I have discovered a rather unexpected solution to the problem. I bought my wife a Giant Defy 2 today... I just tested it. I cannot believe how nice this bike is... totally unexpected. Feels light and lively when asked to accelerate, climbs well, nice geometry - not at all as 'sit up and beg' as I'd been led to believe, and it soaks up vibration like a sponge. Did I say I'm astonished? Can't get over it... I'm sure you'll all think I've lost it - thinking it's a nicer ride than the CAAD9, but there it is. Bye bye Cannondale, hello Giant...

Mrs Monkey Face's bike is lovely, but I'll have to have the carbon one of course!