In conjunction with their sponsorship of the Downieville Classic, Giant Bicycles released info on a few 2011 bikes, most importantly the updated Trance X and Reign.

Engineer Kevin Dana ran through the updates on the new bikes, which incorporated several features already included on previously redesigned models such as tapered steer tubes, massive down tubes and some weight savings. Giant is also incorporating rear post mounts on the new bikes. Here's the scoop directly from Giant:



ANTHEM X, TRANCE X, REIGN UPDATED FOR 2011

The main goal with Giant’s 2011 Maestro-equipped performance off-road bikes—including the Trance X trail bike and the Reign all-mountain bike—was introducing new features and technology without adding weight. Both models have received significant modifications to improve their individual ride qualities.

Trance X and Reign benefit from the addition of Giant’s MegaDrive oversize downtube and toptube design, which makes the frame torsionally stiffer without adding weight. Each also features a more rigid OverDrive headtube and the new PowerCore press-fit bottom bracket for optimized pedaling efficiency.



The Trance X, Giant’s popular trail bike offering 5 inches of Maestro Suspension technology, features a newly designed straight top tube for maximum stiffness and weight savings. It also features a slightly slacker head angle (0.5 degrees) for increased control. The modifications result in a frame that’s 75 grams lighter than last year’s Trance X and also 4 percent stiffer overall.



And Reign, the all-mountain offering with 6 inches of Maestro Suspension, features a slightly slacker head angle (0.5 degrees less) for more confident handling in aggressive terrain, plus a shorter headtube to give it a lower center of gravity. With the new modifications, the 2011 Reign weighs 115 grams less than the 2010 model.

For more info, go to giant-bicycles.com