Description
The Giant Talon 3 Mountain Bike — More Performance, Same Great Value
The Giant Talon 3 builds on the strong foundations of the Talon range and adds meaningful specification upgrades over the entry-level model. You get Shimano Altus 2×8-speed gearing, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with a larger 180mm front rotor, and the same excellent ALUXX aluminium frame that the whole Talon range shares. As a result, the Talon 3 offers noticeably more stopping confidence and a wider gear range for tackling varied UK trail terrain. Whether you’re riding woodland singletrack or exploring bridleways and fire roads, this bike handles it all with ease.
ALUXX Aluminium Frame — Light, Stiff, and Trail-Ready
The Talon 3 is built around Giant’s ALUXX-grade aluminium frame. This proprietary alloy is produced in Giant’s own forging facility. It’s significantly stiffer than standard 6061 aluminium, yet lighter too. The all-new frame shape improves both performance and durability on off-road terrain.
The frame features a tapered 1.5-inch head tube for improved steering stability on rough trails and tight singletrack. Internal cable routing protects cables from mud and trail debris. An integrated chainstay protector absorbs chain slap and keeps the frame finish in good condition. Furthermore, a 12x142mm thru-axle rear hub with UDH hanger locks the rear wheel firmly in place for precise, reliable shifting ride after ride.
The aligned seatstay junction stiffens the rear triangle while also reducing overall frame weight. Consequently, the bike climbs efficiently and descends with composure. Integrated mounts on the seatstays and chainstays allow you to fit racks, mudguards, or a compatible kickstand with ease.
SR Suntour Suspension Fork — Smooth Trail Performance
The Talon 3 runs an SR Suntour XCE suspension fork matched to the rider’s frame size. XS and S frames get 80mm of travel with 27.5-inch wheels. Medium through XXL frames step up to 100mm of travel with 29-inch wheels. This pairing of wheel size and travel to rider height is a considered approach. As a result, every rider gets a balanced, trail-optimised setup rather than a one-size-fits-all compromise.
The fork absorbs trail chatter, roots, and rock gardens effectively. It keeps the front wheel tracking confidently on technical terrain. Moreover, the geometry is specifically designed around these fork travel figures for a natural, intuitive ride feel.
Shimano Altus 2×8 — Versatile Gearing for All Terrain
The Talon 3 uses a Shimano Altus 2×8-speed drivetrain with a Shimano Acera rear derailleur. The 2x setup gives you two chainring options up front — 22T for steep climbs and 36T for faster rolling terrain. Combined with the Shimano Altus 11-34T cassette, you get a wide, versatile gear range that suits everything from long climbs to flowing descents.
This is a notable step up from the single-ring 1×8 setup on the Talon 4. It gives you more gearing flexibility, especially on mixed terrain where conditions change frequently. The KMC 8.3 chain is a durable, reliable choice that works well across the full gear range.
Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes — Upgraded Stopping Power
The Talon 3 features Tektro HDC M275 hydraulic disc brakes. The front rotor measures 180mm — a step up from the 160mm rotor on the Talon 4. This larger front rotor delivers more braking power and better heat dissipation on long descents. Furthermore, hydraulic operation gives you precise, consistent braking with minimal hand fatigue. Consequently, you can brake with confidence on steep, technical trails and in wet UK weather conditions.
Maxxis Ikon Tyres and Reliable Wheels
The Talon 3 rolls on Maxxis Ikon 2.2-inch tyres — 27.5-inch on smaller frames and 29-inch on medium and above. The Ikon is a well-proven XC trail tyre. It rolls quickly on hardpack and firm surfaces, yet grips effectively on loose and rooty terrain. The Giant GX03V double-wall alloy rims use a 21mm inner width. They’re light, strong, and well-suited to everyday trail riding. Furthermore, the frame accepts tyres up to 2.4 inches wide, giving you room to fit chunkier rubber as your riding develops.
The rear hub uses a Giant Tracker 12x142mm thru-axle with a 24-pawl drive system for fast, reliable engagement. The front hub uses a quick-release alloy hub with sealed bearings — simple, light, and low maintenance.
Dropper Post Compatible — Ready for the Next Step
The Talon 3 frame features a 30.9mm seat tube with internal dropper post cable routing. Fitting a dropper post later is therefore a clean, straightforward upgrade. A dropper post transforms confidence on technical descents significantly. You don’t need to buy a new bike when your riding progresses. Simply upgrade the seatpost and keep pushing your limits on trail.
Who Is the Giant Talon 3 For?
The Giant Talon 3 mountain bike suits riders who want more specification than an entry-level hardtail provides. It works especially well for beginner and intermediate trail riders who want hydraulic disc brakes from day one, riders moving up from the Talon 4 and wanting Shimano gearing and a bigger front rotor, younger adults and teens wanting a capable all-rounder for UK trails, and anyone looking for a well-specified hardtail under £600.
It’s available in Gloss Panther, Gloss Beeswax, and Gloss Frost Silver, in sizes XS through XXL — with 27.5-inch wheels on XS and S, and 29-inch wheels from Medium upwards.
Order the Giant Talon 3 today and enjoy free UK delivery!
