The Embolden 1 offers a stable ride and all the mod-cons you need
angle. This also adds length to the wheelbase and helps improve the bike’s stability. Conversely, the effective seat angle was slightly steeper than claimed at 75.3°, which will make it a better climber, by positioning you further forward as the trail tips up. Another point of note is that while the reach on our test bike correlated exactly with Liv’s published geometry, when you factor in the large conical headset spacer that has to sit under the stem, the Embolden is actually 10mm shorter than claimed, creating a more upright riding position than the numbers suggest.
While Giant’s unisex Stance comes in four frame sizes, from S-XL, the Embolden only comes in three.
But seeing as none of them overlap, it would be fair to say that there are actually seven distinct frame sizes on offer if you’re not fussed about the sticker on the down tube.
HOW IT RIDES
The Liv Embolden 1 is a well-mannered companion that offers a stable ride and all the mod-cons you need to enjoy days out on the trails without feeling like you’re lagging desperately behind any more well-equipped mates.
The steep seat angle and wide-range drivetrain made short shrift of loose rocky climbs, while the fairly slack head angle and big-volume tyres meant I could maintain plenty of control flowing round berms and smashing over roots and rocks.
Recalling the character of the Embolden, ‘reliable’ and ‘stable’ floated into my head repeatedly, although ‘exciting’ was perhaps less prevalent. That said, a relatively low weight of 14.3kg does help keep the ride responsive and willing.
A flex-stay frame design can act like an additional spring, and overcome the rebound damping on less complex shocks, but not with the Embolden.
I was also pleased to note that it delivered the full 120mm of travel that Liv claims – and a little bit more in fact – which seemed like a great compromise between pedalling efficiency and downhill prowess.
Liv’s choice of tyre is Plus-sized at 2.6in front and rear. The stock rubber carried me through some winter slop, though that’s definitely not where this combo is most at home. On dry, dusty trails the Rekon and Ardent
Race made for fast-rolling progress with appreciable comfort.
Liv has kept the standover height low on the Embolden, which made it easy to manoeuvre the bike beneath me when out of the saddle. The dropper post was a welcome bit of standard equipment – always quick to respond, with a simpleto-use lever – but the 100mm drop felt a bit measly.
The gear ratios of SRAM’S Eagle SX were spot on for my riding and shifts were quick, too, but I did find the shifting noticeably clunky compared to my experiences elsewhere. I’d also recommend installing a decent chainstay protector to save the paintwork and silence the ride.
While the brakes are non-series, they were also consistent, with a reliable bite point and modulation that never took me by surprise.
In the Embolden 1, Liv has offered up everything you need for a first foray into full-suspension riding. It’s perhaps not the most thrilling of rides, but it also never serves up an unwanted surprise. If well controlled, capable and agile are qualities high on your wish list, and you want to pay less than £2,000, this is a good shout.
HIGHS
Capable full-suspension trail bike at a great price point, offering everything you need to get started, including versatile tyres and a reliable dropper post.
LOWS
Clunky shifting does match the price point but you may find yourself wanting to upgrade early on.
Frame
Fork
Wheels
Brakes
Sizes
Size ridden Rider height Head angle Seat angle Effective SA BB height Chainstay Front centre Wheelbase Down tube Top tube Reach