BikeRadar.com: Anthem X1

The editors at Bikeradar.com have tested and reviewed the 2009 Giant Anthem X1, and they have so many nice things to say about the machine that I just can’t understand how Dennis Lane and the rest of the Giant product development team can stay so modest. Bestowing upon the Anthem X1 four-and-a-half stars out of a possible five, editors Guy Kesteven and Steve Worland say things like: "The best combo of low weight, high performance and value we’ve seen so far this year" and “This one makes sense for anyone looking for the maximum bang for their buck.”

But wait, there’s more. “With so much emphasis on carbon composites these days, it’s easy to overlook the fact that aluminum frame construction techniques are getting better too, and Giant is at the leading edge with its ALUXX SL technology.”

Holy cow, how about this next one!?!? “Every single section of the Anthem X frame is a mini-masterpiece of structural engineering.”

Wait. I gotta repeat that one, it’s so good: “Every single section of the Anthem X frame is a mini-masterpiece of structural engineering.”

Not finished yet. “The key feature of Giant's Maestro suspension platform is its floating rear triangle, which negates the effect of pedaling and braking on the shock. This leaves the bike with totally predictable compression, rebound and pedal power responses on any type of terrain, regardless of whether you’re sitting or standing.”

Okay. Just one more. “Power transfer feels tight and efficient all of the time.”