Originally Posted by
AC92
I am new to cycling and am looking for a hybrid bike that I can use predominantly on bike trails. I am looking at the 2017 Trek FX2 and the 2017 Liv Alight 2. I am about 5' 3''. I would appreciate any help deciding between these two or what other models to consider. I need to stay under $500. I have ridden both of these models and liked both. Thanks!
They look very similar. The Giant is closer to $400 while the Trek is closer to $500. Both frames are almost identical. Giant comes with an aluminum fork, Trek, high tensile steel but might ride a little nicer. Pretty much a wash, as steel is heavier but aluminum is a little lighter. Bother bikes have 8 speed drivetrains, so a wash there. Trek has a slightly better derailleur, but the difference is almost nil. If you are looking for alternatives around $500, there is the Coda Sport Femme at around $500 which has a nicer steel frame than the Trek or Giant, and the Kona Dew, which retails at $500 exactly, has 8 speed drivetrain, and a cromoly steel fork (better than the fork on the Trek or the Giant, FWIW) but some Tourney components which are slightly worse than the Giant and Trek.
In the end, you are looking at very similar products, in some cases almost identical, with manufacturers deciding on a different mix of frames, forks and components to get to a price point.