Since 2008, Giant-owned bike manufacturer Liv has specialized in building women-specific bikes. The Taiwanese company has unveiled its first ever carbon fiber electric mountain bike, the Intrigue X Advanced E+ Elite.
Available in four frame sizes and three spec packages, the E+ is designed for trail riding. For the sake of simplicity, this article will focus on the highest spec models.
Its frame consists of a carbon fiber front triangle linked to a carbon swingarm. A “flip chip” system allows users to adjust the head tube angle, seat tube angle and bottom bracket height to suit their riding style and build. Additionally, the E+ is a “mallet bike”, combining a 29″ wheel up front (for getting over obstacles like roots) and a 27.5″ wheel in the rear (for quicker acceleration).
Liv
A Fox 36 Performance Elite Live Valve fork provides 150mm of front travel, and a Fox Float X Live Valve shock adds 140mm to the back end. The E+ also features a SRAM GX Eagle AXS 1×12 drivetrain. SRAM Code R hydraulic disc brakes. Plus, TRX 2 hookless clincher rims with Maxxis Minion (front) and Dissector (rear) tires.
Liv does not provide gross weight figures. The company claims that the numbers are highly dependent on the specific package chosen.
Rider pedaling power is boosted by a mid-mounted Yamaha-designed SyncDrive Pro 2 motor that delivers up to 85 Nm (63 lb ft) of torque. Its motor is powered by a 400 Wh EnergyPak Lithium battery pack integrated into the downtube, developed in partnership with Panasonic. Liv claims a maximum battery range of 130 km (81 miles), but he can push that number even further with an optional 200 Wh range-extending battery.
Liv
A controller adjacent to the handlebar grips is used to switch between assist modes, and an LED display on the top tube indicates current mode and battery charge level.
Intrigue X Advanced E+ Elite is available now, but be sure to have enough money if you need it. Prices range from $6,000 to $10,000. Specs on the cheapest model include an aluminum swingarm, RockShox fork and shock, Giant rims, Shimano Deore drivetrain and Shimano BR-M420 hydraulic disc brakes.
Source: Liv
