The new Defy is a big part of Giant’s re-energized 2009 road line. The frame is available in three different versions: aluminum, aluminum-carbon, or the smooth full carbon-fiber frame that caught riders off guard with its category-leading pedaling performance. “Giant has obviously worked on this,” said one tester. Added another: “It almost seems like more of a starter race bike.” The Shimano Ultegra/105 shifters and derailleurs functioned without complaint, and the compact FSA crankset helped make quick work of the hills. $2,150; 18.5 lbs (56cm);
