'12 Giant

Comments:

Generally speaking, the Giant Defy 2 is a good bike with a relatively good value. By the latter, I mean compared to its counterparts in other brands it's better priced for what it offers, but only by that comparison. I personally think the price is just a little bit higher than it should be. Also, I am a student who happens to prefer biking to college over driving, so I would be obviously happier if manufacturers offered special discounts to people like me.The only problem that I noticed right away was the discomfort of the seat (which is a big deal in long commutes) and a slight issue with ergonomics. Obviously, the seat is designed by expert engineers based on years of research and testing, but my thighs couldn't care less about that. They felt uncomfortable nonetheless! I think the idea today is to make seats narrower so that they are in less contact with the inside of your legs, especially considering men's genitals!! But I personally prefer the traditional wider and more cushioned (softer) seats.As far as ergonomics, the bike is pretty good, except after the staff at [...] did the adjustments for me, the seat seemed much much higher than I expected! When I sat on the bicycle and leaned forward to place my hands on the handlebars, I felt like I was falling forward. The staff who helped me insisted that that was the right height for the seat based on their measurements and adjustments with their protractors, rulers and string-weights. Nonetheless, I didn't feel comfortable with that "standard" height adjustment for the seat. So, as I am 6'3" and taller than average, I would lower it.Anyway... the Giant Defy 2 (basically all Giant Defy bicycles) are good and I would recommend it to those wanting to go to the next level beyond the average 400 to 700-dollar bicycle. Needless to say, any bicycle above 500 dollars is considered expensive in this country (especially outside the big cities), so I recommend buying two U-locks instead of a U-lock and a cable lock. Then again, I am a rather paranoid and super careful person! Using two U-locks is usually difficult because the places designated for bicycle parking are normally equipped with narrow bicycle racks, so more often than not it seems impossible to use two U-locks. I think a combination of two U-locks and a cable lock is even better! Sorry, I can't help being paranoid!! 1200 dollars plus the cost of protective ware and accessories plus taxes amounts to quite a lot and I personally don't take any chances. There are many dishonest people among us who don't mind a bit of thievery every now and then! And bicycles are hot items for thieves because they sell well.So! If you want to experience the true excitement of bicycling AND you can afford to pay 1200 dollars plus "applicable sales tax", the Giant Defy 2 is a good choice for you. Bike on!!

Comments:

After riding mountain bikes exclusively for years, I did not know what I was missing out on. This is my first road bike and I cannot imagine a better starting point. The Giant Defy 2 is fast, lightweight, and affordable. The frame fits me like a glove. I plan on moving up the ladder of the Giant Defy rode bike series as my experience increases.