Is the 7.3 for me?
#26
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After a lot of research and a "gift" from my wife I was going to upgrade my new purchase to either the 7.5 or 8.5 and potentially even the .7. However, I really need to ride both for a couple of miles to determine which is right for me (and sized right).
However, I'm about to give up on Trek. I have now gone to three dealers including one that Trek's site indicates as a "best". None of them stock any of the high-end Treks meaning anything over a x.3. They will order a bike with a deposit (non-refundable) and none of them allow for test rides. Well, that's not totally true...one said I would be allowed to ride a lesser model around the parking lot (the lot holds 15 cars).
So, where does one go to look at a Trek bike and get a test ride? I live on Martha's Vineyard, but am willing to travel up to Boston (3 hour drive and a $100 ferry ride) if necessary. Anyone got a recommendation?
However, I'm about to give up on Trek. I have now gone to three dealers including one that Trek's site indicates as a "best". None of them stock any of the high-end Treks meaning anything over a x.3. They will order a bike with a deposit (non-refundable) and none of them allow for test rides. Well, that's not totally true...one said I would be allowed to ride a lesser model around the parking lot (the lot holds 15 cars).
So, where does one go to look at a Trek bike and get a test ride? I live on Martha's Vineyard, but am willing to travel up to Boston (3 hour drive and a $100 ferry ride) if necessary. Anyone got a recommendation?
#27
aka Phil Jungels
I would recommend something like the Specialized Crossroads. Big fat tires for sand and bad roads, with a 9 spd rear, and a road leaning triple up front. Wide OEM tires, also mean there will be plenty of room for fenders if you decide you want them. Those borough armadillo tires are a good combo of slick, with blocks on the outside for the soft stuff, and relatively flat resistant. OEM Body Geometry seats are usually pretty comfy. IMO, Specialized lock on grips(OEM) are as good as Ergon, and their $25 composite bar ends work very well at a low price. The 48-36-26 front, with an 11-32 rear will allow you to go fast, and still ride up a tree. (Yeah, I'm a Specialized fan, because they fit me the best)
You can always go down in tire width, if you find out the tires are toooo wide. But those 45s will really help in the rough stuff. And ride really nice.
I'm sure that other manufacturers have similar offerings - so ride 'em and decide.
Yes, I would pop for the Elite, because of the carbon fork, and 9 spd. But, I'd ask them to lose the suspension seat post during the assembly.
You can always go down in tire width, if you find out the tires are toooo wide. But those 45s will really help in the rough stuff. And ride really nice.
I'm sure that other manufacturers have similar offerings - so ride 'em and decide.
Yes, I would pop for the Elite, because of the carbon fork, and 9 spd. But, I'd ask them to lose the suspension seat post during the assembly.
#28
Banned
So, where does one go to look at a Trek bike and get a test ride?
Phone Books are kept in the typical Public Library.
I expect a walk on, Ferry rates are a lot less , but its the car that costs more
Do they charge by the passenger too? or can you split the costs, in a car pool?
#29
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Wondering if the time of year is affecting what is available and the reluctance of the Trek dealers to order something without a deposit. If you can find a bike shop with the bike you want in stock, you might get a good deal. But bike shops might be reluctant to put too much money into a lot of new stock (bikes other than the most popular sizes and models) this time of year because if you don't buy it, it could sit on the floor all winter.
#30
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I bought mine at the end of August and the Trek dealer I went to had the new FX line up to the 7.7, which they had no issue with me riding around on.
#31
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My LBS is a Trek dealer and they only stock up to the 7.4 FX, no matter what time of the year. Anything higher and you need to put a deposit down so they can order. Also, their test rides are only around their parking lot (again, this is the norm at other area dealers). Worked OK for my 7.2 FX but when considering a 7.5 or higher I was out of luck. Same at all Trek dealers in the local area. They only stock what generally sells so can't blame them. To be honest, other LBSs (Fuji, Giant, Specialized, etc) seem to operate the same way.
Last edited by godeacs; 10-16-14 at 09:02 PM.
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