The Giant Explore E+ 2 appeals to most cyclists, but what can it offer?
This 2022 Giant Explore E+ 2 combines a city bike’s qualities with an MTB’s versatile performance.
Compared to other models from the brand, such as the hybrid Giant Roam E+, I believe it offers a better commuter experience with the inclusion of a rear rack and lighting system. However, the price is still better for the Roam E+.
It can give you the final reason to switch to electric bikes for commuting. Thanks to its suspension system, adaptability, and power, it can handle city streets and off-road trails.
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Pros
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Cons
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| ✅ Frame configuration choice between step-through (women) and diamond (men).
✅ Shimano hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors. ✅ It has a nine (9) speed drivetrain, allowing a fast performance adjustment. |
⊖ It is rather expensive when compared to the previous models. |
Table of Contents
Explore E Plus 2 SPECS
MOTOR & TOP SPEED
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BATTERY & RANGE
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CONTROLLER & RIDING MODES
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FRAME
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DRIVETRAIN SYSTEM
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BRAKING SYSTEM AND TYRES
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OVERALL WEIGHT & CARRYING CAPACITY
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FEATURES
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Main Features
Frame
Marketed as a mid-range electric hybrid bike, this Giant Explore bike is perfect for commuters, trekkers, and leisure riders who want to take their pedaling ease one step further.
Offered in step-through (STA) and diamond (GTS) frame configurations.
Both configurations are unisex; however, the former is undoubtedly more suited for commuters and leisure riders, while cross-country riders may prefer the GTS style.
The only slight difference between the two models, except for the obvious frame design, is the size.
STA comes in three (3) size options (17″, 19″, and 21″) and suits riders between 160 and 190 centimeters tall.
The brand added a fourth-size option to its GTS model, dedicated to cyclists taller than 190 centimeters (23″).
This model has a robust frame constructed in the manufacturer’s signature ALUXX SL aluminum, with an overdrive head tube and integrated kickstand mount.
The hydraulic lockout fork is designed to absorb road shocks and improve comfort; the hydraulic lockout fork presents a 60mm travel. In my opinion, this is a very short suspension system.
Motor efficiency & performance
This e-bike’s motor, developed in collaboration with Yamaha, has provided an outstanding result in the form of its SyncDrive Sport.
Dedicated to everyday riding and more demanding off-road riding, the motor offers five (5) support modes and is widely acclaimed for its performance and reliability.
In fact, it delivers a decent 60Nm torque and assists with up to 350% rider power output.
A great feature is undoubtedly the tuneable support, which allows you to adjust the drive’s responsiveness based on preference or riding style.
It is useless to say this option makes the bike suitable for most riders, regardless of their experience level.
Control assistance
All adjustments can be made through the multi-functional RideControl One system.
Its minimalist design enhances the perfect aesthetics of this Giant e-bike.
The bike can connect to a mobile device through the E-bike App, displaying additional information, including fitness data and navigation.
Learn more – Giant RideControl One Ant+: How do you use it?
Battery
The Giant’s 36-volt 13.8Ah rechargeable lithium-ion EnergyPak acts as fuel. This side-released battery has compact dimensions that add little bulk to the bike and a heft of only 3.2 kilograms.
The actual battery range is hard to define and depends on the rider’s weight, type of trail, and level of assistance provided; however, based on the watts per hour, you can expect something between 48 and 112 km.
The battery recharges quickly, usually in under six (6) hours, from drained to full.
Tires & rims
The E+ 2 by Giant comes with wheels worth the best-in-class title.
It is designed to handle most terrains and features e-bike-optimized 700c aluminum rims with stainless steel spokes.
Giant’s tubeless-ready wheel construction pairs wonderfully with the 45c wide gravel tires.
On the other hand, the hubs are also e-bike optimized, while their 135mm size is fitted for cross-country, trail riding, and other mountain biking disciplines.
The tires have an emphasized knobby tread, improving grip on dirt trails while still slick enough to ensure an excellent rolling speed on city streets.
The one thing I would’ve hoped to see is thicker tires, at least 2.5″.
Other additions
Its hard-tail construction offers fast and fun rides on most terrains, soaking up the moderate bumps of rougher trails.
To add comfort, the Giant Contact Comfort upright saddle is also fixed on a 2-bolt micro-adjustable forged aluminum seat post.
Suitable for commuting or touring use, the bike also incorporates front and rear lights, mudguards, and racks fitted as standard.
The frame finish offers everything you could expect from such an imposing brand: quality welds, smooth lines, and flawless matte black paintwork with broad blue accents.
I also liked that the drive system control cabling is internally routed for clean aesthetics despite the rather exposed cabling at the front.
The PedalPlus 4-sensor technology, developed to measure the amount of force you’re applying to the pedals, ensures great performance.
This allows the motor to deliver a smooth power boost that feels like a natural aid on all terrains.
At the same time, integrated speed sensors monitor your traveling speed and adjust the assistance accordingly. Like most assisted pedaling bikes, the E+ 2 doesn’t exceed 15mph (25 km/h).
What to Consider Before Buying It?
Is the model suitable for you? It depends on what you need.
I believe it is undoubtedly exceptional and designed to fit all. However, there are a few objective criteria you should consider before buying:
Size
Any E+ 2 model can work for an average-sized rider. However, if you’re taller than 190cm and don’t like the diamond-style frames, this bike might not be the one you were looking for.
Style
It would help if you considered your riding style. This electric bike is perfect for commuting, leisure riding, and cross-country. If you practice another mountain biking discipline, an e-bike with full suspension could be better.
Budget
Last but not least, consider the weight of your budget. Hybrid e-bikes come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
While the E+ 2 is not the cheapest out there, its performance fully justifies its heftier price. Yet, if you only need it for occasional leisure cycling, a more affordable option like the Trek Verve+ 2 could do, too.
Review Wrap Up
Two (2) frame types ensure suitability for both men and women and flexibility for all riding styles.
Furthermore, this bike is easy to maneuver, reliable, and comfortable to ride on.
Equipped with a powerful motor, a dependable battery, and boasting a sturdy construction, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed by its performance.
This is a great hybrid e-bike if you want top-notch quality at a slightly heftier price.
The Giant Explore E+ 2 is undoubtedly worth every dime and makes a good investment for frequent users. Whether you’re a commuter or an avid cycling amateur, this e-bike brings tangible benefits.
17 Comments
Maybe a brief comment from an oldie. After over 70 years touring I decided that my 85 birthday should be celebrated by going E. what a good decision! It’s given me a new lease of life. I had a handlebar mirror and a sprung seatpost fitted and am delighted with the bike. After 3 months and about 500 miles in hilly Northumberland, without a glitch I would strongly recommend the Explore Pro +2 to any who have found slopes becoming hills and hills into mountains. Hills and winds are a breeze and cycling is once more a pleasure. So far my trips have been 25-40 miles but hope sound to extend a bit.
Hi Otto,
the Explore E+ 2 is indeed a good way to go electric, and mainly because of how simple you can adjust the settings to fit your needs.
Thanks for sharing.
Matt.
Hi – could someone let me know what the weight of this ebike is please?
Hi Jason,
this Giant Explore E+2 should be between 22 to 23 kg (49 lbs).
Regards,
Paul.
I’ve been riding one of these bad boys for a year now for commuting to work and it’s been one of the best decisions of my life. My round trip commute is 52kms with some decent hills mid trip and i charge the battery very second trip, if i really pushed it i’d get three trips out of a charge if the weather conditions were right. I only ride it using the two lowest settings of five and maybe on a windy day going up hill i might use the 3rd highest setting.
I love the fact that no matter what the weather conditions or terrain i can get to work/home at a guaranteed time, i also work in a very physical job so on days when i’m tired riding home isn’t an issue, it’s fantastic base fitness for my road and mountain bike riding on weekends, together with some dieting i’ve lost 13kgs, once i get to work and have a shower i feel calm and relaxed and ready to tackle the day and finally being a big believer in sustainability i’m not driving my car and i’m also saving plenty of $$$$.
I can’t recommend buying this bike any more, it’s ran faultless for me and really has been life changing so if your thinking of taking the plunge do it, it’s worth the money!
Hi Tom, thanks for sharing with all the riders and our team. Not sure the last sentence regarding the “not recommending the ebike anymore” but still your favorite one.
Cheers.
Matt.
No problem. To clarify I was just trying to say that I highly recommend buying this bike not the opposite. It’s the bike that I spend the most time on but on weekends it’s time for something a little racier in my Wilier road bike or Norco Sight mountain bike.
One thing I didn’t mention is the fact you can fill your panniers to the brim and the extra weight has no impact on your riding.
Thanks Tom for clarifying and for adding the note regarding the panniers (very useful to share since other users noted concerns regarding the extra weight and power efficiency).
Cheers.
Matt.
Thank you for this review!!
Hi Charlie,
thanks for your comments and you’re welcome.
Cheers.
Matt
I purchased the 2020 version of this bike for the daily 22 mile round trip to work. It is really comfy, and with the addition of the badass 4 box, I cruise to work comfortably at about 20mph. It has been a month of rain, and some of the rain water managed to get into the control box causing a problem with the electrics. I returned the bike to the shop and after plugging it in to conduct a diagnostic, Giant have agreed that it is a warranty issue, and it will be be fitted with a new one. The bike shop informed me that this was the second Giant bike returned this week and that Giant were looking at a fix for the control unit – it is a recognised fault.
In term of battery/distance I have found the following. On ‘normal’ assistance mode, with the badass 4 fitted cruising at 20mph I reckon the battery would allow me to do about 35-40 miles on one charge. Reduce the assist to ‘Eco’, and change gear to an easy setting – you can cruise at about 12mph, and get more like 55-60miles from one charge.
I am the only person at work to have an e-bike. They are expensive, but I am saving at least 50 pounds a month on fuel which pays for the bike (with Giant zero percent finance). I am not a cyclist, and the e-assist is fantastic for novices like me to get out, do some miles, and enjoy the benefits of excercise and fresh air.
Hi Marcus, thanks for sharing your experience. Good to hear you found a way to increase the performance of the e-bike and that Giant is taking care of the faulty situation.
I agree that if you want to invest in a good quality e-bike, you will have to expend some good money, which is worth at the end.
Regards,
Matt.
Hi Marcus
I have been thinking of getting this bike for several weeks and and after reading your review i feel it is the right bike for me. Hopefully by the time i get mine the problem with the control unit will be sorted by Giant.
Regards
Clive
Hi Clive,
Did you get your bike?? I have completed about 1000 on mine now, and other than a puncture it has been faultess. I clean the chain about 1 a month (every 350 miles) and bought a cheap bike stand from Amazon which makes it much easier to maintain. A slight note of caution (for all) My local cycle shop built the bike, but did not put any puncture protection liquid in. Lesson learned. I bought some Muc Off BAM which was superb and is a roadside inflate/fix that gets you going again in one minute.
Regards
Marcus
Have now done done just over 1700km of weekend outings on a 2019 version of this bike. Love it, although I had to do a bit more work on it than I’m can remember having to do bike purchases years ago. Spokes did go a bit loose on the front after some heavy downhill braking and needed tightening all round. Also had the RideControl unit fail after riding in rain, but opened it up and dried it out myself and resealed it. I changed the saddle over to a bit more comfy one as my rides are in the range of 60 to 120km. Riding about 1000km on the original tyres, I couldn’t help myself testing some Schwalbe Energizer plus touring tyres to see how they would go. Even so they are heavier the bike seems to roll better when pushing beyond the 25km/hr assist limit on the flat and despite expectations haven’t noticed any disadvantage when on gravel, so haven’t changed back. The front fork does bottom out at times on track washouts or braking going downhill with my weight of 102kg. The frame is robust and stiff, welding is really good. I prefer this bike now over my standard touring bike as it gets me up the hills a lot quicker and effort is a lot more smoothed out. The 25km/h restricted ebike version is not so much of an advantage in flat terrain, but in the hills you can’t beat them.
Hi Rolf,
great input, thanks. As you have indicated, the bike rolls better due to the added weight. Keep in mind this will increase the amount of work on the braking system.
Regards,
Matt.
Yes Matt, and the MT200 brakes with 180mm rotors are another big plus on this bike. I do at times long descents on curvy roads so I can’t just let the bike coast free, so disks get hot and you can see faint heat marking on the outer edges of the disks. I haven’t experienced any brake fade on such demanding descents and I’m impressed how assuring and smooth they are compared to rim brakes on my old bike, especially when riding in damp conditions.