UkCatsBiker

Hello,

I'm interested in the Giant Defy series.

The defy 2 has tiagra. . To move to the defy 1 with 105 is an additional $300. Plus it looks like the defy 1 has better wheels.

Of course the extra $300 could go towards bibs, computer, pump, beer etc.

But then again would kick myself down the road if it is worth the upgrade upfront. But chances are if I upgrade. I would move to a carbon bike etc. So then it would make sense to save the cash. Meaning I'm unlikely to purchase 105 seperetly to put on the defy. I'd more than likely would just get a whole new bike. Do admit the internal routing 105 looks sweet.

Willbird

I rode both Tiagra and 10 speed 105 on the same day about 20 minutes apart, IMHO there was no HUGE difference really in shift feel.

But if you are looking at 2015 Bikes the 105 will be 11 speed, and getting into 11 speed wheel sets or 11 speed "ready" wheel sets might be something to think of even if you do upgrade Bikes??

Also some makers are going to a threaded BB on the 2015 bike (cannot recall if Giant is) and the 2014's are BB30.

Bill

dtrain

I hear that 4600 Tiagra is pretty solid, so hard to go wrong. If the 105 bike is 5700, I'd probably do that for $300 more - especially if the wheels are in fact better (and you like the hidden cables). (Consider installing 6800 cables if you go this route...)


If 11sp 5800, it's no contest - I'd be all over the 105 for the $300 difference.

canam73

I say get the Tiagra bike. Since you are new to road biking, you may find either your interest fizzles or that you are completely satisfied with it (because Tiagra tends to work pretty well) for your uses. In that case, hey you got $300 for something else.

But just going off your post, it sounds to me like you might already have your sights on something grander than a 105 Defy but maybe don't know quite what that is. A year or two on the Tiagra Defy might give you a better idea and then you still have $300 for that purchase.

That is all guess work off a short forum post. But you should know how in to equipment you get for your hobbys. Would you work on your own bike and swap components? Save/collect/re-purpose the Defy if you got a carbon bike? Or sell it and keep things simple? The answers to those questions should factor in to your decision.

wphamilton

If you want the 105 it's cheaper to get it now. Who knows what the upgrade to carbon will be, or when or even if. Maybe you'll find a frame and move your 105 over, or a great deal on a carbon fiber bike with Tiagra, and just swap. $300 is cheaper than upgrading.

RollCNY

A new Tiagra 4600 full group set is $300. A new 105 5800 full group set is $410. I would wager the Giant comes with out of group brakes and crankset, which are the most expensive parts.

So no, it is not worth $300 even for new 105, IMO. Even the newest Sora 3500 works incredibly well, so any performance loss 105 to Tiagra is infinitesimal.

UkCatsBiker

I doubt I could tell a difference now. But maybe down the road. Like golf. I've played since I was 10. I can tell a difference bw a $300 driver and a $500 driver. But being new to road bikes not sure id feel/notice the 105's betterments. More than likely is keep the bike for winter and or commuting. Don't I'd transfer anytging off eyc.

qclabrat

there was a time when Shimano groups were clearly distinguished, DuraAce always the top and Ultegra next, after that is gets murky. 105, Tiagra and Sora are starting to look more alike, with similar performance. The wheels don't seem to be an upgrade worth the difference, 2014 model comparison non-11 spd. I'd rather spend the extra $300 to upgrade the wheels only. Otherwise keep the change for other goodies and gear.

Jarrett2

I'm a fan of 105's.

Dunbar

Tiagra has smaller hoods. I find the 105 hoods more comfortable. If the 105 is the new 11sp version I think it's definitely worth an extra $300.

UkCatsBiker

This is the 11 speed 105 version.

Team Sarcasm

if it's 11sp go with the 105. I have ridden both for 1year+ and can say there is no real difference between tiagra and 105 besides the feel of the hoods.

Tiagra is much bigger than 105 and I found them a tad bit more comfy. I am riding 5700 though, the 5800 which will be on your bike may be a bit better comfort wise.

rpenmanparker 

Well then, done and done.

gsa103

I vastly preferred the 5700/5800 style brakes/hoods to the older 4600/5600/6600 hoods, so for me it would be a no brainer.

Hornplayer

I had this decision about a year ago when I bought my Defy 1. I haven't looked at this years models, but the 1 vs the 2 also had a lighter grade of aluminum for the frame. I don't think you can really make a bad decision here whatever you choose.

Jimbosays

Get want you want . . . Or you'll wish you 'had' for the life of the bike.

I have 105/5700 and friend has the same bike with a Tiagra group . . . And most every time we ride I hear regrets now about not going ahead and spending a few extra dollars for the 105 (or better.)

Get you want and never look back!

chip1

My previous bike had Tiagra and my current one has 5700 105. There really isn't that big of a difference. The most noticeable part is when you downshift on a front derailleur Tiagra is little bit clunky, whereas 105 is smooth. And as previously mentioned the hoods on Tiagra is narrower, so if you're prone to hand pain 105 may alleviate some because of greater surface area. Lastly the shifting cable on the 105 is tucked in just like the brake cables. Gives more of a pro look.