trek 7.3 or 7.5 fx
 

I've been looking around at the 7.3 treks and really like them but then I noticed the 7.5 has the color I want(black). It also seems to have a good amount of upgrades. (carbon fork, better tires, better shifters, and probably a few other things) Do you think the extra price is worth it? Anyone with experience with the two? I have the money for either one but would like someone elses opinion. I'm no hardcore rider but I ride almost daily around 10-20 miles depending on the day. Mostly neighborhoods, trails, some roads. At the moment I'm riding a hand me down schwinn valero( not liking the dropdown, shifters suck, don't really like it overall:notamused: ) So I think this should be a pretty good upgrade whichever one I decide on.

Both good bikes. I have a 7.2 that I really like, but no experience with either of the models you're looking at. I kinda like the maroon 7.3 with the tan tires ..

you'll want to get some gear and goodies to hang on it, so you might consider the 7.3 to create some "accessory" money . .. .

Personally I've had a 7.3 and never had any problems. I like how the 7.3 is more versatile though with the front braze-on's for if you wanted to go more adventurous on the bike. Looking online they have the same tires it looks like. I know mine a couple years ago came with slicks, but they were very hard long wearing tires that didn't offer very good grip, especially in the wet. Ride both, see if you notice a difference then decide if it is worth it. Another factor to consider is if you are storing it outside and would you want to let it sit outside if it had visible carbon fiber, as that could attract thieves. Tires can be changed out easily and for 10-20 miles the 7.3 would give you money to get a more comfortable saddle if you wanted as well.

When buying mine I only looked at the 7.2 and 7.3 though. You may check out the hybrid section as I'm sure they've discussed it more.

Depends on what you're after.
7.5 is less utilitarian, has 9 speeds, and prettier parts.
7.3 has 8 speeds and a front rack mount. Both I prefer over the 7.5's offering.

Is it worth the money? Not really, unless to you the looks and an extra gear are worth $300 for ya. You certainly won't go any faster. The carbon fork is nice (but fragile, scratches can render them unsafe,) but ride quality is mostly dependent on tire size and pressure.

If you ride in the wet, the 7.3 disc looks alright.

. .. .The carbon fork is nice (but fragile, scratches can render them unsafe. . . .

Oh pleeze, enough with the 'carbon is fragile and scary' silliness. I've yet to see a scratched carbon frame or fork that was unsafe merely due to a scratch. In our shop we see plenty of old carbon bikes that are well worn and still plenty safe and ridden regularly.

And FWIW, the 7.5 is indeed a better bike. Lighter and better components. Does it cost more? Yes. That's usually how it works.

I don't know what your budget is but I personally have the 2010 FX 7.5 and love it. Before I made the purchase, I was at the same stage where I couldn't decide whether 7.3 or 7.5. 7.5 is a better ride, the CF fork and the extra gear is well worth the extra. If you're buying something nice to please yourself, why not buy the better one.

So carbon can handle impact and abrasive damage as well as steel or aluminium?
Not that any little knick is the end of that part, but comparatively, carbon copes with damage much less.