skullbrigade

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 .

Panthers007

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.

skullbrigade

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?

Panthers007

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.

MorganRaider

+1 for Trek FX series

Timber_8

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

terraskye

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

KungPaoSchwinn

Get that Trek,them good bike for money.

Panthers007

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.

terraskye

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.