The Giant Anthem SX is a slacker, plusher and friendlier variation on Giant’s cross-country war horse.
The Anthem SX’s party piece is the 120mm travel fork. The frame is unchanged meaning that the additional length of the fork adapts the geometry of the bike compared to the ordinary 100mm Anthem. The head angle is 1 degree slacker and the wheelbase ever so slightly longer than a standard Anthem. These changes make the Anthem SX a more versatile bike with added comfort and easier handling on the descents.
The Anthem SX appears to have been equipped with reliability and performance in mind. The suspension features the Fox Float Performance range instead of the Evolution range found on a number of Giant’s bikes (a big plus in my opinion). The gearing and brakes are Shimano SLX with a XT clutch rear derailleur to improve shifting and chain security. Giant’s Compact range, including a surprisingly decent dropper seatpost, makes up the cockpit. The Giant wheels are wrapped in Schwalbe tyres, Nobby Nic EVO for some grip up front and Racing Ralph EVO at the back. Altogether a good deal at a recommended retail price of R32,950.
We only had time for a brief test ride. Being a small frame, the Anthem SX would have been a BMX for any of The Hub staffers, so we recruited a smaller rider for the task. Her initial impressions of the Anthem SX were positive, finding the bike fun and forgiving on the trails.
I like to argue that this style of bike is a far better match for many South African cross-country mountain biker’s aspirations and abilities than the harsh race inspired bikes that are currently so popular. What do you think?
The 2015 Giant Anthem SX will be available through Giant dealers at the beginning of next year.
2015 Giant Anthem SX specification
- FrameALUXX SL-grade aluminum, 4″ Maestro suspension
- SizesXS, S, M, L, XL
- ForkFox Float CTD Performance w/ 15mm thru-axle, OverDrive steerer, 120mm travel
- ShockFox Float CTD Performance
- HandlebarGiant Contact, Low rise, 31.8mm
- StemGiant Contact
- SeatpostGiant Contact SL Switch-R, 30.9mm
- SaddleGiant Contact, Forward
- ShiftersShimano SLX
- Front DerailleurShimano SLX
- Rear DerailleurShimano XT, Shadow+
- BrakesShimano SLX, Hydraulic disc, [F] 180mm [R] 160mm
- Brake LeversShimano SLX
- CassetteShimano HG81 11×36, 10-speed
- ChainKMC X10
- CranksetShimano SLX, 24/38
- Bottom BracketShimano, Press fit
- RimsGiant P-XC2, Double wall
- HubsGiant Performance Tracker Disc, 32h, [F] 15mm axle, [R] 135x5mm QR
- SpokesStainless Steel, 14/15g
- Front TyreSchwalbe Nobby Nic EVO, Tubeless ready, 27.5×2.25, Folding
- Rear TyreSchwalbe Racing Ralph EVO, Tubeless ready, 27×2.25, Folding
- Retail PriceR32,950.00
Don't know if I should save for one of those or a Trek Fuel EX 9.9