Originally Posted by
mechBgon
Axiom, based on personally working on thousands of Trek's entry-level aluminum bikes, there's no need to be concerned about the durability of the frames (in real life, that is). They also have a lifetime warranty, but your chances of needing that are approximately zero, judging by my customer base.
30% off is a great deal, too. They're probably basing that off the advertised MSRP, not the suggested MSRP, but it's still a great deal in a business where we basically make nothing on bikes after overhead. Go for it. Throw your LBS a bone by buying some accessories to go on it, maybe some lights and a computer.
Yeah, I plan on buying a much more expensive Trek, but this one caught my eye because it seems perfect for me right now. And they sell their bikes at the same price the Trek website does. I assume they make their money of the labor and accessories they sell, and not really the bikes. Anyway, I do plan on buying a computer and lights, biking shorts, and gloves. I really appreciate everyone's help, and you are going to make my purchase even more pleasurable than it would have been if I haven't asked.
I see it like this: It's like purchasing a brand new BMW (Trek) instead of a Honda (Wal-mart). The BMW has cheaper, low end models, but they are far superior than a Honda. Even the bottom of the line Trek beats the top of the line Wal-mart bike. I cannot wait until I get it -- I will, as you mentioned, ride the wheels off this bike.
@Cyccommute
Do you know what the 7.2FX weighs in at? And the weight capacity of the bike? I am a Clydesdale and part of my concern would be the durability of the bike at a bulk 285Lbs. I know for a fact that my current Wal-Mart Schwinn weighs nearly 50Lbs.