General Cycling Discussion - Trek 7.5 vx. 7.6+ FX WSD

Hi all,

I'm venturing into the cycling world and think I have decided on the Trek FX series ... I don't think I want a pure road bike (test rode the basic Trek 1000) since I won't be riding more than 20-25 miles at a time (at least for awhile). I also test rode the 7.2FX as the basic bare bones, but after some research I've learned that the components (esp the derailluer) are much better in the 7.5 (Shimano Tiagra) and higher bikes. My question is - is it worth the extra $$ to upgrade to the 7.6 (Shimano 105)? Or higher? I'm not sure Trek makes the WSD in anything higher than the 7.6FX.

Any other thoughts/suggestions? Thanks!

I bought a 2007 Trek FX 7.5 earlier this year, and am very happy with it. I actually intended to get the 7.6 FX, but none of the shops in my area had them in my size, and the shops couldn't order one as Trek themselves were out of them, so went with the 7.5 rather then wait for 2008 models. I am kinda glad it worked out that way, even tho the 7.6 w/105 is a bit better, the components are still really good on the 7.5, and the bucks I saved have been put to good use toward accessories. I use the FX for commuting and transportation a lot, so needed accessories like a rack, fenders, lights, etc. Even if you just use it for recreation and fitness, you'll likely want to buy some accessories, maybe riding clothing and shoes, etc. You might want to put a better saddle on it too (maybe a Brooks?) if going for 25 mile rides on a regular basis.

Oh, probably the most ignorant thing I did, was upgrade the saddle post on the 7.5. The 7.6 comes with a carbon post. I didn't do this because I wanted to save a few grams in weight, I did it to obtain the purported "vibration absorbing" properties of carbon. I would have been much better off putting the bucks toward a saddle, which I am going to get anyway.

I've read the FX is the same fram as the Pilot but with wider tires. Hey not just get a Pilot? You can install wider tires. Getting used to riding on the hoods is like riding with flatbars but with more positions. I find it interesting that many want flat bars but then add barends which pretty much simulates the hoods of a roadie!

The Pilot has the same upright position. You're just venturing into the cycle worlkd. Won't be long before you realize you should have saved all the inbetweens,money and gone roadie. Usually happens when one is looking at an FX style rather than an mtb.

Wife has a Pilot and loves the comfort. Fast little sucker too!:D

I've read the FX is the same fram as the Pilot but with wider tires.


I just looked at the Trek site, the Pilot doesn't come with the same frame. Except at entry level , they are both Alpha SL Aluminum. I am not sure if the geometry is similar with some models without delving into it deeper. As far as I can tell from a quick glance at specs, Pilot frame doesn't have rack and fender mounts.


If getting a bike for fitness and/or recreation reasons, a Pilot might work tho, so perhaps test riding both the FX and Pilot would be a good idea.

My wife has a cf 5.2. I looked at the dropouts. There are two threaded holes righ above the QR, I believe these are for the rack. Also present on the front fork right in front of the QR.:D Just info.

They might be for a fender too. Are there any eyelets on the seat stays or seat tube for a rack? I was under the impression most CF bikes didn't come with eyelets for things like racks, since the main purpose of CF is to make a bike as lightweight as possible, so most riders wouldn't want the added weight of things like fenders and racks.

Nothing on the stays, only the dropouts. Might need specific hardware to add on the extras. I had the bosses and eyeltes on an old Trek, but this one has nothing like that.

xxx