Novice needs advice!

[jpoush]

I am about to purchase my first bike and I need some advice. Since I know nothing about bikes, I thought this would be a good place to go for some non-biased information. I'm looking to get a comfortable bike to ride with the family and pull a little "kiddie trailer" behind me. Nothing fancy, I just want a good bike that doesn't suck.

Two bikes that I have looked at are a Raleigh C30 and a Giant Sedona GX. Does one brand have a better reputation than the other?

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

thank you.

[MichaelW]

At ther low-mid end, the bike shop makes more difference than the brand. A good bike shop will ensure that the bike fits you, is well assembled and that the wheels are true and strong.
Between bikes of the same style and price range, there is usually little real difference. Sometimes if you need an in-between size in one brand, you can find it with another.
(BTW a link to your bikes on the manufacturers website will get better response)

[catatonic]

I think Raleigh and Giant are both made by the same parent company.

If so, just pick whichever one has hte fatures you wnat most, or if they are identical, go for the look :)

In general, a prent company determines the quality of the bike. Much like how schwinn, GT, and Mongoose all went down in quality after they got bought by Pacific Cycle. In buyouts, the old company rarely has any say about keeping their previous processes and quality levels.

[dirtbikedude]

I have ridden the Sedona a few times. Nice ride. I have owned a few Giants over the years and they have worked well. Also the company, in my experience, has very good customer service.

:beer:

[ChiliDog]

Also check out the Trek Navigators...excellent comfort bikes with an "accessory port" already installed for a trailer or trail a bike attachment. Good resale value too.