I bought my first bike three weeks ago, a Trek 7000 (my wife bought one too). Very entry level, yes. I have been riding mostly bike paths, but some roads as well. Over the course of these three weeks, I've put about 70 miles on the bike. I expect to ride somewhere between 100 and 150, maybe even 200 miles a month in the future.

When I was at the bike store, I also tried a Trek 7.2 fx which to me, handled better and felt more solid than the 7000. With the amount of miles I plan to be putting on the bike (I'm guessing it's not really that much), is there any reason to upgrade or should I stick with what I bought? I would probably be trying out the 7.2 fx and 7.3 fx. Or should I wait a year / year and a half and buy a decent road bike for ~$1000 or so?

If I'm not mistaken, there is a 30 day return policy at the LBS I bought the 7000 so upgrading shouldn't be much of an issue.

Thanks for the help in advance!

I would advise you to wait & ride the bike you have... you sound enthused, but time will tell!

A year from now you'll know better what you want in a bicycle. Perhaps the hybrid-style frame, bars, etc. will still be suitable, or you might be interested in a fast-speed road bike, or maybe even a touring bike. You'll have developed either a fondness or dislike for your saddle, your handlebars, the suitability of the gears for the terrain you ride, etc. If you still want to upgrade a year from now, take your accumulated experience (and a year's worth of savings) into the new shopping experience.

A 7000 is a decent bike, a friend of mine, and I looked at one last night. Ride it for a year, then you'l know for sure which way you'll want to go. A year old 7000 should re-sell pretty easily.

Definitely wait before doing anything. If you turn into a serious rider, you will want something entirely different than you think you will now. You'll know if/when it's time to step up. The Trek will do you fine until decision time. Enjoy! bk

You will change your mind many times over the next year. Wait.

Thanks for your help everyone -- I'll stick with the 7000 for at least a year and decide if it would be worth upgrading then. Thanks!

Wise choice. You have plenty of bike fitness to find yet and you also have to find out what sort of riding you want to do. Touring- Trail- Out with the local club on Speed runs 3 times a week. They all take different bikes so plenty to learn yet.