Paulq
Bike Rider, Beer Drinker, Biscuit Eater.
- Location
- Merseyside
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My favourite is currently the Giant Defy 1 based on the fact it's highly regarded, in an awesome colour. However, the biggest size I can find is a 58cm (which I feel more comfortable on, although being told I'm a 61?...)
http://www.rutlandcycling.com/281113/products/giant-defy-1-compact-road-bike-2014-blue-black.aspx
Other options include:
http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Cannondale-Synapse-Sora-2014-Road-Bike_66123.htm
http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Cannondale-Caad8-Sora-2014-Road-Bike_66102.htm
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/cinelli-experience-105-2014/
http://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/CBHOTR105/holdsworth-trentino-shimano-105-carbon-road-bike
Does anyone have any input on this shortlist please?
They are all nice bikes. For me, as your post suggests longer term ownership, I would go for those with the best spec you can get which (to me) look like the Cinelli and the Holdsworth.
However, the real answer to your question lies with you and not with us, as we are always willing to try and help, but the BEST bike is the one that (a) you like the best and (b) fits you the best. So your approach should be go and try them all and apply those 2 criteria. With that selection you can't really make a bad decision so good luck, enjoy whichever one you choose and let us know what you go for in the end!