It is the world’s first no-compromise suspension, with total pedaling independence, zero brake jack and complete suspension activity, three key fundamentals. The Anthem is built for speed with its 3.5 inch travel and amazing agility achieved through meticulously pared down weight, lightning fast geometry and wide open cockpit.
Submitted by
fatyowls
a Cross Country Rider
from staffordshire Date Reviewed: November 8, 2009
Favorite Trail:
A dry one we don't get them very often
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
e bay
Strengths:
Lightning fast agile up and down very light this bike has carried me over some great distances i ride a lot up the peak district its on my door step very rocky. Long climbs this bike loves it. I had a VT a couple of years ago its almost as supple as that but it weighed 35 LBS my anthem 24 LBS a big difference giants got this bike spot on.
Weaknesses:
slight chain suck but only in very harsh conditions
Similar Products Used:
Giant VT, scott spark, specialized epic.
Bike Setup:
mavic SX wheel set thomson stem 70 ML and seat post FSA carbon riser sun line ti seat hope custom mini brakes a mix of XO X9 and XT.
Bottom Line:
An excellent bike i did upgrade quite a few things to get it how i wanted but it was still £2000 cheaper than buy the scott spark and dare i say its almost as good. buy this bike if long rides big hills and long descents it will swallow up the miles like a hard tail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dawid
a Racer
from Port Elizabeth Date Reviewed: August 17, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Harkerville - Knysna
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Great all rounder. Replacement parts easily available and not too expensive. Can take plenty of punishment after many hours of riding.
Weaknesses:
Low bottom bracket makes the cranks hit the ground sometimes. This creates stability though. The two small alloy bolts on the rear suspension triangle works themselves loose over time and 1 broke.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche 1.0
Bike Setup:
Rock Shox Reba, RP23, Mavic X819 rims, XT through out. Thompson seat post.
Bottom Line:
Great reliable bike at a good price. Great all rounder and even better on endurance, long distance racing. Make sure to clean the threads and add loctite on the rear triangle top mounting. These bolts, especially on the left, work themselves loose and can break. Happened again after a service and long race. Fortunately the bolts did not break this time. I'm so happy with the bike after 2.5 years of hard racing, that I bought my wife a brand new frame to replace her Orbea hardtail. If I can find a new Anthem with a large frame, I'd buy it tomorrow. Not too convinced about the new X1 configuration yet. Maybe I should test one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
XCFred
a Racer
from Wakefield Date Reviewed: June 3, 2009
Favorite Trail:
The Kevin Scott Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Used on MTBR classif
Strengths:
Light, Good-looking, fast geometry, well-built.
Weaknesses:
I honestly can't think of any. Paint chips kinda easily? Oh, the bottom bracket is low and you have to kinda get used to that, not a huge deal though.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel, 09 Trek Top Fuel (demo'd), Gary Fisher Superfly (demo'd), Gary Fisher Hifi(demo'd), Specializd Epic, Schwinn Moab.
If you are a racer, or enjoy fast XC riding, BUY THIS BIKE! I have test ridden many race-oriented XC bikes, and this is my favorite. The rear suspension works great, NO BOBBING, the rear just absorbs bump but does not move at all from pedaling. The bike climbs better than a hard tail, because the rear digs-in, as opposed to an Epic, where it is just locked out and not helping you.
I lvoe the fast geometry; it carves corners great and I can blast through switchbacks much faster than with my longer wheel-based and slower-handling Trek Fuel. The Anthem always feels super agile, and very 'flickable'. It just wants to go fast.
Before riding this bike, I read all the reviews, and it hard to believe that the bike could possibly be as good as people were saying. Let me say - and this is coming from a very picky, critical rider - the reviews are all true! This bike is amazing.
THIS is the bike that should have the name 'Epic'!
Bravo Giant!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yobein
a Weekend Warrior
from Bogota, Colombia Date Reviewed: June 2, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Suesca, Tobia, Sabrinsky
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
Bicicletas Galli
Strengths:
review for Anthem S 2008: I think it's one of the best values for a FS Bike on the market. No pedal bob. Fast uphill and down. Can handle technical trails but don't push it too far. Lightweight. Deore components for the price.
Weaknesses:
Front tire lifts in steep climbs, still a little "nervous" for my current skill so I am challenged to get it controlled. The suntour XCM is not worth using, change it right away to something better, tires are narrow so change them too. Brake disks might bend under harsh conditions.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Fork changed to Suntour Epicon, tires changed to Serfas Gators
Bottom Line:
This is the way to go if you are getting to the FS world on a Budget. The bike is very good but has some compromises that can be corrected. Overall in my opinion FS makes a difference, so the bike is above HT Bikes in the price range even minding the lesser components and certainly up to par with other entry level FS bikes that are considerably more expensive.
I have only ridden it twice and it has handled the beating through harsh terrain and downhills, I still have to get the steep climbing under control.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pierocapredoni
a Cross Country Rider
from Mendoza, Argentina Date Reviewed: March 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Singletracks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
NeoBike
Strengths:
VERY light weight, cool finish, maestro suspension
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Several hard tails, Giant XTC Team, Giant Alliance X0
Bike Setup:
Full XT Group, Reba Team Fork 120mm, Fox R shock, Panaracer Fire XC Tires, Thomson Elite X4 Stem, Thomson Elite Seatpost, Monkeylite DH handlebar.
Bottom Line:
Ive never tried FS bikes till now. I can say that are AWESOME MACHINES. Ive never rode so comfortably in rocks and bumps, and my speed in downlines is waaaayyyyy faster than before. It climbs like my hardtail. Leave the anthem play and it ROCKS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Widjaja SM
a Weekend Warrior
from Jakarta, Indonesia Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Jatiasih
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
PD Mini
Strengths:
Very light and nimble even though it is a full suspension bike. It makes you want to go fast. The Maestro suspension works great.
Weaknesses:
The components are kind of cheap or sub par. Planning to improve it soon. I would have liked to have the blue and white but only Yellow and Black available for size Medium.
I like the bike, although I have to upgrade components as I get more experienced and more challenging off road or down hill rides. I will recommend it to riders who want full suspension without the bobbing. Three chilis for value because of the components but it is a fun bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Widjaja SM
a Weekend Warrior
from Jakarta, Indonesia Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Jatiasih
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$800.00
Purchased At:
PD Mini
Strengths:
Very light and nimble even though it is a full suspension bike. It makes you want to go fast. The Maestro suspension works great.
Weaknesses:
The components are kind of cheap or sub par. Planning to improve it soon. I would have liked to have the blue and white but only Yellow and Black available for size Medium.
I like the bike, although I have to upgrade components as I get more experienced and more challenging off road or down hill rides. I will recommend it to riders who want full suspension without the bobbing. Three chilis for value because of the components but it is a fun bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl
a Cross Country Rider
from Nelspruit, South Africa Date Reviewed: December 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Lightweight, nimble, stiff. Ease with suspension set up. Price.
Came from a hardtail background. I needed something with less impact on the "over 40" bones for the longer rides. So I got a Giant Trance: too soft for me. The Trance is marketed as a trailbike and should be seen as such. Sold it and got the Anthem. This is the bike for me! The responsiveness of a racing carbon hardtail with the rear suspension! Anthem better than a hardtail on the climbs: better traction. No mentionable energy sapping bob. Even better on going downhill. Amazing to see how you shoot past much younger riders racing over corrugations in the road. HEAD ANGLE: Was a bit worried about the steerability on tight hairpins on singletrack with the 72 degree head angle. But the Anthem handles the perfectly. Goes where you want it to go. SUSPENSION SETUP: Easy. Rear suspension settles after a few rides. I weigh 75kg. and pump the RP2 155psi. Rebound 3 clicks from the slowest setting. The front Reba Team is pumped to 90 psi top and bottom (less than the manufactures reccomendation). I haven't been able to bottom it out completely at this settings. The 3.5 inch travel at the back seems endless. I rarely use the propedal setting offroad. WEIGHT: Excellent. 200g heavier than the Blur XC. Easy to build a sub 12kg bike, even with heavier UST tires. Stiff frame. Interestingly I did not see a frame upgrade on te 2008 Anthems. Maybe just a paintjob. The paint on my "Anthem Team" frame chips easily. CONCLUSION: All in all one of the best bikes I have ever owned. GET IT if you are thinking of XC riding and racing. It also holds its own on trailriding. THE BEST if you are coming from a hardtail background.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan Dewar
a Cross Country Rider
from Melborune, Victoria, Australia Date Reviewed: October 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Beechworth
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Farkin.net
Strengths:
Nimble, light and responsive. SPV S-Type rear shock.
Weaknesses:
Low BB height.
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Rush
Bike Setup:
Fox F80RLC forks, XTR brakes/shifters, XTR derailleurs, XT cranks, Thomson post, FSA carbon bars & stem, Spinergy wheelset.
Bottom Line:
This is a review for a 2006 Anthem LE. The bike has performed better than I thought it would. Coming from an All mountain rig with 5 plus inches of travel, I was worried about how the rear end would feel. I haven't managed to bottom it out yet, so all is good. The rear suspension also performs well when out of the saddle. The bike handles well in tight single track and climbs hills well. If I had any complaints, the BB height is lower than I was used to. Just meant changing my riding style over logs etc to compensate. Overall I'm very happy with the bike and would recommend one to anybody that asked.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew S
a Cross Country Rider
from Yorkshire, UK Date Reviewed: September 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Dalby - Red & Black
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$900.00
Purchased At:
£450 for frameset on ebayUK
Strengths:
Quick geometry, super stiff, climbs like a goat. Does what it says on the tin, no sloppy freeride feel here. RP23 Rear shock is fantastic. Great value
Weaknesses:
Paint job is a little weak, showing significant wear after three hard rides. We will have to see how reliable the complicated suspension (4 pivots) proves to be in UK gloopy conditions.
Similar Products Used:
Marin Mount Vision, Specialised Epic S-Works, SantaCruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
Self build from frameset. Pace RC29 forks, Fox Rp23 shock, Hope Mono Mini brakes, all XT gearset, Thomson Seatpost & Stem, Mavic xc717 disc rims on XT hubs, Bonty Xlite bars & WTB Saddle.
Bottom Line:
This bike is fantastic. Marin Mount Vision served me well for years but never bonded with it like my Trek hardtail, so went looking for limited travel replacement. Tried Spec Epic, but just felt like a heavy hardtail, so went for the Anthem after reading reviews here, and in UK MTB mags. The rear sus looks complicated and unweildy, but boy does it work. Mated to my light Pace forks, this thing really goes. Normally midfield when out with my mates, but after three good hard 50km runs round Dalby, they have trouble staying with me. Sure, on the downhills it might not be free-ride plush, but it handles everything I can throw at it, and more. On the flat and uphills, it instills such confidence that you can just nail it and loose riders of similar fitness and ability. My build could be lighter, but thing is fantastic.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a
from GFBC Date Reviewed: August 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
fRAME
Weaknesses:
LOW BB
Similar Products Used:
tOP OF THE LINE
Bottom Line:
Hi I have to come back to say one more thing if thats ok. the higth end frames are good . foes titus ellllsworth orange santa cruzzz way over priced the anthem frame is better at a better price it is the best secret. it has a low bb that I hate but it is a xc frame but it is much more I have put it on a all moutian diet and the frame has took it in the chin and Laughed at me. the low bb is a pain with the 175 crank armes the shock s is junk but the fork has held up this frame that they made is way under priced, and ride shirman to boulder and railes to trails from danville to republic wa.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy
a
from GFBC Date Reviewed: August 28, 2007
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The frame
Weaknesses:
the bb
Similar Products Used:
Ellsworth
Bottom Line:
Hi I just came off a 2 hour grind off lone star fire road up to boulder I have a Dakar 2 with 5 but I use the anthem that dam anthem It goes up like greased you know I can not ride my Dakar, comming down I suffer but going up is like the bike talks to you up up up you only get that frame a sellect framed bikes no heavy spots on the climb just lets go up and the bike will go its something you have to understand only if giant can make this frame with 5 10,000. Ellworth would be sucking wind and A ,I am 200 pds And I have used it very very like a All montain and the frame is a champ something to think. ps the shock s is junk it has packed it in needs air every day the fork is good still holding air 2006 anthem 2.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brett thompson
a
from fontana.ca usa Date Reviewed: August 27, 2007
Favorite Trail:
anyplace in big bear
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1650.00
Purchased At:
coats bicycles
Strengths:
fast rides by itself climbs great and looks great
Weaknesses:
blue paint for athem2 07
Similar Products Used:
trek hardtail 800
Bike Setup:
juicy 7 brakes,sram xo shifters derailuer, crossride mavic rims,hutchinson bulldogs,protaper carbon bars,reba & fox shocks
Bottom Line:
components were not that good,bought some goodies on ebay and now its a athem0
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rad Ong
a Weekend Warrior
from Davao City, Philippines Date Reviewed: August 21, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Samal Island
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$830.00
Purchased At:
3MJ Bike shop
Strengths:
Good quality, geometry and speed! and with a reasonable price
Weaknesses:
stock fork kinda feels hard, like its gonna break when goin downhill on trails.. but the lockout feature surely helps.
Similar Products Used:
Hardtails, Haro Shift R3
Bike Setup:
Anthem S frame and stock XCR LO fork. Deore Gruppo, Mavic 221 rims, generic spokes, Specialized tires, ameoba stem and bar, Turbolite seatpost, Velo saddle. Its a simple setup..
Bottom Line:
Its my first FS bike and one thing i can say is.. Its definitely better than my HT.. its so much faster and gives you more control over trails.. i love using this bike when going uphill, must be the meastro tech thats helping you climb.. overall, i love the bike and no regrets purchasing it! and upgrading the components will be exciting for this new rig of mine! 5 chilis for Giant!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pld
a Cross Country Rider
from indiana Date Reviewed: July 15, 2007
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Lightweight, great racing geometry, precise steering,FAST!!
Weaknesses:
Havent found one yet...
Similar Products Used:
Hardtails,KHS AM 1000,Spec Epic,Superlight.
Bike Setup:
Anthem 3 frame manitou srl shock,fox f100 rl,fsa carbon pro crank,sram xo with matchmaker,avid ultimate disc,hope pro2 hub with mavic 717,thomson masterpiece setback,selle italia slr 135,ritchey wcs axis(inverted) stem,easton monkeylite sl low rise,conti speed king ss tires,xtr cassette and sram hollowpin chain,xtr front derailleur.
Bottom Line:
after 7 months of riding (Rode this last winter), I can really say that this bike ROCKS!I have faster lap times in my fav xc track and doesn't feel like im pushing it.i have gone through ruts,roots and rocks,small drops,loose,hardpacked dirt,pavement, you name it.It never stops to make me smile.Low BB height?hmmm..rider skills? I have a khs am with 5 in travel for riding where dissecting a trail and aint necessary.If I break this anthem frame, Im gonna buy another one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Randy Doubosiff
a Cross Country Rider
from GFBC Date Reviewed: July 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
shermon
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
fast
Weaknesses:
very low bb.
Bike Setup:
stock.
Bottom Line:
Hi the bb is way too low nice on the flat but if there is any rocks or bump and you are peddeling it will kill you it almost did it to me on a single track beware they dont tell you in the mountine bike ragggs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vibrato
a Cross Country Rider
from Fats boy from Illinois Date Reviewed: July 2, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Dupont
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1350.00
Purchased At:
Bike & Hike, Rock Island Il
Strengths:
Light, responsive, suspension that works as advertised if you set it up correctly which is easy to do. This bike is great for hardcore cross country types, 5' span jumps, 2' fast drops, root covered climbs, and fast tight, flowy downhills are perfect for this bike. It isn't a downhill or urban bike.
Weaknesses:
After 450 miles in 8 weeks, (all offroad with a 200 pound, sport class rider on it) I blew a bearing in triangle on the rear suspension, LBS fixed in an hour under warranty and I was riding again. I'm fairly fast but not very smooth so that makes me extremely hard on bikes, so don't read this as a major weakness, especially since no one else has had this problem.
Similar Products Used:
Trek, NRS, Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
XT hydraulic dual controls, LX external bearing crank, Mavic crossland wheels, wtb veloci-raptors for mud, Hutchinson Piranahs for dry, Reba, Fox RP2.
Bottom Line:
Sweetest riding 3-4 inch travel bike I've ever been on, and I've ridden a lot of'em. Pedal bob is reduced to minimum when standing, and locking out the fork for long climbs makes it go away completely. Pedal clearance isn't reduced over other bikes, but because the suspension actually works instead of just being stiff until you hit a large drop, you will need to get used to setting pedal rotation over obstacles, which any rider worth 2 cents shouldn't have a problem with. 27 pounds for the 2007 Anthem 2 is pretty dang good for this class of bike and makes enjoyable 20-30 mile races.
Bottom line: Best bike for dollar value I found, I bought, No disappointments. Isn't that what any new bike buyer really wants? Nice job Giant.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Sauerbrey
a Cross Country Rider
from RI Date Reviewed: June 24, 2007
Favorite Trail:
trails in Big River Mgt Area
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very nimble in comparison with my Trek 8500 hardtail.
Weaknesses:
(1) Hayes brakes- rear brake leaked a few days after purchase; "ringing" sound has occurred at certain speed from caliper rubbing against disc. Contrast to Shimano Deore XT brakes I've had on my Trek 8500 for ~5 years virutally trouble-free. (2) I recommend checking bolt torques for rear suspension after several rides. After riding several times, a bolt and bearing came out on one side, and the matching bearing on the other side was crushed. Giant needs to sell bearing replacement components, not just full rear suspension replacement kits. Bike has been in bike shops for about 1/2 of the time I have owned it to date. (3) Performance-wise, in my opinion the Manitou R7 is not as good as the RockShock SID on my Trek. (4) I wish the handlebar was a little longer.
Bottom Line:
Anthem 3 is a racy bike but has required high maintenance thus far. Take your time and do extensive homework when shopping around for your first full suspension bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan K
a Racer
from Emmaus PA Date Reviewed: June 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Saucon Valley Bikes
Strengths:
Suspension works without me noticing it- I rode FS for a few years, then went back to a hardtail for about 3, and now am back on a FS. This bike makes me forget about the suspension and just ride- it feels so good that I am afraid I will become lazy because I dont have to think about it anymore!
Weaknesses:
Front end wanders a bit on steep climbs if you dont stay on the front of the seat- this might be cured when I switch to a zero-offset seatpost
Similar Products Used:
Yeti Kokopelli- everything else I have owned has been a hardtail (first one was a 1989 Trek 850!)
This bike is exactly what I was looking for- a trail-worthy race bike that doesn't make me give up pedaling efficiency for the use of a good suspension design to lessen the fatigue of riding/racing. Its light enough to not feel piggish, but substantial enough to not feel like a noodle under my 195lb frame. The handling is nearly neutral (read, I could lean waaaay into corners without oversteer/understeer) and once you figure out the sweet-spot for the climbing position, it climbs like a goat. Great value, quality construction.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al Painter
a Racer
from Mtn View, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga Gap
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1000.00
Purchased At:
The Off Ramp
Strengths:
nimble, outstanding handling, light as hell, very fast, feels like a rocket underneath you, climbs extremely well, price, the Hayes hydraulic brakes are pretty cool (never had hydraulic discs before)
Weaknesses:
water bottle cage mount, it allows you to go way too fast and it may test the limits of your first aid skills! It may also take a few hours to wipe the stupid grin off of your face after each ride.
Similar Products Used:
Giant Warp DS2, Giant Trance 4
Bike Setup:
SRAM XO Rear Der/Twisters up front, Race Face Next SL Riser, Race Face Deus Stem/Seatpost, Race Face Evolve XC Cranks, Fox F80 RLT Fork, WTB Shadow Saddle, Mavic CrossRide Discs, Maxxis ADvantage Exception 2.1's, Crank Brothers Candy C Pedals, Hayes Sole Discs
Bottom Line:
This review is for the 2006 Anthem 3. My LBS gave me an outstanding deal: $1000 for a $1600 bike. They transferred my SRAM X0 parts, etc the same day, and by 8pm the day I bought it, I essentially had the Anthem 1 minus the CrossMax wheels for $2300 less!
This bike was meant to do one thing, and one thing only: GO VERY VERY FAST. My first ride was a revelation in speed. The maiden voyage was done at Arastradero Preserve and seemed to be at warp factor 6 on this bike. The weight of the bike makes it seem like I'm on my road bike on the dirt, and made climbing much easier. I absolutely loved my Trance 4, but the bike wasn't meant to be raced. This one however is!
The handling is out of this world, carves like a knife through turns, the Swinger rear shock seems to make pedal bob extinct uphill, it descends like a missile, and is an absolute pleasure to ride. I haven't raced it yet, but WHOA MAMA am I looking forward to it!!
If you are racing, are on a budget and want a bike that goes really really fast, this is the one you want!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erich
a Cross Country Rider
from Lake Forest, IL Date Reviewed: May 15, 2007
This is my first full suspension bike and I have been extremely happy with it. The area I ride is very tight and rolling. This bike maintains speed so well everywhere. It climbs great due to the light weight and great rear suspension. It decends very well. And handles corners great. I highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a fast xc full suspension bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Yoshiyuki
a Cross Country Rider
from Kyoto city Date Reviewed: March 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Several mountains surrounding Kyoto city
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
TOM'SCRAFT
Strengths:
Light!, Giant Maestro Suspension, Versatile utilities for any trail! Simple design. Great geometry to Asian people
Weaknesses:
None. basically. (dare to say, the space for installing bottle holder)
Similar Products Used:
Kona HEY HEY ('07), Specialized EPIC series, TREK TOP FUEL series, Louis Garneau FLITE R
I bought Flame Set Anthem('06) and assemble several components to fit a cross country racing use. What's my requirement for new bike was Light, Enough rear suspension stroke for cross country racing, Bobing reduction system with rear suspension, and Nice geometory fitting to a Asian person's body.
I was looking for a bike which match to these requirement, finally, I choose Giant Flame Set Anthem.
I have ridden this bike for about 4months. Now, I can say this bike fits to all the requirement following lines above. I can recommend it. Comparing to some other carbon made full-suspension bikes, the weight / cost ratio is far better than carbon bikes. And u dont have to care more than carbon bikes if the bike get a accident.
I reallize the caractor of this bike is more than just a cross country racing bike. The lightness is better for carrying if u need to hike up a hill. And 3.5 inches stroke gives a rider faith of advantage when he decends a rough and tough hill.
And when it's hill climbing, Maestro suspension system works well for gripping on rough trail.
I think this is nice choice, if you are looking for a nice mountain bike. Consider the cost before u detarmin to buy a carbon bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Smith
a
from Woodstock, Ga, USA Date Reviewed: March 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Blankets Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
Roswell Bike
Strengths:
Review of the 2006 Gaint Anthem 3. This bike will do anything I could possibly do on a bike and then some. Its more bike than I have ability, thats for sure. More than anything it makes me want to ride more and for longer. 3.5 inches of suspension is plenty and the lockout on the rear comes in real handy for prolonged climbs. Parts spec isnt the greatest ever but so far everything has worked perfectly and i dont have any complaints. I took this thing to Tsali three days after I bought it and it performed great.
Weaknesses:
Hutchinson Python Airlight Tires are garbage! Hubs and deore components are probally the weak points on this rig but still a great bike for the money.
Similar Products Used:
tested several GTs, Iron Horses, Giant Trance
Bike Setup:
2006 Giant Anthem 3. Changed the Pythons for Smoke and Dart Classics but otherwise stock
Bottom Line:
Great bike. Its gotta be one of the best FS XC bikes out there for the money. Light and nimble with just enough suspension for XC riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew Skadorwa
a
from Nottingham Date Reviewed: March 12, 2007
Only Hard tails (and rigid forks) but nothing in the same league as this.
Bike Setup:
Anthem 3 standard apart from 520 pedals Michelin country mud rear and WTB Weirwolf front ( tyre choice due to severe no typical wet English winter)!
Bottom Line:
Was very concerned at paying £1K for a mountain bike especially with the complexity of rear suspension... Concerns are nooow well and truly squashed... bike is awsome in every way the only downer is my fitness can't ride it enough! This bike does everthing exceptionally well but you do have to be agressive to appreciate it. Will upgrade low spec components when they wear out.After a hard ride I dont end up with my kidneys and back aching or my arms pumping up and nor do I get blurred vision any more - Hail Maestro Buy one !!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Will
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: February 6, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
This review is for the Anthem LE (full XTR)...ABSOLUTELY awesome package!!! Climbing, descending, handling is EXCELLENT. Great geometry and amazing suspension platform - just like a hardtail but more forgiving.
Weaknesses:
Giant lock-on grips and lack of space for a full-size water bottle (16" frame).
Similar Products Used:
Cannondale Jekyll, Orbea Pop R
Bike Setup:
Spec'd as per website (full XTR, Crossmax SL...), changed grips to RaceFace GoodnEvil.
Bottom Line:
If you're looking for a FANTASTIC xc racer you couldn't do much better...and at Giant prices, you'd be mad to pass up their superb value for money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Cross Country Rider
from Ceres, South Africa Date Reviewed: January 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Ezelfontein, W. Cape
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Geko cycles
Strengths:
Dynamic Maestro suspension, weight, climbing.
Weaknesses:
Race Face BB not up to it, grips too thin.
Bike Setup:
Aussie anthem 2 '06 model stock,
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up review 5 months down the line. The bike is more a dynamic hardtailer than 'full suspension'. It brilliantly takes care of the uncomfortable bumps and ruts, but retains stiffness and rigidity and great traction (well done Maestro!). Rearing to go like a race horse chomping at the bit. Climbing still very good. Love it!!!! (Race Face crank shaft and BB suspect, though, for rough handling, small jumps etc)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate Byrom
a
from Penn Valley, Ca., USA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2006
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Xtreme Ourfitters, grass valley,ca
Strengths:
Everything. (see the bottom line)
Weaknesses:
just the grips. I recomend ESI grips. www.esigrips.com thin paint, not so much from branches ect. but from cable rub just get some clear frame protectors for under 5 dollors. (clear small sticker)
Bike Setup:
2006 giant anthem 1
Bottom Line:
Every thing on the bike is GREAT. Some people are picky saying that there cranks flex (when they are off the bike pushing the crank from the side)if you are pedling right (up and down) there should be no flex. Or the tires suck (when they are riding in mud with dry tires) the tires work great for what they are made for, (dry, sandy). i just used them as a riding/training tire and just stopped using them. I think it climbs better than my hartail becouse the tire is more in contact with the ground, except for road they do about the same. It is made for xc racing. sweet dude
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zoom
a Weekend Warrior
from Philippines Date Reviewed: December 7, 2006
Bought Anthem S, replaced crank set with LX, Fork with Reba Race, wheel-set with Mavic XM-819, tires with Nevegal 1.95, handle bar with EA-50, stem with Koski 70mm, pedal with SPD-520
Bottom Line:
I'm amazed with how the Maestro works!. As I came from full-sus world (Liquid is sooo plush with 5" travel), I set the rear shock at "comfort" set up and reduced 5 psi from there. It absorbs bumps, true that it is not as plush as the Liquid, but, I bought this bike bcos I want to race, so I'm prepared to feel the difference. The best part is that even at the comfort set up, the rear shock doesn't move on climbing, even when hammering !. Only when I hit bumps, then I could see the shock moves.
I may not be riding it long enough to judge how well the parts keeping up. I meant the linkages and the bearings. It has 8 tiny bearings, I really hope they will survive a long time.
But, again, I'm so happy with the Maestro, will write another review after awhile. Those of you want to ride faster, and still want a good bumps absorption on technical descent, as well as better tracking on technical climbs, must buy this bike. Those of you ride jumps, downhill track, and rock garden most of the time, find longer travel bikes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
batchy canieso
a Weekend Warrior
from Philippines Date Reviewed: November 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
maarat
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$650.00
Strengths:
stiff, fast, nimble, supple ride
Weaknesses:
placement of bottle cage (no space); placement of cable guides (comes in direct contact with carrier)
Similar Products Used:
hardtails
Bottom Line:
buy it!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pld
a
from indiana Date Reviewed: November 4, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1300.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
fast and light.
Weaknesses:
rear shock difficult to dial in.
Similar Products Used:
specialized fsr,kona, khs...hardtails
Bike Setup:
sram xo set, fox f100 rlc, juicy 7, truvativ stylo crank,wtb raptor tires,xt hubs laced to mavic 717s',easton ec 90 flatbar.
Bottom Line:
I bought an anthem 3 and took out everything except the stem and seatpost.i was a little apprehensive on going with the 100mm fork till i saw the australian version. needless to say,this bike is FAST! ive been a big fan of hardtails until this bike came along. i ride on fast trails and sometimes do a little aggressive riding.this bike soaks up small bumps and drops.buy it if you like fast trail rides.get a freeride bike for more aggressive stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Smith
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmond, OK, USA Date Reviewed: October 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Turkey Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1100.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Efficient, Small stutter bumps, light, components
Weaknesses:
Wish it had a little more travel. A bit twitchy.
Similar Products Used:
Currently own a 2004 Stumpy, 2005 Epic, 2001 Sugar.
Bike Setup:
Completely Stock
Bottom Line:
I was looking for an all around XC bike that I could race. I race about 4 times a year (family first). I have owned and tried a 2004 stumpy pro (great bike but not terribly effiecient or good on fast rocky terrain), a 2005 Epic (very efficient, not good on fast rocky terrain), and 2001 Sugar. The only reason I don't stick with my Sugar is because the anthem takes fast small bumps better and is a little more efficient. My favorite trail is the very technical rocky climbs. Nothing compares to my sugar there, except the Anthem. I think part of it had to do with bike set up but..... The Anthem with Pythons is extremely fast. I love it on smooth and bumpy single track. It soaks up the smaller bumps. VPP is awesome. I give it 5 flamers. The Anthem 1 is way overpriced. The Anthem 2 is the best value for the money. It weighs right at 26 lbs with egg beaters. I did replace the stem, bars and seatpost with carbon stuff. Get one and have fun.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
daniel ver
a Cross Country Rider
from Montpellier Date Reviewed: October 8, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light, very stiff, great suspension Kinematics, agile, so fast uphill and aesthetically nice
Weaknesses:
let me think ....
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel
Bike Setup:
SID team, race face evolve, XTR, Mavic Enduro
Bottom Line:
I have bought this frame and built my own bike, so i comment on the frame here. It is very nicely finished. That is amazing what giant managed to pull from hydro formed tubes: Every tubes has a specific shape. With a SID Team this frame makes a very agile bike. There is absolutely no bobbling (i ride mostly seated on the saddle) and when climbing i really don't feel like riding a suspension bike. Rear suspension is very effective on small/medium bumps and the kinematics is so effective that you don't need to run high SPV pressure. A great frame, and cheapest that most full sus frames
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Philip Dicey
a Weekend Warrior
from South Africa Date Reviewed: September 14, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Ezelfontein, Ceres, W. Cape
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1950.00
Purchased At:
Geko Cycles, Cape Town
Strengths:
Weight, efficient design, CLIMBING!!! Purchased Anthem 2 with Aussie setup - great value for money given componentry. Avid Juicy 5's a real treat
Weaknesses:
Huh? Maybe, if anything, Hutchinson Pythons a little unsure on loose surfaces.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Muni Mula (Hardtail)
Bike Setup:
Anthem 2 (Australian setup) Avid Juicy 5 brakes, LX/XT FD/RD, XT shifters, Rockshox Reba Race 100mm fork,some sort of lockout Manitou rear shock. Changed flat handle bar to a Scud carbon riser bar.
Bottom Line:
Full flamin' chilli's all the way. Have done 200km's in two weeks. This is a super light dually that behaves like a hardtail when it needs to. Probably not quite as plush or stable as sister 'Trance' on downhills, but that's not the reason I bought it. Supreme allround cross country weapon, that climbs effortlessly, and soaks up what it has to on the bumpy stuff. Just got to learn how to use it to its full potential.....and get my bum used to that seat! I love this bike (my wife doesn't!!) Hy gooi baie sakke mielies!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Sedlacek
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA Date Reviewed: September 11, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Santa Teresa Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2300.00
Purchased At:
The Off Ramp
Strengths:
I purchased the Anthem 2. Stengths include light weight and good choice of componenets for price.
Weaknesses:
I would have much prefered a set of Avid disc brakes over the Hayes that came with it.
I'm completely in love with this bike. On average I ride 2-3 times a week of distances of 13-17 miles and I often switch between my Enduro and the Anthem. I'll often bore my wife comparing the differences but I'd sum it up as the Enduro is like a big cushy Cadilac. It rolls over everything. The Anthem is like a fine German or Italian sportscar. It just oozes with control and finesse. If you are looking for a light cross country bike that will handle most single track you should add the Anthem to your short list. If you are looking for a more all moutain or downhill capable bike I'd pass on it and look for something else.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Racer
from Australia Date Reviewed: September 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Plenty.
Weaknesses:
Giant lock on grips but and Hutchy Python tyres are the only thing I will change.
Bike Setup:
Anthem LE. R7 Platinum fork, Manitou S type rear shock, Mavic Crossmax wheels, full XTR groupset and Race Face Carbon Next finishes.
Bottom Line:
Brilliant suspension design and a very, very fast and agile XC race bike. Can soften the ride for general enjoyable general trail riding as well. At under $6000 AUD (although I didn't pay that)it represents great value for money and it performs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick Adams
a Cross Country Rider
from Lula Georgia Date Reviewed: August 15, 2006
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
Habersham Bicycles
Strengths:
Mystro supspension rocks, fairly lightweight for FS, climbs like a dream,very fast & responsive.
Weaknesses:
(Bought Anthem 2) Shimano shifters, and RD, front DR was LX.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse (hardtail)
Bike Setup:
Stock (mostly) changed to Sram X-9 shifter and RD, changed tires to a Geax tire
Bottom Line:
Great bike. climbs good descends good, Anthem 2 has some heavey parts (bar,stem, seatpost) but they will be changed soon. I would put this bike against any other cross country bike with confidence. This bike is perfect for riding or racing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Rogge
a Cross Country Rider
from Lawrence Date Reviewed: July 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Clinton Lake Trails
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Cycle Works
Strengths:
Amazing bike! (Anthem 2) I've ridden many full suspension and hardtail XC bikes and this is the best balance of bump absorption and pedaling efficiency I've experienced. This bike is absolutly perfect for the type of riding we have here in Lawrence and Kansas City. It slices through technical climbing sections and corners like it's on rails. It goes wherever you point it. The components are a great value. XT shifters and deraillures are smooth and precise. Everything on this bike is solidly reliable. For the price, this bike is light, a hair over 25 lbs. without pedals. It's really nice having lockouts front and rear. The butted DT Swiss spokes laced to the DT hubs and top of the line Mavic 717 Disc rims make for a sweet wheelset. I love the WTB Shadow saddle. I'm not really a big "red" fan, but I love the candy red paint! It is honestly my favorite bike I have ever owned or ridden. It's as efficient, but more plush than my old NRS, while being sharper and much faster than the Trance 2 I had last year. Kind of like porridge that is just right.
Weaknesses:
SRAM Cassette, DT skewers (You can't beat Shimano skewers), Lock-on grips are perhaps a little thin for some. I've grown to like them for their direct feel though.
Anthem 2, Salsa (QBP) Tooth Fairy chainring bashguard, Stan's Tubeless, Continental Vertical 2.3 Front, Gravity 2.3 Rear, XT cassette, skewers and a Dura-Ace Chain, Ti King Cage
Bottom Line:
If you want a durable and light XC race bike or an agile all day ride without going overboard on the price, you can't beat the Anthem 2. It's hard to beat Giant quality and value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary, AB Date Reviewed: June 25, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Jewell Pass, Jumping Pound Ridge
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Cyclepath South
Strengths:
Purchased an Anthem 1. Climbing, climbing and more climbing. No bob whatsoever when doing climbs. Nice speed on XC trails and also going downhill. Very responsive. Giant has done a great job with this bike. Cyclepath did a fantastic job on the set up.
Weaknesses:
Replaced the standard tires (huthie or something) with some Nokians that are more suitable for the great riding in the Canadian Rockies.
Similar Products Used:
I have a Trek Liquid 30.
Bike Setup:
Replaced the tires as mentioned. Replaced handlebar with an Easton Lite (own preference) and put on a shorter stem (again own preference). All other parts are standard as per specs. Hard to upgrade the Anthem 1.
Bottom Line:
This is a very good bike. You can't go wrong with this bike on epic XC rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hugo Russouw
a Cross Country Rider
from Cape Town, WP, South Africa Date Reviewed: June 21, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$1800.00
Purchased At:
Geco Cycles
Strengths:
Climbs like a hardtail
Weaknesses:
Could be a couple pounds lighter
Similar Products Used:
Giant XTC 2
Bike Setup:
Riser handlebar - repplaced with Scud carbon. Repplaced Stem. Repplaced Fork with a Reba Race
Bottom Line:
The setup took some time. Very smooth ride. Very fast down hill. It bike can take on anything that gets in the way. Die fiets gooi mielies. Get One.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Puckett
a Cross Country Rider
from Reno, Nevada Date Reviewed: June 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
To many to choose from
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Motherlode Bicycles
Strengths:
Climbs like a hardtail, very fast accurate handling, light and responsive.
Weaknesses:
Looking for one
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro, Giant NRS Composite, Giant Trance 2, Santa Cruz Blur and Santa Cruz Superlight
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the saddle: Selle Italia SLR. Flipped the stem and cut one inch off the fork tube dropping the handle bar height two inches, cut an inch and a half off the handle bars bringing them down to twenty-one inches. Now I'm ready to go...
Bottom Line:
Primarily I've been on hardtails and my long time friend (since 1990) a ridgid framed Ritchey P-23 Team (I consider this probably one of the best mountain bikes ever designed and built: Thanks Tom). I ride a lot of singletrack and live in an area where everything goes up, in some cases for miles (3,000 feet of elevation is not uncommon).
I've been waiting and looking for a full suspension bike that allows me to to climb and sprint out of the saddle as quickly as a hardtail or ridgid does carves the single track as fast as my Ritchey does and goes down through the rough, straight and fast. Now with over twenty years of riding, including racing, I believe I have a pretty high bench mark: Well Giant has done it with the Anthem.
You really cannot go wrong with this bike whether you get a frame and build it or do as I did, buy it ready to go out og the shop. The Anthem 1 is equipped ready to race. Everything is top notch; SRAM X-0 trigger shifters are very nice and fast, the rear derailer is dead on, the wheels are hot and the Hayes disc brakes are sweet.
I'm still getting used to this bike, having only rode it for one week (about 140 miles worth) and I'm kinda getting used to the whole full suspension thing getting the shocks dialed: Manitou R7 are great, a little loose when opened up and climbing but what a ride down through the rough stuff and believe me around Reno and Tahoe, we have our share of rough. The Manitou S SPV rear is very cool, with the platform set to 100psi and locking out the front this baby climbs like a hard tail out of the saddle.
OK enough, bottom line, the only thing slowing this bike down is me: It's light, it's responsive and it's real fast. The Anthem 1 is like a hardtail when you want it to be (like when your climbing and sprinting) and like a full suspension bike when you need it (those special moments when the roots, rocks, boulders and drop offs become part of the trail).
The Anthem is not for the free ride, but if your looking for a true racer, (and I've tried a few chalking up easily a dozen hours riding those mentioned above), the Anthem is one to be seriously considered. I did and now I have one... RIDE ON!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jay Qc
a Cross Country Rider
from Banff, Alberta , Canada Date Reviewed: June 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
race loop w/ extenderpod
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
The Ski Stop
Strengths:
Keep in mind this is a xc machine not a free ride the R7 80mm is dialed in for the xc racer. Rear suspesnsion contributes zero pedal bob when hammering, same with hard braking no bob is good bob
Weaknesses:
Cheap huthie tires well not cheap but don't mesh with local riding conditions have upgraded to Maxxis larsens TT suberb for local conditions and make the bike roll even faster scary fast
Similar Products Used:
Dean cernal(sp) TI-hardtail Santa Cruz blur
Bike Setup:
Upgraded to Pazzaz Carbon seat post and Carbon straight bar. Just because i can. The easton stuff was fine.
Bottom Line:
Top notch racing machine and XC weekend warrier. This is not a freeride amchine. Climbs like a billy goat. Thier is some nonesense talk that it is twitchy...it is fast, light and nimble. As mentioned Giant hit the nail square with tehg meastro suspension kit. Watch out for next years Composite frame scary fast and light
As a wrench Hayes are so plush and simple to work on and get dialed in. Great brake set-up. Yee haa Getr done
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WARD
a Cross Country Rider
from Mulvane, Kansas Date Reviewed: June 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Horizon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Strengths:
Light, fast, and climbs like a demon.
Weaknesses:
Anthem 3 comes with some cheap parts so I upgraded alot and got to pick what I wanted. The Hayes Sole1 wil due but I'm goooing to replace. Space between crank chainwheels and frame to small, if your chain gets sucked in there it will probably come out bent. Sinse I've got cable tention correct this hasn't been happening.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS
Bike Setup:
I added XT front and rear D.,FSA crank, Thompson E. seatpost, Raceface Deus stem, raceface carbon straight bar, Xt levers, ODI lock grips. I do have the R7 comp fork and it is stiff. I set it at 10lb below my weight. Works great with rear shock being stiff also. I run it low to.
Bottom Line:
Buy the Anthem 3 and built up to what you want. Save the wheels for backups. Awesome racing bike! Very accurate and amazing at climbing, especially off the seat hammering away. You better be in shape or you won't notice how good this bike is. Front end hops over over rocks and logs like no bike I've tested. Oh ya, this bike is very cool looking, anodized pewter.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Morgan Hill , Ca. Date Reviewed: June 8, 2006
Favorite Trail:
spike jones-henry coe
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Sunshine Bikes
Strengths:
Anthem 2, Incredibly well packaged. The manitou seven 80mm matches well. No bob, piont and go downhill, this bike really flies downhill. Cant go wrong for the price
Weaknesses:
I'm old school, had to pull the xt rapid rise derailer, replaced with xtr standard.
Similar Products Used:
GT Avalanche, Weyless full suspension , santa cruz
Bike Setup:
Stock Anthem 2, upgrades: xtr rear derailer, thompson seat post, thompson X4 stem, race face sl carbon flat bar
Bottom Line:
I've been riding this bike for three months, first race,the Sea Otter, really improved my overall time. This bike is a great value for the xc racer who doesn't want to deal with building a bike. You won't be dissapointed. Giant sure is hard to beat when buying a complete back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Schiebout
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, Co Date Reviewed: June 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Buff Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Big Kahuna Bicycles
Strengths:
Fast and Smooth
Weaknesses:
Manitou R7 Fork - I never even rode it. I put a Fox on before the bike ever left the shop.
Similar Products Used:
97 GT LTS and 02 Giant NRS and several HT's and a 29er.
Bike Setup:
Stock except for the fork and grips.
Bottom Line:
Mine is an Anthem 1. Great ride. I really like the parts mix. My bike shifts and runs great. I had to do a lot of fine tuning, but once the bike was set up for me it rides awesome. No complaints. I would say that it is possibly the best FS cross counrty race bike for 06. I bought this bike to do marathon rides and races.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BS
a Weekend Warrior
from Minneapolis, MN Date Reviewed: June 2, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1700.00
Purchased At:
Hub Bike Co-Op
Strengths:
Climbing, rear suspension.
Weaknesses:
Stock Hutchinson tires, cable routing that eats paint.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Epic Base; Trek Fuel EX-7
Bike Setup:
Stock, replaced tires with Kenda Nevegals
Bottom Line:
My first full suspension bike. The Reba fork is pretty good. The rear suspension seems complicated, but works really well. I've had no problems with the Shimano XT derailleurs, but have had a hard time getting used to the Low-Normal rear setup. A great all-arounder.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben Dawson
a Racer
from Peterborough, ON, CAN Date Reviewed: June 1, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The race course
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Impala Bicycles
Strengths:
Very stable, no undesired movement. Bike floats, rear suspension never seems to get lost. Amazing geometry with very low center of gravity makes it handle like a dream. Doesnt mind catching air unlike the NRS.
Weaknesses:
SRAM stuff and RF Bottom Bracket
Similar Products Used:
2004 NRS Air, 2002 NRS-1
Bike Setup:
North American Anthem 1 Spec. Stock except for the fork. Changed out the Super for an R-7 Platinum. The SPV makes the bike very balanced and perfect for racing (though you sacrifice some small bump plushness).
Bottom Line:
Hayes brakes are the best I've used (carbon levers dont freeze you hands when it's cold either and provide good grip). Race Face rings shift well and cranks are stiff. Their BB's are cheap crap though, mine has failed already and been swapped out for Shimano. Personally I dont like the SRAM stuff, not intuative, single hand position for shifting, springs are too rigid causing the derailleur to get confused while shifting multiple gears or when it gets choppy. I prefer rapid rise and liked the dual control XT stuff that came on my NRS Air. Though on the plus side I like the Hayes brakes better. Crossmax's are bombproof as always, bent 2 spokes side by side by 2 different sticks entering my wheel. Wheel still stayed true. Race Face seatpost is overkill and useless, how often do you adjust tilt?? Weight savings to be had there. Waterbottle cage is in a nice close position, you can only use smaller bottles but thats fine for racing anyway. Giant lock-on grips arent very good, makes space on a skinny bar even more sparce.......my hands rest right up against the super sensitive SRAM release lever.
As for the frame, well it handles amazingly. The swingarm is nice and compact which leaves your center of gravity low for carving turns. It handles steep and rough sections very well and the long top tube flattens you out for optimal aero and keeps your lungs unrestricted. There is zero bob in the frame. Personally this bike suits my riding style perfectly, I chose the bike I wanted most on the planet, which has coincidentally been a Giant FS for the past 5 years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthem 2
a Weekend Warrior
from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Date Reviewed: May 31, 2006
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
nice overall setup Anthem 2
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
lots of HT & FS
Bike Setup:
standard and correct suspension presure to your weight
Bottom Line:
The bike's design for XC racing, though I mainly ride it on social trail rides with friends than racing. As everyone said its a fast climber, responsive to any direction and very light to handle though you have to work hard going down hill but its fun. Its not comfortable as Trance going down hill or doing log crossing or doing jumps but your in control as a rider. If your younger or like to feel every bumps right through your bones then the Anthem is for you. The rear shock S-Type SRL is nice and stiffer as would expect at 3.5inches of travel. At the front, I use REBA 100mm, though I would like to try any 80mm fork to match it with the rear short & stiff travel. The REBA 100mm fork is flush and nice and can be setup stiffer to match the rear shock though still feels flusher due to 100mm travel. I'm working on getting Manitou R7 fork or any fork at 80mm travel and see what happens. I want to match the front & rear together for the Ying & Yang travel feeling (S-Type & R7 80mm). Once I get the fork & tested, I will post another Anthem feedback in the future. For those Anthem riders out there that use Manitou R7 fork with 80mm travel, can you's post your feedback at the Giant forum as we the rest of the community would like to here your good & bad feedback as I have not heard a great deal about R7 fork on the net.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam Vail
a Cross Country Rider
from Berlin, Germany Date Reviewed: May 29, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Grunewald Forrest & Teufelsberg
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Bikesenjava
Strengths:
Wow, I rode it for the first time on some good xc trails and it was amazing. The Full Suspension sucked up everything including the rail road ties on a few tressels I crossed. I am just waiting to see how great it is at climbing which is my favorite thing to do; nice .5 to 1 kilometer or more climbs. I was a die hare hardtail rider but this thing completely changed my attitude toward fullys.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
GT Zasker, Giant XTC hardtail.
Bike Setup:
I custom built this one to my specs. I purchased the frameset, then added a Fox F80 fork, then a complete Shimano XT component set, then added a Mavic 717 wheelset, and finally added Ritchey WCS stem, handlebar, and seatpost.
Bottom Line:
Ich liebe dieser fahrrad. Es ist ueber alles in der Welt! Buy One!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
RedStripe
a Racer
from Omaha Ne Date Reviewed: May 28, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Jewel Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Bike Masters
Strengths:
Good chasis, very quick and precise handling, decent climber. The Anthem 1 is not real light for a $4000 retail bike with only 3 inches of travel, but there are heaviers XC racers out there. Rear suspension performs well and is quite effecient and active. Sram shifting is the stuff dreams are made of.
Weaknesses:
Could be a couple pounds lighter. Anthem 1 is speced out terribly for a bike in this price range. I.E. saddle, seatpost, grips, lousy carbon bars and fork all leave something to be desired. The R7 Super fork eventually comes around but the first 30 hours or so are pure HELL! The Race Face crankset is not up to even XT level. The ride can be quite harsh on a choppy trail.
Similar Products Used:
Several high end hardtails, Titus RX 100 and a Santa Cruz superligh
Bike Setup:
All stock Anthem 1, except for grips and Nevegal 1.95's run with a Stans No Tubes kit.
Bottom Line:
At first I was really dissapointed in both the bike and ride quality. The fork leaked air, topped out with a loud knocking noise and the seat/seatpost creaked. The crankset was touchy and flexes a fair amount. The supposed top end WTB saddle may be light but you pay for it big time in comfort. Some say the bike is twitchy but I find it to be simply quick handling and responsive to rider input. Anthems are decently quick but not as fast as a Titus RX or good hardtail, but then what is. After 3 and 1/2 months of riding and a couple of races and 2 marathon events I am starting to like the thing more and more as I get used to it, but I would highly recomend buying the Anthem 2 or 3 and upgrading parts with the massive savings as you see fit. The Anthem 1 is overpriced for what you get. The 2 and 3 models are a better buy. The XC racer looking for a good full suspension race bike will like this model with a few changes. As a trail bike I think it would work OK but being a full on racer with only 3 inches of stiff travel a less than groomed trail may be uncomfortable.
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Submitted by
Ian
a Racer
from Steamboat, CO Date Reviewed: May 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Emerald mtn
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Ski and Bike Kare
Strengths:
Light, fast, responsive
Weaknesses:
short skinny handlebar
Similar Products Used:
cannondale scalpel, yeti 575
Bike Setup:
stock except for grips - replaced with oury lock ons and handlebar - repplaced with easton carbon riser.
Bottom Line:
fast up hill, zero bob and an awesome race bike. Even good for the 155 lbs I weigh as a trail bike for here in Steamboat. The Mavic cross max wheels are amazing - I landed heavily on my front wheel and seperated my shoulder, concussion, broken helmet etc andI popped a spoke out of my hub. Still , the wheel was not out of true and was still fast after a quick repair.
Not too sure about the manitou fork though - still undecided.
Giant are one of the best spec'd bikes out there for the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
alan
a Cross Country Rider
from south africa Date Reviewed: May 26, 2006
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$1400.00
Purchased At:
willie engelbricht cycles sa
Strengths:
good climber much better than my old xtc air
Weaknesses:
slightly longer top bar
Similar Products Used:
xtc air
Bottom Line:
a good buy
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Liam Vail
a Cross Country Rider
from Berlin, Germany Date Reviewed: May 17, 2006
Favorite Trail:
The Grunewald Forrest (Teufelsberg)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3800.00
Purchased At:
Bikesenjava
Strengths:
Beutiful Frame. Supposedly the climbing is good and the bike is fast. I just purchased it last week and have not really had a chance to ride it.
Weaknesses:
I really wouldn't say it is a weakness, I'm just lazy. Adjusting and dialing in the correct suspension settings and breaking in the disk brakes is kind of of drag. I'm still a die hard Hardtailer who likes V-Brakes.
Similar Products Used:
First full suspension for me.
Bike Setup:
I custom built this one. Shimano XT components, Mavic 717 Rims, Fox RLT80 Fork, Ritchey WCS bars, stem, seatpost, & Hutchinson Python Tires.
Bottom Line:
I do not know yet. I will post a real review at a later date. So far it rides nice, but then again, I have not really ridden on any real difficult trails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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