Originally Posted by
malfist
Here's my question, the price difference between these two bikes, and the walmart bike is quite considerable and way more than I expected to pay for a bike. Because of this I want to make sure I'm getting a good deal. I don't think we'll have any issues using them. Are these bikes a good value? Should I be looking somewhere else or for something else?
It's never a bad idea to shop around,but bikes sold at bike shops will almost always be much better than bike from big box stores. X-mart bikes are build to a price,and and just put together by someone following an instruction sheet. Bike shop bikes are built with components intended to be reliable,and are assembled by actual mechanics who go over the entire bike.
Originally Posted by
malfist
Additionally, is it possible to put the similar shifters from the Verza fit 2 on the Verza fit 1? One is a SRAM and the other is a Shimano.
SRAM and Shimano use different ratios(amount of cable pull) on their derailleurs,so your shifters much be brand matched to the derailleurs. The exception is that SRAM makes a couple Shimano-compatible shifters named 'Attack'(trigger) and Rocket'(twist). So if you like the SRAM style double thumb levers(I do too),then you can put a set of Attack shifters on the Shimano bike.
Originally Posted by
malfist
I was under the impression that disc brakes weren't much of an advantage for road bikes. This article indicates that they're a bad idea for road bikes:
Disc Brakes vs. Cantilever Brakes
Disc and rim brakes both have their advantages and uses. Disc brakes work better in the rain and snow,so if you're going to ride in bad weather,they are def a good idea.
My biggest issues with the bikes you posted would be the alloy frames combined with straight blade alloy forks. That combination will not ride very well. DC has bad roads,and I have mild CT,so those bikes would be a no-go for me. Only you can decide if you like the way they ride,so def test ride the bike,or any bike you're considering,before buying. The most important issues in buying a bike are that they fit and that you like the way they ride and handle.