Giant Defy
Medium demand · 0 active listings
Good points
- Better spec for the money than the Domane or Roubaix at every price point
- Simple D-Fuse comfort system with no complex parts to maintain
- Lighter than many endurance competitors
- Good tyre clearance for wider, more comfortable rubber
- Giant dealer network across the UK for service and support
Things to consider
- Less vibration damping than the Domane IsoSpeed or Roubaix Future Shock
- Giant brand perception does not match Specialized or Trek for some riders
- Proprietary D-Fuse seatpost limits aftermarket saddle height micro adjustment
- Lower spec models come with heavy wheels that cry out for an upgrade
Giant Defy buying guide
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.
Giant Defy year guide
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.
Giant Defy, key things to know
- The Advanced 2 and Advanced Pro models are the sweet spots in the range
- Check the D-Fuse seatpost for cracks at the flex point. It is a wear item that can fail if overtightened or damaged
- Look for disc brake models. The stopping power difference is worth it for UK riding
- Giant changed the Defy significantly in 2019. The newer generation is noticeably better in frame quality and ride feel
- Used Defys often come with heavy stock wheels. Factor in the cost of a wheel upgrade when calculating value
Cyclesite Fair Value Range
Based on current UK market prices for this model
Trade-in vs Private Sale
Shop trade-in
£195
Private sale
£300
You save
£105 (54% more)
Value by Condition
Estimated market value based on current UK market prices for this model.
Excellent
Like new, minimal signs of use
£300
£200 to £550
Good
Normal wear, fully functional
£255
£170 to £468
Fair
Visible wear, may need minor work
£195
£130 to £358
Poor
Significant wear, needs repairs
£120
£80 to £220
Based on real UK market prices, updated continuously as the market moves.
See the full Giant Defy valuation, depreciation and price history
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What's your Defy worth?
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Giant Defy Resale Value & Market Data
The Giant Defy has a current fair market value of £200-£550 based on current UK market prices for this model. At the mid-point of £300, this places the Defy in the medium-demand segment of the used market.
Giant Defy Value by Condition
Condition has a significant impact on resale value. An excellent-condition Defy commands around £300, while good condition drops to £255 and fair condition to £195. These figures update as Cyclesite tracks new sales across the UK.
Sell Your Defy
Selling privately on Cyclesite typically nets £105 more than a shop trade-in (54% difference). With 0 active listings and medium demand, now is a reasonable time to list.