Newbie here... to both the forum and hybrid biking alike.

Both my road and mountain bikes are fairly old and not that comfortable for a long day of casual riding with the family. So I recently started looking for a more comfortable bike that would be at home riding on the gravel and paved roads where we were about to go on vacation. I also wanted something I could easily attach a rack to and carry stuff to the beach, but not look like a beach cruiser.

My LBS recommended either the 2017 Trek FX2 or 2017 Specialized Sirrus Sport. I rode both back-to-back and although the decision was tough I chose the Trek. When I told the LBS I wanted disc brakes they informed me that they didn’t have an FX3 in stock and wouldn’t be able get one in before my vacation. Somewhat reluctantly I bought the Sirrus Sport.

After riding over 160 miles so far, I’m really happy with my decision. The bike is extremely comfortable when I’m riding by myself, but during the long, slow family rides my neck gets a bit stiff and my palms go a little numb. To combat this I decided to replace the stock bar with the Jones H-Bar for a more upright riding position. I tried swapping the bars tonight, but as I suspected, I need to either lengthen the cables or shorten the stem. I’m thinking the latter would be the better/easier choice. When I bring my bike in for the free tune-up, I’ll have them swap the bars.

I also ordered a Topeak rack and will likely get a set of fenders.

I’m thinking this will be my do-it-all, occasional grocery hauler, summer beach cruiser, rail trail rider, 30 miles on the weekend, family vacation bike.