At MotaCycles, we don't just read reviews — we ride the bikes, build them properly, and push them where they're meant to be ridden.
The Giant Glory Advanced 2025 has been one of the most talked-about downhill bikes of the year, with consistent praise across the industry for its speed, composure, and race-ready geometry. After studying the platform and riding it ourselves, we decided to do what we do best: build our own custom Glory and see if it lives up to the hype.
Short answer? It absolutely does.
First Impressions — A True Race Bike
Straight out of the box, the 2025 Glory makes one thing clear: this is a pure downhill machine. The geometry is aggressive but not extreme, with a long front centre, low bottom bracket, and a rear end that balances stability with surprising agility.
What stood out immediately during our first rides was how calm the bike feels at speed. Where some downhill bikes feel nervous when pushed hard, the Glory stays planted, tracking through rough sections with confidence and minimal rider input. It's fast without feeling demanding — a rare balance.
Suspension Performance — Composed, Predictable, Fast
Paired with the FOX 40 Float Factory GRIP X2, the front end delivers excellent small-bump sensitivity while remaining supportive when pushing into steep compressions. The chassis stiffness is spot on, giving precise steering without excessive feedback through the bars.
The rear suspension follows the same philosophy: plush off the top, controlled through the mid-stroke, and supportive when things get fast and messy. Whether charging through braking bumps or landing deep into transitions, the bike stays composed and predictable.
This matches what we felt on the trail and what many independent reviews have echoed — the Glory doesn't fight you, it works with you.
Handling & Ride Feel
Despite being a full-on downhill bike, the Glory never feels sluggish. Direction changes are intuitive, and the bike responds well to rider input when loading corners or popping off features.
It's a bike that rewards commitment but doesn't punish mistakes — ideal for racers and riders who want confidence on technical tracks without sacrificing speed.
Our MotaCycles Custom Build
To get the most out of the frame, we built the bike with durability, performance, and serviceability in mind. Every component was chosen to handle hard riding and consistent workshop use.
🔧 Full Build Specification
Drivetrain & Controls
- SRAM GX DH 7-Speed Rear Derailleur (Medium Cage)
- SRAM GX DH 7-Speed Trigger Shifter
- SRAM X-SYNC 2 Direct Mount Chainring, 34T
- SRAM PC1130 Chain (11-Speed, DH use)
- SRAM DUB English/BSA 83mm DH Bottom Bracket
- SRAM Slickwire Shift Cable Kit
Crankset & Pedals
- SRAM X01 DH Crankset with X-SYNC Technology
- Crank Brothers Mallet DH 11 Pedals
Cockpit
- oneUP V2 Carbon Handlebar — 800mm / 50mm Rise
- oneUP Direct Mount Stem — 45mm
- oneUP Direct Mount Stem Spacers
- oneUP Silver Decal Kit
Suspension
- FOX 40 Float Factory GRIP X2
- 29"
- 203mm Travel
- 52mm Offset
- 20 x 110mm DH Axle
- Podium Gold Finish
Wheels
- DT Swiss FR 1500 Classic DH Wheelset
- 29"
- Rear Hub: 12 x 157mm DH
Finishing Kit
- Invisiframe
On the Trail — Does It Deliver?
After multiple runs, different setups, and real-world riding, the answer is clear: yes.
The Glory Advanced 2025 is:
- Stable at speed
- Predictable in rough terrain
- Supportive without feeling harsh
- Easy to tune and maintain
It's not a gimmick bike or a "trend" build — it's a serious downhill platform that feels ready for racing straight away, but still friendly enough for riders progressing into harder terrain.
Final Thoughts from the Workshop
From a mechanic's perspective, the Glory is also a win. Clean cable routing, sensible standards, and solid frame construction make it easy to work on and easy to live with — something that matters just as much as ride feel.
From a rider's perspective? It's fast, confidence-inspiring, and brutally capable.
We built this bike because we believed in the platform — and after riding it, we're confident saying the Giant Glory Advanced 2025 deserves its reputation.
If you're considering a custom downhill build, want setup advice, or are curious about how this bike compares to others, get in touch. We're always happy to talk bikes.
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