Commuter Purchase Dillema

[Ana]

I have test ridden both bikes only once and a week apart.

Here's what I gathered from my rides:

Trek 7.2 FX WSD

• Obviously fast
• Nice handling
• Nice click gearing
• Pretty blue! (okay, not most important characteristic...)
• Comfortable enough that I know I could ride it anywhere
• Rack attachment compatible
• Less expensive than the Cannondale

Cannondale Comfort Comfort (Rememine?) 5

I tested the men's version because it was in my size. Here are my notes:

• Not as fast as the Trek
• More upright position
• Cushier (which I don't really care about. I like speed )
• Twist shifters which I am not crazy about
• Not as pretty (in my opinion)
• Fatter tires which are better for the bumps in the road but are not as fast
• Rack attachment compatible
• More expensive (~$50) than the Trek
• Frame was "beefier" than the Trek...more indestructable-looking (relevance unknown but I thought I would include it)

Between the two, I'm pretty sure I like the Trek better not only because it's prettier (I know things like that aren't supposed to matter...) but also that it's more fun to ride! Plus they have VERY comparable parts on them (with the exception of the shifters).

There was also another Cannondale I am considering from the same Cannondale dealer from which I test rode the Comfort 5. I haven't test ridden the Cannondale Adventure Feminine 5 but it is more comparable to the Trek in that it has 700 x 38 tires and is also aluminum. The LBS said I could test ride it in my size once they assemble it (this weekend) if I like The Adventure is the same price as the 7.2 FX WSD Trek. I will likely go back tomorrow and test ride that one

[Grog]

Really, I can't imagine what you would do with 700 X 38 tires if your purpose is to commute, unless you're always on a gravel road (and even then...). I have had 38s on a campus bike for two years and I HATE them. I've kept them because I only ride 2 km with that bike every day.

I really think you will have a lot more value and function out of the Trek.

[KnottedYet]

If you are not fond of the fatter tires already, I really don't think you'll find them to be worth the "cush" factor later.

Yes, there is a trade-off with tire sizes... I'm speaking as someone who has 28 on one bike, 32 on another, and mtb slicks on a third, so clearly I like wider tires. (don't forget the joys of lower pressure tires, too! My 700x28 were high pressure, then I switched for lower pressure Vittoria Randonneurs and the comfort factor went thru the roof!)

I would be inclined to go with the Trek you know you already like.

"Beefier" looking frame doesn't necessarily mean anything. What really matters is how it feels. And "pretty" does matter! If your gut instinct is that a particular bike is beautiful, don't fight the gut! Get the bike that calls out to all your senses and makes your heart jump!

(If you do have a concern about a bombproof frame, how about trying steel? The Kona Smoke is similar to what you are looking at, but in a steel frame. I was gazing longingly at one of the 2008 Smokes today at my LBS. But it's hard to justify buying another one. Even when it's only $350. (I have a 2007 Smoke, which my son is using. It has smaller wheels than the 2008.))
www.konaworld.com/08_smoke29.htm

[Ana]

Yes, I also considered a Kona Smoke (which is a very popular commuter bike) but the components weren't as good and the Trek 7.2 FX WSD is only a bit more. My LBS also made the comment that parts have to be replaced more often on the Kona Smoke than something a little more upgraded.

I did consider steel but I'm afraid of the rust and I will also be keeping it in a basement-type place so I'll have to carry it out myself...and I'm only 5'3" and bikes are so awkward for me to maneuver :P

Now I'm debating whether or not I should purchase a bike off someone else to help recycle (all those bikes that need homes!) so I'm looking at a used 2004 Trek Navigator 300 tomorrow I'm not sure if will fit (14.5" frame, comfort bike) but we'll see.

I'm planning a bike shopping adventure tomorrow: looking at the used Trek Navigator 300, looking at the Trek 7.2 FX WSD again in case I don't like the used Navigator. I've been looking on eBay and craigslist like crazy but no one has a bike in my price range and size.

[uforgot]

Ana - I have owned a Trek Navigator and a 7.2fx. I recommend you pass on the Navigator as a commuter. It has a front suspension fork and is really heavy compared to the 7.2fx. You don't need suspension to commute. The Navigator is a comfort bike and the 7.2fx is called a fitness bike. Less of a comfort bike than most hybrids. The trek also has the 35cm select inverts on them. They are puncture resistant and I found they would go through potholes, gravel and I never had a flat. It was a great commuter! Have them put on fenders and a rack and you are good to go!

[Ana]

Thanks for your info :-) I always love to hear from someone who has both--it's the best advice when trying to decide between

Okay, time to look at bikes

[Ana]

I found a used mountain bike that will serve a lot better than that comfort bike for a lot less! It's a Trek 830 and it's in great condition (no rust on the components) and the components are equal or better than those on the Trek 7.2 FX I was considering. It also comes with a lock, a rack, a pump and commuter lights on both ends! I'm so excited. Since I'm only spending a little on the bike, I can spend the extra to have it properly tuned up!

My commute is only 7-10 miles round trip and will be less than 3 miles round trip after the summer so this works well!

I have to say though, bike shopping as well as visiting bike shops tempts me to get another bike (hybrid like Trek 7.2 FX or a road bike) even though I don't really need it, have the finances to support it or want to lug it around as I move :-P Oh bikes--I love them

Now to widen the scope of my maintenance knowledge....

[shootingstar]

Great, hope you have fun on your commute rides...

And you probably will buy a 2nd bike in a 1-2 yr. later. Cycling passion just spills over...

[Grog]

Great job! Enjoy the new bike! There will be time for another one later.

[Geonz]

and you can get things like just the right tires and accessories for this one and it will be as good as a new one. You'll bond with it It's nicer for parking outside for those "other commutes," too.

[WindingRoad]

If you are thinking about a Cannondale I would suggest the Cannondale Adventure 1. It has a very lightweight suspension system. The same head shock they put on their Caffeine Mountain bike frames. This would be a much lighter option that will make your legs happy in the long run.

[Tri Girl]

I've been following your decision agony, and am happy that you've found a bike that will work for you!! Now, you must post pictures so we can see your new buddy.

[obie]

I think a Trek 830 is just about the definition of bombproof! Congratulations on your "adoption," and enjoy your commute!

[Ana]

Yes, I will get some pictures up as soon as I get it fixed up

It needs a lot of work, including:

• Wheel truing
• Chain replacement
• Clean cassette/cogs
• Parts inspection/bearing lubrication
• Good rub-down to be clean and SHINY

I'm sort of excited because I get to practice my very novice repair skills I'm planning to take it in for a professional tune up but I wanted to do some stuff myself.

I did a few preliminary things and the weather was so beautiful this morning so I took it to work and it rides beautifully! I'm so happy with my find

[tulip]

Very cool, Ana! Sounds like the perfect commuting companion. We'd love to see before and after pictures!