An added value that puts the high price into perspective and that you can feel: lightest bike in the test, great acceleration, manoeuvrable ride feel. The sporty character runs through the concept, and it's not for nothing that Giant lists the Anthem in the marathon category. The addition SX stands for the longer fork and the equipment with single drive and the perfectly functioning Giant Tele support, but the origin cannot be hidden. However, the bike giant cannot hide the fact that the concept is already a few years old. The key words here are geometry (slack seat angle) and stiffness. Strong riders feel twisting in the bottom bracket area, which is due to the suspension linkage of the Maestro system. The advantages of the system lie in its sensitive function. However, because too much movement in the shock can also be annoying, we missed a platform setting when climbing. There is only the lockout. Downhill, the Anthem is a lot of fun, but the suspension reaches its limits sooner.
Conclusion: a fast, lightweight bike that loves changing direction. High-quality equipment with carbon wheels.
The alternative: The sportier side of the Giant full-susser: the Anthem X Advanced 29er costs 400 euros less, but is in the same weight class with 100 mm of travel. A bike for marathons and fast tours.
