After several trips to my 2 LBS's, I decided on the Trek 8.3 DS. I liked the idea of disc brakes and the suspension lockout. I wanted to start on wider tires, giving me the option for off road use. So far I have about 15 rides on it, my furthest at 7miles, and I like it a lot. I have no regrets at all even though the extent of my off road riding has been from the side walk to a park bench I will do most of my riding on paved surfaces but I do plan on making some trail runs in the future once my fitness has improved.