Giant Talon 3 29er 2019 Deep Dive: Still a Top Contender?

You may wonder if the Giant 2019 Talon 3 29er MTB still holds its own in today’s competitive mountain bike world. Released in 2019, this aluminum hardtail has earned praise as an entry-level trail machine. With its 29-inch wheels and solid spec, it still ticks many boxes in 2025. Let’s examine its frame, components, ride performance, real-world feedback, and how it stacks up against newer models.

Frame and Wheel Size: The Heart of the Bike

The Giant 2019 Talon 3 29er MTB features a hand-built ALUXX-grade alloy frame designed specifically for 29-inch wheels. That combination gives you excellent rollover on roots and rocks and stability when cornering. The hardtail geometry emphasizes XC control with a 100 mm travel Suntour XCT fork and chainstay length of 462 mm across all sizes.

According to MTB Database, most medium frames weigh around 13.5 kg (29.8 lb), which matches other beginner-friendly trail bikes. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and durability for everyday rides.

Component Overview: Balanced Budget Build

Your Giant MTB 29er packs functional parts without overwhelming complexity. Here’s what you get:

• Drivetrain: 24-speed Shimano Altus/Acera with a 22-32-44 crankset and 11-34 cassette
  
  

• Brakes: Tektro HDC-M275 hydraulic discs with 180 mm front and 160 mm rear rotors
  
  

• Wheels/Tires: Giant GX03V double-wall rims with Maxxis Ikon 29×2.2 in tires
  
  

This spec provides reliable performance for trail riding, with shifting that works smoothly and brakes that stop confidently.

Ride Experience: Trails and Terrain

Real-world riders report that the Giant 2019 Talon 3 29er MTB handles XC riding and light trails well. It delivers efficient climbing performance and stable behavior downhill—its frame and wheel size naturally suit rough terrain.

Riders suggest it holds its own for “light gravel, occasional jumps, and small drops.” One user noted that despite a basic fork, the bike remained functional for casual downhill trails. Keep in mind that the Suntour XCT fork lacks plushness compared to air-sprung alternatives, which may affect more aggressive riding.

Strengths and Upgrades

What Works Well

• You get strong rollover ability and stable tracking thanks to 29-inch wheels.
  
  

• Hydraulic brakes give you confidence even on steep descents.
  
  

• The Shimano drivetrain shifts precisely across varied terrain.
  
  

Where to Improve

• You may outgrow the Suntour XCT fork if you ride rough terrain often. Many riders recommend upgrading to an air fork like RockShox Recon or Suntour Raidon.
  
  

• The stock flat handlebar and seat post offer no adjustment, so upgrading those parts can significantly improve fit and comfort.
  
  

• Moving to a 1× drivetrain simplifies shifting and reduces weight.
  
  

Market Context and Value

Despite its age, you can still find Giant MTB 29er models in good condition for around USD 540–600. That price undercuts comparable new models by $150–300. Considering the ALUXX frame quality, hydraulic brakes, and 29-inch wheels, you get solid value—especially if you invest in a better fork later.

Given global MTB trends showing growing interest in hardtail bikes for XC and trail use, the Talon 3 remains a sensible entry-level option.

Rider Feedback

Reddit users share valuable insights:

“It’s a cheap XC bike with a really bad fork… Tiny jumps are fine”
“I’ve had this as my first bike and loved it… never held me back!”

They highlight that while the bike functions well for introductory trail riding, upgrading the fork often makes more sense than replacing the entire bike. Riders also stress its affordability and durability over time.

Who Should Buy the Giant 2019 Talon 3 29er MTB?

You should consider this bike if:

• You want a reliable entry-level hardtail with modern geometry.
  
  

• You plan to upgrade components over time.
  
  

• You ride XC, gravel, or moderate trails.
  
  

• You value value and ease of maintenance.
  
  

Specs Summary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I jump with the Giant Talon 3 29er MTB?

Yes, but only small jumps. The fork may bottom out on bigger drops. Riders recommend air-fork upgrades for more aggressive riding.

Q2: Is the Talon 3 frame still competitive in 2025?

Yes. Geometry suits modern trail riding, and the 29-inch wheels keep it relevant.

Q3: Do I need to upgrade the fork?

For trail riding, yes. A budget air fork like the RockShox Recon or Suntour Raidon improves performance significantly.

Q4: Does the drivetrain require frequent maintenance?

Not particularly. Shimano Altus/Acera groups shift reliably, and you can re-tune them easily at home.

Q5: How does the Talon 3 compare with newer entry-level hardtails?

It compares well on price and build quality. Adding upgrades makes it competitive with higher-priced new bikes.

Summary

You still get strong value with the Giant 2019 Talon 3 29er MTB in 2025. Its ALUXX alloy frame, hydraulic brakes, and 29-inch wheelset offer reliable performance for trail and XC riding. The stock fork limits its potential, but affordable upgrades can transform it into a solid performer.

This Giant MTB 29er shines for riders seeking dependable performance without overspending, especially when you can improve parts over time. If you want your first bike or a dependable weekend ride, you’ll find this model still stands strong.