Imdedicated

Hello guys, I am looking to get my first road bike. I have always road mountain bikes. I have 3 bikes to choose from and not sure which to go with. The 3 choices I have found in my price range which is around 900$.

2014 GIANT DEFY ADVANCED 2 it is used but only ridden 4-5 times price is 800$

2018 giant contend 1 for 860$ brand new

2017 trek domane al 2 for 750$ brand new

2014 giant defy 2 500$ barely used

which would be the best option?

Shuffleman

jwh20

#1 question: Are these bikes YOUR size? An incorrectly sized bicycle is a recipe for suffering and you'll regret buying it and eventually won't ride it any longer. If you don't know what size you should be riding, either visit a local shop or read-up on it on the internet. There are many useful resources but these are all guidelines. Every body is different and what fit one 6' person is all wrong for another 6' person. But you'll want to at least get in the right ballpark. Once you have an idea of your size, go look at the bikes that are in that range and try them out. I'd not be afraid to take along a hex wrench and adjust the seat height for a short test ride.

Beyond that, any of these bikes are of reasonable quality and likely have decent components that will get you started. I'm a big fan of buying nice pre-owned bikes as there are so many people out there that buy really nice bikes and then never ride them. So you can often get a quality bike for a fraction of the cost of a new one. Once you have gained some experience and learned what you like and what works for you, then you might consider a new one from a local bike shop.

mcours2006

Fit first, of course, but assuming they all fit you I would take the Defy Advanced 2. It's ten-speed, carbon/composite frame, and best componentry. Also original MSRP $3000.

Edit: I should also add that they are all 'endurance' bikes, so suitable for beginner who are not used to a lower riding position.

Psychocycles

Do you have a Performance Bike store near you? https://www.performancebike.com/shop...lusive-31-6959 Performance usually has the best $ for value around, which is great for beginners who don't care for the lightest or most aerodynamic equipment. Instead of Sora like what's on the Giant Contend 1, you can go two stops up to 105 shifting. I made the switch from Claris to Tiagra to 105, and with every step I could definitely tell a difference in shift quality.

If I had to recommend one of the bikes you listed, it's pretty tight between the 2014 Giant Defy Advanced 2 & the 2018 Giant Contend 1. On the one hand, you get 105 5700 and the other a brand new Sora. Ultimately, though, I'd probably go with the 2018 Contend.