Don't get me wrong, my existing bike is not bad, it is a Raleigh from Canadian Tire about 6 years ago - but it has been into the shop a few times this year. I guess I am hard on the bike - and it is a heavy one!
I finally started looking and doing some research - reading forums, etc. I figured for what I wanted to ride, I would be looking for a hybrid, or cyclo-cross, or fitness bike. After having some less than stellar experiences at a couple of the shops in town - the best one, in which I have had mostly good experiences, is Radical Edge.
I thought it was down to the Trek 7.1 FX and the Cannondale Quick 6 (both entry level in their class but still over $500) when it was suggested I look at the Trek 8.1 DS. All of these are hybrid between mountain bike and road bike (but with the upright riding style of the mountain bike - same handlebars) The Trek 8.1 leaned toward more of a true hybrid between street and trail, while the others were more street bikes.
After trying an 8.1 DS and 7.4 FX (same as 7.1 but higher up the quality ladder) I felt the 8.1 was the best fit. It seemed like I had more bike under me - I felt more secure on gravel and going over bumps.
The new bike does not have shocks, which is kind of what I was looking for to keep the weight down - I don't really do any mountain biking. I did an informal test between my old and new bikes - the Raleigh is about 25 lbs. and the Trek is about 19 lbs.
Here is a stock photo of my new baby - I rode it home from the shop - about 3 km or so - can't wait to take it to work tomorrow!
-André
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