XringX

Would like to confirm what I am thinking as basically the right idea..

I think the extra $600ish might be worth it because of components, but I am not experienced enough to evaluate that thought and would like some help from you guys.

LBS#1 willing to sell Cad Synapse Carbon 4 with Rival components for $2200 Componet list below
LBS#2 has a special on Giant Defy Composite 2 with Apex components for $1650 Component list below

I have had short rides on both. Both felt comfortable and new to me. Yet neither "sang" to me. But the only bike I have ever known was a Bianchi 928 C2C that was at least 2 sizes to big for me. So I am not sure I was even in a proper riding position. I just sold it to a young man that is 4.5" taller than me and he looked great on it!

I am a Clyde..250lbs. Last summer I commuted to work on the bike 1-3 times a week which is a 32mile round trip. I would also ride 2-3 more times a week depending on how I felt and how hot it was. I could never really do more than 3 hours as i would have butt issues.


Cad Synapse Carbon 4 component list
FRAME: SYNAPSE, FULL CARBON, SAVE PLUS, BB30
FORK: SYNAPSE, FULL CARBON, SAVE PLUS, 1-1/8"
CRANK:FSA ENERGY BB30, 50/34
BOTTOM BRACKET:FSA BB30
SHIFTERS:SRAM RIVAL
COG SET:SRAM PG-1050, 11-32, 10-SPEED
CHAIN:KMC X10, 10-SPEED
FRONT DERAILLEUR:SRAM RIVAL
REAR DERAILLEUR:SRAM RIVAL
RIMS:FULCRUM RACING 7
HUBS:FULCRUM RACING 7
TIRES:SCHWALBE LUGANO, 700X25C, FOLDING
BRAKE:SRAM DUAL PIVOT
HANDLEBAR:CANNONDALE C2 COMPACT
STEM:CANNONDALE C2, 31.8, 6 DEG.
HEADSET:SYNAPSE SI, 25MM TOP CAP
SPOKES:FULCRUM RACING 7
GRIPS:NEW CANNONDALE BAR TAPE W/ GEL, 3.5MM
SADDLEROLOGO, KAPPA EVO
SEAT POST:CANNONDALE C2, UD CARBON, 27.2X300MM

Giant Defy Composite 2
Frame:Giant Composite Technology
Fork: Advanced-Grade Composite, Alloy OverDrive Steerer
Handlebar:Giant Connect, 31.8
Stem: Giant Connect
Seatpost: Giant Vector Composite
Saddle: Giant Performance Road, Men's
Shifters: SRAM Apex
Front Derailleur: SRAM Apex
Rear Derailleur: SRAM Apex
Brakes: SRAM Apex
Brake Levers: SRAM Apex
Cassette: SRAM PG 1050 11x28, 10-Speed
Chain: KMC X10
Crankset: SRAM Apex, 34/50
Bottom Bracket: SRAM GXP, Press Fit
Rims: Giant P-R2, Double Wall
Hubs: Giant Sealed Bearing, 24/28h
Spokes: DT Swiss Competition, 14/15g
Tires: Giant P-R3, 700x23, Flat Guard, Front and Rear Specific
Extras: RideSense Ready

calgary_jim

I'd go synapse - no questions.

macca33

I currently ride a 'dale CAAD10 and a Defy 1 - both aluminium, obviously - and reckon the 'dale is a nicer, more dynamic ride, BUT, the Defy isn't too far off (slightly more comfort oriented, so more towards what the Synapse would be like, in that regard).

Dunno how that translates to carbon - if at all - but I reckon both would be good bikes - pick the one that looks the best!!! (Synapse )

cheers

ThinLine

Cannondale would be my choice, Rival is better than Apex (slightly) and their frame is legendary.