So the weather's getting nice around here, and one of my coworkers has been asking for my advice on a bicycle for starting a bicycle commute. I hadn't offered any specific advice other than avoiding xMart bikes, but he asked me about two specific bikes and frankly, I'm not sure I have an answer.

Can you guys explain the differences between this '08 Specialized Sirrus, and this '08 Specialized Globe Sport? Aside from some differences in geometry, they look pretty much the same to me.

Why would they sell two different bikes that are so similar, or am I missing something?

The Globe looks more commuter friendly with it's rack and fender braze-ons and wider tires.

Send your friend, here.

The Globe is slanted more toward the comfort line, While the Sirrus is leaned more toward the performance hybrid type.

If memory serves me correctly, the Sirrus also has braze-on front and rear. I also think that various rubber configurations (tire size) are also available with the Sirrus, depending on model level. Without checking specs, I think the componentry is of a higher level on the Sirrus.

If you can find last years model, the componentry is of a higher level, too. (Cost cutting entered the picture)