Product Information
Giant Defy 1 2012.
- Latest model alloy frame
- Comfort enhancing geometry
- Fantastic Shimano 105 components
- Carbon fork
What a great bike for under $1500! Currency fluctuations don't always work in our favour, but with a bike of this quality now costing less that what we would have paid for the frame and fork a few years ago, who's complaining? With the fantastic ALUXX SL frame, carbon forks, Shimano 105 20 speed gears, brakes and crankset, the Defy 1 is an ideal bike for someone getting into road riding or who is perhaps tired of putting up with the discomfort of their old road bike. Being a light-weight bike with the more upright riding position offered by the Defy geometry it is well suited to those who ride regularly, be it as a daily commuter, fitness rider or as a light tourer.
The Shimano Tiagra components are known for their ease of use and reliability and will last the average recreational rider for many years. While it may not be suitable for serious racing with the more upright rider position, it is more than capable of handling regular rides for those setting out on a fitness regime, or heading out to explore the open roads. Comparing a Defy to the TCR it is clear that the Defy is designed more for a rider who perhaps has no real desire to race, but is still interested in a fast, light bike to get fit, or simply for recreation. With rider comfort as a priority, the frame geometry allows for a more upright riding position than is available on purely competition bikes. This more relaxed position results in less back and neck fatique, easier handling and a less harsh ride, benefiting the regular long distance rider and the casual sunday rider alike. We will all have heard of the saying "Built for comfort, not for speed", well this doesn't exactly apply to the Defy range. They are certainly comfortable, but are also as swift as most bikes on the market. if you are intending to pin on a race number,then have a look at something from the TCR range from Giant.
Giant ALUXX SL alloy frames. Compare a modern alloy frame such as the 2010 Defy from Giant with any older frame and you will instantly notice the difference in tubing shapes. The old frame will have round frame tubes, while the latest frames from Giant are anything but, with ovalisation, tapering and gussetting all being incorporated in the shape of the tubing. Two other differences are less noticeable from a visible inspection, lighter weight and increased strength, however they are benefits derived primarily from the Fluid Forming which is the technique used to control the tubing shapes. With a raw material 30% stiffer than traditional 6061 aluminium, and fluid forming technology, the 2010 Defy frames are the strongest, lightest aluminium frames Giant have ever produced! One feature that won't be of use to everyone, but which will be a huge benefit to those who do need it, is the incorporation of pannier rack mounts on the seat stays and dropouts. So the Defy can be used as a useful commuter or semi tourer simply by bolting on a rack.
Defy 1 - 20 Speed
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Sizes
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XS:43, S:46.5, M:50, M-L: 53.5, L:55.5, XL:58.5
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Colours
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White
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Frame
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ALUXX SL FluidFormed™ alloy: smooth welded, Endurance geometry
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Fork
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Advanced composite | tapered OverDrive alloy steerer
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Handlebar
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Giant Connect oversize alloy medium drop/reach
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Bar tape
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Velo cork gel
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Stem
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Giant Connect oversize alloy, 4 bolt, 8 degree
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Seat Post
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Giant Connect SL composite 30.9
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Saddle
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Giant defy saddle
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Pedals
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Shimano R540 SPD-SL clipless
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Shifters
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Shimano 105 STI 20 sp.
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Front Derailleur
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Shimano 105
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Rear Derailleur
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Shimano 105 10sp
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Brakes
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Tektro R540 dual pivot
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Brake Levers
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Shimano 105 w/reach adjust
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Cassette
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Shimano Tiagra 10sp. 12-28T
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Chain
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Shimano Tiagra 10 sp.
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Crankset
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Shimano R600 Compact 34x50T
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Bottom Bracket
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Shimano BB71, press fit
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Rims
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Giant P-R2 double wall, 24H Fr, 28H Rr
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Hubs
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Giant alloy, sealed cartridge bearing, 10sp cassette
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Spokes
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DT Competition 14/15G butted
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Tyres
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Giant P-R3, front & rear specific, w/IronCap Belt, 700 x 23c
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