@Cuchilo @NorvernRob
@Winnershsaint
I think it all boils down to what you feel that warm fuzzy feeling about when your just looking at it, let alone riding it!
For me, it's my Bianchi Sempre Pro which got at a bargain price imported from Germany. My Defy 1 is a really good bike. Had forgotten just how good it was until back on it for the Winter now. Sadly it just doesn't do it for me when I look at it. That's in no way a snipe at Giant or anyone who owns one mind you! I like the TCR and the Propel also does it for me.
The reason I like the Bianchi is that I always really wanted one!
The funniest thing is, I went for the Ultegra model in Matte Black, which means that most Bianchi fans wouldn't look twice at it. Some people on here reckon it's boring as its Matte Black. Others say it's just plastic, so what's the attraction. So my non Campag, boring coloured, plastic bike is far from desirable to many, but does Everything for me!
That is the point really. Buy exactly what appeals to you when you look at it and then, if it still floats your boat after a test ride, then it's certainly the bike of a lifetime! This thread is great for us all to give suggestions, and we may even suggest something that the OP never thought of, but if it doesn't do it for him then it won't be His bike of a lifetime!
Not knocking anyone who says Carbon is just plastic or those who think Matte Black is boring. Those people know who they are and I respect their opinions, but we just like different things. No harm meant or taken, I know that.