New Giant SLR GX

Came across this checking out touring bikes. There are  3 versions all with same frame and fork. I like the spec on this mid tier model.
Can fit 2in tires very interesting.


https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/toughroad-slr-gx-1-2018

How would you compare the Toughroad vs. the Anyroad?  Is this Fargo vs. Vaya?  Giant is always very sparse with their geometry charts so it's difficult to tell

Yes, I always like what they do, but they just leave stuff out you should know.  Like the bottom bracket drop.  Are you kidding me?  You mean I don't need to know if it's 65mm or 75mm or somewhere in between?  That's one thing that REALLY bugs me about Giant.  I was almost sold on getting an Anyroad Comax in the spring, but same deal.  Then someone measured their bike and came up with 65mm or less.  I can't remember exactly, just that I was stunned it was so high for a bike like this.  Well, the guy could have measured wrong, but Giant sure isn't helping me one way or another...

Gota wrote: How would you compare the Toughroad vs. the Anyroad? 

Yup, Giants geo charts are sparse and sometimes not even accurate across the board. 
I took an Anyroad around the parking lot of my dealer when it first came out several years ago.
The Anyroad  I checked out had a very compact Geo imo. I knew immediately it was not a bike for me, cool looking design though.

However after checking out the new bikes it looks like they added an xl which wasn't in the lineup back then.

The ToughRoad has longer top tube ,chain stays and wheelbase bringing it more in line with typical gravel type bikes.

My local dealers are slow in bringing in new bikes like this if at all. Tampa FL area
Have to wait for some more web info /reviews. I read somewhere about a guy taking the flat bar toughroad on the tour divide trail, I think he finished it and said he had no problems. You tube is where I saw it iirc

With that said , what's not to like about this bike? Bikepacking, 2 inch tires, drop bars, doesn't break the bank, Giant build quality, as long as it doesnt weigh a ton or ride like crap I am considering one for a general use tourer etc. Heres why many times I find myself going beyond the current limits of my gravel bike and I don't want a true mountain bike but having that fat tire would open up more trails and exploring. WHOOPS I'm talking myself into n+1 lol

Hey guys. 

I had a chance to try out the Toughroad GX 1 in Large and I gotta say I really liked it for what it was. I was hesitant with trying out a gravel bike with 450mm chainstays as I was worried about the handling and acceleration of the bike. In my short test ride I was able to get a feel for it and I definitely think it handles fast enough for what I'm looking for. Had a pre-order for a Salsa Journeyman, but I canceled that and today I put a down payment on for this bike. The only thing I'm having done to the bike is changing the stem from a 100mm to an 80mm stem. If all goes well I should be riding off with this bike no later than mid-August 😃

Update: Picked up the bike today and I love it 😬