Whether you're new to mountain biking or looking to move from a hardtail to a full-suspension set-up, the Liv Embolden is designed just for you. The Embolden was first launched in 2016 as a 27.5" wheel trail bike, and six years later, it's getting a fresh look with an optional 29" wheel configuration. Here's everything you need to know.

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The Liv Embolden is constructed from ALUXX-Grade Aluminum frame alloy, which is 30% stiffer than traditional 6061-series aluminium, making it much lighter. Using a single-pivot FlexPoint Suspension system, the Embolden provides 120mm of rear-wheel travel coupled with 130mm at the front.
 

2022 Liv Embolden 2 women's mtb.jpg, by Jessica Strange

The range of wheel and frame sizes do cross over for Small and Medium builds, offering you the flexibility to choose which wheel size you prefer. If you're an Extra Small, then a 27.5" wheel size is the only option you'll have, and the same goes for large frames, which only come with 29" wheels. Small, Medium and Large frames equipped with 29" wheels will come with 148mm Boost hub spacing, a 12mm thru-axle and 2.4" tyre clearance. Whereas the XS, Small and Medium frames with 27.5" wheels will have 148mm Boost hub spacing, 12mm thru-axle and 2.6" tyre clearance. 

2022 Liv Embolden 1 women's mtb 002.jpg, by Jessica Strange

For those running 29" wheels, this version has a redesigned toptube and downtube that incorporates Liv's Tensio technology, providing a fresh, sleek aesthetic with updated cable ports and a 55mm chain line.

2022 Liv Embolden 1 women's mtb 005.jpg, by Jessica Strange

To help combat undulation and technical trail features, the Embolden range comes equipped with a dropper post and the Liv Sylvia trail saddle. All models benefit from a 1x drivetrain system with the Embolden 1 fitted with SRAM's SX Eagle 1x12 and on the Embolden 2, we have a Shimano Deore 1x10 set-up.

The Liv Embolden Range
 

2022 Liv Embolden 1 women's mtb 003.jpg, by Jessica Strange

There are two models in the Liv Embolden range, both sharing Giant Crest 34 SL RCL forks, Shimano BR-MT420 180/160mm disc brakes and Giant wheelsets, cockpits and finishing touches. The differences lie solely in the paintwork, the drivetrain and the rear shock, with the Embolden 1 having a Rockshox Monarch R instead of the Embolden 2's Suntour Raidon R. 

The Matte Black and Sparkles Embolden 1 retails for £2,149, and the Purple Ash Embolden 2 retails for £1,849.

• Liv Embolden