red2t

I know these particular bikes have been talked about a lot. I have searched all over the forums for advice, and reviews. I have narrowed it down to these three bikes. This bike would actually be for my gf, and she has test rode them all. Originally it was only between the Trek and Cannondale, until one of the sales rep suggested she try a marin, plus it was on sale. We are getting into the sport and both don't know much about the particular components that these bikes offer. She is basically going to ride it around town, mostly paved roads. All three bikes are a good fit, they offer there positives and negatives in terms of comfort. We just need a good steer on which direction is the best. Basically we want one that would last, and be the best bang for the buck. The only concern I have is the carbon fiber fork the fairfax and quick 4 offers. I have read on a few opinions on the safety concerns of it shattering. Shes going to take her front wheel off and on quite a bit, and I'm wondering would it cause the carbon fiber fork stress from it at all? Do we have to constantly inspect the fork before every ride? What if she hits a pot hole, does she need to stop and inspect for any cracks? I'm still learning, so these questions may sound silly. Also if anyone has had any prior experience with all 3 which would you choose and why. Thanks in advance.

2009 Cannondale Quick 4 Price $599.99 https://www3.cannondale.com/bikes/10/...del-9QRW4.html
2010 Trek 7.3 FX Price $639.00 https://www.trekbikes.com/women/wsd_p..._path/73fxwsd/
2009 Marin Fairfax Price $589.00 https://www.rei.com/product/776845

wheeldeal

Specialized Sirrus...because it's cheaper than any of those.

awesomejack

If she truely does not have a preference for any of the three bikes over the others, regarding comfort, then look at the specs of the bike.

First, gears, the Trek and Cannondale have the same gearing. I have the 7.3 and the gearing is much wider (11-32) and I can climb hills no problem. The Marin only has a 12 - 24 which is very very narrow, it will be very hard to climb any sort of incline with that gearing. For that reason I would kick the Marin out of the considerations. Or you could buy a new cassette if your girlfriend really likes that one. The shop would probably install it for free if you buy it with the bike.

The other difference is the fork, like you said. Have her ride the bikes and see if she notices any discrepencies in the shock absorbtion qualities of the carbon fiber over the aluminum. If she really can't tell any difference between the feel of the bikes, then go with the Trek.

The most important aspect is still how the bikes feels to her. If one bike is more comfortable than the others, then get that one.

red2t

does the trek offer better components? If I'm comparing the 2010s the trek is alittle more expensive plus it doesn't offer a carbon fork.

Kingfish

I was faced with a similar decision and ended up with the Quick 4, mainly because the carbon fork gave it the edge. I also slightly preferred the frame and tires on the Cannondale. As for the gearing, unless you're going up some severe grades, the Quick gearing should be just fine. The fact that the Quick cost slightly less was an added bonus.

They're both fine bikes and I wouldn't worry too much about the carbon fork. It's an upgrade.