BikeRadar’s senior technical editor, Warren Rossiter tested four new bikes in the February 2024 issue (414) of Cycling Plus Magazine. The group test named ‘2024 Bikes Unboxed’ uncovers the new Giant Defy Advanced SL where Rossiter’s boasts this bike as his favourite and awards it the group test winner.
Rossiter begins by praising the Defy’s ability to remain composed on poor road surfaces. He writes “Whereas a stiff race bike will dash and dart over rough roads, the Defy wafts over them, keeping its pace with ease while the brilliant post and bar deal with wearing vibrations.”
Rossiter elaborates by claiming the Defy’s confidence on rough road surfaces gave him the freedom to push the bike even harder and faster.
It’s super quick on the descent, how about the Defy’s climbing capabilities? Again, Rossiter had only positives in this department.
“The Defy has swift steering and climbs like a pro too, making me take on ascents with gusto”
Upon testing, Rossiter found that the CADEX wheels were fast whilst cornering and rolled smoothly.
“The premium CADEX 36 wheels feel taut, which helps you exit corners with speed, and they do a fine job of rolling smoothly too.”
To accommodate the fast rolling CADEX wheels, the CADEX classic tyres presented the Defy with ‘impressive grip’ according to Rossiter. He also praised the tubeless tyres as he gained plenty of confidence from the puncture protection.
To summarise, Rossiter believes the new Defy has reformed as a modernised bike with that race element to it. He goes further to state that if he was ever in the market for a new road bike he’d choose the Defy.
He writes “Not because it’s sensible with its generous tyre clearances and mudguard provision, but because it’s exciting to ride and the compliance and comfort enhances it.”
To read the full bike review, get the February 2024 issue (414) of Cycling Plus.
In the meantime, learn more about the new Defy range