Originally Posted by
WestPablo
I dunno...
There really is no real comparison between a Trek 7.4FX, a Sirrus Elite, and an Escape 1.
Once you've selected your $700 budget, the only choice that makes any sense is the Escape 1. That's only because both the Trek and the Sirrus are overpriced.
In fact, financially speaking, Giant is always gonna be the better deal, between Trek and Specialized, no matter what bike we're talking about!
The only choice that makes sense is the bike that fits him best as between whatever models he is considering. Buying based on a spec sheet as the deciding factor would be a mistake, IMO. If he rides all three and his reactions are "Not bad at all." "Pretty good." and "YEAH BABY!" I'm guessing he will be happiest with that third bike whatever brand it happens to be.
To the OP - I couldn't be happier with my 7.2, but I do think the 7.4 is worth the additional funds for the combination of 9 speeds and carbon fork. If this is going to be your only bike - or even your primary bike - and your budget allows for the 7.4 I say go for it.
But I agree with others above - there are a lot of compelling choices out there from other brands. Makes sense to try as many as you can.