Our roads here are filled with a lot of potholes from the cold and snow and salt. That is one reason I like having the suspension. Truly I grew up riding with out one so I can live without. I was talking with a dealer today and am looking at holding for now. I may make a move later in the season after I am more regular in my riding and have a better idea of what I want. I will keep lurking here and listen to what others' experiences are. The Trek is a good bike and maybe I can do something about those tires. The Raleigh is not bad either it just needs a bit of work. Riding it another season and waiting until I am financially in a better place may dictate things there as well.