I've been riding cheap Schwinn mtn bike with semi slick tires and really been enjoying riding and commuting but didn't want to spend alot at first to "test the water". I now want better quality bike, but can't decide between 2009 Trek 7.3FX or 2010 Giant Escape 2 City. I've test ridden Trek at LBS which was 20" frame and I've found one on CL for $400 local. The Giant has full fenders and rack for price of $525 at LBS. I've ridden both but can't decide which would be better in long run. I've been comparing componets and prices, but is one brand better than another? Is it more worthwhile to spend $125 extra to get bike that has fenders and rack?

Thanks

Both good bikes, so it's a matter of which feels better riding. And less than $100 will get fenders and a rack on the FX. Your call on this one, the bikes themselves are about a tossup. Trek will usually have the better resale in these parts if you don't know if you'll stick with it.

It also depends on how much help/service you'll need from the lbs. Fenders, a rack and a tuneup or two (usually thrown in free when you buy a bike) will burn through $125 really quickly.

Thanks for the info. I've decided to go with the Trek and main reason is I went back to LBS and test rode the Giant Escape and when talking with salesman and comparing to Trek FX he said go with Trek for that price. I couldn't believe it. I will certainly take it to LBS for service and supplies, but can't believe the honesty when we started comparing componets. I priced fender and rack and can get both for $60.00.

I'd agree with the salesman. Generally, Giant provides the low end of "decent" bikes, Trek is a step up. Usually the selling point for Giant is price, so when the Trek is cheaper, it's hard to justify Giant.