I don't think you need a suspension fork for the limited off-road riding you'll be doing, just 35 or 38mm wide tires. I've owned the Coda and currently own a 7.5FX. I prefer the geometry of the Trek with it's taller head tube. The Coda places you in a more aggressive (leaned over) position with its short head tube. The Specialized Sirrus is the hybrid that competes with the 7.4FX and Coda BTW. Try to test ride each bike and see which one you prefer.