24by7Article.com | Fast Urban Commuting From The 2012 Giant Seek Range Of Hybrid Bikes

With an increasing number people looking to use their bikes around the city, whether for fun or commuting, the Seek range from Giant looks like a well-timed response. What people are looking for are robust, no-nonsense bikes that will stand the rigours of street life, but are fast and fun to ride.
The Giant Seekseems to tick all those boxes - It's sturdy, but not over-burdened with features that you don't require; quick but not so light that it's vulnerable to damage. The four models give you enough choice, but the range is not too wide. There's no question of just putting models into the range for the sake of it - every one of the 4 has definite benefits to offer.
As you would expect, some features are shown by all bikes in the range:-
" Aluminium frames, forged with a hydroforming technique for smooth shaping, and finished in smart metallic enamels. There is a stainless sleeve on the top tube for protection from wear.
" Aluminium forks on all models. No carbon here - no bad thing, given that these are bikes designed to take the rough and tumble of the streets.
" Brakes are discs on all models. For all-condition performance discs can't be beaten. Hydraulic operation on the better models.
" Sturdy and robust wheel rims, fitted with 32mm tyres. These tyres are wide enough for occasional trips off the road, but at the same time they are fairly easy-rolling on the tarmac.
" The pedals are flat, so great for riding in trainers and the saddle is a good comfortable model. There's a good range of sizes too.
What about the particular models in the Seek range?
" The first bike in the range is the Seek 3. All the above are shown on this bike. Tektro mechanical discs give the stopping power, while there are 24 gears from basic Shimano components. Finished in metallic grey enamel, the Seek 3 provides a great way into the range, and for a fast urban commuter bike it probably has all you could need.
" The chief upgrade to the Seek2 is to the brakes - now hydraulically operated - so much increased control over the power. The gears are improved in specification, and there are now 27 to choose from. The handlebar is forged from greater-diameter tubing, and supported on a better stem. The finish is a striking matt white - great if you don't object to standing out from the crowd.
" The next model up the range is the Seek 1. There are a number of improvements here. Avid Elixir hydraulic disc brakes are well worth fitting, The gear components are chosen from a better part of the Shimano range and the fork is hydroformed to match the frame - it looks better and will be stronger too. There's a bit of a jump in price from the Seek 2, but the upgrades are worth having.
" The top model in the range is the Seek 0. In all respects but one, the Seek 0 is identical to the preceding model. And that's in the geartrain. Gone are the derailleurs, and in place is an 8-speed Alfine internal hub. A simple trigger selects the gears, the whole look of the bike is simplified and so this arrangement looks ideally suited to urban cycling - where the last thing you need are distractions when your mind should be on the other traffic. The satin silver finish is very distinctive as well.
Overall, the Giant Seek range seems to have covered all the bases. From a sensibly-priced entry-level bike which has probably all you really need, through to the Seek0 at the top of the range, where quality and sophistication really shines through, there's a Seek to suit every depth of pocket.