smooth and very stable
@@blkbelttony and stiffness wise? Do you think it lacks any stiffness? I might pull off the tigger so literally checking all reviews available! Thanks a lot for taking the time and replying to me. Means a lot, mate.
@@mostafaradwan3457 this bike is very stiff on the sprints and climbs, but handles bumps very well. I believe it's the second stiffest bike in its class or stiffest and 2nd lightest in its class. You will love it.
Are these bike got hookless rim please can you explain what ate they and is it a big disadvantage
East answer is hookless will allow the tire to be wider than a hook type rim. Sov25c feels like 28c all with less weight
@@blkbelttony can I put any Tyre on these wheels and any rube on these wheels and are they clincher
No, giant only allows certain tires. Go to giants website. And no, do not use tubes.
What is the name of the tires again?
Giant gavia ac 1
How does the bike ride?!
New tcrs are very smooth and comfortable, but stiff when you push it like in a sprint. Feels very light but solid.
what is the difference adv pro and adv?
Overdrive 2 headset, power core bottom bracket.
@@blkbelttony means headtube biger or same
It's bigger. Larger bearings. Stiffer
adv has aluminium steerer tube with standard 1 1/8 diameter, adv pro has carbon steerer tube with larger 1 1/4 diameter (which limits selection of stems a bit).
The frame itself is the same.
Hello sir, I just got my giant tcr advanced pro 1, I'm so disappointed to the bike shop who built my bike, they didn't accommodate me well, the customer service was so so bad. They forgot to give me my power meter charger and the worst scenario was they didn't give me anything that comes with the giant tcr bike after they build it, like you will feel that they just want me to get the bike and leave the store. How was your experienced when you got your bike sir from the dealer? What did they gave you that comes from the giant? So I have an idea if I'm missing something. Thank you so much in advance
I'm very sorry you had a bad experience with your bike shop. Your bike should come eith the charger and all the spare frame plugs and reflectors. It is possible that the shop just forgot to hand them over. Also included is giants basic owners safety manual. Ask them for all this. I actually built my own bike at my local shop so I'd have no one to blame for missing parts.
So they should have give me a reflectors and like some frame tape protectors?
@@rupsdelson yes, the frame plugs are to cover the holes where cables go in. So let's say you get electric shifting, those cable holes get filled
And if you don't mind, when you got your bike did you order it at the giant dealer and you are the one who told them to get it build? Because If I just knew I build it on my own as well. Because the frame box that should be there they disposed it.
@@rupsdelson yes, I ordered it through my dealer. I was able to build my bike myself at the dealer.
Talking about eye candy...
Hello sir, good day! What's your height? Thanks for the reply :))
5'11"
A 'longterm review' for a 2021 model bike in 2020 seems so odd!
Not when I get them in March. Its good to have a great bike shop like grove street bicycles in jersey city, nj
@@blkbelttony appreciate what you're saying. O.k. getting 2021 bikes already, when we're only just into 2020 seems odd (to me)!