2009 Trek 7.5fx WSD or 2010 7.6fx WSD?!

[Seajay]

The difference between the 7.5 and 7.6 is mostly in the little elastomer "IsoZone bumper' on the frame of the 7.6. I've always felt the 7.5 was the "bang for the buck" model.
IMO the upgrade to the 7.6 is so small that you may as well get the color you like in the 7.5.
Given the description of your riding...I think I would be showing you Trek's FX series as well.

[ciao_bella]

I agree with what Seajay said in that the main difference seems to be in the ISOZONE thing that is there to soften the ride for the aluminum frame. I saw the 2010 7.6 FX WSD at the store and I agree the color scheme was OK, but didn't thrill me. The black and gold on the 2009 7.5 FX is very puuuurdy!

Have you considered the men's versions of the 7.5 FX and 7.6 FX just as a comparison?

Ciao

[Tanya]

I really thought I would notice a difference with the isozone component, so I was kind of surprised when the vibration level (which was close to nil on both) was not noticeably different. The isozone piece was the main component difference for me that I thought I would care about, and might miss if I passed up the bargain on the 7.6.

I considered getting one of the men's bikes, but having test ridden the WSD's, I really liked how they fit with my body, so they kind of stuck in my head as the best option. I felt like the WSD's took into consideration the leg/arm ratio of women vs. men. I have friends who have men's bikes who say that they fit just as well for them. It seems like it's a personal choice.

I ended up ordering the 2009 7.5fx WSD yesterday because I loved the way it felt, and I wouldn't cringe at seeing it, as I might in looking at the neon yellow on blue in the 7.6. I was also comforted in the 7.5's ability to handle light grit on the roads and maybe be able to go over some smooth, unpaved paths, whereas, the 7.6 would make me nervous to do so since it seems like more of a road bike with flat handlebars as opposed to being a true hybrid.

Part of me is sad at having passed up such a wonderful deal, (especially the part of me that has to pay my grad loans every month. That part of me is screaming that I'm wasteful), but the rest of me is ecstatic to ride a beautiful bike that is truly compatible with my needs. Thanks all for your input! I can't wait to go for a ride and put on many miles! Once I get addicted on my FX, I have a feeling I'll be on here looking for a road bike.

[ny biker]

But if you had gotten the 7.6, part of you would be screaming that you hate the way it looks.

So just enjoy your new bike!

[ASammy1]

We want pics

[Tanya]

Here is my new bike! I love it. I took it for a quick 5 mile whirl today and it rides like a dream. I can't wait to take it out for a longer ride this weekend.

[uforgot]

Congrats on the new bike! I do have to say, however, that when I saw that yellow and blue bike I fell in love with those colors! Interesting how different people's tastes are. Oh, I loved that black and gold too. You're right about it being feminine, but tasteful. I think you will be happier when you like the looks of it. I always am!