The Giant Contend AR 2 is a versatile "all-road" machine designed for riders who want to expand their horizons beyond perfectly paved streets. For 2026, the Contend AR 2 has been updated with the Shimano Cues 2x10 drivetrain, a robust system engineered for durability and smooth shifting across both tarmac and light gravel. The frame is crafted from Giant’s ALUXX-grade aluminum, providing a lightweight and responsive ride quality that balances agility with the ruggedness needed for unpredictable backroads.
What sets the Contend AR 2 apart is its high-volume tire capability and built-in compliance features. The bike features D-Fuse technology in the composite seatpost, which is specifically shaped to absorb road shocks and vibrations, keeping you fresher for longer. With generous tire clearance for up to 38mm rubber and the reliable stopping power of hydraulic disc brakes, the Contend AR 2 in the sophisticated Thundercloud colourway is a true all-rounder—perfect for everything from fast club rides to weekend bike-packing adventures.
Frameset & Geometry
Frame: ALUXX-Grade Aluminum, 12x142mm Thru-Axle, Disc
Fork: Advanced-Grade Composite, Full-Composite OverDrive Steerer, 12x100mm Thru-Axle
Handlebar: Giant Connect, 31.8mm
Stem: Giant Sport, 31.8mm
Seatpost: Giant D-Fuse, Composite, 14mm Offset
Saddle: Giant Approach (with ParticleFlow technology)
Color: Thundercloud
Drivetrain & Brakes
Shifters: Shimano CUES U6030, 2x10-Speed
Front Derailleur: Shimano CUES U6030F
Rear Derailleur: Shimano CUES U6020-10
Crankset: Shimano FC-U6030-2, 34/50T
Cassette: Shimano CS-LG400, 10-Speed, 11-39T
Chain: KMC X11 (Linkglide compatible)
Brakes: Shimano BR-U6030 Hydraulic Disc
Brake Levers: Shimano CUES U6030 Hydraulic (Giant MPH Rotors: 160mm Front / 160mm Rear)
Wheels & Tires
Wheelset: Giant S-R2 Disc Wheelset, Alloy (Tubeless Ready)
Hubs: Giant Alloy, CenterLock, 12mm Thru-Axle
Spokes: Sapim Stainless Steel
Tires: Giant Gavia Fondo 2, Tubeless, 700x32c (Effective width ~34mm)
Max Tire Clearance: 38mm
Key Technologies
ALUXX Aluminum Technology: High-performance 6061 alloy frame material produces strong, lightweight framesets for versatile riding styles.
D-Fuse Seatpost: The proprietary D-shaped composite seatpost dampens road vibrations, resulting in a smooth, compliant ride quality on rough surfaces.
OverDrive Steerer: Giant’s original oversized fork steerer technology provides precise front-end steering performance and optimal stiffness.
Tubeless System: Factory-fitted tubeless tires and rims reduce the risk of flats and allow for lower tire pressures, increasing comfort and traction.