I am considering buying a hybrid bike for myself (6'-0" 185 lbs) - mostly for recreational weekend biking (where I live, it is a bit hilly) and for occasional trail riding. I have tried out a couple - the Marin San Rafael DS-1 and the Fuji Traverse 1.7 (both in the $450 range). I have researched a couple of other models. Based on my previous experience in this forum, most people go by the components for recommendations. So I did a comparison chart for some models that I like.

These are the models I am considering:
Marin DS-1 LE
Fuji Traverse 1.7
Trek FX 2 Disc
Diamondback Trace Sport
Diamondback Haanjo Metro

Would love to hear thoughts on these models and possible pros and cons.

Thanks in advance,

DS

Have you considered the Trek DS line? It seems more in line with the other bikes on your list as opposed to the FX. Retail on the DS1 is 550 but there are deals out there with the 2018s coming soon. I just picked up a DS2 from my LBS for 539.00 2 weeks ago. ~200miles so far, loving it.

I haven't. I will add that to the list. Thank you. It is easier for me to test ride Treks and Fujis and Marins as the dealers are close by.

I highly recommend the DS line. I have the DS4 and absolutely love it on pavement and on trails.

I have a Giant Roam 2, fantastic bike.

I started with a Roam 2 and it was a great bike, not sure what year it was but i sold it and moved on to a 2016 Giant Comax 2.

I too started with a Roam, not sure what model though. I decided from then that i would save for the bike that i really wanted and now have a 2016 Giant Carbon Comax 2 and a 2017 Sirrus carbon. I would recommend testing out several bikes and from there decide the brand you like and then save for the one that you really want. The only issue i am having with these bikes now is finding the right saddle for these bikes.

Right now, until Labor Day, Performance has 30% back on bikes........ a good time to buy a Fuji or Diamondback from them! Fujio Traverse 1.7 Disc, on sale at 449, plus 135 to spend on whatever. Just make sure you join their club before you buy! Or a Marin DS2 LE Sport Disc for 5 bills, plus 150 back!

Or this Marin San Rafael DS4, for 650 on sale,(normally almost 9 bills) plus 2 bills back to buy stuff. All Shimano equipped, 10 spd Deore 11-34, 3 rings 48,36,26, (about a zillion gear choices) and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. Fender and rack ready --- a heck of a lot of bike for the bucks. buttttt, you have to like Army Green!

Another Roam owner here. It has become my favorite bike to ride thanks to it's near perfect fit. Of course, "fit" is a very personal trait just as with saddles.

Thanks for all the tips. I tested the following bikes: Marin DS-1; Fuji Traverse 1.7; Diamondback Hanjo Metro, Trek Ds1, and Giant Roam 3. Ended up buying the Giant Roam 3. Primary reason: the shifting was quite forgiving to my relatively untrained hands - more so than the other models that I tested. I also liked the tire width - the 38 mm seemed just right for what I intended to do. One other option that I really liked is that one can lock the front shocks, that I don't believe I saw in the other ones. I have now put in about 50 miles, and I could not be happier. Ascending / descending on trails (I have done about 25 miles of trails) were quite nice. On the road, also, it did serve well. I tried riding on a cobbled street - which wasn't as uncomfortable as I expected. I did have to request two mods to the bike right after my test ride. I had to raise the handle bar a little; and get a more comfortable saddle. Again, I do that all the responders for their comments.

Glad you love the giant Roam. I'm also only a recent owner. Based on lots of self research it seems to be the best entry level hybrid around - that is if you lean towards the mountain bike influenced hybrids.