The skinny on prgressive geometry

Progressive geometry – or “longer, lower, slacker” – is all about making a mountain bike more stable at speed and confidence-inspiring on descents, while balancing those characteristics with the ability to climb efficiently. The slacker head tube makes the bike more confident on the steeps, while a longer wheelbase makes it more stable at speed. “Longer” also speaks to the top-tube length. A longer, more open cockpit gives the rider room to move and manoeuvre the bike while also allowing for a

shorter stem, which adds to more confident descending. “Lower” refers to bottom-bracket height and the bike’s centre of gravity. Lowering that centre makes the bike easier to corner and offers more stability. What often isn’t mentioned is the steeper seat tube. Steepening the seat-tube angle centres the rider more on the bike, helps to keep the front end down, keeps the rear wheel planted and makes for more efficient climbing.— Seank err, Giantbicyclesproductmanager