Just bought a new Extra Large Giant Trance X3 after riding a old hard tail for many years. Looked at Specialized and the Giant but decided on Giant based on good specs (pretty much the same level as Comp), good reputation for after sales service and looks. I thought the X3 was black but the dark metallic blue with white cables and trim looks even better than I expected, unless you prefer the slightly blinged gold trim on the Specialized . As for the ride - WOW, it's like you enter another dimension of riding. I am incredibly impressed with the Giant. Had a great first ride all over Jonkershoek in places I didn't even know you could ride. Two friends (very experienced Morewood & Santa Cruz full-sus trail riders) tested it on that ride and were pretty impressed as well. Now for the Trance 29er...
