OK...I am going to pick up my new bike this evening. I've narrowed down to 3 bikes: Trek su200, 7.3fx and 7.3fx disc. My concern with the 700c wheels is...will they hold my weight (260)...not that I'm looking for pot holes etc. but you never know. Chicago has very nice bike paths...but there will be times I will need to ride the streets. I think the 26" with slicks may be ideal. Your thoughts...

-Allan

It has nothing to do with the wheel size. It has everything to do with the quality of the build and to a lesser extent the quality of the wheel rim and the spokes used. If you are concerned (and you should be!) then get the shop to throw in a wheel re-tension with the purchase. It doesn't cost them anything but some time and you should be able to wheel and deal it. As long as it is a double wall wheel it should be fine, really.

I agree with rykoala. I'd focus on the other elements. Discs are nice for a commuting bike assuming you will continue to ride in rain/sleet/snow etc. If you are only going to fair weather commute, discs don't add anything but a bit of weight. I'll assume you want the discs. You are now talking about what the $150 or so gets you in the fx. From my perspective, you get 700c wheels, a better rear derailleur and a tad different geometry. Brakes are the same, shifters are the same, gearing is the same (except the larger wheel makes a bit higher gearing for the fx).

If it were me, I'd ride both and see which was more comfortable, as I see little difference otherwise.

because of your weight and being in Chicago and chicago weather best to go with the disks

more support in case and over the snow and sleet and rain

and better modulation

you also might check the Clydesdales forum here at BF.net. lots of great info there for us "big guys".

All else being equal a 26" wheel will be stronger than a 700c but a 700c can be plenty strong enough if built correctly. Getting a wheel retensioned before purchase is an excellent idea.
Also a fatter tire will ride smoother and improves the durability of wheels. Anything 28mm and fatter is sufficient but fat slicks are even better.
I currently ride a 700x35c tire but my next bike will go 700x40c. I'm 220 and my commute is very rough and I ride hard (I don't like to slow for railroad tracks or potholes).

Craig

Trek SU200 is the winner! I couldn't be more pleased. Thanx for all of your imput.

-Allan