Giant has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its gravel racing lineup, introducing the race-focused Revolt Advanced SL and the women’s-specific Liv Devote Advanced SL. These bikes are supported by a new “total speed system” that includes integrated Contact SLR XR handlebars and a high-performance Cadex wheel and tyre system designed to reduce overall system resistance for competitive gravel racing.
The new Revolt Advanced SL represents a shift from a general-purpose gravel bike to a dedicated racing machine. According to Giant, the top-tier Advanced SL 0 model is 288 grams lighter than its previous-generation equivalent. The brand has replaced the previous three-bladder construction method with a single-bladder process, resulting in a one-piece front triangle that Giant claims is stiffer across multiple performance metrics.
The Revolt Advanced SL frameset is priced at $5,000, £3,899, or €3,900. Complete builds equipped with SRAM XPLR groupsets range from $7,300 for the Advanced SL 2 to $12,000 for the flagship SL 0 model, according to official pricing data provided by the manufacturer.
How does the new Revolt Advanced SL improve racing performance?
Giant designed the Revolt Advanced SL to address the increasing speeds of modern gravel competitions. The company reports a “total system resistance reduction” of 18.99 watts for the Advanced SL 0 compared to the previous Advanced Pro 0. This gain is attributed to a combination of reduced linear drag, lower wheel rotating drag, and decreased tyre rolling resistance.
The frameset weight is 1,582 grams, comprising an 839-gram frame and a 385-gram fork, which saves 172 grams over the prior generation. To further shave weight, Giant introduced the Contact SLR XR integrated handlebar, which weighs 295 grams. Wind tunnel testing was conducted at speeds between 30 and 45 km/h on mixed surfaces, resulting in a frameset aero drag reduction of 3.72 watts compared to the Revolt Advanced Pro.
The geometry has been revised to be longer and lower to suit a more aggressive racing posture. For a size medium, the stack height has decreased by 29mm and the reach has increased by 8mm compared to a medium Revolt Advanced 0 in the long setting. Giant also steepened the seat tube by 1 degree to 74.5. Notably, the brand removed the adjustable flip chip found on the outgoing model to prioritize a racier feel. The bike supports a maximum tyre clearance of 53mm.
What are the specifications of the Liv Devote Advanced SL?
The Liv Devote Advanced SL is a women’s-specific racing bike that mirrors the design philosophy of the Revolt. Liv reports a total system resistance reduction of 20.03 watts compared to the previous Devote Advanced Pro. This figure includes linear drag savings from a new rider position, wheel drag reduction, and improved rolling resistance.
To ensure accuracy in these figures, Liv used a wind tunnel mannequin based on the physical dimensions of rider Georgia Baker of the Liv Alula Jayco team. The updated frameset is 185 grams lighter than the previous Devote Advanced Pro and features a stiffer construction. The Devote is optimized for 45mm tyres, though it can accommodate a maximum width of 53mm.
The bike features a new one-piece Liv Contact SLR XR handlebar weighing 295 grams and includes two pairs of mounts on each side of the top tube for tools and nutrition. Pricing for the Devote Advanced SL starts at $7,300 / €6,600 / £5,499 for the SL 2 model and reaches $12,000 / €10,000 / £9,999 for the SL 0 model.
How does the Cadex wheel and tyre system integrate?
The launch includes the CADEX CXR 0 wheels, which feature a 50mm rim profile and a 25mm internal width. These hookless carbon wheels utilize carbon aero spokes and ceramic bearings. Giant claims the wheels provide a 4.61 watt saving compared to the Cadex AR 35 wheels. The total weight of the wheelset is 1,280 grams, increasing to 1,320 grams once valves and tubeless tape are installed.
The wheels use a “ratchet wave spring system” with a 60-tooth ratchet and carbon fibre hubs bonded to the spokes in a one-piece structure. To minimize weight and wear, Cadex logos are integrated directly into the rim surface. The wheelsystem is priced at $4,000, €3,799, or £3,499.
Pairing with the wheels are the new Cadex GXR tyres, available in 45mm and 50mm widths. These tyres feature a 170 TPI casing and “dual shield” puncture protection. According to Cadex, the 45mm GXR tyre weighs 490 grams and reduces rolling resistance by 1.52 watts per tyre compared to the Cadex GX 40. The 50mm version weighs 530 grams. The tyres utilize the Cadex GX-S dual compound to balance grip and speed. Individual GXR tyres are priced at $85, €99, or £65.
Giant and Liv have not announced further updates to the gravel range at this time. Availability of the new models and components will vary by territory.
Do you think the shift toward a “total speed system” is the right direction for gravel racing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.