Recreational & Family - Bike choice help

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jiganto

06-11-07, 09:19 PM

I need some advice on a bike to get. I've been wanting to buy a decent hybrid bike (road/mountain) something quick but comfortable to take on trails around Chicago.

I've been look at the 07 Trek 7.3 FX for a few weeks now, however I visited a local bike store and had a chance to check out the 07 Schwinn Super Sport which looked and felt real nice.

I'm looking to spend $500ish on a bike, and the 7.3 sells for around 530 in most of the stores around here (saw one for $480), while the Schwinn is about $50-70 less than the Trek.

I'm no bike expert so I can't really tell the difference in the specs. I can sit here for a few days and research each individual component but hopefully someone can offer me some advice.

Thanks.

Sci-Fi

06-12-07, 12:25 AM

Both are good choices. Haven't heard many complaints about either. As long as you aren't riding more than 20 miles or just commuting, the handlebars should be adequate...otherwise you will have to change them if you want to be comfortable and have more hand position options. As long as the bikes fits you and is comfortable, are assembled correctly, adjusted, and the rims trued ... either bike will serve your requirements for years. The Trek has slightly better components (the reason for the price difference) and will have more resale value if you wish to sell it later, so that may be a consideration. Test ride them both or rent them for a day...that should help you compare their relative performance and comfort and come to a decision.

Personally, I would suggest saving up another $200-$300 and you can get a much better bike...like the Trek 7.5 Disc or Schwinn Super Sport DBX. Both are usually on sale/discounted from MSRP and can be found in the $700-800 price range. The disc brakes will give you more all-weather and trail braking performance and the upgraded driveline components may be/is worth the extra cost. Neither bike will be as fast as a road bike, but both will hold its own without being embarrassed and be more flexible for different uses or road conditions, plus have enough clearance for wider tires.