Considering Upgrade to Giant Anthem Frame
 

I currently ride a Trek 8500 (not standard spec) - I built the bike
up with mostly LX components. I'm exclusively a XC rider . I'm
considering upgrading to a dual suspension. I visited local (South
Africa) cycle shops and 2 frames kind of stood out: the Giant Anthem
and BMC Fourstroke 3 - they basically cost the same as well. I'm in a
bit of a jam and not really shure which rout to go. I know that the
Giant is exclusively built for XC racing, but I'm not sure about the
BMC (has a bit more travel at the back). I haven't test-ridden the
bikes and would like to do so at some stage. Anybody have any ride
experience on these frames? Any other reccommended frames?

Thanks
Marcel