7.3FX disc vs PDX
10-18-10, 08:00 PM
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7.3FX disc vs PDX
Some one please explain what are the major factors in the nearly $200 price difference? Trek claims that the PDX is essentially a FX frame with mtb components. They both are 8 speed, disc brake models. Other than the rear der, and frame material? https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...73fxdisc,empty
Wanting to get into an entry level disc brake model for multi-modal commuting, using primarily paved trails with some gravel roads.
Or if you know of any other models that are around the PDX price point...
Wanting to get into an entry level disc brake model for multi-modal commuting, using primarily paved trails with some gravel roads.
Or if you know of any other models that are around the PDX price point...
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Last edited by no1mad; 11-24-10 at 09:50 PM. Reason: fixed a link
10-18-10, 08:51 PM
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I've inquired at my favorite LBS about the Seek 2. Not in stock and "overkill" for my purposes. Note that they said overkill, not me. Basically every shop in town has stated either I don't need discs or don't want them.
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10-19-10, 10:42 AM
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I think the Alpha White is supposed to be higher-end than the Black? Also,the wheels,cranks,headset,and other bits are prolly nicer.
If any shops in your area carry Kona,you could check out the Dew series.
If any shops in your area carry Kona,you could check out the Dew series.
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10-19-10, 12:58 PM
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It goes White, then Black, then Red, Black is higher than White.
That's probably a good chunk of the cost difference. Some of the bits might be a little better on the FX as well.
Why do you NEED discs? Everything I've read says you only really need them if you're riding in areas where brake fade can be a problem (lots of hills for example.) IIRC, they add a bit of weight to the rolling mass of the wheels, and the components likely weigh more, so...
That's probably a good chunk of the cost difference. Some of the bits might be a little better on the FX as well.
Why do you NEED discs? Everything I've read says you only really need them if you're riding in areas where brake fade can be a problem (lots of hills for example.) IIRC, they add a bit of weight to the rolling mass of the wheels, and the components likely weigh more, so...
10-19-10, 05:26 PM
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Huh, well either your LBS isn't using the current info or Trek's webmaster is slacking...
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10-19-10, 05:36 PM
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It goes White, then Black, then Red, Black is higher than White.
That's probably a good chunk of the cost difference. Some of the bits might be a little better on the FX as well.
Why do you NEED discs? Everything I've read says you only really need them if you're riding in areas where brake fade can be a problem (lots of hills for example.) IIRC, they add a bit of weight to the rolling mass of the wheels, and the components likely weigh more, so...
That's probably a good chunk of the cost difference. Some of the bits might be a little better on the FX as well.
Why do you NEED discs? Everything I've read says you only really need them if you're riding in areas where brake fade can be a problem (lots of hills for example.) IIRC, they add a bit of weight to the rolling mass of the wheels, and the components likely weigh more, so...
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10-19-10, 05:59 PM
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The derailleur on the 7.3 is a little higher end. Also the wider gearing on it with the front cogs being mountain bikes mean you'll get a bit more top end speed (low 30's vs mid 20's with the other). The pdx seems to liste a lot of generic components where the 7.3 lists specific stuff. The pdx will be a more powerful riding position it seems, but if you are older might be less comfortable.
I have hydraulic disc brakes on my hybrid and I find them more annoying to service and just more work all around.
I have hydraulic disc brakes on my hybrid and I find them more annoying to service and just more work all around.
10-19-10, 06:27 PM
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It looks to me as though the PDX would be more directly compared to the 7.1FX. There are still differences in componentry, but it seems closer to me. They both have the alpha white frame, and the PDX adds disc brakes and 8 speed.
BTW, you say in your OP: "They both are 8 speed, disc brake models." Actually, NONE of the FX models have disc brakes.
BTW, you say in your OP: "They both are 8 speed, disc brake models." Actually, NONE of the FX models have disc brakes.
10-19-10, 07:16 PM
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It looks to me as though the PDX would be more directly compared to the 7.1FX. There are still differences in componentry, but it seems closer to me. They both have the alpha white frame, and the PDX adds disc brakes and 8 speed.
BTW, you say in your OP: "They both are 8 speed, disc brake models." Actually, NONE of the FX models have disc brakes.
BTW, you say in your OP: "They both are 8 speed, disc brake models." Actually, NONE of the FX models have disc brakes.
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10-19-10, 09:59 PM
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Oh, really? It's not April 1st and I doubt Trek would put stuff on their site they weren't coming to market with...
I looked at all the FX models, but I somehow didn't notice the ones labeled 'disc'
10-20-10, 01:35 PM
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Just curious why? Normal maintenance on hydros is periodically check the pads for wear,and bleed them every two years.
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10-20-10, 05:11 PM
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To service my avid juicy though you need the bleeder kit which is around $30, pads are $20 off amazon plus shipping, annoying clip on the back got out of shape that holds the brakes in when I bled it. They seem to very often rub lightly while riding which is annoying to hear too.
I had to get the service kit since there was a slight amount of air in the line. When I flipped it over to adjust my shifting it got into the lever and had to be bled.
10-21-10, 09:53 AM
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To be honest, I'm not sure I really need discs, but they make sense to give 'em a try. I'm riding on a mix of city streets and paved MUP. After my fitness level improves more, I'll start tackling the hills between my house and the MUP that is part of my work commute. I also currently ride in all weather (haven't done snow/ice yet). So, by my logic, they could come in handy.
It wouldn't hurt to try out, but there are trade offs to consider. They're heavier and add to the weight of the wheel, they're a little trickier to service (like a car, if you get air in the lines, you lose brake pressure and can crash), and they stress the bike a little differently. A few of the benefits you can get on regular brakes by just upgrading the pads too...
Still, between those two, I'd go with the 7.3.
10-22-10, 06:55 AM
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I've never had issues with my hydros,but I'm used to bleeding the discs on my motorcycles. As an aside,you do know that the majority of cars,trucks and motorcycles on the road today have hydro discs? Air in the system is usually do to improper bleeding technique. Not hammering on you,just saying that when done wrong,bleeding brakes is a huge headache,when done right it's no big deal.
And you really haven't lived until you've had to help a friend chase bubbles on the linked brake systems on some Hondas.
And you really haven't lived until you've had to help a friend chase bubbles on the linked brake systems on some Hondas.
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10-22-10, 07:54 AM
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To service a cable brake you just change pads and adjust the cable. Cable breaks? Few bucks at the local shop and no special tools.
To service my avid juicy though you need the bleeder kit which is around $30, pads are $20 off amazon plus shipping, annoying clip on the back got out of shape that holds the brakes in when I bled it. They seem to very often rub lightly while riding which is annoying to hear too.
I had to get the service kit since there was a slight amount of air in the line. When I flipped it over to adjust my shifting it got into the lever and had to be bled.
To service my avid juicy though you need the bleeder kit which is around $30, pads are $20 off amazon plus shipping, annoying clip on the back got out of shape that holds the brakes in when I bled it. They seem to very often rub lightly while riding which is annoying to hear too.
I had to get the service kit since there was a slight amount of air in the line. When I flipped it over to adjust my shifting it got into the lever and had to be bled.
10-23-10, 07:14 PM
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I bought the bike new and the brakes came with the fluid in it from the factory. I'm just saying $40 in stuff to service the brakes and parts are much much pricier than a basic cable pull brake. I live where you dont stop much in a rural area of texas.
11-24-10, 10:08 PM
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I mentioned this earlier, but the LBS didn't have any in stock at the time. Now, they just happen to have one on the floor. How does this one stack up to the Treks? https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/....2/7342/44058/
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01-18-11, 07:20 PM
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Bump. And though I don't strictly need disc brakes, I really, REALLY want them 
.
And since tax time is rapidly approaching, I can quite possibly increase the budget a bit to include the Kona Dew Plus. Unless, someone wants to point out a comparable BD offering
.
.And since tax time is rapidly approaching, I can quite possibly increase the budget a bit to include the Kona Dew Plus. Unless, someone wants to point out a comparable BD offering
.
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01-19-11, 04:17 PM
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Rim brakes are horrible. Hydraulic brakes are wonderful.
The suggestion that hydraulic disc brakes are more work all around is terribly misinformed.
That Kona looks like a nice bike at a great price.
The suggestion that hydraulic disc brakes are more work all around is terribly misinformed.
That Kona looks like a nice bike at a great price.
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