Marathon-Fully: Endurance test Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 2 - 3750-km conclusion
Jan Timmermann
· 25.01.2023
It's easy to see that the goal in developing the Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 2 wasn't just to achieve the fastest time. Although Giant has said goodbye to the familiar Maestro system of the predecessor model. Flexing seat stays and a carbon rocker save a lot of weight. However, 2.4-inch wide tyres and a telescopic seat post with 150 millimetres of travel as standard speak more of a down-country bike. The 110 millimetre fork with thick 34 mm stanchions and the 67.4 degree head angle also fit in with this.
Equipment: A look at the parts list
As the Pro-3 model is not sold in Germany and Austria, the Giant Advanced Pro 2 an expensive entry-level model in Giant's new racefully line-up. Especially as the Taiwanese have increased the price by 200 euros to 5399 euros during the test period. A look at the parts list is sobering: Shimano SLX drivetrain, Deore brakes, wheels and own-brand components. On the plus side, there is a very light and stylish carbon frame weighing 1640 grams and Fox performance suspension.
With a long reach and steep seat angle, the new geometry integrates the rider in the centre of the bike. Giant has said goodbye to the stretched seating position of conservative race bikes. Behind the high front, you sit more upright and more comfortably than on a classic 100-millimetre fullys used to. Despite the economy equipment, we liked the propulsion of the 11.5-kilo Anthem on long day tours on the Swabian Alb. The advanced carbon frame clearly has marathon DNA and tuning potential. Despite their width, the Maxxis Rekon tyres roll fast in the tubeless setup and there were no punctures to complain about during the test period. On trail climbs, the new rear suspension concept is very lively and generates a lot of grip. However, the shock bobs when pedalling and cannot be completely calmed down even with the platform switched on. The pressure point of the affordable Shimano brakes is less defined than on more expensive models.
Strong, fast & safe: the Giant Anthem on the trail
The Giant really comes into its own on tours with a high proportion of trails. Downhill, the flat steering angle, wide tyres and 750 millimetre wide handlebars create a great feeling of safety. In the German low mountain range, the Anthem proved to be a real best time chaser downhill. The bike runs smoothly and stably through fast, rough sections. On the trails in the Black Forest and the Palatinate Forest, the Anthem felt more like a light trail bike than a racing bike thanks to the stiff fork with extra travel. Through long, open corners, the Giant runs like it's on rails and carries a lot of speed. In tight hairpin bends, however, it takes more input from the rider to get the Anthem to change direction.
Durability: The Anthem convinces
The dropper post developed slight lateral play early on. In muddy conditions on the Albkante, it got stuck when lowered, but worked reliably again after removal and cleaning. Although all cables still run smoothly, the lockout lever reports an annoying creaking noise. The suspension fork and shock continue to respond sensitively. After 2500 kilometres the first KMC chain was worn out, the second at the end of the test. While the brake discs are still sufficiently thick, the durable original pads are now worn out - a good investment after almost 3800 kilometres. The rear bearings, headset and bottom bracket remained tight despite the dirt, developed no play and continued to run smoothly. The hubs also rotate smoothly and the spoke tension is correct. Overall, the Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 2 delivers a convincing performance in terms of durability.
Conclusion: Endurance test Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 2
"The Giant Anthem Advanced is a perfect bike for fast home laps and long low mountain tours. The combination of a lightweight carbon frame and downhill-orientated parts works particularly well on long trails. In view of the price, the simple equipment is not impressive. On the other hand, the parts are reliable and durable." Stephan Gerlach, BIKE long-term tester
Technical data and evaluation: Endurance test Giant Anthem Advanced Pro 2
- Frame material: Carbon, size L
- Price / weight: 5199 Euro / 11.5 kg without pedals
- Spring travel: 108 mm /104 mm
- Wheel size: 29 inch
- Fork / damper: Fox 34 Float Performance / Fox Float Performance Elite
Mileage: 3750 km | 85500 hm
Costs in continuous operation
Even at the end of the endurance test, the suspension elements and wheels were still running perfectly. There were no high service costs. Compared to the simple equipment, the depreciation is high. However, the wear and tear costs are low.
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Jan Timmermann
Editor
