Betsey

Interested in experience with the Trek Verve 2.

Have been off bike for 20 years and ready to get back to it - with a comfortable ride. Riding nice bike trail system around Buffalo NY and Canada. 10 - 30 miles on weekends with a once-a-season longer ride.

Thanks.

hokiefyd 

Betsey,

I have a 2015 Verve 3, and I really enjoy mine. The 2016 and previous models used a suspension fork, and the 2017 models use a rigid aluminum alloy fork. In exchange for the suspension fork, the current Verve comes with much wider tires (45mm vs. 35mm) for increased comfort. Verve also comes with a suspension seat post with a very comfortable saddle. I do not like the suspension seat post, and replaced my seat post with a rigid one. Verve 2 comes with an adjustable quill stem, which means you are virtually guaranteed to be able to find a comfortable relationship between the saddle and the handlebar.

As you probably know, Verve comes in both traditional and low-step frames, which is nice if you prefer one or the other.

Like nearly every bike available today, Verve comes with standard Shimano components. Unlike cars, bikes are almost universally reliable (assuming everything is adjusted correctly). Frames are sturdy, paint quality is usually very good, and components are standard. My advice is to by a bike based on fit and appearance (color, style, etc) and the rest will work itself out. Test ride a lot of different bikes (other popular options in this same niche include Giant Cypress and Specialized Crossroads) and let your body (frame fit) tell you which one to buy.

Having said all that, I bought mine used, but got lucky in that I found the right frame size. Verve has a very upright riding position, which I appreciate. If you prefer that also, you'll probably like Verve, but do check out your other options (if available at your local shop) also.