Giant Defy Advanced 1

Although reviewers say the Giant Defy Advanced 1 offers more comfortable positioning than some other road bikes in this category, don't be fooled -- this bike offers serious racing performance. Multiple reviewers say this award-winning bike is fast, and the taller head tube provides comfortable riding and limits back strain on long hauls. The lightweight carbon frame gets high marks for absorbing road vibration, and the components are certainly race-ready -- the Giant Defy Advanced 1 sports mainly 10-speed Shimano Ultegra components with a Dura-Ace rear derailleur. The women's version, the Giant Avail Advanced 1 (MSRP: $3,550), also gets good reviews for combining comfort with race-ready performance. If you don't think you need the taller head tube on the Giant Defy Advanced 1, reviews indicate that the Specialized Tarmac Expert (MSRP: $3,700) is another great pick for racing.

We find a number of good reviews of the Giant Defy Advanced 1, most notably from VeloNews magazine, Bicycling magazine and BikeRadar.com. Their testing details provide feedback on what you can expect from the Giant Defy Advanced 1 in terms of comfort and performance. Roy M. Wallack, an endurance cyclist and author, also provides a good review of the Giant Defy Advanced 1 in the Los Angeles Times.