Hybrid Bicycles - Trek 7.1 FX or Specialized Globe Carmel 1

I recently took a trip to 2 bike shops today and I had a choice of getting a Trek 7.1 FX or a Specialized
Globe Carmel 1. The Trek 7.1 FX was going for $399 while the Specialized Globe Carmel 1 was being offered for $350. I didn't want to just buy it off the price alone but wanted to get your guys opinion on the matter. I rode both of them and the speacilized felt more comfortable but it didn't seem to be equipped for fitness riding. I'm not sure though, I'm a newbie :P.

Looking at the technical specifications of both bikes leads me to (quickly) conclude the Trek 7.1 FX is much the superior machine. Example: Trek has sealed bearing headset. No muss - no fuss if replacement is ever needed. The Globe has loose-bearings, making servicing much more problematical. Crank-set on the Trek is decent quality Shimano, the Globe is lower quality, but passable. Brakes are no-name on the Globe, the Trek brakes are pretty good. Trek has a better rear-derailleur - Globe is lesser. So forth from the components standpoint. The Globe has a suspension-fork, which you likely won't need, but there is no ability to disconnect it.

I'd call this a case of "you get what you pay for." But I'd buy the Trek. A Trek FX is easily upgraded as wishes and money permits. Seems like the Globe has a bunch of Specialized-proprietary components. So I don't know how easily one could do some customizing work on it.

Best for you would be to take a ride on both bikes. Then do some thinking.

Ok so the Globe Carmel 1 is out of the selection for me but I now am considering the Speacilized Globe. I looked at the specs and I think the trek 7.1 fx still has the upper hand no?

Read the specs and Google is your friend. See what others say. I can stand behind the Trek FX-models. They are proven winners. Up until tonight, I'd never heard of the Globe-machines from Specialized. Specialized has made some great stuff before. Do some research.

+1 for Trek FX series

I also have to go with the Trek FX based only on the fact that it is what I own. I know nothing of your other option

I know a lot of BF'ers have Treks but I must say that i love love LOVE my Specialized Globe:)

+1 on making me even weirder I guess;)

Get that Trek,them good bike for money.

Trek also has an unbeatable warranty. For instance - if you manage to break the frame during routine use, Trek will replace it free. FOR LIFE.

Trek also has an unbeatable warranty. For instance - if you manage to break the frame during routine use, Trek will replace it free. FOR LIFE.


So does Specialized:)

I'd go for what felt the best. My hubby had bikes narrowed down to the FX 7.3 or the Specialized Crosstrail Sport.. I wanted him to pick the less expensive bike but he went with the more comfortable bike for him which was the Crosstrail.