The all-new Defy Advanced SL is the most recent Giant model to be tested in the April edition of Cyclist Magazine. The Defy was tested by Sam Challis, who had very little to fault for the newly released road bike.
Challis highlights that the all-new Defy Advanced SL is the first Defy model to be UCI-approved. The premium superlight carbon frameset, lowered riding position and improved stiffness to weight ratio all factor towards the new UCI approval.
Challis writes “This machine is an excellent option for every other circumstance out on the road.”
When testing the Defy out on the road, he was complimentary of the Defy’s responsive handling. Challis elaborates “The defy handles really easily; the stability-giving features of its geometry mean it is content to hold a line with only minimal attention but it remains responsive when initiating turns.”
The leaner build on the Defy is designed for maximum stiffness. Challis believes the changes in geometry tie in nicely with the handling.
He writes “The lower front end reduces the feeling of being stuck up in the wind, but without feeling too aggressive.”
Giant state a 42% increase in compliance over the previous model which Challis claims come from the D-Fuse seatpost and 32mm tubeless tyres.
Seatpost: “The post is very clever, it’s thin in profile but wide frontally. That’s not only better for aerodynamics but it effectively governs the flex of the post, keeping its movement in the sagittal plane and preventing I from bobbing all over the place.”
Tyres: “The 32mm CADEX Classic Tyres are excellent for soaking up the higher-frequency buzz caused by rough tarmac, the result of this combination is a comfortable ride quality.”
Although Challis claims the seatpost and tyres are the bulk of the increased compliance, he makes it clear that the Advanced SL frame also needs some praise.
Challis had very little to fault on the new Defy, stating he was struggling to find where he could mark it down.
In his summary the Cyclist Magazine editor writes “The bike’s combination of high-quality composite engineering, smart and simple approach to design and contemporary build ticks many boxes in terms of practicality and performance.”
To read the full review, check out issue 150 of Cyclist Magazine.