In reply to thebigeasy:
Yet again the Secret Pro provides an an answer... or at least a shortlist in this case:
"As for the bikes themselves, the common knowledge [among the peloton] is that Specialized, Trek, Canyon, and BMC are a step above everyone else. Sure Giant, Bianchi, Cervelo, and Pinarello are great, but when it comes down to millimetres, a brilliant bike can make all the difference."