4.11: Thanks for the input. Yesterday I tested 3 Treks: 7100, Dual Sport 8.2, and FX 7.2. I liked the Dual Sport but the one that captivated me was the FX. It just seemed to fit right and it felt tight and strong (I can't explain this--just a subjective feeling). I agree about changing tires.

My first mtb was a Trek 830. No suspension on it. I rode it in southern Utah on Forest Service dirt and rock roads. No problem. My Townie went out on similar roads in Alabama. A little jarring but not impossible. The FX's stock tires (I think they were 35mm) looked like they could handle light trails.