Choosing My First Bike: How I Ended Up with the Giant Revolt 2 (and Then Traded Up)

Let’s cut to the chase: finding the right bike was like shopping for a new best friend that doesn’t ghost you on weekends. I started with a budget of $1,400, a vague sense of what I wanted (hello, Specialized dreams), and way too many late nights scrolling through bike forums and YouTube reviews. I mean, at one point, I was practically on a first-name basis with half the internet’s cycling influencers. But Specialized? Yeah, that was a no-go—either out of stock or just slightly out of reach.

So, I took a detour into Terrapin Bicycles, the local shop that ended up being my knight in shining Lycra. I walked in expecting a standard bike-buying experience and ended up with a masterclass in everything from bike fit to maintenance. They introduced me to the Giant Revolt 2 in matte blue—a sleek gravel bike that could handle roads, trails, and my occasionally questionable sense of direction. They set me up with the right size, tossed me the keys (aka let me test ride it), and boom—I was sold. That first ride felt like it was made just for me.

In the two weeks I had the Revolt 2, I clocked about 70 miles (thanks, Strava) and quickly realized that, while gravel-ready, my rides were more pavement than trail. So, naturally, I found myself back at Terrapin, half-apologetic and half-excited, explaining that what I really needed was more of a road-style bike. Without missing a beat, they made me an offer I couldn’t refuse: turn in the Revolt, pay the difference, and upgrade to the Giant Defy Advanced 2.

It was a no-brainer. They took the Revolt back like it was all part of the plan and set me up with the Defy. And let me tell you, the upgrade is the best thing ever. The Defy rides like a dream—light, fast, and just begging to eat up those road miles. It’s everything I didn’t know I needed, and I couldn’t be more excited to push my riding further.

So, no, I didn’t get the Specialized I had my eye on, but I ended up with something better: a bike that fits me perfectly and a shop I’ll keep going back to. Lesson learned? Sometimes the bike chooses you, and the best rides start with a little help from your local shop. Terrapin Bicycles—these guys get it.

Now, with the Defy Advanced 2 beneath me, it’s game on. Let’s see where this ride takes me.