Giant Propel Advanced Pro Review: What They Don't Tell You [2025 Test]

Ever wondered what happens when a bike wins "best value" in a proper race bike shootout? 🏆

Meet the Giant Propel Advanced Pro — our surprise champion that's been making waves for all the right reasons. Weighing in at 8.47 kg and priced at £5,499, this aero machine just earned our coveted "best value" award, but here's the thing: the real story goes way deeper than that shiny accolade.

Plot twist: Giant stuck a third-tier SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset on this thing, and somehow it actually works brilliantly. We're talking genuine aerodynamic improvements here — riders can hold 40 km/h while putting out 6.21 watts less power than the previous model. That's a 2.6% aero gain that translates to real-world speed!

Money matters, right? The Advanced Pro 0 AXS jumps to £6,399, while the top-shelf Advanced SL 0 costs £11,999 and weighs just 6.9 kg. But here's what caught our attention: this Advanced Pro shares nearly identical geometry with Giant's legendary TCR road bike, mixing lightweight construction with serious stiffness.

The Advanced-Grade Composite frame paired with an Advanced SL-Grade Composite fork creates something special — a foundation that balances performance with actual value. But is this really the sweet spot in Giant's aero lineup?

Time to dig into what they don't tell you about this popular speedster. Ready to see if the hype matches reality? 🚀

First Impressions of the Giant Propel Advanced Pro

A sleek carbon road bike with aerodynamic design against a wooden wall.

_{Image Source: Velo}

Unboxing the Giant Propel Advanced Pro feels like unwrapping an aero rocketship. The moment you grip those handlebars, this bike screams serious performance intentions — no subtlety here!

Build quality and finish

The Advanced-grade composite frameset paired with an Advanced SL-Grade composite fork creates something noticeably different from the previous generation [8]. You can feel the improved stiffness-to-weight ratio just by handling the frame. But here's what really caught our attention: Giant finally sorted out the cable routing mess.

Gone is the previous generation's somewhat convoluted setup. Now brake hoses route cleanly inside the handlebar, pop out in the center, then travel discreetly along the underside of the stem [8]. Much cleaner!

The front end showcases Giant's clever two-piece Contact SLR Aero handlebar and stem setup — a refreshing departure from the fully integrated systems many competitors use. Smart touch: the D-shaped fork steerer only fits one way, so you can't mess up installation [8]. Plus, the frame and fork come ready for flat-mount disk brakes with 12mm thru-axles front and rear [1].

Initial ride feel

First ride? Prepare for an immediate sensation of speed.

One rider switching from a Giant TCR told us: "riding over 20 mph felt easier almost, just took less effort" [8]. The bike carries momentum like nothing else, with a riding experience that feels noticeably smoother than comparable models.

What surprised us most? The comfort level. Not what you'd expect from an aero race machine! Our ML-sized Propel Advanced Pro 1 weighs in at 8.47kg [6], yet this doesn't hurt performance one bit. Want lighter? The top-tier Propel Advanced SL0 hits just 6.96kg [4]. The frame does an excellent job dampening high-frequency vibrations — your legs will thank you on long rides [8].

The Giant Vector composite seatpost offers generous -5°/+15° offset adjustment [4]. The result? Excellent stability even in crosswinds — usually a nightmare for deep-section aero bikes. That bottom bracket provides a rock-solid platform for power transfer, especially noticeable when you're hammering on flats and rolling terrain [1].

Visual design and paintwork

This current Propel looks so different from previous versions that many didn't even recognize it as a Propel when first spotted [5]. The frame features truncated ellipse airfoil shapes strategically placed on the down tube, seat tube, and seatstays [5].

Giant offers some eye-catching finish options. The 2023 model came in Gloss Phoenix Fire/Helios Orange, replaced by Matte Carbon/Gloss Black for 2024 [5]. One reviewer nailed it, calling the candy apple red variant "just the right amount of bold" without being trendy or likely to age poorly [6].

Fair warning though: not everyone's thrilled with the paintwork. One owner raised concerns about paint quality and durability after finding unexplained damage despite careful handling [7]. Still, the overall aesthetic is clean and purposeful, with smooth lines emphasizing those aerodynamic intentions [1].

Ready to see how this translates to actual road performance? Let's hit the pavement!

Performance on the Road

A cyclist wearing a blue jersey and helmet, riding a road bike on an open highway.

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Time for the real test. Forget the marketing promises — here's what actually happens when you take the Giant Propel Advanced Pro onto open roads.

Speed and aerodynamics

The aerodynamic numbers tell a compelling story. Wind tunnel testing shows the redesigned frame saves riders 6.1 watts at 40 km/h compared to previous models, translating to approximately 27 seconds over 40 kilometers [8]. That 2.6% aerodynamic improvement comes from those truncated ellipse airfoil tube shapes that optimize airflow at every yaw angle [1].

But here's what the numbers don't capture: momentum. Once you're up to speed, this bike just wants to keep going. The difference between the Propel and a standard road bike becomes obvious on flat and rolling terrain — you're putting out less power to maintain the same velocity [9]. Those aerodynamic advantages genuinely outweigh any weight penalties [10].

Plot twist alert: crosswind stability is actually impressive. Most deep-section aero bikes get sketchy in gusty conditions, but the Propel stays composed even when side winds pick up [11]. The moderate rim depth and refined frame design keep things predictable when you're flying at high speeds in variable conditions.

Handling in corners and descents

The Propel strikes a sweet balance between agility and stability. Cornering feels confident, though it demands slightly more deliberate input than some competitors. The steering is precise without being twitchy — perfect for threading tight turns with confidence [4].

Descents? This is where the bike truly comes alive. The frame's exceptional torsional stiffness (9.9% stiffer than previous generations) [8] creates a rock-solid platform that stays composed at warp speed. Pair that with excellent flat-mount disc brakes and 12mm thru-axles, and you get superb control on technical downhills [1].

One tester perfectly captured the experience: you can "brake late when approaching a corner at warp-speed" then "push hard and accelerate through the bend" [6]. This confidence-inspiring handling makes the Propel particularly effective for criterium racing and technical road courses where rapid direction changes are everything.

Fair warning: some riders noted the handling feels less nimble at slower speeds — think climbing or pulling away from stops [11]. But that straight-line stability keeps it tracking reliably on fast descents and straights.

Climbing ability and stiffness

Here's where things get interesting. For an aero-focused machine, the Propel delivers surprisingly capable climbing performance. It won't match a pure climbing bike, but that impressive frame stiffness helps transfer power efficiently on ascents. The PowerCore bottom bracket features a fully integrated 86.5mm wide design with asymmetric chainstays providing extra stiffness on the drive side [1].

Out-of-the-saddle efforts showcase where the frame feels "stiff in the right places" [10]. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: "all your power (even such little power in my case) was being transferred into forward motion" [10].

Reality check: aerodynamic considerations mean the Propel weighs approximately 500g more than dedicated climbing bikes [12]. At 8.47kg for a size ML [4], it's no heavyweight, but that extra mass becomes noticeable on extended climbs. Still, Giant claims the aero advantages outweigh weight penalties on grades up to 6% [2] — and our testing backs that up.

Bottom line: the Propel works brilliantly as a versatile race bike. Pure climbing specialists might edge it out on prolonged alpine ascents, but this combination of aerodynamic efficiency, stiffness, and respectable weight makes it an excellent all-rounder that absolutely excels on flat to rolling terrain.

Comfort and Adjustability

Close-up view of a black bicycle saddle with a minimalist design.

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Here's something you don't expect from an aero bike: actual comfort! 😌

The Giant Propel Advanced Pro breaks the old rule that fast bikes have to beat you up. This thing manages to slice through the air and keep you happy during those longer rides.

Seatpost and saddle comfort

The full-composite Vector seatpost deserves serious credit here. Not only does it look the part, but it actually dampens road buzz better than you'd expect from an aero-focused design. The generous -5°/+15° offset adjustment gives you plenty of room to dial in your perfect position [4].

But wait, there's more! The Fleet SL saddle uses Giant's Particle Flow technology — basically, "free-flowing particles" inside the saddle that move around to reduce pressure points during long rides [4]. Sounds fancy, feels even better.

Smart choice alert: If you're eyeing the top-tier Advanced SL model, know that it comes with an integrated seatpost (ISP) that requires cutting to fit. That's a resale nightmare waiting to happen! Thankfully, both the Advanced and Advanced Pro models stick with standard adjustable seatposts [12]. Much smarter for most riders.

Front-end adjustability

Giant really cleaned up their act here. Gone are the cable routing nightmares of older Propels, replaced by a much cleaner two-piece Contact SLR Aero handlebar and stem setup [4].

The genius move? Split spacer design. These two-part interlocking spacers let you adjust height without the headache of re-routing brake hoses [4]. You can even swap stem lengths without drama, though the D-shaped fork steerer limits you to Giant-specific stems for future upgrades [4].

Tubeless tire setup and ride feel

Right off the bat, comfort surprises you. Those stock 25mm tubeless Giant Gavia tires actually measure closer to 28mm when mounted on the SLR 1 50 Carbon Disk wheels (thanks to their 22.4mm internal width) [13].

Setting up tubeless? Dead simple with the included kit [14]. Once you're rolling tubeless, you get the full package: fewer flats, better traction, lower rolling resistance, and — here's the big one — a noticeably smoother ride [15]. Lower pressures without pinch flat worries mean the bike soaks up road chatter while still gripping corners like it means business [3].

The result? A bike that feels way more comfortable than traditional aero machines — smooth enough for century rides, sharp enough for race day. That's a win-win in our book! 🎯

What the Specs Don't Tell You

A modern red road bike with aerodynamic design against a beige background.

_{Image Source: Cycling Ｗeekly}

Spec sheets look pretty on paper, but reality? That's where things get interesting.

The Giant Propel Advanced Pro has some quirks that only show up after you've actually lived with the bike. We're talking about the stuff manufacturers don't exactly shout about in their marketing materials.

Real-world weight vs claimed

Here's the thing about bike weights — they're about as reliable as weather forecasts! 🌦️

Our size ML Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 hit the scales at 8.47kg without pedals — roughly 200g heavier than Giant's claimed weight. Sounds minor? Wait until you hit those long climbs and feel every extra gram. This weight discrepancy isn't unique to Giant, though. Most manufacturers weigh their smallest frame size with the lightest possible components.

But weight distribution matters too. The Propel carries more mass in its wheelset than climbing-focused bikes, with those SLR 1 50 Carbon Disk wheels alone tipping the scales at over 1,650g. This affects how the bike feels when you're hammering out of corners versus cruising at steady speeds.

Crosswind stability

Plot twist: this bike handles crosswinds way better than you'd expect from those deep-section wheels!

Unlike many aero bikes that get all twitchy when the wind picks up, the Propel stays planted and predictable. Giant's truncated ellipse airfoil tube shapes aren't just for show — they actually balance aero efficiency with stable handling when Mother Nature decides to mess with your ride.

The front end particularly shines here. No scary "sail effect" that makes you white-knuckle the bars in gusty conditions. Throughout countless rides in variable wind, this bike stayed composed and confidence-inspiring.

Limitations of tire clearance

🚨 Reality check: That "30mm tire clearance" claim comes with some fine print.

The stock 25mm Giant Gavia Course tires actually measure closer to 28mm when mounted on those 22.4mm internal width wheels. Try fitting true 30mm rubber? You'll be playing clearance roulette at the chainstays and fork crown.

This becomes a real issue if you're the type who wants maximum comfort through wider tires, especially on rougher roads. While some competitors offer clearance up to 32mm, Giant prioritized aero efficiency over tire volume flexibility. Fair trade-off? Depends on where you ride most.

Worth noting before you buy: if comfort through bigger tires is your priority, this might not be your perfect match.

Is It Worth the Price?

A sleek red road bike with a modern design against a concrete wall.

_{Image Source: road.cc}

Money talks, and at $5,499, the Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 definitely has some explaining to do. 💰

That third-tier SRAM Rival AXS groupset raises eyebrows at first glance, but here's the reality check: today's market has shifted, and this pricing actually makes sense when you dig deeper.

Stepping Up Within the Propel Family

Want more? The Advanced Pro 0 AXS jumps to $6,399 for SRAM Force eTap AXS—worth considering if you're serious about shaving grams and gaining precision. There's also the Advanced Pro 0 Di2 at $5,999, giving you Shimano Ultegra Di2 for just $500 more.

Here's the thing: all these Advanced Pro models share identical carbon frames, wheelsets, and cockpit setups. You're essentially paying for drivetrain upgrades and maybe a power meter. The core bike? Same excellent foundation across the range.

The Competition Reality Check

Giant's pricing gets interesting when you stack it against the big names:

Trek Madone SLR 6 with SRAM Rival: $8,250 (ouch!)
Specialized Tarmac SL Comp with identical components: $5,500
Cannondale SystemSix: $5,250 but with mechanical Ultegra

Canyon's direct-to-consumer Aeroad CF SLX 7 undercuts everyone at $4,799, but you lose the dealer support and professional fitting services that matter for a bike like this.

Bonus: Giant includes proper carbon wheels as standard. Many competitors stick "placeholder" wheels on their bikes, forcing you into immediate upgrades.

Long-Term Value That Actually Matters

Unlike the flagship Advanced SL with its cut-to-fit integrated seatpost, this Advanced Pro uses a standard seatpost design. That's huge for resale value and future adjustments.

The two-piece bar and stem setup? Brilliant for tweaking your position without costly replacements. Those split spacers let you adjust stem height without re-routing brake lines—potentially saving hundreds in shop fees over the years.

🚨 Bottom line: $5,499 feels steep until you realize what you're getting. This bike delivers genuine race performance at a price that won't require selling vital organs. It's an excellent choice that balances performance, adjustability, and smart long-term ownership.

Conclusion

So here's the truth about the Giant Propel Advanced Pro — this thing absolutely deserves its "best value" crown. 🎉

After putting serious miles on this aero machine, it consistently delivered the goods across every condition we threw at it, all while undercutting competitors with similar specs. Giant nailed something special here.

The aero gains aren't just marketing fluff. Those 6.21 watts saved at 40 km/h might sound tiny, but any racer will tell you those margins add up fast when you're battling for positions. Plus, the crosswind stability? Game-changer for an aero bike.

But here's what shocked us most: the comfort level. Aero bikes used to beat you up on long rides, but the Propel Advanced Pro keeps you fresh mile after mile without giving up speed. That two-piece Contact SLR Aero setup means you can actually dial in your fit properly — something many competitors completely overlook.

The reality check: At 8.47kg, this isn't your mountain goat bike. Extended climbs will remind you of those extra grams. But honestly? The aero benefits make up for it on everything except the steepest gradients.

Key takeaway: Giant's value proposition here is tough to beat. Quality carbon wheels come standard (hello, immediate upgrade savings!), and you get genuine racing performance without the flagship price tag.

This bike hits that sweet spot perfectly — serious racing credentials wrapped in thoughtful design choices that actually make sense for real-world riding. Not perfect, but pretty darn close for most riders seeking speed and versatility.

Unless you're exclusively tackling mountain stages or have unlimited cash for the top-shelf models, the Giant Propel Advanced Pro 1 deserves serious consideration for your next race bike.

So go ahead, take that test ride and feel what proper aero efficiency can do for your speed. Happy riding, and may this speedster bring you many fast, fun miles ahead! 🚀

FAQs

Q1. What are the key differences between the Giant Propel Advanced and Advanced Pro models? The main differences are in the components and frame materials. The Advanced Pro models typically feature higher-grade carbon frames, better quality wheels, and more premium groupsets compared to the standard Advanced models. This results in slightly lower weight and potentially better overall performance for the Advanced Pro versions.

Q2. How does the Giant Propel Advanced Pro handle crosswinds? The Propel Advanced Pro demonstrates impressive stability in crosswind conditions. Its refined aerodynamic design, including truncated ellipse airfoil tube shapes, helps maintain composure even in gusty side winds. This stability is a notable improvement over many other deep-section aero bikes that can feel skittish in similar conditions.

Q3. What is the tire clearance on the Giant Propel Advanced Pro? The Giant Propel Advanced Pro officially accommodates tires up to 30mm wide. However, the stock 25mm tires actually measure closer to 28mm when mounted on the included wheels. While 30mm tires can technically fit, clearance becomes quite tight, especially around the chainstays and fork crown.

Q4. How does the Giant Propel Advanced Pro perform on climbs? For an aero-focused bike, the Propel Advanced Pro delivers surprisingly capable climbing performance. Its stiff frame efficiently transfers power, especially during out-of-the-saddle efforts. While it's about 500g heavier than dedicated climbing bikes, the aerodynamic benefits compensate on all but the steepest ascents.

Q5. Is the Giant Propel Advanced Pro worth its price? The Giant Propel Advanced Pro offers excellent value within its category. It delivers high-end aerodynamic performance, versatile handling, and surprising comfort at a price point that undercuts many competitors with similar specifications. The inclusion of quality carbon wheels as standard equipment further enhances its value proposition for riders seeking racing performance without the premium price of flagship models.

References

Giant Propel Advanced Pro Review: What They Don't Tell You [2025 Test]

Giant Propel Advanced Pro Review: What They Don't Tell You [2025 Test]