Old 05-21-10, 01:06 PM
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mindthemommy
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Please help me choose a bike for my husband's birthday

I'm purchasing a bike for my husband for his birthday and I am trying to surprise him. He used to love to ride years and years ago but hasn't even owned a bike for over a decade.

These are the two choices I've found on the local craigslist that seem best, a 2000 Trek 7000 zx and a 2000 Specialized Stumpjumper M2:

http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/bik/1746976551.html

or

http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/bik/1743575107.html

My husband is 6'0" and thought I don't have his exact inseam, he wears Gap jeans in a 32" inseam, though they would probably be a better fit in a 31"-31.5" length. I know that isn't a perfect inseam measurement, but it at least offers a rough estimate. The Stumpjumper is an 18" and I wonder if that is too small. The Trek is 19.5"

I can get the Trek for $425. I would probably try to negotiate price on the Stumpjumper. I was really trying to stay under $500. In reading reviews online, it seems Specialized is a better brand overall, but it also seems this particular Trek isn't too bad.

The LBS said to come on in as they could get him in a mountain bike for under $500, but it seemed I could get a better bike for the money going the used route. Plus, if it isn't the best bike for him, we could always sell it and get something else without losing much value.

Any and all input would be VERY much appreciated. Also, his birthday is tomorrow so I'm down to the wire. I'm leaning toward the Trek for size and price.

Thanks!
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