Couple of questions about the differences
My wife and I both bought new bikes recently to get in some exercise around the city and do some weekend paved trails. she got a 7.1fx and I bought the 7.2fx. both 2010. I got the 7.2 to replace my ten year old trek 6000 mtb, which i dont use, and planned on getting a workout in everyday. I thought the 7.2 was great except for the fact that the components were not as good as my old trek mtb. So rather than upgrade the shifters and all that down the road, I went back to the shop and exchanged it for a 7.6fx. I test rode the 7.3 which didnt seem that different from the 7.2 in feel. I liked the 7.5 with the carbon fork but I hated the colors, so I went with the 7.6fx.I spent way more than I had planned! But , at least i hope to use it everyday unlike my mtb which sits in the basement.
To me, my wife's 7.1 feels much more comfortable riding around town. The wide tires and suspension seat post really make for a smooth ride around roads and sidewalks.I dont understand why people say it is a gimick. The bike feels smoother than my 7.6fx even with its carbon fork and isozone stay when riding on the sidewalk or brick pathways. The 7.6 doesnt seem hardly any faster than the 7.1, i guess due to the fact that they both have the same upright riding position?
So, what did I just spend all that extra money for, upgrading from the 7.2 to the 7.6? Do I really need a Tiagra derailleur vs an alivio? They both shift the same to me. Does the 7.6 road gearing really make a difference when ive got to contend with wind resistance in the upright riding position? I do not care to put drop bars on my bike. Do the thin tires make the bike that much faster, Because they make the bike much stiffer going over potholes. Will I appreciate this bike in the future as I ride more and become less of a novice ?
Thanks!