Hey
peddlinski
The Defy 3 is a nice bike. My local dealer has a 2008 model for $594. It was rated as a "Buyers Guide Thumbs Up" for 2009 here:
http://www.bicycling.com/gear/detail...2137-0,00.html
To me, all of these entry level bikes in this price range seem about the same. Everybody talks about "components". I for one, am not a sophisticated enough rider to notice the difference. It doesn't matter that much which entry level bike you get. Find a good shop where they treat you really well, buy a bike, then ride the heck out of it. (Wave to me as you pass me by!)