Originally Posted by
bicicleta810
Budget is the issue for me...With a limited budget, 2 kids and one on the way, I don't want to spend more than $450-500. However, just from browsing online, it seems that it's an attainable budget, but at what cost? (Seen some $300-$400 deals at bikesdirect.com) Wife wants me to get a $100 walmart bike, but I've always been the type to appreciate quality and love finding good deals out there.
Trek has some hybrids in the $400-$500 range. The 2018 Trek FX2 is closer to the top of your range but specs look decent. It's an 8 speed with usable components that can be upgraded in the future.
The advantage of a Trek (or any LBS bike) is you can buy it from a local Trek dealer and have it properly assembled and fitted. Most dealers will also do adjustments for free (or at least the first). Department store bikes are assembled by clerks and mail order you are responsible.