Commuter Purchase Dillema

[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....