performance hybrids
 

We are considering purchasing a performance hybrid that we can use on the road generally, but also on packed gravel trails and to do some touring, and that is durable. We have checked out the following bikes generally in the $600-$700 range: Trek 7.3FX, Trek 7.5 (a bit more expensive), the Jamis Coda Sport, Specialized Sirrus, and the 2007 Fuji Absolute LX (at a good price of $599) -- which do you recommend?

My choice of the ones you list would be the Jamis, but I have quite an affection for steel. The Sirrus apparently doesn't handle as well as it could off road.

Where are you located?


Welcome to BF!

East Hill

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Test ride them all, pick the one that seems to fit you the best and is most enjoyable to ride.

+1. Good old butted steel frame but the Zaffiro tires won't do packed gravel trails very well. Check the tire clearance and find some suitable 32-35c tires for the trails. My Aurora wouldn't handle 35c casings without swapping in some Thinline brake pads. As a later upgrade, consider putting the original tires on some better wheels to swap in for dedicated road use.

If you want clearance for bigger knobbier tires that will handle the trails better, look at the Treks. They won't be as comfy on skinny tires but will likely handle 38c or 40c tires without fenders. And forget about the suspension fork if you're going to ride 90% road and shorter trail sections. They're OK if your spending less time on the road and riding longer rail trails and the like.

I've heard the Sirrus has a more road-ish geometry which could be problematic if you hit the trails and lack solid bike handling skills.

I bought a Sirrus Comp and I love the ride and the extra speed it give me. Does not do well off road unless the surface is hard pack. Stock tires are 700X28c. Other than that, I love it, quick, responsive and the carbon is somewhat forgiving. Base price of the '08 is around $1,000.