The Defy has the perfect geometry but Defy chose not to build a metal bike with the Apex drive set in it. You have to go to the Defy Comosite before you can get the Apex in the bike. I much prefer metal bikes for their road feedback. I did ride the Trek 2.1 today and was hugely impressed. Quite a deal at $1299. I'm looking up the neuvation right now. I don't know that one.