Giant always produces a new chassis from aluminum before committing big bucks on carbon molds. The major changes on the aluminum Anthem X0 frame are a vertical shock mount with co-pivot rear suspension that integrates the lower shock mount and main link pivot. Travel is bumped up from 3.5 to 4.0 inches. By tightening up the forged suspension linkage and isolating stresses, Giant was able to lighten the frame everywhere else for a claimed half-pound weight savings. Giant claims that even with the thinner frame tubes, the co-pivot linkage results in a stiffer frame.
Test quote: "No matter how hard the pedals are pushed, the rear suspension still absorbs and improves traction over the crevices and stones that normally cause a rider to spin out. Oh, did we mention how light the Anthem X0 feels and that it makes you want to shift up climbs?"
Stoked:
Cross-country racer feel
Great climber
Fast on its feet
Bummed:
Absolutely nothing!
Bottom Line: The best cross-country riders in America admitted that they couldn't keep up with Adam Craig at Mount Snow during the 2008 National Championships. This bike delivers the same mechanical advantage of the bike Adam rode to the stars and stripes. A great cross-country race bike.
(Specs below photo)
2009 GIANT ANTHEM X0
Price...$5600
Country of origin...Taiwan
Weight...23.8 pounds
Hotline... www.giantbicycle.com
Size tested...17.5" (medium)
Bottom bracket height...12.75"
Chainstay length...16.7"
Top tube length...23.4"
Head angle...71°
Seat angle...73°
Standover height...30"
Wheelbase...43"
Suspension travel (front)...3.9"
Suspension travel (rear)...4"
Frame material...Aluminum
Fork...RockShox SID World Cup
Shock...Fox Float RP23
Rims...Mavic CrossMax SL
Tires...Michelin XC Dry2 (2")
Hub...Mavic CrossMax SL
Brakes...Avid Juicy Ultimate
Brake levers...Avid Juicy Ultimate
Crankset...Race Face Deus XC
Shifters...SRAM X.0 trigger
Front derailleur...Shimano XTR
Rear derailleur...SRAM X.0
Chainrings...Race Face Deus XC (44/32/22)
Cassette...Shimano XTR (11-34)
Pedals...None (tested Crankbrother Eggbeaters)