Mountain Biking - Trek 3700

I am looking at getting a 2009 Trek 3700. I have read reviews of it here and on other sites, but they all seem to deal with models that are 2 or 3 years old. The most common problem I've noticed is in shifting. Does anyone know if Trek has addressed any of the common issues found on this model and improved them for 2009?

There's not a ton they can do- the parts aren't the nicest out there. I would personally save up for the 3900 if you could.

After posting this, I found that there is no change in components for 2009. I'm just trying to make up my mind. Asking advice on buying a bike is one of those deals where if you ask 10 different people, you get 10different opinions. Some like them, some don't. The main reason I'm leaning towards the Trek is to deal with the LBS that is about 3 miles from my house, and the people there seem super nice. There is a Specialized dealer about a half hour away. They might be fine too, just not as convenient. The Diamondback line at Dick's seems decent for the price, but I'm just learning and have to depend on other opinions right now. Obviously, I'm looking at the lower end bikes to get started.

Have you gone the used bike route?

I haven't looked that far down the ladder in some time, so I peeked over at the Trek site at the 3700; it indeed has some low end parts (outdated 7 speed system, disposable crankset, cheap wheels, horrible fork). There's just a lot of crap on there, so if you're serious about racking up some miles off road on this I'd reconsider spending more for better quality, or going used if you're limited in your budget. Updating/upgrading this bike's components will be expensive compared to simply spending more in the first place. As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for, and you aren't paying for much with this bike except a low price point. If you're going to do light commuting on this bike and put few miles on it, maybe it could suit your purposes.

I have somewhat turned away from the Trek idea. I just don't see the value in it other than the LBS. From everything I've heard and seen, it has the same cheap components that any department store bike has. If I decide to buy new, I will probably take a closer look at the Diamondback line at Dick's. They seem to be just as decent as the low end Treks but about $100 cheaper. Meanwhile, I have been checking the used bikes on Craigslist, but not much to choose from near me.

forgebikes.com

YES Forge!

It sounds like developing a reationship with a shop is important to you. Having to deal with a place like Dick's for repairs (hint: they probaby know nothing) not be worth the marginally better components.

That said, the 3700 is pretty low-end. If that's allyou are willing to spend, go for it. Just know that if you become at all serious about riding you'll outgrow it pretty quickly. Then again if you ride only occassionally it may be fine, and you won't be out much money.

Good luck!

i agree with M S.

but since i have a 3900, i would recommend it to you.

The only place you need to develop a relationship is with parktools.com and a few of your riding buddies. If you don't learn to fix your bike yourself then you'll be spending a lot of money at the LBS.

The 3700 isn't that bad of an entry level bike. My riding buddy has been on his since 2005 and it's working okay other than bent chainring and broken shifter...both were due to crash.

You have to maintain your bike. It will shift fine as long as you keep it clean, lubed, and properly adjusted. At that price level, just about everything is going to be similar in durability. It's all in what you want to get out of it.

You can't go out jumping a 3700 every day and expect it to last long. But, you can ride trails on it every day and it could potentially last a great many years as long as you don't crash too hard.

The things that make it crap to people like me most likely don't even matter to a noob. Suspension plushness, control, the ability to take a pounding...all of these factors steer me away from an entry level bike. The things that are important to a noob are usually the ability to touch the ground with your feet, hehe...low gearing for climbing, comfortable saddle and fit, and brakes that actually stop you. The 3700 when sized right, could be just fine for your trail-riding needs.:thumb:

I have a Trek 3700. I agree that the shifters suck. Otherwise I think it is a great bike for the money. I upgraded from a dept. store mountain bike and couldn't have been happier with my purchase.

I bought my daughter a 2009 3700 and have been happy with it so far. Although, in fairness, it does not see any off road use. She mainly rides on paved trails with it. Not the greatest components, but they are sufficient for her use. If she ever decides to get more agressive and start riding off road with me I will invest in a nicer bike.