claimed weights are normally quite accurate, and usually a prototype is heavier than the production version would be. well, i can see a few advantages of the anthem x advanced over an epic. 1. "normal" headtube, so you can use a standard fork, without the need for special adaptors. al though by the look of the picture it looks like there is something funky going on with the new anthem headtube. 2. Same for the bb, you are not limited to using a spesh crank or one that is only compatible with shimano press fit bb. 3. it uses a fox rear shock, much more reliable than the spesh ones. a friend have been through more than 10 brains in the space of a year. also, the fox shock have more adjustments which means you can fine tune the ride as you like it. I cant speak too much for the Scott, have not tried one yet, but by the size of the pivots it looks like it will be as stiff as a wet noodle. i don't really see how you can call these "advantages"......... The anthem x,spark and epic are bikes purely built for perfomance. The Tapered Steerer increases front end stiffness by up to 14%.The larger head tube also allows for a larger down tube.the larger down tube allows for a wider BB.that makes the BB 23% stiffer without sacrificing strength.These features are now common on most road bikes,including giant.... I agree with you on the rear shock.They have not been the most reliable so lets see how the new shock performs.The brain is a beautiful feature and works better than i had ever expected.I don't understand why fox don't put a remote lever.it's quite frustrating having to bend down to lock/unlock the shock.I am a great fan of Scott bikes.The spark is super stiff and the rear shock works really well.I have nothing against Giant,they one of the best brands in the world but to me it just seems they always a step behind on the technology side.
