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[Giant Defy 1 2014](https://preview.redd.it/2kggtwl8lwpb1.jpg?width=2100&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=221683679543987815caf82227e235d6b2f0fede)
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[Liv Avail 3, 2021-23](https://preview.redd.it/eiqklegalwpb1.jpg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=71ca181826f2e4ffeda768c894bfde67bc96590e)
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[Cannondale Synapse, year unknown!](https://preview.redd.it/y5yidmsrnwpb1.jpg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d78493d64d5d2eba5440b09fc5326a49fc13c5c)
Backstory: I am an experienced biker but a pretty mediocre mechanic. I ride a 65lb commuter ebike that I ADORE but am looking to N+1 my setup with a lighter bike for longer rides and travel. I’ve spent a lot of time dialing in my commuter setup and will be switching from a step-through upright bike to an endurance road bike, which already feels like a steep learning curve.
I recently bought a Giant Defy 1 from a coworker moving out of state for $400. His “perfectly good working order” bike aaaaaaaabsolutely needs new tires, new handlebar tape + shifter hoods (currently 60% electrical tape), a new saddle (my personal preference), and possibly a new chain/cassette/etc, since the chain was bone dry when I got it and the cassette teeth show some wear (it shifts well but chirrups in some gears). Everything else is pretty good – it’s not hopeless, but does need probably $200 of work to get it safer and more reliable to ride. Since he was moving the day after, I felt a little compelled to buy it so here we are now.
There are also a few very lightly used bikes on FB marketplace (I am committed to used for environmental reasons so I know I’m in for a bit of a project no matter what) – a [Liv Avail 3](https://www.liv-cycling.com/us/avail-3) and a Cannondale Synapse, both around $500.
So my question is… would you invest time, energy, and love into the “racier” Giant bike, or just cut your losses, sell it, and buy something that gets you on the road faster?
For reference, I am a 5’9″ lady. I’m not looking to win races, just would like to drive out and ride 50+ miles without my butt falling off 🙂
by dongledangler420