Help Me differentiate these two budget bikes.

Hello; it's my first post here.

About 5 days ago, I made the decision to buy a road bicycle. I did a fair amount of research on this forum and a few others. I went to my LBS, which was a great experience.

Because I am a beginner, I did not intend to spend very much. Initially, I went in with the Trek 1.1 in mind.

The sales girl was very helpful, and actually pointed me to the 2010 Gary Fisher Rail instead. I purchased it, was fitted, and was on my way.

I've rode about 80 miles since then, and love it. However, for what I spent ($750 USD, $880 MSRP) I don't feel like I got the best bang for the buck I could have.

The Trek 1.2 is the same exact price, but the specs show that instead of the Shimano FD2300 F/R Derailleurs and the 8 speed ST-2300 shifters I got on the Gary Fisher, I could have Shimano Sora F/R derailleurs and Sora STI 9 speedshifters.

Add to that the fact that the 1.2 has a carbon fork while the Rail seems to be some alumnium/carbon hyrbid.

So why in the world does the Fisher cost the same and have inferior components? I had the conversation of components with the salesgirl, so she knew I cared enough to ask. Why would she not have pointed me to the 1.2 instead of the Gary Fisher Rail?

Which leads me to ask: How much better off would I be with the other bike? I am very satisfied with the Fisher, but in the back of my mind, I feel like I should have more for my money.

Thanks in advance, cyclingforums!

There's so very little difference between the Rail and the Trek 1.2. They both have CF forks w/ alloy steerers. The only differences are in shifters, deraillerus, cranks (similar), and brakes. Also, the Rail has alloy pedals, while the 1.2 has nylon pedals. I can see no reason to choose one over the other, unless there are fit issues. Both bikes will serve you well and give you great bang for you buck. If you're really put out by all this, go back to the LBS, scrutinize the 1.2, see if you want it, and see it something can be worked out. The prices and kit for each bike, particularly the prices, will be different between the two makes.

There are geometry differences between the two bikes. The Gary Fisher tends to have less steep seat tube angles and head tube angles than the Trek, whose angles are a bit more sporty. The steeper head tube angle on the Trek coupled with the slightly shorter trail means that the Trek will steer more quickly. The Gary Fisher frames tend to have longer chainstays which will impart a bit more ride comfort and coupled with it's generous trail and headtube angle, it'll be a more relaxed bike. It won't be nervous in any way.

Help Me differentiate these two budget bikes.

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