Giant Explore E+ 1 Review

The Giant Explore E+ 1 is the brand’s latest commuter electric bike (at the time of this review). Its purpose is to allow riders to enjoy city commuting and a touch of off-road experience.

Important information about my review: This e-bike was loaned by Ivanhoe Cycles for testing purposes, and all the words are my own. I have not been compensated to promote the bike store or the bike’s brand.

Giant Explore E+1 Real-Time Video Review

Explore E+ 1 Specs Summary (basic)

My Experience Riding The Giant Explore E+ 1

Things I liked

Frame

– Even though this model has a GTS frame (for “gents,” but I’d say for tall people), I felt the high tube design was low enough to allow me to stand without issues.

– It is good to see that this model has three different frame sizes (M, L, and XL). I’m 1.8 m tall, and the medium-sized frame I was using was easy to maneuver.

Comfort

–  I was very content with the sock absorption provided by the 100 mm front suspension. Riding on off-road terrain was pleasant, and I felt no big impact on my wrist.

– I was blown away by the comfort of the grips and the versatility of the cockpit. I loved that I had two different options to maneuver the bike: letting my hands rest using the extended pads or wrapping the horns for a more aggressive ride.

Motor & Controller

– The motor was more powerful than I expected. In fact, during my test ride, I reached the top legal speed (25km/h) in less than 5 seconds, which is outstanding considering the bike’s weight combined with mine.

– I believe the Active Mode would be my preferred PAS as it provides good assistance uphill, translating into battery performance.

– Considering how powerful the motor is (250w and up to 500w), I was surprised about its quietness, even when using the Power Mode, which requires all the 75Nm torque to be in action.

– When comparing the Ride Control One and the Ride Control Dash, this last one was really easy to read (especially on a bright day) and straightforward to operate.

Braking performance

– I was riding this giant model in a hilly area, where I had to overload the pads and rotors. I was content with the braking system’s efficiency and smoothness. The braking levers were also easy to reach, even with two fingers.

Accessories

– It was pleasant to see that this Giant Explore E+ 1 was equipped with all the necessary elements for city commuting and touring. I felt the frame and tires had been armored with mudguards and a sturdy rear rack (rated to carry 27 kg), which provided confidence to my ride.

The opportunities

–  After doing the weight test, I was not surprised the scale showed me this e-bike was approx. 28 kg. This would not be ideal if I considered lifting it on a bike rack or upstairs.

– Even though this model has been built with every gadget to provide a good riding experience, its technology could be too complex for many riders. I think it would be hard to troubleshoot some potential issues on the go, so I would most likely have to take it to a bike shop for servicing.

– I found the Ride Control Dash a bit slow when changing between PAS. In addition to that, the walk assist mode was not so intuitive to operate; in fact, I found it a bit temperamental.

What Changed From The 2022 Version?

– Overall, the 2023 model looked more bulky around the battery (625Wh) and obviously around the tires (thicker at 3″), which, to me, is much better for comfort and stability.

–  On the weight side, I understand that the 2022 model is around 27 kg, an aspect that I am quite surprised about because this new model looks more bulky.

The Giant Explore E+ 1 Verdict

– My overall experience was outstanding. It simply offered all the necessary power in any terrain variation, which means saving in battery performance.

– I think maybe the motor is more powerful than necessary. On this note, there could’ve been a chance to reduce the battery size and the motor, therefore reducing the overall weight.

– I believe the Giant Explore E+ 1 rides quite well, offers reliability, and sets a good mark for pedal assistance. It would be a good fit if I were considering having more touring and off-road experiences; however, if my purpose were more the urban setting, I would be looking at a minimalist model such as the Orbea Vibe H30 e-bike.