looking36

Hey guys!

I am a total newbie to cycling - last time I really got on a bike was 10-15 yrs ago. I am basically getting into the sport for health reasons - bad knees, so running isn't the best option - anyways, after some research on the net, I went down to my local Trek store and tested a 2011 1.5 - very responsive and nothing like I thought riding a bike would be, liked it but definitely not as comfortable as I remembered. In any event, after I got back from the test ride, I saw a 2010 GF Ion Super. I decided to give it a ride and enjoyed it too - not as responsive but a whole lot smoother.

My question is, which one should I get? The GF is $270 more and I was wondering if it was worth that extra $$$$ - especially considering that I still need to get the accessories (helmet, pants, bottle, etc). Maybe I should consider something different all together?

Thanks guys!

2ndGen

Both bikes seemed to be spec'd the same. It all comes down to ride/fit.
The Ion seems to have more proprietary tech in it.
Is that prop tech worth the extra coin?
If you get the benefit out of it, yes.

Ultimately, which bike fits you better?

I love the Trek 1.5, but I'm also a Fish fan.

As for considering something different altogether, consider EVERYTHING.
Ride as many different makes/models as you possibly can.
And I'm saying this as a Trek fan.

There's way more to choosing a bike to cost.
Cost is a factor, but shouldn't be "the" factor.
I like to say that we don't choose the bike;
The bike chooses us.

looking36

Thanks for the input! just so many things to consider and look into!

side_FX

Does anyone ride the Ion? There is a sweet 2011 on close out that I can get for a steal. I rode it and liked it very much. I just don't know much about the mix of carbon and alum. frame. I wonder how it wold hold up after a few years with a heavy load. I can't seem to find many comments on the durability of this bike. I am looking for a basic road bike for my longer rides, maybe a 1.5 is the safer bet?

seymour1910

Unless you are doing something really crazy with the bike there is no need to worry about it not holding up. Road bikes are not fragile like a lot of people think they are. What do you mean by "heavy load"? If you are a bigger person that is not a problem at all...ever heard the term clydesdale in cycling? Either bike will be safe, the biggest thing is finding what YOU like best. As suggested above, maybe Trek is not your answer, have you tried any others? Cannondale, Specialized, Giant, Felt, Fuji, Raleigh, Jamis and the list goes on

side_FX

By "heavy load" I mean me...almost 260 lbs. I was intrigued by the Ion because you cold fit a wider tire, say a 28 and possibly a 32, whereas the 1.5 can only take a 25 at best. I am looking for more comfort than speed. I want to stay with Trek since my very local shop only carries them. The new CrossRip is also interesting. I like the disc concept, but the components are lacking a little. Did I also mention I also love the way the Ion looks? I guess that's most important? I am so confused.