cysiphist

Hi all,

I'm planning to start commuting to work via bike. It's about 11 miles each way largely on bike paths, but there's a metro to take me as well. As I start out, I may only do one way or a few times/week as I build up my endurance/speed. I've been looking at several bikes over the last few weeks as my old Schwinn searcher is in pretty rough shape. I've looked at several models, and fell in love with the Fuji Finest 1.0 (2015 model) tonight. It appears to be a Performance bicycle exclusive for this year, so I haven't seen a lot of reviews for the version with this component set.

Product: Fuji Finest 1.0 LE Women's Road Bike - 2015 Performance Exclusive

It's got 11-speed Shimano 105 gears, and the XS frame felt really comfortable for me (5'3").

I've never had a road bike before, so am curious if collective wisdom thinks this would suit me well. I want a bike that will grow with me as I get better, and I like to buy things to last. For reference, I also tried the Felt ZW85, which is also lovely, but came at a higher price point, that I'm not sure is actually that much better than the Fuji ($1350 vs. $1099). Others I looked at included a Trek 7.2 FX, a Raleigh Cadent i11, a Trek CrossRip Elite, and the Fuji Sportif.

Thoughts for a newbie? Will this bike serve me well? Is it overkill?

TransitBiker

The stock 1.1 from fuji is cheaper. Look to see if you can get that first at a licensed fuji dealer.

I will ask about this "1.0" tomorrow.

I don't think it's too much. It's a great bike, and i think you will love riding it.

- Andy

MichaelW

Check if the frame has threaded eyelets for rack and fenders.
The position of the rear brake on the seat-stay can interfere with rack fitting, you need a special, extra wide rack. Some other cyclo-cross style bikes put the brake on the lower chainstay and free up the rack from interference.

cysiphist

It definitely has threads for a back rack, but I didn't consider fitting or needing anything extra wide. I'll ask about that tonight. I'll also check out the 1.1. Thanks for the advice so far!