thoughts on top of the line Trek FX or other lightweight bike

[brigada]

Three flights of stairs isn't too bad. Muirenn is right about wheel weight. I'd much rather look at what feels good to ride at about $300 less than your budget, sell the wheels and use the total money for lightweight wheelset. It would make all the difference. You can look at cheaper Trek FX models as well as long as the frame is the same.

[Citycyclegal]

Thanks, those are all good thoughts. I have to do some serious thinking before the purchase, the cost is a consideration. "3 flights of stairs isn't too bad"....when the stairway is narrow. somewhat steep, and you are 70 years old, it's not a piece of cake! LOL. The LBS that I used to use before I moved to the city, is a Trek dealer, will have to give him a visit....Thanks!

[ny biker]

I have to go up one flight to my condo, and some days it is a huge effort to carry my bike (or groceries etc.) up. And I am not yet 50, and I lift weights twice a week. So I totally understand your concern.

(I have no idea how much that bike weighs; a visit to the dealer is probably your best bet, especially if you bring the Ruby for comparison.)