Giant Defy 4 2014 - per purchase opinions and advice?

[James07]

I've been contemplating getting a road bike over the last month and the other day I went to have a look at some.

I've been recommended the defy 3 but when I got to the store the salesman showed me the defy 4 which is a better budget for me as I can get some cycling clothes at the same time.

What are people's opinions on this bike? I've read up on them and people have said the Claris gear set is a lot better than the 2300 range, they've also said the pads are rubbish and recommended swisstop brakes instead once purchased, I've also read that the tyres are pretty good and last 1000+ Miles which sounds brilliant to me, if those tyres aren't good enough then I've been recommended the conti 4000's.

Anyone own one of theses bikes? What do you make of them?

I'm going down again on Tuesday to have another look and a ride on them, people rave about the defy range so I assume they're pretty good? Ex pro tech on a budget bike if I'm right?

Thanks,

James.

 

[James07]

When I bought my hardtail I paid £420 but I paid for that cash.

The roadie is going to be cycle scheme, dont want to pay cash again, atleast not for quite a while anyway, ive dropped my budget so I can get some clothing too as that will save me cash from my bank.

£500 is the maximum id want to spend as like I said above having the correct clothing is very important to me.

I looked at the 2013 defy 4 but was persuaded away and towards the 2014 model, I like the defy 3 but again, its above my limit.

 

[James07]

I dont know? I dont know anything about them?

 

[James07]

Ive found the Defy 3 for the same price, should I get that instead?