Giant Anthem X 29er 1 (2013)

XC or Trail? The Anthem blurs the lines

Pros

- Good all-round trail performance
- Components and value
- Weight

Cons

- Travel may be limiting for decent down-hill tracks

Review

The Giant Anthem X 29er is a bike that really blurs the lines between XC and trail disciplines. A common reality with 29er mountain bikes is that they often require less travel to achieve a similar ride to comparable 26 inch platforms. This is certainly true with the Anthem.

A very modest 100mm of travel front and rear and an upward stance reeks of a cross country bike, whose greatest strength, you would assume, is climbing. The Anthem is certainly a great climbing bike, but it also can descend very well indeed. Don't think this makes it a trail bike with a cross country facade - the Anthem is adept at both styles of riding.

A solid component kit-out including Fox fork and shock, stiff wheels (for a 29er) and low weight (despite this being an alloy frame) all adds up to a versatile trail machine at an extremely competitive price.

The only drawback would be when riding continuous and technical down-hill trails where the short travel and high center of gravity would certainly be a hindrance.

This bike is a great option for trail and cross-country mountain bikers looking for a top value bike that can do most things very well. All-day trail rides, a couple of fun hours with mates or even a XC or endurance race; the Anthem X 29 would certainly be a fine choice.