newbie shopping for hybrid

[KnottedYet]

I always trot out the Kona Dew and all the variations in the Dew line. Excellent hybrid, bombproof frame (as my LBS calls it) and the bottom of the line has decent components that can easily be upgraded later. http://www.konaworld.com/09_dew_u.cfm I rode mine on some long rides, commutes, and in a triathlon.

For your LLD, consider some custom cranks. A couple folks here on TE have cranks made by this guy: http://www.hscycle.com/Pages/cantsandwedges.html

[uforgot]

I've had two 7.2fx and they were terrific bikes. The tires would do well on road and gravel and it was an easy bike to ride. They call it a fitness bike instead of a hybrid because it doesn't have suspension and is more on the road bike side only with straight bars. I gave my last one up to help finance my Surly which does all my Trek did and more. As an entry level bike, I think it's a terrific choice. Just a piece of advice, if you aren't going mountain biking, don't get the front suspension if you look at other bikes. It just adds weight and you don't need it.

Have fun and welcome!

[Zen]

Hey! Yet another opportunity to show off and recommend my favorite bike

[badgercat]

@ uforgot and Zen:
Glad to hear more positive feedback about Trek. I think I have a soft spot for them because they're a Wisconsin company. Though, Zen, I can't exactly tell what model you have from the pic... looks like a beauty, though.

EDIT: I posted a reply earlier to Pardes and KnottedYet, but it said it had to be approved by a mod and hasn't shown up yet... but this one posted right away...?

[Grog]

I have an older Trek 7100 fx (more similar to current 7.2fx) and I love it. I use it for commuting (30 km/day), it has a rack and fenders, but I've changed the tires for narrow slicks (very similar to my road bike) because I have no need for wider ones. I love that the wheels are 700. The componentry on that bike is much better than many bikes of similar price.

[Zen]

That's a 2007 FX7.2

[badgercat]

That's a 2007 FX7.2

Ah, this year's is a very different color (light blue) which is probably why I didn't recognize it. I think I like yours better. :P

I have an older Trek 7100 fx (more similar to current 7.2fx) and I love it. I use it for commuting (30 km/day), it has a rack and fenders, but I've changed the tires for narrow slicks (very similar to my road bike) because I have no need for wider ones. I love that the wheels are 700. The componentry on that bike is much better than many bikes of similar price.

My goodness, so much praise for Trek! I think I'll have to make a visit to my local Trek dealer tomorrow and check this stuff out for myself.

Thanks for all the opinions so far, everyone!