Reign SX - First contact and some technical details

So there it is, the 2018 Giant Reign SX in bright orange/yellow! Fresh out of the box, assembled just a few hours ago and now already in our hands. We already know the color scheme from previous models, but what immediately catches the eye is the shock with the steel spring and the Maxxis tires (Shorty and High Roller II). Otherwise, at first glance, much seems to have remained the same. A look at the specifications quickly proves us wrong. The bike has become even longer, the wheelbase has been extended by 15 millimetres (frame size L), the reach has increased from 458 to 473 millimetres, which is also an increase of 15 millimetres. The steering angle of 65 degrees and the seat tube angle of 73 degrees remain unchanged.

The kinematics of the rear triangle have been redeveloped and should now function even more drive-neutrally than was already the case. Our Reign SX and the Reign Advanced 0 are equipped with a remote lock, which is probably thanks to the steel spring. In any case, the models with air shocks don't need one. The frame and rear triangle are made entirely of aluminum.The Shimano SLX 1x11 drivetrain with 32 teeth at the front and 11 to 46 teeth at the rear guides us through the gear menu. For the brakes, the choice fell on the competitor Sram and its Guide RS product with 200 millimeter brake discs at the front and 180 millimeters at the rear.

Rock Shox is also involved, with its Lyrik RCT3 fork with 170 millimetres of travel and the "Super Deluxe Coil RT Remote" shock with trunnion mount, which offers 160 millimetres of travel via the Maestro system.

The following parts are made in-house: Rims and Boost hubs, handlebars (800 millimetres wide), retractable seat post (remote), saddle and grips.

The Reign SX off-road

The Reign SX with its generous suspension travel is predestined for fast and rough downhills. First, however, we put the enduro bike through its paces on the uphills. Even with the shocks open, we hardly notice that we are riding uphill on a mini downhiller. The rear always bobs a little, but it's never really annoying. If you then activate the remote lever on the handlebars, the bike instantly becomes a hardtail. At a measured 14.9 kilograms (frame size L, with pedals), the SX is certainly no lightweight, but for the intended use of the bike in relation to price and performance, that's fine.

"Anticipation is the greatest joy" was the motto during the ascent, in joyful anticipation of the upcoming downhill. This is where the Reign SX can finally show off all its strengths. We had to take it easy on the first few Elevation losses due to the new brakes, so we could slowly get used to the bike. The shock with steel spring is significantly more progressive than the air shock, so it's worth investing time in fine-tuning. As soon as the suspension is set up and the brakes are fully functional, it's time to get going. Hold on to the handlebars, aim for the bend and just hold on - (bike) life can be so easy.

The Reign loves fast sections, steep steps and rough ground. The steeper, the better. On flatter sections, the suspension not only absorbs all the impacts from the ground, but also a lot of pedaling energy. However, as soon as gravity takes over the propulsion, the bike comes to life and can no longer be rattled. Despite its length, it also willingly circles around tight serpentines - assuming an active riding style.

Conclusion - Make the best out of the good

Giant has managed to make the popular Reign even better. The Reign SX is a true enduro bike with a clear preference for downhill riding. Longer climbs are no problem if you approach them with the motto "Uphill Slow" instead of "Uphill Flow".
In the bike park and on rough terrain, the Reign impresses with its extremely smooth ride, balanced geometry and a chassis that simply swallows up all adversity from the ground.

www.giant-bicycles.com