JediBiker

Hello, I'm looking for a hybrid bike for short commuting, fitness riding and long distance touring.

I've narrowed it down between the 2014 Trek FX 7.2 and the 2014 Giant Escape 2. Both feel good but I want to know which one would allowed me a more racing position and which is would be more upright as I'm looking for a more aerodynamic position. One of the changes I planned to do is to add aero bars on the handlebars to that end.

Finally my question is: looking at their geometry which one you think is more upright, which more aerodynamic.

Trek FX 7.2 (size 20)

Giant Escape 2 (size 19)

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

NormanF

Do you want a 29er or a performance hybrid? If you want to do all-around rides - get a 29er. If you want to do fast day rides on roads, a performance hybrid is a better fit.

Daddy Wags

Having just closely compared the Trek FX 7.4 and the Giant Escape 0, the most significant difference I found in geometry was the Escape had longer wheelbase and chain stays. As you probably know, the longer wheelbase and chainstay give a more comfy ride (all things being equal) look to the light touring and touring bikes. The shorter wheelbase and chain stays create a more lively feeling bike heading in the direction of a road bike. The above mentioned bikes and the lower models will have the triple cranks, sturdier wheels, and a little higher relaxed riding position than the more expensive models.

Now if you want a more spirited performance hybrid, you go to the Trek 7.5 F X and Giant Escape RX and above models. You get lighter weight, compact double, faster wheels, lower riding position, and more refined components.

I chose the Giant Escape 0 as I wanted a performance hybrid pushing in the direction of a light touring bike.

badger1

As between the two specific bikes you are actually looking at neither is particularly "aero"; stock, the Giant will stretch you out slightly more. However, the Giant has more potential in that regard: longer effective top tube and shorter head tube length. That means you will be able to lower your position/stretch out more on the Giant more easily, if that's what you want, by removing spacers/flipping the stem/adding aero bars etc.

The Escape does have a slightly longer wheelbase, but there's little in it between the two in that regard -- the Trek might feel slightly snappier cornering etc.

practical

I prefer a longer wheelbase of a touring or hybrid bike over the short wheelbase of a road bike as it feels more stable. My body is longer proportionally in the trunk vs. the legs so I like a longer top tube. If it was me, I would prefer the Giant Escape. Good luck in your decision.

MissDaisy

I was in the exact same position a few weeks ago and I ended up choosing the Trek FX 7.2 based on color. (I know some people are shaking their heads right now...). I prefer the geometry of the Giant - the longer wheel base was more relaxed and comfortable and felt like I could ride for hours on it. I also really liked the slacker seat tube on the Giant, which accommodated my long femurs better. It is amazing how much of an impact there is on feel (more so than fit) from different wheel base measurements. A shorter wheel base (Trek) will definitely feel more agile and sporty. The longer wheel base will feel more comfortable. It is like the difference between a sports car and a sedan - you can drive both, but they feel a bit different in handling and riding. I don't think you could go wrong either choice.

Daddy Wags

Where as the shorter chainstays and wheelbase bikes generally have sharper handling, there is one handling characteristic of the longer wheelbase bikes that I particularly appreciate. If you are descending at fast speed, the longer wheelbase bike will sweep the curves with more control and confidence......as they say....the bike felt like it was on rails.

However, it is a mistake to think longer or shorter wheelbase is the lone determinant in bike handling. Many other factors come into play.

JediBiker

Thanks. I noticed that too, the escape is more "aero" you go lower, as in the FX you are in a more upright position.

JediBiker

Hello MissDaisy, can I ask why did you chose the FX over the Escape if you like more the geometry of the Giant.

JediBiker

Hello Daddy Wags, yes there is another factor in the geometry, in this case the FX has a longer headtube and shorter effective top tube distance (saddle to handlebar).

UPDATE: I was going for the Escape 2 but the LBS told me that they only have Escape 3 left now. The Escape 3 is equipped with Shimano Tourney so I don't think that's good enough for daily use. Maybe if it were easy to upgrade, but it is 7-speed so I would have to change the shifters also.

MissDaisy

Not one of my more logical decisions, but I chose the FX b/c of color. Then tried to make it work, then realized it would work only after replacing the seat tube and stem. Didn't want to spend the money to do that, especially after I discovered a stagger version of the FX that had geometry more similar to the Giant. (Slacker seat tube and head tube, though wheelbase still wasn't as long.) So, I am in the process of exchanging my original FX 7.2 WSD for a stagger version. My next hybrid will be a Giant, though.

BikeTall

sail

Trek FX in general has a more compact frame than most competitors if you compare the effective top tube measurements which will give some idea of reach but doesn't stand alone.
You really got to ride em.

Helderberg

I understand that Cannondale is not even on your radar but the process is what I am explaining not the brand. I have a Quick 7 that is the "correct" size for me but while it rode nice I wanted more of a aero position but not the drop bar bike. I tried the Escape 2 and while it was a very nice bike I felt very cramped so I passed. I rode a Quick 3, but moved up to a large size, and found it a reach I could adjust and had an entry level, Sora, road bike group-set that I could work with. Changed the stem to a shorter 30* rise piece and aligned the seat for correct knee over pedal and I am very happy. Not saying the Quick is your answer but you might want to consider finding a bike that you can make modest changes too that will fit your requirements.
Good luck, Frank.

subgrade

Who knows, maybe now it is, seeing as the original post has almost 5 years.
That said, good advice is always welcome.

Helderberg

Sorry. I did not look at the date of the OP but the last post on the 10th. My bad and I will be more observant in the future.
Thanks for the heads up, Frank.

cs1

ColonelSanders

Trek definitely changed the frame on the FX aluminium line in 2017 or 2018.


I'm sure the geometry would not have changed too much, but I'm not sure it is identical.

fietsbob

Dealers can change things at point of sale for you.

TheShanePedals

I just test rode both FX and Escape bikes . My dealer sells both. And for me, it confirmed what I was reading: The FX series are a bit livelier. I could feel it. When I stepped into the cranks the bike felt like my road bike almost. And slightly more lively. I was absolutely intrigued by the feel...
The Giant Escape seemed to just carry speed, it just glided along compliantly and smoothly. The bike also felt more "planted" to the groun than the Trek. It FELT more solid. My dealer was willing to swap the 32cm tires with 35cm for no charge and I am hopeful that adds even more comfort to the already smooth ride. So yes, I went with the Giant (it is also a very nice vibrant blue color)