Alternatives to Defy 1 and Synapse 5

starbuck
starbuck Posts: 256
edited November 2012 in Road buying advice
I'm looking to get a bike mainly for sportive type riding.

Just went into my LBS to check availability of the Defy 1 and Cannondale Synapse 5 (105 spec) as I'm due to get my bike to work voucher (cycleplus) for £1000 in the next couple of weeks (I was leaning towards the defy, but the synapse looked good as well)

They said that the availability of both of the bikes is now Feb/March which he said it would be the same with other shops due to supply.

Merlin have a Sensa Trentino pro(£999) within budget which has a mix of 105 and ultegra http://www.merlincycles.com/bike-shop/bikes/road-bikes/sensa-bikes/sensa-trentino-sl-pro-2013.html

Another LBS stock Trek and Merida. The Merida is £849 and the shop have said that Merida make frames for Specialized (think they own most of specialized) and Cannondale:
http://www.merida-bikes.com/en_gb/bike/2013/242/Road_Fitness/Ride+Lite+93

On the plus side of the Merida - I can get it at an LBS and the service that goes along with it.

On Merlin's side, it's a full carbon fork and I haven't seen Ultegra on any other bike at this price (although it then makes me wonder if they've skimped on anything else to get some ultegra stuff on it).

Any opinons on the above 2? Any others I should be considering?

Comments

  • I would highly recommend the Defy 1. I was lucky enough to get a 2012 version a few weeks ago and I am so happy with it, such a brilliant first road bike in my case
  • elderone
    elderone Posts: 1,410
    I,ve just got a focus variado 2.0 which is same spec as defy 1 .definately worth a look but you wont go wrong at this price range.
    Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori
  • Ricey83
    Ricey83 Posts: 103
    If it's the Defy 1 you're after try http://www.rutlandcycling.com/43033/Gia ... -2013.html They have a Giant Concept store @ Rutland water and managed to get me a Defy 4 in 3 days where as other bikes shops were quoting 6 weeks minimum.