Giant Anthem Review: The Full Suspension XC Bike Worth Your Attention
If you want a fast and efficient cross country bike that performs on real trails, the Giant Anthem is a standout choice. It is built for riders who care about speed, control, and confidence on climbs and descents. The Anthem delivers race level performance in a package that is still fun for everyday trail rides.
Built for Performance
The Anthem uses a full composite frameset that is lighter, stiffer, and more efficient than previous generations. Giant designed this frame for serious XC performance. The FlexPoint Pro suspension system gives 100 to 120 millimeters of rear travel depending on the model. This setup keeps traction high while maintaining efficient power transfer on climbs.
Modern XC Geometry
The Anthem features modern geometry that pairs perfectly with 29 inch wheels. It has a longer reach and a slacker head tube angle for better control on technical terrain. The result is a bike that climbs quickly and feels stable and predictable at high speeds.
Controlled Suspension and Smooth Efficiency
One of the biggest strengths of the Anthem is how well the suspension behaves in real trail conditions. Riders get firm and efficient pedaling on climbs along with confident grip on roots, rocks, and loose dirt. The bike stays planted without feeling heavy or sluggish. This balance makes it ideal for long rides, race days, and spirited weekend loops.
Key Features
- Advanced composite frame for reduced weight and improved stiffness
- FlexPoint Pro suspension with 100 to 120 millimeters of rear travel
- Modern geometry with longer reach and slacker head tube angle
- 29 inch wheel platform for speed and rollover capability
- Internal cable routing for a clean and efficient layout
Seamless Suspension
The FlexPoint Pro suspension system has been repositioned on the frame for better performance and a cleaner layout. The shock now sits beneath the top tube instead of in front of the seat tube. This new placement creates a smooth, semi integrated chassis that improves stiffness, simplifies maintenance, and gives the bike a modern, streamlined look.
Two Bottles for Longer Rides
The updated frame and suspension layout creates room for a second water bottle, a big advantage on long XC rides and endurance races. The integrated mounts on the seat tube let you add a second cage with ease, so you can carry more hydration without relying on a pack. This setup keeps weight centered, improves comfort on long climbs, and helps riders stay fueled on marathon distance adventures.
Clean Cockpit
Select models feature a new composite one piece handlebar and stem that improves ride comfort and control. The design adds compliance to help absorb shocks and trail vibrations, which reduces hand fatigue on long rides. This setup also saves weight and creates a clean, organized cockpit through internal cable routing for the brakes, shifters, suspension controls and dropper post.
Material Options
The integrated handlebar is available in two versions, the Contact SLR XC Integrated composite model and the Contact SL XC Integrated alloy option. Both provide clean internal cable routing and come in versatile sizing. Each version uses a 780 mm standard width with stem lengths from 50 to 90 mm, giving riders a precise fit and consistent performance across materials.
Who the Anthem Is Built For
The Giant Anthem is a great fit for riders who want a capable full suspension XC bike. It works well for riders focused on speed, long distance efficiency, and technical trail performance. If you enjoy fast climbs, smooth singletrack, and competitive riding, the Anthem will feel right at home.
If your riding focuses mainly on steep downhill terrain or jump heavy bike parks, you may want a longer travel bike. For XC focused riders, the Anthem is a smart and future proof choice.
Final Thoughts
The Giant Anthem blends lightweight efficiency with smooth suspension performance. It feels quick on the climbs, confident on the descents, and stable at speed. For riders ready to take their cross country riding to the next level, the Anthem is a strong contender and a great addition to the Bicycle Warehouse lineup.
