The new look 2008 model!

Giant have been in the game for a long while, providing affordable bikes for women, before there even was “women's specific”. Their experience is evident in their ability to provide style, comfort and performance with this bike, the Anthem W and for a top end women's MTB Giant have done very well.

Frame

The Anthem W has a low sloping top tube, which makes standover perfect for those of us who are on the shorter side of the population. The one that we tested was the smallest they had, at 13.5 inches, however it also comes in 14.5, 16 and 18 inch sizes.

The angles and proportions are precise to women's dimensions and it delivers the “uncompromising performance” that Giant claim. The aluminium Maestro frame is lightweight making racing that little bit easier…no more blaming the bike in this case. A two tone silver paint job looks great complementing any rider and kit.

Contact points

The saddle on any bike is one of the most important features for women and the WTB Diva is great. It utilises a firm and supportive shell for pedalling efficiency and has a broad and comfortable platform for its size. We had a big crash and unfortunately the saddle did break on a crash, the damage was fixable and we pleased to find the saddle ultra comfortable. We hardly considered the saddle during riding which means we didn't notice any discomfort or problems with the shape, padding or fit.

The low rise handlebars are a women's friendly width and the levers are close to the handlebars to prevent uncomfortable outstretching of the fingers and hands. No more sore wrists with these handlebars.

Frame with 2 tone silver paint job - 2007 model

Components + wheels

We can see why Fox F80 RL forks were used in the specs of this bike. They are lightweight and offer rebound and compression adjustment with ease. We could lock the fork out for a rigid ride and easily switch it back without fuss. Air spring allow for delivery of suspension as you need it, set up specifically for your weight. They are smooth and durable and ready for any rock, root or climb you throw at them. The fork can be “tinkered” with to give a little more travel too.

A full Shimano groupset of mostly XT, including hydraulic disc brakes, with an upgrade to XTR on the rear mech demonstrate the serious nature of this machine. There has been no corners cut and you are assured a reliable ride, performance braking and great shifting.

The wheels are good quality with WTB Laser Disc XC rims accompanied with WTB Laser Disc Lite hubs. The tyres are Michelin XCR Dry 2, with a width of 2 inches. These tyres are great for dry days (as the name suggests), however, at even the slightest glimpse of wet, maybe not so suitable. We suggest reviewing the tyre choice at any sign of winter, wet weather, or mid summer showers.

Ride

For neigh on £ 2000 you would expect an amazing ride and that is exactly what the Giant Anthem W delivered. Giant have concentrated heavily on a lightweight performance cross country mountain bike for women. This MTB would give even a novice the confidence needed to tackle any track.

The bike was strong and smooth and felt at one with our body. The lightweight features created a responsive ride capable of dealing with all manner of terrain. The riding position was comfortable from start to finish with no compromise on power transfer. The frameset provides precise steering and control with the help of the geometry designed for smaller riders and full suspension for the lighter weight range too.

Verdict This bike is a finely tunned racing machine for women serious about there cross country riding. Lightweight, fast and friendly. Well worth every penny! Race Ready Giant Anthem W Price: £ 1800 Website: www.giant-bicycles.com Frame: ALUXX aluminium, Fluid Formed, Maestro suspension system 3.5''/90mm travel Fork: Fox F80 RL 80mm travel, lock out Handlebar: RaceFace Evolve XC Stem: RaceFace Evolve XC ahead Seatpost: RaceFace Evolve XC Saddle: WTB Deva BB: Shimano XT Hollowtech II Rear derailleur: Shimano XTR Shadow Front derailleur: Shimano XT Brake: Shimano XT hydraulic discs, 160mm rotors Chain: Shimano HG73 Rims: WTB Laser Disc XC Hubs: WTB Laser Disc Lite Tyres Michelin XCR Dry 2 26x2.0" Colour: silver Size: 13.5, 14.5, 16, 18in