Well, I went down to Performance Bike last week and got a Fuji Absolute 3.0. I tried the 2.0 the week before. Nice bike with a large crank gear of 50 teeth. The rear gears were more like a road bike than the 3.0. With my weight (now to 260) I preferred more of a hybrid gearing anyway. I figured the front crank was not enough to spend 200 more dollars. I also had ridden several Giants, Treks, and a Cannondale: the Fuji felt more comfortable. I think the guy at Performance got worried because I was gone on the test ride for almost half an hour. I had to wait while the bike was assembled out of the box but I walked out with it right after purchase (and very little fitting).
I rode it to work and back Friday: 26 miles round trip. I experience was very positive. Shifted well, The bike fit me better than my old Cannondale H400, and climbing hills required less effort because I could stand on the peddles when I wanted to. The Cannondale, which I had been riding for about year, was much too large for me. I did seem very close to the front wheel but I got used to it right away. The seat was no problem but I am concerned about the stock peddles. I fear they will need replacing in coming months. I also plan to replace the tires although they presented no problem on the ride. I will likely in time replace the grips. I have already put a rack, bell, and lights on the bike.
On the way back from work, I tried a short cut, which turned out not be a short cut. I went over some rough areas that I was concerned about because if my weight and the wheels on the Fuji. When I got home, everything seems as it should be with true wheels and all.
With my weight and full pannier, rack, light, and water, I have about 290 on the bike when I ride. I have read few reports about the Fuji Absolute 3.0. If anyone is interested, I’ll let you all know how it goes.