Daftyler

Hey everyone,

Im a regular on another(non bike) forum, so I know newbies can make some mistakes with posting, so sorry if I did that.

But the reason I am here is I am looking into buying a Hybrid bike for commuting around town/work/school

I have an opportunity to buy 2 different bikes and I cannot decide which is better/best for me.

Some input would be appreciated;



2011 Diamondback Insight 3 (specs Diamondback Bicycles - 2011 Insight 3)
VS
2014 Specialized Crosstrail Disc(specs:Specialized Bicycle Components)

Any opinions?

Thanks.

TheLibrarian

Are they used? those exact same bikes? Are they both the same size/ right size? both in good working condition? which level of crosstrail? are you sure of the level of the diamond back? whats the prices if not new? They both appear similar the diamond back doesn't have a front suspension so its got less off road appeal which when you have a hybrid is good to go off road. Specialized is the more boutique brand and the years you give it is the newer one.

Daftyler

They are both used, The specialized is in like new condition, hardly ever used. It also comes with a few extra things including a nice kryptonite lock. The size is a little big, but not awful. The price for this is 600$ ( Canadian mind you)
Not sure what you mean by what level of crosstrail? Both those spec sheets are for the exact models.

The diamondback is actually at a police auction this weekend. So price could be anywhere. It is in a little rougher shape when compared to the specialized. but nothing major, just cosmetic.

TheLibrarian

You can buy a brand new 2016 crosstrail disc for $600 US properly fitted. You should test them out before which you can't do at an auction so unless its a steal i'd be wary. Sight unseen i wouldn't be so sure it is just cosmetic, police must have janked some kid off of it when they took it and possibly damaged the bike.

JGM411

Are the bikes in your size? How tall are you? What is your inseam. What are the bike sizes. Don't waste time buying either of these bikes if they don't fit you.

NVanHiker

Just a couple of thoughts... For commuting/work/school (same as me although I also do light touring) I would forego the extra weight of front suspension. I don't know where you live but the ability to mount full fenders would be important to me, as well as a rear rack.

m.c. 

I have the crosstrail disc and it isn't a bad bike but test ride some others before you decide. I ride mine around town on pavement. I really regret that I didn't look at others first. I now want to ride the Sirrus, Daily, Giant Escape 1, and I was told I may like the bianchi milano. I really have found no use at all for the front suspension for riding around town, through parking lots, paths, alleys etc. The bike feels heavy to me and I think the suspension may be a big part of it. I also want to change the knobby-ish tires to more road type tires, and maybe drop the width down slightly. A few trips through rough pavement have given me punctures even with whatever protection the trigger sports are supposed to have. I also don't find the mechanical disc brakes on it to be worth paying extra for. After putting some time in with it I know I should have at least tested some different things.

I think If I was leaving the pavement and riding dirt trails I would really like having the tires and suspension but unfortunately I haven't found anywhere to do that.

Wanderer

The Crosstrail is a great do it all bike ---- BUT, the price is way too high for a 2 yr old 8 spd. No lockout on the fork is a MAJOR negative, and the mech disc brakes won't be up to Hyd standards...... For that money, I think you could do better.