I usually hang in the 50+ Forum, but could use some input from folks here.

I've been given a Trek 950 with less than 500 original miles on it. I also have my own Trek 950 that has taken a beating over the years off road. Now the recently acquired 950 looks and rides brand new. It was handing in a shed for the last 10 years. Its even got the original rubber on it with very little wear. There is a little stiffness in the headset, but I'm thinking that just repacking/replacing the bearings will fix this. OK, I've also come across the Novara Fusion on sale for $550. I'm wondering if I can really make the Trek a respectable commuter by adding racks, slick tires, lights, fenders, etc. Or, is the Novara Fusion a better route to go? Am I going to end up putting any where near $550 in the Trek? Which will be the better commuter long term? I kind of like the idea of a steel frame vs. aluminum, but don't have much experience commuting. Any thoughts, experiences or input would be appreciated.

I guess the first question for me is do you really want the generator lights on the Novara Fusion? A hub generator is pretty pricey, and once you add in the lights and the new wheel it gets even more expensive. If you're buying retail, it could easily hit $250.

If you don't need or want the generator lights, then the Trek might well be a better deal.

I have the Novarra fusion with the Nexus inter 8 hub. I took it off commuter duty and use it as
an errand bike. I put the fusion up on a workstand and it took me a half hour to remove the
rear tire. I can normally fix a flat and start rolling in ten minutes. I found that the inter 8 needs
more tools to carry and I'm not sure I can be be so patient during rush hour.

As an update, I went with the Trek. I cleaned it up, replaced the chain, and repacked all the bearings. I then added new tires, mud guards, lights (which I already had), grips, new pedals, and threw on a rack and bags. Entire cost to me came in under $275. Attached is a photo of the finished bike. It is heavy, but once up to speed it rolls along pretty good. I'm also surprised at how well it handles. Made first trip to work with it this week, and it seems to be functioning just swell. So, now I'm officially commuting.

Congrats on the nice-looking commuter!

With my short commute (5 miles round trip) I find myself riding my 11 year old Trek 730 (hybrid) most of the time. I still enjoy this old bike a lot.

Commuting by bike is addictive!

Best,
Cliff

Glad you came up with something you like!