Hey guys,

I am new to cycling and I am trying to decide on my first purchase. I don't really understand cycling hardware, terms, value for money, etc. Should I buy a Motobecane Cafe Latte or the Diamondback Insight 1? Both are $400 and my budget is fixed. I have a mobile bike service that will assemble/tune/fit the bike.

Links for Specs: https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...fe_latte_x.htm
https://www.diamondback.com/2012-insight-1

Thanks a bunch!

The Cafe Latte is a better bike. You can't really fit a bike to you if purchasing online. All you can do is hope that it fits well and take your chances.

I already went and tested the Diamondback in person and I can compare the specs of that to the latte to order one in my size.

The Diamondback Insight is one of the best-looking bikes I have ever seen. That alone adds tons to the value in my opinion. The Cafe Latte looks really ugly to me and I would hate riding it.

I agree with the comment on looks. I saw the insight in person and it looked way better than the pictures online.

Sora went to 9sp about 3yrs ago. The only Sora item on that motobecane is the rear dérailleur. Most of the components look junky. Also, the msrp of $900 is a joke. It's a stretch to call that a $400 bike. A Trek 7.2 is a better spec'd bike and is only $560.

Get a Trek 7.1 or similar from a known and reputable LBS brand. You can test ride it, you'll be sold the size that fits, you won't need a mobile handyman to set it up, and you'll have a much better warranty and service should an issue arise. You'll also have a frame that's worth an upgrade if you wish, and the bike will retain some value should you decide to sell it at some point.

The Insight looks good in pictures, but a freewheel? Sold at dick$, amazon, rei, etc. Another dept store bike for a very small savings over the LBS.

Well, what is it from the 7.1/7.2 FX that really stands out to you vs. the Insight? (The 2011 Insight 2 model to be specific.)

That Diamondback Insight at performance is a good deal! Those specs don't read "big box store" at all. What big box store bike comes with Alivio derailleurs? The brakes are Avid linear brakes, and they're good. You've got a Shimano HG-50 cassette, and that's good. You've got an Alivio crankset and that's good too! You've got an Alivio Gruppo! It's all good! Nothing "big box" about it. The only problem that I can forsee, is that you've got to be XL, or it won't fit!

The Trek 7.1FX can't touch it!

PS.

...The 7.2FX comes close, but not quite.

That 2011 Insight 2 looks to be a solid step up from the Insight 1. Alivio is more than fine for recreational/fitness riding or commuting. That's last year's model, as you know, so size options aren't there. If it fits, that's a great deal. Despite the occasional knocks against PBS, they have a reputation for being more than accommodating with their satisfaction guarantee. My only concern would be the the low spoke wheels if you're a bigger rider. Regardless of weight, I'd get a good mechanic to hand tune the wheels first.

The 2012 Insight 2 has slightly downgraded components. Common issue. In fact, it looks like you need to step up to the 2012 Insight 3 to get the same spec as last year's Insight 2.

Didn't mean to disparage the new Insight 1, either. But the spec list is really getting down there. Hi-ten steel fork which is heavy and cheap. Freewheel vs cassette. Riveted chainrings preclude ring replacement. Other low/bottom end components. Just not a great value.

The 2011 Insight 1 was a bit nicer, though, with alloy fork.

Differences between 2011 Insight 2 and 2012 7.2 FX aren't drastic. If you're not abusing it, I'd prefer the alloy fork on the Insight, though. Keeps the front end weight down a bit. I prefer subtle over bold graphics, so I give the nod to the FX there. That's subjective matter, though. Trek dealer will probably be more help with getting you fitted to the bike. Trek's warranty is excellent, so that could matter. The Trek should hold its value a bit better in the event of resale. Not a landslide either way. And it probably won't be your last bike, either.

Now that was helpful. Everything I needed to know and more.

Thanks to the both of you.

Thanks everyone! Bought the insight 1 and I love it so far.

Nice, have fun with it.