While reading about tire preferences, I noticed that telebutch and rsdmag both have (or had) Giant Anthems. I've got my eye on a 2008 Anthem 2 at my LBS for $1650, and I'd appreciate any thoughts from Anthem and/or Trance riders.
I rode full rigid until 6 years ago, then it's been HT ever since (Giant XTC), w/ 80mm fork. I'm looking for faster speeds over rocks on the flats and downhills. I'm happy with my climbing, and don't want to degrade that at all. It's all granny gear; finesse and stamina rather than leg strength. So I want a light bike. At first glance, The Trance series seems too heavy, and overkill on the travel, for my needs.
Coming from a rigid and HT background, I don't think I need a lot of travel - just a softer ride to float over some rocks. No big drops in my future (if I can help it).
The only negative I've seen for the Anthem is the low BB clearance. I prefer rocky, gnarly, ungroomed terrain, and I love trying to clear bigger and bigger logs and rocks. So I'm wondering if I'll miss the clearance for big log and rock crossings etc. On my XTC, I replace the big chain ring with a minimal bash guard to gain clearance.
If anyone can offer advice from their experiences, I'd surely appreciate it!
Tom