Trek 1.2 vs. Giant Defy 3?

Sup, I am currently in the market for a new road bike around the $800 range. I have narrowed it down to 2 bikes. The Trek 1.2 (2010) and the Giant Defy 3 (2010). Which would you recommend? I know there is a lot of brand loyalty out there, but I want to hear the facts without much bias. Which should I buy? I'm leaning towards one of them right now, but I just need a little more convincing.

 

Well, I can't say that I've actually spent time riding either bike, but here's my 2 cents:

The Trek aesthetics are a bit more pleasing so if I was going by looks alone the Trek wins hands down for me. However, I like the fact that Giant does all of their work in house whereas the other brands farm out their work to other companies. Of course, that just boils down to quality control at the respective factory, but my Giant TCR is a hell of a bike and if they make their other bikes in much the same way then I would have to say you can't lose going with Giant. One more plus for Trek, though, is that I think the Bontrager wheels (does it come with Bontrager wheels?) have the longest warranty out there...maybe 5 years?

 

You'll probably be fine with either of these. I have a 2009 Giant Defy 3, and have been really happy with it. I believe the geometry is slightly more relaxed that the Trek.

Either way, happy riding!

 

hi there im considering a defy 3 too has your model got a carbon fork? is it comfortable say over a twenty mile ride?

 

I have the older Trek 1200 which I got in 2004 (?). Anyway, still rides well and I just replaced it as my main racing bike this year. Now it is my commuting back and works a treat still. The only thing I have replaced is the chain and cassette due to wear. The carbon fork is a must for comfort on an Aluminum bike.

Giant make fine bikes as well. Truthfully they are likely very similar. If you can actually take both out for a short ride I am sure that will help you decide which geometry you like better.

And all bikes in that price range are made in Asia and sent to the USA for assembly. So quality control on frames is the same. And all parts are made in Asia, so it is just the assembly and both Giant and Trek are great (though final assembly is usually the bike shop).

 

Yes, my Defy 3 has the carbon fork. I've been comfortable on the bike for many 20-40 mile rides.

 

I'd go with a Giant Defy 3. I'm assuming the geometry is pretty much the same as on a Defy 1, which I've spent some time on, and for me it was a very comfortable bike and I'm 5'11; smooth riding, good handling, good acceleration, and pretty lightweight. Aside from componentry, I can't imagine there's much of a difference between the two.

FWIW, in a lot of cases, if you're not happy with a component like a derailleur or something, they're easy fixes, and not all that expensive to upgrade.

I think Giant offers a lot of bang for the buck.

 

Have you checked your LBS to see if they have any 2009 Models still around? You may be able to get a Trek 1.5, or a slightly better Giant 2009 model for that same price if they do.

 

My LBS stocks both Trek and Giant (others too). I knew the price range I wanted to be in but didn't know which bike. In a previous life (23 years ago) I rode an entry-level Bianchi road bike.

When I went into the shop they pulled down two each of Trek and Giant and threw them on a trainer to fit me. After adjusting for proper fit and proper bike size it turned out that I preferred the feeling of the Giant. The LBS was very patient and took the time to make sure that I got the right bike. The whole process took about 1 hour.

I suggest having your LBS try you on both to see which one suits you better.

I chose the Giant Defy 2 and am loving it!

Thanks
Roger

 

I have a 2009 Defy 3 52" with around 200 miles that I'm looking to sell. I've installed Shimano pedals on the bike. Additionally, I have Saris 2 bike holder car rack. Asking $800 OBO. Let me know if you are interested.

 

I went and put a 2011 Giant Defy 3 on layaway today and will have it under me and on the road the 1st of next month. When the bike shop let me take it on a test ride, I was very happy with how it felt and handled. I have been riding 20 to 26 miles every day on a TREK Hybird. When I road that Giant today, it was like night and day. Can't wait to hit the road on my new Giant.

 

Hey, Quick question. At 5'11 what size giant defy are your riding. M or M/L? LBS only has an M in stock so am wondering if I'll fit on it.

Thanks

 

If your build is stumpy (short legs, long torso), you're going to need the extra top tube length of the ML. If your build is lanky, you're going to need the extra height of the ML. I guess that means I recommend the ML. That's what I ride, with a 13 cm stem and lots of seatpost showing, and I'm lanky and just a bit taller than you.

 

I have been riding 20 to 26 miles every day on a TREK Hybird. When I road that Giant today, it was like night and day. Can't wait to hit the road on my new Giant.

 

James Donovan is a budding spammer and it just copying posts from other people and posting them as his own. It won't be long before he starts spamming proper.