Alright...hope that this isn't getting old and that I am reaching out to a batch of noobie sympathizers! Through the gentle nudging of my girlfriend, and the wide-grin remembrances of my youth, I've decided to make my first bicycle purchase since I was 15. I've been immersing myself in the world of bike geometry, specs, and component love for over week now...and, I have come to the conclusion that I know jack about any of it. Anyway, I decided to hit the LBS's and take in some of the inventory to see what interested me. Those that did are listed below:

- 2011 Fuji Absolute 2.0 (Priced at 599.99)
https://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/B...+2.0&Type=bike
- 2011 Trek 7.5FX (Priced at 799.99)
https://ridewrc.com/product/11trek-7.5-fx-73312-1.htm
- 2012 Charge Scourer (Priced at 649.99)
https://chargebikes.com/bikes/scourer/
- 2012 Charge Tap (Priced at 699.99)
https://chargebikes.com/bikes/tap/

I looked at each of these and they are at the top of my list. I'm a 6'1 215lb guy and have been leaning Hybrid for a comfortable cycling intro on my daily 20 mile commutes (total miles) on mostly flat road surfaces. I am reaching out for the sage advice on what the community thinks is a good starter and what is the better value. I apologize for the broad stroke question and hope to get some reply love on this. I am trying to keep my purchase at or under 800.00 and am open to any other suggestions aside from these. Thanks guys!

The geometry of all of the bikes look to be pretty much identical. The Fuji seems to be discounted about $350 off sticker and the Trek 7.5X only around $140. The 7.5FX has a slightly better rear derailleur but that's not worth an extra $200. The wheels on the Fuji are stronger than those on the Trek so at 215lbs. they'll probably give you fewer issues. If you've had a chance to test ride the Fuji, and the size worked for you, I'd go for that option. The last two bikes aren't anywhere near as good a value for the level of components installed.

Thank you for the reply Dunbar. Each of the bikes felt comfortable, but certainly some miles will be the ultimate test. Before tossing my card at anyone I wanted to make sure that it was going towards the right candidate. My lack of knowledge on components and, therefore, overall value is still very weak. I appreciate your time and your advice. Am going to be picking up the Fuji this weekend and will put it to the test!

For the price. I would say the Fuji of course. Even though the Trek and the Fuji is about the same. The Trek cost much more and the Fuji has 28 mm tires. The Trek has 32 mm. Plus the Fuji has road bike derailleur and the Trek has mountain bike derailleur.