Can't choose between Defy 2 or 3

philspeck

I'm about to order a new road bike for the commute to work, but also to begin road cycling, with the aim to be completing a charity cycle between Snowdon, Scafell pike and Ben Nevis next august (2011).
So I need some advice, on choosing between the Giant Defy 2 or 3. I'm really keen on both, although I lean towards the Defy 3 for its 27 speed set-up, but the Defy 2 has received some excellent reviews, and must be a 'better' bike as Its higher up in the range, and more expensive? right? but it's only 18 speed - but as I say, I'm new to bikes at this level, and detail and maybe I'm misunderstanding, and that this quality of 18 speed is better than the quality of the Defy 3's 27 speed.

Can you/anyone help, and put me right as to which would be the best bike?

Thanks