Ok, I'm looking to replace my 2003 trek 820. Was seldom used, but the family has picked up riding on tow paths this summer. I've been looking at Trek and Giant. (full disclosure, I'll probably start riding only about 40miles per week, so a casual rider?) The LBS seems to push Trek, and their only reason is, they sell more and they feel they do warranty work with less trouble. But it sure seems the Giant brand, you get more for the money.
I've been looking at the Giant Roam 2, then saw that the shop has 2017 models now. TREK's DS3, basically replaces their 8.4 DS. Same price as Giant Roam 1.
Is the LBS correct, that Trek would be preferred? Or should I go for, besides proper fit for me, the components vs cost? If so, then my next question would be, is the Roam 1, worth the $200 increase? The Roam 1 is a step up, one to two levels on about everything. Deore derailleurs, Shimano HG50 11x36, 10-speed, and M365 hydraulic brakes. Improved over the Acera and M315 brakes. Will a casual rider like me, riding light trails, tow paths, and some road, even notice these upgrades? I'm willing to pay the extra $200, if I will notice it, or if it will mean longer life and/or less maintenance of those components.
The US site doesn't have the 2017 models listed yet. But LBS said the components match these:
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/au/roam-2-disc
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/au/roam-1-disc