When it comes to Giant cross bikes, the "ESCAPE R3" is the flagship model, but the "GRAVIER" series, which rapidly gained popularity 5-6 years ago and became another iconic Giant cross bike, has been fully redesigned and re-released as an early 2025 model!

First, before introducing the new GRAVIER DISC, here's some sales information on the old model💦

The old GRAVIER DISC model is currently on sale with limited stock remaining!

Due to manufacturer policy, GIANT models are only available for in-store purchase. If you are nearby, please consider it! (Store information is at the bottom of the blog!)

2025.GIANT GRAVIER DISC

【Manufacturer's suggested retail price】 ¥78,100 (tax included)
【Colors (3 types)】 Matte Titanium, Satin Amber Glow, Satin Cold Iron
【Sizes (approximate height range)】 430 (155-170cm), 465 (160-175cm), 500 (170-185cm), 555 (180-195cm)

※GIANT models cannot be ordered online due to manufacturer's policy.

What is the GIANT GRAVIER series?

Many of you are probably familiar with the "Giant Escape R3," which was once synonymous with cross bikes, but the "Gravier Series," a cross bike from the same brand, is still unknown to many.

The Escape series was developed to make sports cycling enjoyable for beginners. It's a classic cross bike model that offers a comfortable and exhilarating ride on asphalt roads at a reasonable price, and can even be enjoyed for casual cycling.

In contrast, the Gravier series incorporates MTB (mountain bike) elements into a cross bike, focusing on stability, comfort, and off-road capability.

The performance of cross bikes has become so high recently that many users find their capabilities intimidating. The Gravier was a hit with such users.

Compared to popular cross bikes, the GIANT GRAVIER feels slightly heavier and less quick, but it offers more speed and comfort than typical utility bicycles.

With a wide, high-volume tire measuring approximately 50mm in actual width, it provides not only cushioning but also excellent grip on the ground, reducing the intimidating feel often associated with sports bicycles. It's a reliable model that allows you to confidently ride over minor bumps, rough roads, and other surfaces that might make you hesitate on a popular cross bike!

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About GRAVIER DISC Frame Performance

The frame has been completely redesigned for the 2025 model year. The Gravier series frame is more geared towards durability rather than being a lightweight cross bike, making it quite sturdy.

It appears that the shapes of the top tube, down tube, and seat stays have changed.

Compared to the old model, the top tube now has a thinner weld area near the seat tube.

The downtube feels more rounded in shape.

The decal on the down tube has been subtly changed from embossed to regular print. Personally, I prefer the printed version, but opinions may vary. 

The seat stay has also been slightly thinned, and various other minor changes have been made throughout the frame.

Unfortunately, the front fork has been downgraded from aluminum to steel, which is a factor making the complete bike slightly heavier than the old model.

However, it's not all negatives; durability and vibration absorption are higher than with aluminum, which can be an advantage for users who don't intend to ride at high speeds.

It would have been nice if they had at least included bolt mounts on the blade.

The geometry remains largely unchanged compared to the old model. The riding position has been slightly adjusted to a more upright handlebar position due to changes in stem angle and other factors.

While the wheelbase is slightly longer, it still adopts a popular cross bike design.

Although it resembles the flat bar gravel bikes that are popular nowadays, it's more geared towards urban use on uneven old asphalt or gravel roads rather than being an adventure bike. Therefore, it's a model that's easier for beginners to handle than a flat bar gravel bike.

However, there's a mounting bracket for a dedicated kickstand, making it easy to install one.◎

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About the GRAVIER DISC's component configuration

The basic specs of the Gravier Disc feature Shimano (3x8 speed), a classic choice for cross bikes.◎

The brakes are TEKTRO hydraulic disc brakes. They allow for precise brake control with light force and maintain high braking power even in wet conditions.◎

The tires are wide, high-volume 27.5x1.75 MTB-derived tires. They provide excellent cushioning and firm grip on the ground, making them a choice that prioritizes safety and comfort.◎

Although sold separately, Giant offers a rich selection of dedicated Gravier accessories, such as mudguards and side stands, a service unique to Giant.

[Bonus] Tried customizing from 27.5-inch to 700c wheels

Although it's an old model, I once tried customizing it from the stock 27.5-inch wheels to 700c wheels!

The 27.5-inch (650B) standard has a disadvantage compared to the popular 700c standard: wider tires and a larger contact patch with the ground, which can lead to a loss of speed. As a result, while offering comfort and safety, it's not ideal for long rides.

(The outer diameter of the tire is almost the same as popular cross bikes, so top speed is not a big issue.)

Nevertheless, it's perfectly normal for first-time cross bike buyers not to know which one suits them best.

For the GRAVIER DISC model only, being able to switch to 700c later with customization can reduce risk!! *Customizing to 700c is not possible for rim brake (V-brake) models.

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2025.GIANT GRAVIER (Rim Brake)

【Manufacturer's suggested retail price】 ¥70,400 (tax included)
【Colors (3 types)】 Matte Lake Blue, Matte Eclipse, Matte Traffic Yellow
【Sizes (approximate height range)】 430 (155-170cm), 465 (160-175cm), 500 (170-185cm), 555 (180-195cm)

The rim brake (V-brake) version of the Gravier series, "GIANT GRAVIER."

The new color, "Matte Lake Blue," is a unique choice rarely seen in other brands and looks great! This model is recommended for those who feel hydraulic disc brakes are overkill.

Subjectively, the downside is that 27.5-inch rim brake wheels have limited lineups, restricting repair and customization options. If the price difference with the GRAVIER DISC isn't a concern, I think the GRAVIER DISC is a better option!

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Summary of the 2025.GIANT GRAVIER Series

Unlike popular cross bikes, it's a cross bike that incorporates a bit of mountain bike taste, allowing you to comfortably ride from everyday asphalt to riverbeds and gravel roads.◎

This model is highly recommended for those who want speed but are intimidated by thin tires!!

I've summarized the differences between the new and old models, but I didn't notice any significant differences in riding performance.

If anything, I did notice that the bike's weight increased slightly.

However, by making the frame around the seat tube thinner, for example, vibration absorption from the ground to the saddle has been improved, so it feels like the durability has been enhanced while also improving ride comfort.

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