2008 Iron Horse Azure Sport or 2009 Giant Anthem X2?

[ABG]

I've narrowed my search down to these 2 bikes following some good deals being offered. Most of my riding will be weekend trail riding, but I expect I'll be competing in events such as 50km and 100km races. I'm 6'0" and weigh 84Kg, so I'm no lightweight. Which of these two bikes do you think would suit me better?

The Iron Horse has a much higher RRP, but the componentry spec is lower than the Giant. Does anyone have any idea about the weight of these two?

Regards,

Andrew

[ABG]

Just came across these 2 reviews (I know it's an 08 Anthem). http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/mountain/product/anthem-2-08-29809
http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/mountain/product/azure-sport-08-32126
Hasn't helped me in any way... :confused:

[fozzy65]

I'm exactly the same size as you and ride an 07 Azure Comp ... love it, although I have cracked the frame twice (we have pretty brutal trails where I ride). Not sure about the latest model Azure, but mine has a 90mm rear shock compared with 100 mm for the 09 Anthems. You're right in saying that you don't get the same level of componentry on the iron horse as you do on the giant, but giant seems to be beating every manufacturer at that game. If it's bang for you buck you want, then go for the Anthem. However I love the Azure's ride (the DW-link system is great ... basically don't need pro-pedal) so you won't go wrong with one, especially if your trails aren't too rough. Good luck with your decision!

[ETSX]

I have a Giant X1 and love it. It is a pure race bike and if you like the thought of that then go for it. I presume the Iron Horse would have slightly more relaxed angles therefore more forgiving. I love the speed of the Anthem and it does not matter if you standing or sitting it just goes. I did find it a bit twitchy on fast down hills but you would soon get use to it.

[pyrop]

Hey ABG I see you started this tread more than a month ago so have you made a decision yet?

As far as weight goes if you look at the IH website it gives you a weight for the Azure Sport which is 13.7kg (doesn't say for what size).
For the Anthem I would expect it to be around the mid to high 12kg mark depending on size. I (6') have a large 08 Anthem1 & it was just over 12.2kg off the shelf & my mates(5'10") medium was about 200g lighter. He has had his down to under 11.5kg by changing brake discs, Grips & pedals.

Both bikes have similar rear suspension setup (3.5" vs 4") & the Anthem has a slightly better fork.

So expecting that the Anthem is around 1kg lighter, on a 50k or 100k race your legs would be feeling worse for wear on the IH.

Both bikes will do what you want them to do but I think the Anthem will be better at it.

One problem you may find is trying to get an 09 Anthem at the moment.

my 0.2c

Paul:D