Avail 3 vs Scattante R-330

[ilima]

I wouldn't worry about the components. Both bikes use intro-level (Sora) components, but the Scattante does have the newest version. The difference isn't big enough to bother with. Now, if the Scattante had 10-spd 105, well that'd be a different story.

While I like black bikes, the Giant is a better looking bike.

Others are right about considering the entire cost of owning the bike. A brand new bike will have its derailleur cables stretch, for example. Totally normal. I was in my LBS quite a few times after I bought a new road bike. As long as it wasn't too busy, they'd adjust things for me right then and there. Of course, no charge. I don't think you'd get that kind of service if you brought in a bike from Performance. And it doesn't sound like the mechanics at many Performance shops are that great (although I'm sure there are exceptions).