Giant’s electric bike range spans the full spectrum of riding, from high-performance road bikes to capable mountain bikes, commuters and trekking bikes.
At the heart of all electric bikes lie the drive unit (motor) and battery system.
Giant uses its proprietary SyncDrive motors and EnergyPak battery systems across all its ebikes. Its SyncDrive Core, Sport 2 and Pro 2 motors all feature Smart Assist technology.
This uses six sensors that measure rider input and terrain feedback to provide automatic motor adjustment.
This provides a more natural-feeling and efficient ride, giving you power where you need it and holding back where you don’t.
A motor is no good without a battery to go with it.
Giant’s EnergyPak battery system is split into two tiers: EnergyPak and the EnergyPak Smart.
The flagship EnergyPak Smart boasts the highest energy density, meaning you get more range for less weight.
These batteries also benefit from smart charging, which extends the battery’s lifespan, as well as higher IPX6 waterproofing, compared to the standard EnergyPak line-up.
The batteries have an expected lifespan of 2,300 charging cycles.
Here’s how the tech is used across Giant’s bikes and how to pick the right one for you.
For adventure seekers
Giant Explore E+
As hinted in its name, the Giant Explore E+ is designed to be a trusty companion, wherever the adventure takes you.
At the heart of its ALUXX aluminium frame lies Giant’s SyncDrive Sport 2 motor.
This compact, 2.8kg motor boasts 75Nm of torque and benefits from Smart Assist technology.
Powering the motor is a 650Wh EnergyPak Smart battery and, if desired, you can further boost the Explore E+’s range with a 250Wh range extender.
The frame is decked out with adventure-ready components, such as a 100mm suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes and tubeless-ready wheels.
Integrated front and rear lights ensure maximum visibility and safety when the ride takes you into the night.
Liv Amiti E+
With the Amiti E+, Liv presents a capable trekking bike designed for (and by) women.
The Amiti E+ has the same SyncDrive Sport 2 motor and 650Wh EnergyPak Smart battery as the Explore E+.
Its ALUXX aluminium frame features geometry to suit female riders, including a shorter seat tube and low, swooping top tube.
The Amiti E+ also gets durable components, including a 100mm suspension fork, versatile gravel tyres and hydraulic disc brakes.
The MIK HD rear rack system is rated up to 30kg and makes mounting a child seat or pannier bags easy.
Want to bring along even more? No worries – like the Explore, the Amiti E+ even includes a bike trailer mount.
For commuters and city cruisers
Giant Expression E+
The Giant Expression E+ is designed to make city cruises, commutes and errand runs as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.
Powered by Giant’s 2.9kg SyncDrive Core motor, it delivers 50Nm of torque. All three Expression E+ models get an external EnergyPak battery, with a 600 or 500Wh capacity (depending on the model).
A 63mm-travel fork adds comfort, absorbing chatter and bumps from the road.
For road riders
Liv Avail Advanced E+
At first glance, it’s easy to miss the Liv Avail Advanced E+’s hidden motor and battery.
This sleek-looking electric road bike, designed for female riders, features a stunning carbon frame that hides a 400Wh battery.
Powered by the battery is the SyncDrive Move Plus motor, which is located in the rear hub and delivers a 30Nm torque output, which is approximately equivalent to a 70Nm central motor.
The finishing kit of the Avail Advanced E+ complements the high-end frame.
Giant Defy Advanced E+
The Defy Advanced E+ is the e-powered version of Giant’s flagship endurance road bike range. Its sleek carbon frame hides a 400Wh battery, which powers the SyncDrive Move Plus rear-hub motor.
Using a combination of compliant design and large tyre clearance, the Defy Advanced E+ is designed to smooth out rough roads and minimise fatigue during big days in the saddle, while enabling you to enjoy even more miles thanks to its e-powered assistance.
So, which Giant ebike is for you?
While the above bikes share a lot of similarities when it comes to motor and battery technology, there are some substantial differences in their overall design.
If you are looking for an ebike that can handle any adventure with capable, off-road worthy specs and versatile features, the Giant Explore E+ and Liv Amiti E+ models should catch your eye.
Riders looking for the same versatility in a more city-centre friendly design will likely be suited to the Expression E+, which blends many of the features of the Explore E+ into a commuter-focused package.
If you want to bring the joys of ebike riding to your road-cycling game, Giant and Liv have you covered with the Defy and Avail Advanced E+.
These flagship road bikes blend high-performance frames and tech with an almost-hidden motor and battery setup, making them stealthy options for big days on the road or fast post-work blasts.
