Nesdog, The 2012 Defy Advanced was a new frame. I rode the Scott and felt it was a little too harsh as well; along with the angles. You might want to try the Focus Izalco Ergoride, if a model is in that price bracket (slightly shorter top tube across the sizes, compared to Giant, and many others). I've got a Norco Valence, but the low warranty would probably steer many away. Look forward to your reports.