Knobchops

Hi

I've decided to invest in (what I would class as) a 'decent' bike...which I haven't done for some 'considerable' time!
My last bike was a Claud Butler MTB which lasted me around 15 yrs!

I literally know nothing about them.

My riding needs are as follows:
Some (mostly fair weather...who am I kidding..definitely fair weather) commuting
Leisurely road/gravel track bike rides
I live in the New Forest so always want the option of some occasional road/forest riding...light trials, nothing too vigorous but some forest type pathways and a bit of hillage
Maximum distance I'm thinking 30 miles although to be fair, if a few pubs are involved maybe further

I think I've narrowed it down to a couple of choices but I'd like to know peoples opinions as I've read pretty good reviews for both.

My budget is, absolute top end £700 including lock and helmet.

I'm looking at the Specialized Crosstrail sport disc 2015 (I am a girl but I don't like the Navy Blue girls version or any kind of baby blue) I know colour is not important but damn I need to look good

I've also looked at the Trek 7.4fx disc Hybrid

I'm expecting this bike to last me a long time without too much in the way of maintenance and I want the biggest bang for my buck.

I'd appreciate your comments or recommendations of other bikes.

Thanks in anticipation.

Signed
Fat, unfit and absolutely no idea what I'm doing!

Augustus101

Ive just brought me a Specialized Crosstrail, pick it up tomorrow I'm not familiar with the Trek you mention. Google cycle2work scheme (I'm assuming your UK?) if your on a budget, you can get bikes through your work place cheaper.

steve_cay

The Specialized crosstrail is a "Dual Sport" type of hybrid, a trail competent bike. Not for extreme technical mountain biking, but will handle anything somewhat civilized in the forest. The Trek FX on the other hand is a "fitness" hybrid. The narrower tires, lighter build, and solid front fork can handle some gravel, hardpack, and smooth trails.... but that's about it. It will be lighter (I am guessing 4lbs lighter), and a bit faster on the road however.

If you want to look at the equivalent Trek "Dual Sport" to the crosstrail, the model is the Trek 8.4 DS, and should run a similar price, and be very similar in most respects. By the same token, the Specialised Sirrus is similar to the Trek FX.

Basically do you want to mostly do roads, or really enjoy some moderate trails?

Wanderer

Ride the offerings, as different geometry of the frame will fit you differently. One will just feel better.

I lust after a Crosstrail Disc.............. And I think the Sport disc is the sweet spot in that lineup.

I have a Crosstrail, and a Sirrus. I love them both..............

MHO

steve_cay

Just noticed your sign-off

The Crosstrail/Trek DS will be sturdier, more stable, and more comfortable riding than a Sirrus/Trek FX. On the former, you may also want to ask them to adjust the front shock before you take your bike, as I have heard the woman's versions are tuned for very light weight.

Knobchops

Thanks for your input guys.

What does everyone think of this?

Planet X London Road "Argento" Sram Apex Flat Bar Urban Bike | Planet X

rumrunn6

30 miles while drinking will be an interesting challenge for a new rider. good luck with that :/

swoodjr1

I can't find the specs on that bike but it looks like a fitness bike....road, paved paths, hard packed paths. Not so comfy on gravel, paths with some roots, etc.

Knobchops

I'm quite capable at riding a bike after a pint or 2...I've done it for years

Knobchops

You have to select colour & size & then customise...Supposedly a good all rounder??

Ronecol

From one Newbie to another... for what it's worth I recently went through the same bike research exercise as you. I had the opportunity to closely compare the Trek DS, Giant Roam and Specialized Crosstrail. Dollar for dollar I think there is better value (components) in both the Roam & Crosstrail over the DS. In the final analysis I decided on the Crosstrail and ordered the Comp Disc yesterday. It was a toss up between the Sport Disc & the Comp Disc and only chose the latter to get to the slightly lighter frame and forks and the 2-ring compact crank. Good luck with your choice.