Giant Twist Electric Bike
Giant Twist
⊕ Click image to enlarge.
Twist
Ten years have passed since we began our cooperation with Giant Bicycle Company, the world class manufacturer of quality bicycles. In the 90's
we sold the LAFree Sport model and subsequently participated in bringing
the much acclaimed Giant Lite to the U.S. While outstanding models these
were eventually discontinued. (Obviously, as one cannot rely on past
achievements and must continuously work to advance and improve).
Hybrid cycling technology taken to the next level: The new Giant Twist Freedom DX is an elegant, superbly integrated and crisply finished bicycle that provides an outstanding, confidence inspiring and quiet ride. Multi-adjustable riding position. Descends steep hills as if on rails. Brakes with smooth ease and authority. Pedals with great ease in power-off mode: The Twist glides on its 700x38C (self sealing) tires. The Twist incorporates a state-of-the-art 250W hub motor system with built-in clutch for 'zero drag' free wheeling. Pedal-activation basis torque sensing with three power settings: Sport, Normal and Eco(nomy). Unobtrusively strong on hills. 15 mph shut-off. Dual 24V/2 x 9AH = 18AH Lithium-Ion Polymer batteries for exceptional range (miles per charge). The lockable, quick-release battery packs are uniquely concealed inside rear rack panniers. Handle bar displays and controls include power level button, left + right battery switch and LED state-of-charge. Front fork + seat post suspension. Fully enclosed chain guard, rack + fenders and rear light. 7-speed Shimano Nexus internal hub. Bike weighs 54 lb + 2 batteries each of 4.5 lb = 63 lb.
The Step-thru (Women's) frame model is offered in Small and Regular and
the Slope (Men's) in Regular and Large. The Step-thru model comes in
dark Silver/Tangerine/Orange and the Slope in dark Silver/Red/Black.
Q & A's
Q: How might one briefly describe this new model?
A: The Twist is a 4th generation bike. It is highly evolved and
integrated, elegant, crisp, smooth, quiet, rides and handles superbly.
And a rare pleasure to ride.
Q: Who may the Twist be for?
A: Anyone who wants a 'bicycle-akin' electric bicycle rather than a 'moped-akin' one. In particular those wishing to also occasionally ride without power, in great style, comfort and safety, with great enjoyment or over long distances.
Q: Who may the Twist not be for?
A: Anyone who wants power assist beyond 15 mph. (Although after actually test riding a customer may decide that a top speed of 'only' 15 mph is an easy trade-off for what else the Twist offers).
Q: At a nominal 250 Watt how does it do on hills?
A: If you are willing to pedal modestly/moderately the Twist's sophisticated drive system puts every available Watt to work when needed. It is hard to find a hill which it cannot crest!
Q: Why is the Twist heavier than the earlier Lite and SuedeE?
A: While the batteries are much lighter (about 5 lb each) the bike itself is indeed heavier. Of course Giant could easily have built a lighter Twist but not with the same great handling, feel and durability.
Q: What is the range?
A: Under specific test conditions it may indeed achieve 70 miles. Even though most of us shall see a good deal less would say about twice as far as any other make/model on the U.S. market.
Q: Where can one test ride?
A: Right now in our Seattle WA and Oceanside CA stores and shortly in our new El Segundo CA store.
Giant Twist Specifications
| Size | Slope: Regular / Large Step-thru: Small / Regular |
|---|---|
| Color | Slope: Silver/Red/Black Step-thru: Silver/Tangerine/Orange |
| Frame | ALUXX Grade Aluminum |
| Shock Fork | Suntour, 63mm travel |
| Brakes | Alloy Direct-Pull |
| Brakes levers | Shimano Nexus |
| Cassette | Shimano 18T, 7-speed Nexus Internal |
| Chain | KMC Z51 Rustproof |
| Cranks | Giant Pedal Plus, Alloy 46T |
| BB | Cartridge |
| Rims | Alloy Double Wall36H |
| Hubs | Front: Syncdrive Motor, Rear: Shimano Nexus 7-speed |
| Spokes | Stainless Steel 14G |
| Tires | Kenda 700x35 w/Slime-filled Inner Tubes |
| Handlebar | Alloy High Rise |
| Stem | Alloy Adjustable |
| Seatpost | Alloy MDU Suspension, 27.2 |
| Saddle | Slope: Unity Comfort Groove Plus w/Memory Foam Step-thru: Unity Comfort Groove Plus Women's w/Memory Foam |
| Pedals | Alloy/Kraton Comfort Platform |
| EnergyPak | 2 - Lithium Ion w/Charger |
| Extras | Rear Alloy Rack w/EnergyPak Cover & Lock, Fenders, Kickstand, Bell, Rear LED Light |
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