Newbie Bike Help!

[heavyduty]

OK Im not sure if this is the right section or not but I need some help. I stuck between 2 bikes Trek 3900 and Trek 7100. This is also the price range. My riding will most likely be done on pavement and light trails. Thanks in advance

[dbc]

The 7100 may be a slightly better fit to that kind of riding, but you own preference is the biggest factor to consider here. Did you get a chance to ride both of them?

[bbattle]

The hybrid has larger, faster wheels, higher gearing, more upright geometry. My wife had the 7100. Fine for riding around the neighborhood and we did some countryside riding with it, too. The grip shifters work okay, need a bit more adjusting to keep them happy. The front suspension isn't all that useful, mostly it just adds weight. Same for the suspension seatpost in my wife's opinion; others have said it was a good thing.

The mountain bike has fatter tires which will be cushier but the bike will be slower and heavier. If by light trails you mean something similar to riding on a dirt road, the hybrid can handle that just fine.

You may also want to check out the Jamis Explorer (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/explorer1.html), Jamis Citizen (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/07_bikes/citizen1.html), Marin Kentfield (http://www.marinbikes.com/bicycles_2007/html/bikes/bike_specs/specs_kentfield.html), Specialized Crossroads Sport (http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=21917), Fuji Crosstown 4 (http://www.fujibikes.com/2007/bikes.asp?id=331&subcat=)