Giant Defy Advanced 2

The Defy is Giant's endurance road bike and it directly competes with the Trek Domane and Specialized Roubaix. What sets the Defy apart is price. Giant's manufacturing scale means you consistently get better spec for less money than the competition. The Defy has been a staple of the UK sportive scene for years, and for good reason.

Giant takes a more traditional approach to endurance comfort than rivals. There is no suspension system or decoupler. Instead, the Defy uses a D-Fuse seatpost that flexes to absorb vibration, a compliant frame layup, and clearance for wider tyres. It is a simpler solution that works well and has fewer parts to maintain.

With 73 used listings tracked and an average price around £3,300, the Defy offers genuine value on the secondhand market. Most examples sit between £2,000 and £4,100, which undercuts the Domane and Roubaix at equivalent spec levels.

What it's like to ride

The Defy rides like a comfortable road bike rather than a softened race bike. The D-Fuse seatpost does a decent job of taking the edge off rough roads, and the relaxed geometry puts you in a position that your back will appreciate after three hours. The handling is stable and predictable.

It is not as plush as the Domane with IsoSpeed or the Roubaix with Future Shock. Giant's approach is more subtle. But the Defy is also lighter and simpler than both of those bikes, which some riders prefer. On smooth roads it feels quick and responsive. On rough roads it is noticeably more comfortable than a race bike. It sits neatly in the middle ground.

Who it's for

Sportive riders and long distance cyclists who want comfort and value. Riders who prefer simplicity over complex suspension systems. Anyone who does regular rides over 50 miles on mixed quality UK roads. A solid choice as an all year round bike that commutes during the week and does sportives at weekends.

The 2019 redesign is the pivot point. It brought the D-Fuse system, better tyre clearance, and a refined frame. Pre-2019 models are still decent bikes but feel older. The 2022 update brought minor refinements. For the best value, look at a 2020 or 2021 Advanced Pro.