Hello everyone, I have been looking around the site and learning what ever I can. Trying to really pinpoint the best bang for the buck so to speak, with so many great bikes to choose from in and around the $600-$1000 range. I'm checking to make sure I"m really choosing the correct one.

At this time that would be the Trek 8.6 DS, it seems to have a great balance for the money, I'm not paying anywhere close to the MSRP @ $1399 that is just crazy. One LBS wanted to change me $1500 + shipping, that is not going to happen.

8.6 DS - DuoTrap S - Trek Bicycle

Colors Ball Burnished Aluminum
Frame Alpha Gold Aluminum, DuoTrap S compatible, rack and fender mounts
Front suspension SR Suntour NRX, ATB rated, coil spring, preload, hydraulic remote lockout, 63mm travel
Sizes 15.5, 17.5, 19, 21, 22.5"
Front Hub Shimano RM66 centerlock alloy
Rear Hub Shimano RM66 centerlock alloy
Rims Bontrager TLR disc, 32-hole
Tires Bontrager LT3 Expert, aramid bead, 700x38c
Shifters Shimano SLX, 10 speed
Front derailleur Shimano Deore LX
Rear derailleur Shimano SLX, Shadow Plus
Crank Shimano T551, 48/36/26 w/chainguard
Cassette Shimano HG50 11-36, 10 speed
Pedals Wellgo alloy body w/alloy cage
Chain KMC X10
Saddle Bontrager Evoke 1
Seatpost Bontrager SSR, 27.2mm, 12mm offset
Handlebar Bontrager Low Riser, 31.8mm, 15mm rise
Stem Bontrager Blendr Elite, w/computer & light mounts, 31.8mm, 7 degree
Headset 1-1/8" semi-cartridge bearings
Brakeset Shimano M445 hydraulic disc
Grips Bontrager Satellite Elite, lock-on









Just because the value of many vs me + ColonelSanders, which was helpful, thank you ColonelSanders will be much better, If I can get some additional replies.

Thanks for all the help and I will do my best to help others as well, what a great community this is.