TMertell

Hi everyone. I am Terri and I am new here. I have a 13 year old Schwinn Voyager Sport and other than an uncomfortable seat (replaced with gel and still is not that great) and the occasional wrist and shoulder pain associated with leaning into my handle bars during longer rides, the bike has served me well. I am now ready, at age 50 to get a new bike. Mostly I ride the neighborhood after work and on the weekends, generally 5 or more days per week when the weather is nice. I live in Florida so there really are only a few weeks that I don't ride. My rides are generally a half hour to an hour and a half in duration and are mostly for fresh air, enjoyment, meditation and exercise. I don't care for riding on busy streets---I generally stay on paved paths or neighborhood streets, sidewalks and paths. I enjoy a ride between 7 & 20 mph. I am also hoping to find some group rides to make it more social.

Friends recommend that I purchase an Electra Townie d7 for its comfortable ride. Other friends recommend the Trek Verge 2 for its comfort, reputation and versatility.

I am hoping to hear your opinions and technical expertise for or against either bike and/or your recommendations for other bikes.

RonH

bump

canklecat

Unless you have other physical limitations, go for the Trek Verve 2. That's pretty similar to the bike I resumed cycling on in 2015 after a 30+ year hiatus. The Townies are immediately comfortable, superficially, but some limitations become apparent as soon as even a slight uphill grade appears. And on longer rides the upright position puts all the weight on the butt. A comfort hybrid like the Verve and similar models distributes the weight a bit more evenly between the butt, legs and arms. Lower the stem and bar a bit as you progress to suit your comfort and fitness.

jefnvk

I would opt for the Verge 2 if you are pushing 20 mile rides. Comfort is subjective, but a cruiser for 20 miles does not sound enjoyable to me.

Have you gotten on both and tried them out?

SEAJAYBIKE

We carry the Verve and the Townie. The 2017 and beyond Verve is a fantastic blend of comfort and ease of riding. They sell themselves with a short test ride. I think its the most new rider friendly bike out there today. Your comment about group rides makes me favor this choice unless there are other factors.

Townie is not so great on hills and longer rides but the riding position suits many people so remains a staple bike. Especially for those a bit uncomfortable with riding. Its very reassuring to have that riding position. I've had many repeat customers start with a Townie and return after a few seasons for something better for longer faster rides. WIN for everyone!

If you test ride the Verve, assure the adjustable stem is in a position you like. They come out of the box in a low position. I always raise it before a test ride. Also assure the tires are not over inflated.

Patriot1

Or....
Terry,
I test rode the Trek Verve 2, then I ordered the Giant Sedona DX, very happy with my comfort level...love this bike. No pressure on shoulders, wrists, lower back, just a great all around comfy bike. My wife also has a Sedona...super comfy all day long.

SEAJAYBIKE

As it shows, each person's best bike is personal.
While it may be the best choice for Patriot1, I am reluctant to recommend her a bike in the mountain bike category based on her needs description.

TMertell

I did test ride both of them for a short ride, both very comfortable rides....but I really think I am leaning toward the Verge.

Brooke1687

Verve, hands down. It’s super comfortable and lighter than the townie. The Townie is style over function, you’ll be happier with Verve, especially on longer rides.

martianone

My partner and I each have a Townie D7, we call them our beach bikes.
We also each have a road bike, touring and MTN bike. The Townies have been great for us to hop on and just go for a simple pleasure ride. Today for example - first rode to quick stop grocery for some half n half for our coffee, about 2 miles. After breakfast, to the driving range, 2 miles- carried my clubs in a Sunday bag. Late morning, off to beach to scope some shells, 6 mi, my partner had a flat on the way home. Got a new tube & fixed the flat. After lunch, a ride around town for some errands, 10 miles or so. The upright riding position allows good visibility in traffic. Going on three years with them, drivetrains have been good and brakes reliable.
Have Big Apple tires on mine, my partner has the stock tires. Since the riding position is a little recumbent, may take a couple weeks riding to improve your muscle group. If something bad were to happen to my Townie, I would get another.