Just bought a Defy 1 and love it. The component difference between these two bikes is that the Giant comes with a 105 Crank and BB. Other than that they are pretty much the same bike...except the Gravity is hideous. MegaTom already stated the benefits of buying local. I got a great deal on my bike ($999). They normally sell for about $1300...so if I had the choice between the $800 Gravity or the $1300 Giant, I'd pick the Gravity. But if you can get a great deal on the Giant like I did, take it. Take some of the money you saved on the Gravity and have it repainted.