[Industry_Hack]

Originally Posted by wild

what am i missing ???

wsd.

[sparkly]

Thanks so much for the replies! I've narrowed things down a bit, but it looks like I've also got a few more things to think about now, too...

At this point, I think I'm still learning towards the Trek 7200 WSD, but I took a look at Specialized (specifically their Ariel and Myka line) and Giant (their Sedona line) and they've certainly got some nice things going on. I also looked a bit further into the Cannondale line, and the Quick Feminine line looks nice as well. I know you mentioned, Industry_Hack, that the bikes I'm looking at are generally going to be the same within my price range, but is there any advantage one brand has over any of the other brands?

Also, thanks for pointing out the handiness of rack mounts... that's something I definitely need for commuting to and form work and its also something I would have most likely forgotten!

[retromike3]

I highly recommend going with a rear rack and a small pannier bag. Its a good place to put the things your going to need to carry. like tools, a jacket etc. I don't have a car and I ride to the store a lot so in my pack I a carry a set of bungy cords. This lets me strap a bag of groceries to my rack for the ride home.

Mike

[Industry_Hack]

I'm partial to Giant, even though I own a Cannondale. As the world's largest bicycle manufacturer, (they make bikes for other brands in their factories) they can probably offer the best value. My issue with Specialized has no real basis, other than I don't like some of their business practices. But that has no bearing on the quality of their bikes.

What bikes are available at your local shops? And what do they offer as far as maintenance? Those should be significant factors in your purchasing decision.

[Skidmark]

Ditto on Hack's last comment. What your LBS sells is important. A good store will give you a years worth of tune ups, help with adjustments & fit.

[momule]

I also have a Cannondale, a Quick 5 Hybrid, that I use for around town riding and the local chat based bike paths. The Q5 is a good solid bike that handles the potholes or curbs that I sometimes can't avoid and it's plenty fast enough for what I do. It has all the braze-on necessary for fenders and a rear rack and the parts are mid level shimano gear that works just fine. I'd buy another and recommend it.