I own this bike and I love it. I have had it for over a year. It's what I started on, and I really don't recommend getting better components. You'll discover that if you want to upgrade, you'll want a great road bike or mountain bike. My lbs told me that it was like putting Cadillac parts on a Volkswagen. Better to see how you like riding, and what type you want to do rather than put a lot of bucks in a "fitness" (hybrid) bike. Then you'll have a better idea of where to put your money. He was right, I now have a Jamis Quest for a serious road bike, but I still ride my Trek as a commuter/go get the groceries/pick up the mail, etc. I have a rack, lights and panniers on it. It's a great bike and has given me absolutely no trouble. It also seems to hold it's value pretty well. (I check the local ads and ebay once in a while, guess that's an advantage of it saying "Trek"). You'll want to replace that Bontrager seat of torture, though!