[font=Arial]Just wondering if you could answer a question about a purchase I was thinking about making. I am interested in two bikes, a Trek 820 (steel frame) and a Trek 3700 (aluminum frame) Which of the two would you recomend? From what I've read they are essentialy the same bike as they both have the same componets. The only difference is the frames. I understand the steel frames are very ruged and give a smooth ride although obviously the alumininum is lighter. For the way I'm planning to ride (mostly smooth trails, 30 miles or less) which do you prefer for the price? Considering that I am trying to stay within my newbie budget, do you see one as being better than the other? I like the ride and durability of the cheeper steel model, but do you see the extra $60 worth it for the aluminum? Also, in your opinion is the lighter aluminum better for going longer distances and up hills? That is to say, can you pedal it easier with less fatigue at higher speed over longer distances? I should mention there is only a 4 lb. difference between these frames. I wouldn’t expect that to make too much difference but would like to be educated from more experienced riders if possible. Any information you can provide is most appreciated. Thx. Much.[/font]
Do a search and you'll find a TON of discussion on the virtues and pro's/con's of aluminum vs. steel vs. CF vs. titanium vs. magnesium vs. combinations of the above and on and on and on.
And only a 4 lb difference? That's big.
At any rate, you'll probably get advice that the best way to make a decision on this is to spend as much time as you can riding them. Then buy the one that feels the best.
Yikes- 4 lbs!!! And your a newbie? That seems obvious doesn't it? I had a cat once that wore a bell. Never could catch birds because the bell would frighten them- one day the cat got the bell off, and I didn't see another bird till that cat was long gone... The point being that the four pounds is the bell- you want a good ride-start with light (and take the bell off) and leave the whole "which metal" controversy to those that have nothing better to do Cheers
