I rode the Z5 and darn near bought it, even though I was primarily focused on Ultegra-level bikes. I don't think another bike can touch it at its price, quite frankly. I checked out the Synapse as well. Nice ride. Lliked it a lot. LOVED the Z5, though. Love versus like will shake out differently for different riders on different bikes. That's why you have to put the paper aside and get out and ride them.