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Bike Suggestions: Trek or Jamis?

mariahlullaby

mariahlullaby

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Jan 19, 2005
852
3
NYC
I'm looking to buy a new bike. I've been riding a Trek mountain bike for 9 years, and I've outgrown it (stopped growing now, but you get the idea :p). I really know nothing about bikes (I was 11 when I bought the last one).

I'm looking to upgrade to a more road-friendly/commuter bike as I'm going to school in New York City and will want to bring it up there in a couple years (not now, as I live in Georgia when I'm not in NYC and I don't want to haul it back every few months).

I like the "hybrid" style bikes (frame of a mountain bike, straight handles, but thinner tires) as I want to use this bike for exercise and for getting around. I live in a pretty hilly area, and there are some dirt paths I like to ride down in the woods (nothing extensive -- most are actually paved, so I don't think I need a mountain bike, as it's just slowing me down on the 95% of the time I'm on the road).

I've been test-riding bikes at a few stores, and I think I have it narrowed down to two bikes -- can anyone give me any suggestions/advice on these two? Or in general?

1. Jamis Citizen 2.0 - $450
This is slightly more comfortable to ride than the Trek, but I don't know the brand at all. I also get a $50-100 off for trading in my old bike, so it makes it a great deal (and I'm on a budget).

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/bikes/08_bikes/08citizen2.html

2. Trek FX 7.2 - $500
This bike feels more solid and better for hills, but it's a bit uncomfortable and a bit big (it has a 15 inch frame while the other has a 14.5 inch which fits me like a glove). I've loved my other Trek bike until now, though, and the quality feels great. No trade in.

http://www.trekbikes.com/women/wsd_products/bikes/2008/bike_path/72fxwsd/

Thanks, guys!
 
Trek hands down. I have a Trek Bruiser, had it for ages very good bike in my oppinon. it has taken a beating as well that bike the only things had to change have been break pads, cables and wheels :p
 
if you're more comfortable on the Jamis, get that. always get the bike that fits the best and make sure the shop gets the fit right. seat/bar adjustment etc.
 
Jamis is a top of the line bike company, but not a lot of people know about them since they can't afford to sponsor Lance Armstrong. You will not be disappointed with Jamis's quality.

I was recently shopping for a somewhat similar bike, albeit more "road bikey" and less comfort style. I ended up going with the Novara Big Buzz and I absolutely love it. Novara is the REI house brand of bikes but if there's an REI near you they're definitely worth a look.

Another great brand for commuter style bikes is Kona. Check out the Dew.
 
Thanks, guys :)

I went out and road the bike I have now for a bit, and then took both the other bikes for longer test runs.

I'm actually leaning towards the Trek now -- the Jamis is a great bike, but you sit more upright on it, which is comfortable for more flat areas where I had been riding, but the Trek did great on the hills and in between.

I'm going to buy it tomorrow, will let you know what I get!
 
Counterfit said:
You won't miss out on anything by going with the Jamis. Don't go for the bike from a more familiar brand if the fit isn't right.
Click to expand...

This is true, which is why I'm riding them both quite a few times -- thanks. The thing is, I really like elements of both of them -- but after riding the Jamis one more time, I'm just wondering about the style itself (it was my favorite at first, especially since I get a good discount) as I think I'm more comfortable on the Trek exercise-wise because of the frame.

Like I said, going out tomorrow to take one last look.

I appreciate all the help!
 
Trek makes good bikes. I would stick with Trek. I ride a Raleigh which I love as well.
 
Thanks for all the advice, guys! I ended up buying the Trek (I actually got the men's frame, not the "women's specific design" since they come in God-awful colors and felt the same.)

Haven't been home much today but took on a quick 10 mile ride and I love it! Really glad I got the more mountain-bike frame rather than the upright....this bike is so much fun to ride.

Thanks, everyone!!
 
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