Giant Defy Advanced 2 shares fate of Canyon Endurace CF 7
The new Giant Defy Advanced 2 takes on the role of the affordable basic version in the recently revised model family - and to a certain extent shares the fate of the Canyon Endurace CF 7: compared to the competitive SL version you have to compromise on carbon quality and components, but in return you get a much more affordable and functional marathon bike that is also equipped for rougher terrain thanks to its huge tyre clearance of 38 millimetres. Even with the standard tubeless tyres fitted, the Defy rolls smoothly over bumpy roads.
Less suitable for speed hunting
In the saddle, a flattened carbon seatpost supports the good impression of comfort, while impacts are more noticeable on the handlebar-stem combination with partially integrated cables and lines. Mounting points for fixed mudguards emphasise the versatility of the Giant. Due to its high overall weight, the very upright riding position and the reduced gearing, it is less suitable for speed chases. Unless you have the budget for lighter wheels and faster tyres, with which the Defy would make a big leap forward. There are deductions for the simple Tektro discs, which do not exploit the full braking power. The heavy compact crank is also a disadvantage compared to the competition.
Info & notes on the Giant Defy Advanced 2
- Price: 2899 Euro
- Weight of complete wheel: 9.0 kg
- Frame sizes: S, M, ML, L, XL
Geometry data of the road bike
- Seat / top / head tube: 480 / 545 / 150 millimetres
- Stack / Reach / STR: 578 / 368 millimetres / 1.57
- Stack+ / Reach+ / STR+: 643 / 549 millimetres / 1.17
- Wheelbase / caster: 1000 / 57 millimetres
Equipment
- Drive / gearstick (2.0): Shimano 105 (2x12; 50/34, 11-36 t.)
- Brakes (2.0): Shimano 105 / Tektro (160/160 mm)
- Tyres (1.5): Giant Gavia Fondo 1 32 mm (eff.: 32 mm)
- Impellers: Giant P-R2
- Impeller weights: 1572/2169 grams (front/rear)
Overall rating of the Giant Defy Advanced 2: 2.5
More bikes with Shimano 105
Julian Schultz
Editor
