specialized sirrus vs trek verve

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

2022 Verve 2 Disc

2023 Sirrus 2.0

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Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Compare Specialized Sirrus 1.0 2022 vs Trek Verve 2 Equipped 2022

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The Best Hybrid Bike

By Christine Ryan

Christine Ryan is an editor overseeing coverage of travel and outdoors gear, which has entailed testing down-filled vests in Iceland in June.

If you’re seeking a bike for your daily commute and your weekend exercise, a fitness hybrid—that is, a road bike with flat handlebars—may be the right choice.

Over the past seven years, we’ve spent 60 hours sifting through nearly 75 options, test-ridden more than a dozen bikes, and concluded that the Marin Fairfax 1 is the best hybrid for most people.

It provides a stable, comfortable ride on city streets, and it’s a better value now than when we first tested it.

Everything we recommend

Marin Fairfax 1

Our favorite hybrid bike.

This fun-to-ride and capable commuter bike is equally comfortable on longer weekend outings—and it offers far better value than its competitors.

Buying Options

Jamis Coda S2

Still the smooth one.

This steel-framed bike provides a vibration-dampening ride and some nice extras—brand-name tires and sturdy pedals. But the trade-offs are less maneuverability and a steepish uptick in price.

Upgrade pick

Priority Continuum Onyx

For the neatnik diyer.

A belt-drive bike with an easy-to-use internally geared rear hub means less maintenance and no grease on your work clothes. However, you have to assemble it yourself (or pay someone else to).

We looked for...

That means a frame designed to be comfortable on a long(ish) ride: If it forces you to sit upright, you’ll be fighting the wind.

If you’re planning to schlep any cargo, you’ll be able to use panniers instead of a backpack. (Better balance, no sweaty back.)

Fixies may seem cool, but they’re no fun on hills or when you’re riding into the wind. You’ll want gears to help you out.

Some entry-level hybrids come with front shocks, but they’re pretty crummy. Big tires will give you all the cushion you need.

Our top pick, the Marin Fairfax 1 , ticks most of the boxes on our hybrid-bike checklist: durable-enough components, a chrome-moly steel fork that’s forgiving on potholes and rough city streets (and of higher quality than the high-tensile steel forks used on many other, pricier bikes), rack and fender mounts, and hill-friendly gearing (including a rear cassette, rather than a cheaper and outdated freewheel cogset).

In our testing, this bike stood out for its well-designed aluminum frame, which provided more-agile handling and zippier acceleration than the competition while remaining stable. We wish it still came with the above-average-in-quality tires that we originally liked. However, given the growing price difference between the Fairfax 1 ($500, the same as it’s been for the past few years) and similarly equipped bikes from other companies, we believe it’s still the best option. (The Fairfax 1 is available in a step-through option at the same price.)

The Jamis Coda S2 is a very good option if you’re looking for the comfort of a steel frame (steel does a much better job than aluminum at dampening the vibrations caused by rough pavement) without the weight penalty that lower-priced steel frames often impose. (Such frames are often made with heavier high-tensile steel, rather than the chrome-moly that the Coda S2 has in both its frame and fork.) That means an easy time carrying this bike up stairs and lifting it onto bus- or car-mounted bike racks.

The Coda S2 comes with well-rated Vittoria Randonneur tires—that is, tires from a “real” tire company that you can buy in a bike shop, and now in a wider and cushier size—and steel-wrapped resin pedals. (This bike is also available in a women's version , which essentially means smaller sizing and a women’s-specific saddle.) The main drawbacks with this model are maneuverability—it’s not quite as nimble as the other bikes we tested, which could be a function of its geometry (more on that in How we picked and tested )—and price. In 2018, its predecessor cost $530; now, the Coda S2, which has very similar components, is $630 (on sale).

For commuters, belt-drive systems make a lot of sense. The belts don’t wear out as quickly as chains, and they don’t need to be oiled, so there’s less bike grease in your life and on your clothes. And the internally geared rear hubs let you change gears when you’re standing still (like at a traffic light). The downside is the cost: Reliable internally geared hubs are expensive, and that makes bikes with belt drives pricier than our other picks.

But the aluminum Priority Continuum Onyx is a bargain for this category, especially considering that it comes with hydraulic disc brakes, the well-respected Gates Carbon Drive belt, and an Enviolo continuous gearing rear hub, plus upgrades, such as internal gear cable routing and dynamo-charged front and rear lights. This bike does not, however, come in a step-through version, and it’s not available in bike shops, which means dealing with assembly yourself.

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: marin fairfax 1, also great: jamis coda s2, upgrade pick: priority continuum onyx, the competition.

I’ve overseen Wirecutter’s cycling-gear coverage for seven years. In a previous life, I commuted on an eight-speed hybrid from San Francisco’s Bernal Heights to my downtown office, and I later used the sturdy little bike as my townie bike.

• For the original 2017 version of this review, I interviewed mechanics and proprietors at shops specializing in commuter bikes all over the country—Boston, New Orleans, Chicago, Minneapolis, San Francisco, and Washington, DC—who repair bikes ridden in all kinds of conditions.
• I talked to bike manufacturers and component suppliers, spent multiple days surveying every booth at bike trade shows over the past seven years, and interviewed everyday riders, including members of San Francisco’s local bike coalition.
• I’ve continued to test new iterations of our picks, to make sure they’ve retained the features we liked, and I’ve researched new models from other manufacturers, testing those that seemed promising.

If you’d like to start regularly riding to work or school, and your ride will last half an hour or more, you’ll probably want what’s often called a fitness hybrid bike, or a performance hybrid. That term gets you what is basically a road bike with flat, mountain-bike-style handlebars.

A bike like this will be agile enough to maneuver around the potholes you see, tough enough to weather the ones you don’t, and speedy enough that you can roll it out on the weekend to get some exercise with the family, or even join a charity ride. But it’s not as twitchy, in terms of handling, as a drop-bar road bike would be.

And should you get to the point where you are snagging all the local KOMs or QOMs (translation: you’ve bought a fancy road bike) or shredding the singletrack gnar (translation: you’ve bought a fancy mountain bike), you can still use your trusty hybrid as your townie bike—the one you can load down with groceries (hurray, rack mounts!) or lock up outside without too much fear of theft (hurray, lower price!).

Performance hybrid bikes don’t attract the kind of enthusiasts who keep endless threads going on road-bike or mountain-bike forums, debating the merits and flaws of different brands and models. Still, we dug up what reviews we could find, looking for praise and dings.

The sweet spot for a starter bike like this used to be $500. Drop much lower, and you’re stuck with outmoded or truly poorly made parts that might be hard to replace once they wear out; spend more, and you can get a nicer bike, with lighter components, but that defeats the purpose of a starter bike. However, many of the $500 bikes we looked at a few years back have gone up in price, some by as much as 35%.

After seeing what’s available now and consulting commuters, bike-shop owners, and mechanics, we settled on what we’d like to see now in the ideal basic hybrid-fitness bike.

Fitness-appropriate geometry: When bike people talk about “geometry,” they’re talking about the angles at which the tubes that make up the bike’s frame meet. Change the degrees of the angles, and you change the way the bike handles on corners and going up and down hills. If the bike is too responsive, it could feel squirrelly and unstable. For efficiency’s sake, the design of your hybrid’s frame should be closer to that of a road bike than to that of a beach cruiser. You don’t want to sit straight up, especially on a longer weekend ride, because you’ll have to fight the wind more.

Flat handlebars: These are more user-friendly than the drop bars you see on a road bike, and since you will be more upright, your field of vision will be broader—a plus in city traffic.

Safe, strong brakes: Mechanical (or cable-actuated) disc brakes have just about replaced traditional V brakes on even low-priced hybrids. This isn’t necessarily a good thing: As Loren Copsey , co-owner of The Daily Rider in Washington, DC, said, “On these bikes you’re going to get entry-level disc brakes, which are hard to set up and hard to keep adjusted, and lower-quality pads—and they’re not necessarily even more powerful than rim brakes.” Also, bikes with disc brakes are almost always heavier than comparable bikes with rim brakes. However, it’s now unusual to find a hybrid equipped with V brakes that doesn’t have serious flaws elsewhere.

Fender and rack mounts: Using panniers attached to a rear rack, instead of a backpack, to carry your gear lowers your center of gravity, which is a good thing. Also, no sweaty back. Fenders will keep you (and your riding companions) somewhat drier when you’re riding in the rain—or on wet roads, after the rain has ended.

Gearing appropriate for your terrain: By this we mean, for the most part, that the bike should have gears and not be a single-speed. Single speeds do have their place. In flat parts of the country that have vicious winters—hello, Minnesota!—the fewer moving parts in a drivetrain, the better. But for most of us, gears will come in handy. Most fitness hybrids come with three chainrings in front and seven or eight cogs in the back, for a total of 21 or 24 gears, which would give you enough options for pretty much anywhere you’ll be riding. Something we’ve seen more of lately are hybrids with just a single chainring up front. Having one fewer shifter to deal with is appealing, but to get the equivalent range of gears, you need a big—and expensive and heavy—cassette in the rear. So we eliminated such hybrids.

A sturdy yet reasonably lightweight frame: You do want to be able to carry your bike up steps or down into the subway, or be able to lift it onto a bus or a bike rack. But you also want it to withstand being knocked around a little. So you’ll probably be looking at an aluminum frame. Aluminum’s a third of the weight of steel, and it doesn’t cost nearly as much as carbon; the ride can be a bit jarring, though. Steel provides a cushier ride, but a good-quality, lightweight steel frame will not be cheap. Almost all of the bikes we looked at, though, do have steel-bladed forks; the slight increase in weight that they add is worth the vibration dampening they provide. (Of these forks, we preferred those made from chrome-moly , a type of steel that’s stronger than high-tensile steel , which you tend to see in very cheap bikes.)

Decent-quality components: Here, it’s a matter of finding the right balance of price, quality, and durability. One thing we would avoid, though, are bikes that come with old-fashioned freewheel cogsets on the rear wheel, instead of the more modern cassettes. A common complaint on the few hybrid user threads we’d found was being stuck with a wheel whose hub was compatible only with freewheel cogs, which are becoming hard to find, especially high-level ones. What you really don’t want to buy is a bike with a freewheel and disc brakes—and we’re seeing more and more of them. If that rear wheel gets stolen or destroyed, good luck replacing it, said Copsey: “You just can’t find those two things on an off-the-shelf wheel.”

Wide rims: The wider the rims on the wheels, the wider the tire you can use, and the lower the air pressure you need, which gives you a more comfortable ride. “A big fat tire is the poor man’s suspension,” said Michael Ferrand, owner of Bicycle Michael’s , in New Orleans. The norm for these bikes’ rims is 32 mm—you’ll want at least that. (One welcome trend is the increasing number of hybrids being sold with wider tires: Instead of the usual 35s, they’re coming with 38 mm tires and even 40 mm.) Speaking of suspension, none of our experts would recommend getting a $500 bike with front suspension, no matter how bad your roads are. As Emily Thibodeau, owner of Hub Bicycle (now closed), in Cambridge, Massachusetts, put it, “The shocks you’d get are really heavy and can’t be adjusted—it’s like having a glorified pogo stick on the front of your bike.”

When we first compiled this guide, in 2017, we started with a master list of 45 bikes and filtered it down to 16 to test. In subsequent years, we dove deep into the latest specs for all the bikes we’d ever looked at, as well as those of our picks, and of any new bikes on the scene. When necessary, we called in models that had undergone any substantial changes.

Next came the test-riding stage. The highlight was what I like to call the Supermarket Slalom: riding up and down a steep driveway leading to my local Safeway, while weaving through a line of soft-hit poles, to test the bikes’ handling. San Francisco even obliged with a few rainstorms, which made the abundant broken glass in the parking lot even more appealing to tires and the pedestrian walkway’s plastic surface even more slippery.

Here are two things to remember when you’re shopping. First, you should try to test-ride any bike you’re considering buying—how a bike feels to you and how your body feels while riding it are intensely personal.

The second thing is that bikes don’t often change that much—or at all—from one model year to the next. If the bike you like isn’t available anymore but the dealer says that next year’s model is arriving soon, ask if it’s a “carry-forward” model. If it is, nothing will be changing.

After a redesign for 2022, the Marin Fairfax 1 remains at the top of our list. For those riders who prefer a step-through or low-rise frame, Marin makes a version of the Fairfax 1 called the Fairfax 1 ST ; it’s identical to the Fairfax, apart from having a lower top tube.

It’s designed to be agile yet stable. When I got on the 2022 model and pedaled off down the street, the bike felt quick—not in a nervous, edgy way, but in a sprightly way. (We tested a step-through version, which is the bike shown in the photos above and below.) Accelerating felt easy. When I looked at the bike’s chainstays (the parts of the frame that connect the rear wheel to the bottom bracket), I saw that they’re flattened (a design meant to increase stiffness; that is, more of your pedaling power makes it to the rear wheel), and the seat stays (the parts of the frame that connect the rear wheel to the seat tube) join the seat tube at a relatively low point, tightening the rear triangle, which also increases the bike’s responsiveness.

It’s an excellent value. At a time when prices for similarly equipped hybrids from the big companies (Cannondale, Fuji, Giant, Specialized, Trek) hover around $600, the 2024 Fairfax still costs only $500. Even so, it uses the same frame and the same components as last year’s model.

Its gearing is good for hills.  The cassette on the pre-2019 Fairfax had eight gears ranging from 11 to 32 teeth; the cassette on the current one has seven gears ranging from 11 to 34 teeth. This means that although you have fewer gear choices, the gearing range actually increased. That’d be a good thing—especially if you’re facing a steep hill and will be needing that extra-easy big gear in the back—except that the bigger jumps between fewer gears might make the shifting feel rough. This isn’t something we noticed with the Fairfax, however. As for the front gearing, it’s the same as all the bikes we tested, apart from the belt-drive ones: a Shimano Tourney triple set of chainrings with 48, 38, and 28 teeth.

Its components are upgraded where it counts. Having only seven gears in back is common among the other hybrids we saw in the Fairfax’s price range; what makes the Fairfax stand out is that Marin is using a true seven-speed cassette, not a freewheel cogset (see our criteria in the How we picked and tested section). None of the other 21-speed bikes we considered come with a cassette. In fact, we’ve seen bikes costing as much as $650—such as the 2022 Giant Escape 3 Disc —fitted with a freewheel cogset. The Fairfax also has a shock-dampening chrome-moly steel fork instead of the cheaper, stiffer hi-tensile steel forks that many of its competitors use. The remaining components—mechanical disc brakes, derailleurs, shifters, handlebars, wheels, rack and fender mounts—are par for what you’d see on entry-level hybrids: no better, but no worse. (This goes for the saddle, pedals, and handlebar grips, too.)

The most recent redesign added a couple of nice extras. First, the shifter cables are routed internally, as they once were, and now the brake cables are as well—an unexpectedly high-end touch in an entry-level bike. Running the shifter or brake cables inside the frame tubes protects the cables from damage in much the same way that cable housing does, only better. (Grit can work its way in between the cable and the housing and make your bike’s shifting slow or ragged.) Second, the frame now has clearance for bigger tires, which means that if you so choose, you can replace the 35 mm tires that come stock on the bike with cushier 38s or even 40s (I checked and they’ll fit).

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• When we first tested this bike, in 2017, it came with Schwalbe Road Cruisers—made by one of the most respected tire makers in the business, they have a protective layer of Kevlar fiber. In 2019, Marin substituted a private-label tire with no claim of flat protection. The 2024 Fairfax 1 still comes with the private-label tire.

If your daily routine takes you on rough pavement or potholed city streets, we recommend the Jamis Coda S2 . (Jamis does make a “women’s” version of the Coda S2 ; it comes in one smaller size, different colors, and with a slightly wider saddle.)

Its steel frame provides a smooth ride. The current version of the Coda S2 is very similar to the 2017 version we tested (though back then it was called the Coda Sport). This model has the same Shimano Tourney front derailleur and triple crankset (with 48, 38, and 28 teeth), Acera rear derailleur and eight-cog, 11-32-tooth cassette, and Tektro V brakes, as well as steel-wrapped resin pedals. The heart of the Coda S2, though, remains the relatively lightweight (27 pounds for the 19-inch size) chrome-moly steel frame and fork, which quiets the road chatter you might otherwise feel while riding on rough pavement.

Steel is also easily repaired. Another advantage steel offers is that if it bends, it can be bent back. So if the hanger that attaches the rear derailleur to the frame gets bent—as can happen if the bike is in a crash or even, say, jostled roughly on a train—it can be straightened again without risk that it will snap. With aluminum, sometimes such an operation is successful and sometimes … not. (Most aluminum frames—such as our top pick’s—do use replaceable hangers, but they come in a wide array of sizes, and not all bike shops carry all of them.)

It comes with name-brand—and cushier—tires. After a brief downgrade, three years back, the Coda S2 once again sports Vittoria Randonneur tires, from a venerable manufacturer. And now those Randonneurs are 40mm wide—they used to be 32s—which will undoubtedly make your ride even smoother.

• In the years since we first tested this bike, its specs haven’t changed in any substantive way, but the price has steadily marched upward, from $520 in 2017 to $530 to $580 to $700 in 2021 to $770. It is currently discounted to $630, but even so, that’s quite a trajectory.
• We found this bike not quite as maneuverable as our top pick in terms of acceleration and handling.
• The Coda’s V brakes worked fine in our testing. But if you plan on commuting during foul weather or spend a lot of time riding on dirt roads, you might want to consider a bike with disc brakes, which maintain their stopping power in the rain (they also don’t get clogged up with mud or slush the way V brakes can).

People who commute in nice clothes, who find numbered gears confounding, or who simply don’t want to deal with much bike maintenance might want to consider the Priority Continuum Onyx .

Instead of a chain, a carbon-fiber belt drives the bike’s gears and wheels. Because carbon belts don’t need lubrication, unlike chains, they don’t pick up dirt the way chain lube does. (No bike grease on your pant leg. And no need to remember to lube your chain.) However, belt-drive hybrids cost a lot more than traditional hybrids, because they require an internally geared rear hub, which can run anywhere from about $100 to $1,500. (Compare this with $45 for the Shimano eight-speed cassette and hubs that are on most of the bikes we looked at.)

Changing gears is extremely simple. The Continuum Onyx comes with an Enviolo continuous internally geared rear hub drive (instead of the cassette-and-derailleur system on our other picks). Rather than changing gears one by one—with an audible click—you twist the grip shifter of the Continuum Onyx smoothly in one direction to make the pedals easier to turn (and the bike easier to ride up hills), and you twist it in the other direction to make the pedals harder to turn (which will make the bike go faster on flat ground). The workings of ordinary internally geared hubs are difficult enough to grasp—picture something like the inside of an old, expensive watch —and when you add in the concept of continuous gearing, it seems like magic. The hub does have upper and lower limits in terms of ease and difficulty: According to Enviolo, the range of “gears” is broader than that of another popular internally geared hub, the Shimano Nexus eight-speed hub.

It’s a good price for what you get. Although the aluminum-framed Continuum Onyx retails (at the time of publication) for $1,300—a little over two and a half times the cost of the Marin Fairfax 1 —it’s inexpensive for a belt-drive hybrid. The Continuum comes with hydraulic disc brakes, an aluminum fork, and a Gates Carbon Drive belt (Gates being the most well-made option from a high-quality manufacturer).

You don’t have to charge its lights. The Continuum Onyx we tested came with a headlight that’s powered by the front wheel’s dynamo hub, so you don’t need to plug it in to recharge it, and a removable, rechargeable (by USB) rear light; the Onyxes now shipping, however, are equipped with a rear light that’s wired to the front hub’s dynamo as well. The headlight on our test bike was strong enough for city use—I’d supplement it with our commuter headlight pick if I were taking it on dark suburban bike paths—but it had a strobe-y effect that I found distracting.

• The bike doesn’t come in a step-through version, which makes it hard to use with a child’s seat on a rear rack.
• The bike is available only through the Priority website, not in bike shops. This means you can’t test-ride the bike ahead of time to make sure you like it and that it fits you.
• Once the bike arrives, you have to finish putting it together. This was the case when we tested this Continuum Onyx, as well as its predecessor, the first Continuum. Though you don’t have to fiddle with derailleurs, you do still need to make sure your brakes are set up correctly and your bike is bolted together properly.Since our testing, Priority has created a workaround: Priority ships your bike to a bike shop near you, and the shop assembles it for a fee of $130.
• If you do choose to have the bike shipped directly to you (this costs $30), we recommend that you have a bike shop assemble your bike for you or at least check your work. You should expect to pay the shop its standard service rate and maybe even a “corkage” fee—a small fee for bringing in a bike you bought online instead of purchasing one at the shop. (If there is a fee, pay it, and don’t be a jerk about it. As Michael Ferrard points out, bringing in a bike you’ve bought online for them to put together is like “driving your meat to McDonald’s and asking them to fry it up and put some porcini and portobello mushrooms on it.”)

The Trek FX 2 Disc  and the Trek FX 2 Disc Stagger step-through , which both come with hydraulic brakes, now list at a cool $800 each, a $70 increase from 2021 and a $260 increase over 2019. Trek’s entry-level FX, the FX 1 , is available for $700 (currently, it’s discounted on Trek’s site to $600). The FX 1 now comes with a cassette, not the freewheel cogset that we initially dismissed it for. However, even on sale, it’s still pricier than our top pick

Giant’s Escape 3 series of bikes come with high-tensile steel forks, which we like less than chrome-moly forks, and in rim-brake and mechanical-disc versions; the rim-brake one uses a freewheel cogset—a dealbreaker, as we said above . The 2024 version of the disc Escape 3 Disc now has a cassette, instead of 2022’s freewheel. But beware: The Giant website still lists the 2022 freewheel incarnation as well, and both cost $650—$150 more than our top pick.

In a laudable commitment to women’s cycling, Giant has an entire women-specific brand, Liv. The Liv equivalent to the Escape line is called Alight; the Alight 3 comes in rim-brake and mechanical-disc models, also with (dealbreaking) freewheel cogsets.

The Specialized Sirrus 1.0 has a double chainring in front, in place of the triple it once had. This reduced the number of gearing options to 14, as the rear cassette remains a seven-speed, and those gears span a narrower range (12 to 32) than the Marin Fairfax’s 11 to 34. (The bike also has rim brakes and a high-tensile steel fork.) As of spring 2024, the price is $550 (discounted from $650).

Cannondale’s Quick range of fitness hybrids now starts with the Quick 6, which has V brakes, triple chainrings, and a seven-speed cassette. The price was $660 for the men’s and the women’s versions; they are identical apart from the range of sizes and colors available, and the fact that the women’s version has a step-through frame. Currently, last year’s stock is discounted on Cannondale’s site to $530—if you prefer V brakes, you might consider this bike, if you can find it in your size.

Fuji’s Absolute line is available again, after a period of corporate turmoil. However, the Absolute 2.1 , which is the closest in price and features to our top pick, comes with a freewheel rather than a cassette.

We dismissed Batch Bicycles’ Fitness Bicycle because it uses a freewheel cogset rather than a cassette. We had been planning to test the steel Roebling , from Brooklyn Bicycle Co., but it now comes with a single chainring up front instead of the original triple chainring, which we still consider a dealbreaker.

M. Loren Copsey, co-owner of The Daily Rider, Washington, DC , phone interview , September 29, 2016

Kevin Womac, owner of Boulevard Bikes, Chicago , phone interview , September 29, 2016

Michael Ferrand, owner of Bicycle Michael’s, New Orleans , phone interview , September 29, 2016

Emily Thibodeau, former owner of Hub Bicycle, Cambridge, Massachusetts , phone interview , September 29, 2016

Gene Oberpriller, owner of One on One Bicycle Studio, Minneapolis , phone interview , September 29, 2016

S.B. Phillips, then mechanic, The New Wheel, San Francisco , interview , October 1, 2016

Meet your guide

Christine Ryan

Christine Ryan is a senior editor at Wirecutter overseeing the teams that cover travel, outdoors gear, beds and linens, home decor, and more. (She also edits and writes about cycling equipment, which gives her an excuse to sneak away from her desk and go for a ride.) Previously, she was an editor at European Travel & Life, Gourmet, and Sunset.

Further reading

The Best Bike Storage Ideas

by Christine Ryan

After 30-plus hours of research and testing, we think the Delta Cycle Michelangelo Gravity Stand  is the best bike rack for storing bikes in limited-space homes.

The Best Bike Helmet for Commuters

by Lindsay Warner

In our ninth year of testing bike helmets, we now recommend the Met Downtown Mips for most commuters. We also have other picks for other needs.

The Best Bike Pump

by Eve O'Neill, Matthew Edwards, and Dave Yasuda

After six years of tests, we believe the Lezyne Classic Drive 3.5 is the best floor pump for most commuters, and the Lezyne Pressure Drive is the best handheld.

Gear for Foul-Weather Bike Commuting

by Wirecutter Staff

Hard-core bike commuters share seven items—from storm-worthy gloves to rugged tires—that keep them (and their stuff) safe and dry in the winter.

Specialized vs Trek Road Bikes: My Comparison Guide

So you’re interested in comparing the road bike ranges of Trek and Specialized, huh?

Well, you’ve come to the right… oh wait, you’re not?

No matter. I’m going to write about it anyway.

I’m interested and that’s all that matters (and you may find it useful, entertaining, a useful sleep aid). Onward!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy something, I may get a commission.

Why Specialized and Trek For This Special Comparison, Mont?

Well, I’ve ridden a Trek carbon road bike for these past (nearly) six years and I’ve been very happy with it. I’d certainly consider buying another one.

We’ll get onto this, but one of the (less rational) reasons for buying my bike (the Domane) was that it was both an ‘endurance’ bike (built for the less fit who want a more comfortable ride) and cool* (it was the bike Fabian Cancellara would use to ride Paris-Roubaix).

(* I … M … H … O)

Things have moved on slightly (‘endurance’ and all out racing bikes have converged somewhat), but Specialized also had (still have) a cool ‘endurance’ bike (i.e. aimed at the less flexible gent) that evoked the spring classics: the Specialized Roubaix – the clue’s in the title.

So Specialized remains the bike manufacturer I almost went for (the one that got away).

Other Slightly Related Facts

I did end up buying a Specialized steed a year after the conclusion of my endurance bike purchasing quest.

Only it was a 20″ Specialized Hotrock hardtail mountain bike for my son. Whilst an excellent bike, less relevant for this post.

Finally, true fact, the colour scheme for this ‘ere blog, which I updated last year is based on my current favourite team jersey: the Trek-Segafredo women’s kit (circa 2019).

So Let’s Start With The Basics

Both Trek and Specialized are US manufacturers.

Trek was founded in 1976 in Waterloo, Wisconsin by Richard Burke, owner of an appliance distribution business, and Bevil Hogg, a bike shop owner. As a lifelong fan of Lord Wellington and Abba (both of who loved distributing appliances), this appeals to me.

The company started life in a barn , a building which I recall from an episode of the Cycling Tips podcast, Trek still keeps as part of its current ‘campus’.

(Come on, that’s history, innit.)

The company (as far as I can tell) continues to be owned by the family of the original founders, and is run by John Burke, son of Richard.

Specialized was founded in 1974, two years earlier than Trek, by Mike Sinyard. Initially Sinyard imported Italian bike parts that he’d discovered on his bike travels, but by 1981, Specialized had started making its own bikes, with one of the first being the Allez road bike*.

(* Wait! They still make the Allez, all these years later. Amazing…).

The company is 49%-owned by Merida, a Taiwanese firm that also make bikes. I think I probably knew this (prior to undertaking the ‘sort-of-research’ for this post) but was more surprised to discover that it made the acquisition in 2001. Anyway, Sinyard remains CEO.

Where Do Trek and Specialized Make Their Bikes?

Both companies undertake a large amount of their manufacturing overseas. It’s difficult (or impossible) to get precise figures as both are privately owned.

I can see why companies keep this information to themselves. When she was standing for political office a few years ago, the opponents of Mary Burke (of the Trek family) focused heavily on the fact that Trek bikes were made overseas and not supporting American jobs…

Trek sells in the millions of bikes per year (not all road bikes), of which maybe 10,000 of the really high end ones are manufactured in the US. Whilst much of the overseas production is (I think) in China, it also manufactures in Holland and Germany.

According to this article (which sounds legit but don’t believe everything you read on the internet, kids), all Specialized bikes are made in Asia, with key suppliers being Merida (makes sense), Giant and ‘Ideal’ (?!?)

Summary of the two ranges

I doubt you came here just for the history and some speculation over manufacturing facilities (though you should be aware that I do have actually have a history degree).

Wherez arez the bikez.

I thought I’d try to break down the road bike ranges of each company to help understand what compares with what. I could try to do that for their mountain bikes as well, but with my lack of knowledge on that front, I’d quickly be well over my skis. Look for that info elsewhere.

Similarly for their hybrid, e-bikes and other random ranges, well… whatever.

Trying to boil it down, here is a list of the road bike model ‘families’ made by each company, classified by the target sub-segment of the roadie market:

Trek’s Road Bike Range

• Aluminium (beginner/budget) road bike: aluminium versions of the Domane and Emonda
• Endurance (relaxed fit): Domane
• Lightweight (racey climby): Emonda
• Aero road (as opposed to pure aero): Madone
• Gravel (adventure): Checkpoint, Boone and Crockett (not a 1960s group of protest musicians)

Here’s a link to the full range of Trek’s road bikes , in case you can’t work out how to Google.

Specialized’s Road Bike Range

• Aluminium (beginner/budget) road bike: Allez
• Endurance (relaxed fit): Roubaix
• Lightweight (racey climby): Tarmac
• Aero road (as opposed to pure aero): Venge
• Gravel (adventure): Diverge

And here’s a cheeky link to the Specialized website , so you can see all the up-to-date variants.

How Do Trek And Specialized Denote Better Bikes (Model Naming Conventions)?

This is not always an exact science, as specifications can vary as models can be updated each year.

(Inexact science is my jam…)

Trek signal different levels of specification, higher quality (or lighter) frames, additional expensive features, through a combination of numbers (mainly) and letters (to a limited degree).

Higher numbers denote a higher specc’ed bike. The current Domane SL 5 has a Shimano 105 groupset. The SL 6 has Ultegra. Top of the range, the SLR 9 has full Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic gears.

Trek bikes at the lower end of the price scale generally have the ‘SL’ designation (unless they’re aluminium frames, in which case they’re ‘AL’). I query if all the bikes in a range can be Super Light (or superleggara ) but there you go.

At the upper end an R is added, to arrive at SLR (I’m guessing Super Light Race). The key difference between SL and SLR bikes is the frame.

Using the Domane as an example, the SLR frame has adjustable resistance settings on the Isospeed ‘suspension’ at the front and rear of the bike. The SL frame doesn’t (you’ll get the level of resistance you’re given).

The Emonda SL frame is made from 500 series OCLV* carbon and weighs 1.68kg. The SLR version is upgraded to 700 series OCLV and weighs 1.19kg.

(* Optimum Compaction Low Void, in case you’re wondering…)

Specialized (thankfully) adopt a slightly more straightforward forward approach to naming their bikes.

Generally speaking, the basic version is just called the, er, name. So the basic Specialized Roubaix is called the… Roubaix.

Then as you go up the spec tree (this monkey loves climbing the spec tree), you have the following suffixes:

Finally, at the top end, presumably in a nod to Lockheed’s advanced aircraft development arm (Skunk Works), Specialized does an ‘S-Works’ version of each bike (although ‘S-Works’ goes at the start, i.e. ‘S-Works Roubaix’ rather than ‘Specialized Roubaix S-Works’…).

Want To See More Photos Of Beautiful Trek and Specialized Road Bikes?

Of course you do.

The websites of both Trek and Specialized do a fine job of showing off their bikes to the fullest.

I ride a Trek Domane as my main road bike. I *love* the look of the new Emonda (shown here). Gold though...?

I am rather partial to the S-Works Tarmac (pictured here), if Specialized want to send me one to review....

Well there is no conclusion, is there?

Because I haven’t finished.

The first draft of this post (which wasn’t even finished) was knocking on 5,000 words. Too much for even the most patient blogfans to bear.

I’ve broken it down into what looks like four future posts, each one dealing with a different bike category. So I’ll compare the Trek Emonda with the Specialized Tarmac, the Madone with the Venge. You get the idea.

Update: I’m pleased to report that I’ve published the Trek/Specialized endurance bike comparison – so now you can read it:

• Trek Domane vs Specialized Roubaix: Endurance Road Bike Comparison  

Now, quick show of hands.

Who here owns a Trek road bike or a Specialized? Which one? What are your thoughts and would recommend the one you’ve got?

Let me know in the comments section below.

Cheers Monty

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33 thoughts on “Specialized vs Trek Road Bikes: My Comparison Guide”

I have 2013 S Roubaix and love it. Not sure I would purchase the latest model, everything seems to be getting to ‘technical’ and awkward to fix out on the road. I like to keep things simple stupid.

2016 Roubaix with 105 was my first drop bar bike, loved it but over time it became clear I needed a size 58 rather than the 61. Replaced it with a 2018 Roubaix and got it pro fitted, it’s amazing now. Followed up with a 2018 Diverge E5 to have an aluminum bike without the future shock but with the same fitting for dog trailer pulling, winter, and trainer use (SUPER similar geometry to the Roubaix)

I’ve been really happy with them, and never felt like it was holding me back compared to a Tarmac. They can be set up similar regardless, and the accumulated fatigue of chip seal around here makes the Roubaix a no brainer.

How tall are you? I’ve been waffling about a 58

Hi Jonathan – I’m between 5’9 and 5’10. Hope that helps!

I have a 2019 Roubaix Expert.

IT’S FABULOUS!!!!!

2018 Specialized Allez Sport. My first bike since I was a kid, so I don’t have much to compare it to, but it seems fast enough (I have a couple KOMs locally) and is comfortable at a century so nothing to complain about. It could be a little lighter, I’ve been thinking of upgrading and keeping the Allez for commuting but it will be hard to convince the wife it is a worthwhile expense.

Trek Domane. Great bike.

I have a Trek Checkpoint 5.0 and a Specialized Diverge Sport. I like both bikes. As a general comment, the Trek is heavier than the Specialized. So when you are buying at the bottom price of each carbon model, Trek seems to go for durability and flexibility of use over lightweight. By the way, my Checkpoint was made by Giant in Taiwan (on the bike box).

I finished 4 RAAM times on a Specialized S-Works Roubaix – loved it ; very comfortable to ride for hours, but slow and hard to ride fast. Just did RAW on my Trek Emonda – the best! Super light and fast. Actually, I love both of these bikes – there are just very different.

Had a 2013 Roubaix for a couple of years, loved it, did some 100 milers and the Grand Depart 2019 for Prostate Cancer UK 130 miles including cobbles. Last ride on Doris (the Roubaix) was Revolve 24 at Brands Hatch, again she performed well. I now have a 2016 Tarmac SL3 Expert, early days but loving the sportier geometry and the ability to put the power down.

I have a 2014 Trek Domane 4.5 which I purchased after a bike fit with my Boardman Team Carbon demonstrated that I needed a smaller bike. If this sounds familiar I went for the bike fit after reading your blog as I prepared for Ride London – just as you did a year before! I love this bike and have rode Ride London in 2014, Velothon Wales in 2015, Ride London 46 in 2016 and Velo Birmingham in 2017 numerous 100Km plus rides. I must have ridden well over 4000 miles. BUT – this year I was due to ride it on Ride London again. Following a gear cable break on a training ride I discovered play in the cranks and this was traced to a siezed BB bearing which was spinning in the frame and had worn the BB housing. This required a return of the frame to Trek for a repair which they would not do under the lifetime warranty- apparently this is wear and tear. The repair wasn’t cheap but wasn’t as bad as I first feared but couldn’t be done in time for this years Ride London. So I’d be interested to know what maintenance regime other Trek users have used to avoid this happening to them. With the Trek unavailable for RL this year used a smaller 2014 Boardman Team Carbon which I bought at the end of 2014 for £750 when it was end of line at Halfords, an absolute bargain and a third of the price of the Trek. Upgraded from 10-speed 105 to 11 speed Ultegra, and getting it set up properly for me it is just as good as the Trek and climbs better although is perhaps a little harsher on rough roads. I use Specialised Toupe saddles on all my bikes though!

I have a 2017 Trek Domane SL7 (Ultegra Di2) for my normal road bike. I’ve updated it in a few places, Deda Zero 100 bars and Stem, Hunt wheels with Swalbe Pro one tubeless tires, Absolute Black Oval chainrings,Selle Italia Superflow SLR saddle. Weight saved was 0.8KG. Overall love my Domane, a much better ride on the welsh pothole riddled roads than previous bikes. Will use it on next years Ride London (assuming I get a place) rather than my Look Huez (great as a lightweight climbing bike for the welsh hills).

I had a 2015 Specialized Roubaix expert. It was good. Made the mistake of test riding a 2018 Roubaix Comp with Future Shock. First ride not much difference. We changed the shock spring from the stiffest to lightest. Night and day better. This bike floats over bumps compared to my previous Roubaix. It’s quick and fast. The 28 tires are excellent too.

Thanks for the great post.

After laboring (or “labouring” if you are in Europe) – or really obsessing – about my “retirement” bike, I finally chose the 2019 Specialized Tarmac Pro frameset (my first full carbon bike was the first iteration of the carbon Tarmac – so many decades ago!) I chose this over the Trek Domane SLR, and the Cervelo S-3 for its slight weight advantage and because it seemed to have the best overall reviews in terms of speed, weight and comfort. As I still race in age-grouped triathlons and aquabikes, but am now at an age when a full-on tri frame is too jarring, the last attribute was important.

Simply put, I love this bike. Though the others are amazing in their own right, the Tarmac has offered the speed and comfort that I longed for. I have raced it (including an aquabike with a 26-mile bike leg, and the one-person sprint tri that I did yesterday, (I came in first on that one, ) it has exceeded my expectations and wishes. It is built with Sram Etap, Reynolds Attack wheels (with 25mm tubeless tires,) a Zipp cockpit, and the stupidly expensive s-works saddle the name of which I have forgotten, but which is heaven to sit on.

I choose the 2017 Specialized Roubaix sport w/105 . Added Zipp’s course 30 wheel set W/ S-Work 28mm tires. this year Absolute black oval chain ring sub compact 32/48 for lots of climbing and 34/11 in the rear. I love the ride and the feel of the bike wish I could afford the S Works Roubaix

First road bike was an Allez and loved it several bikes and many years later I have a Roubaix Comp. This has to be the best bike I have ridden the perfect balance of comfort and pace, ok younger legs might get better speed out of a Tarmac, loving it.

I have a 2017 Roubaix with Specialized’s future shock suspension and at 50 years old appreciate that little bit of comfort. The rest of the standard bike is pretty good too

I’m not a top-end rider. I don’t race or compete at all, I’m just an average guy that likes to ride. I owned a Specialized hybrid and it was a very good bike. When I decided I wanted a road bike I found both Specialized and Trek lacking unless you were willing to spend a *lot* of money. My preference was a road bike with a Shimano 105 group set. While both Specialized and Trek advertized a 105 group set, both were only partially 105’s. Many of the components were not 105’s ( read “less expensive”). I wanted to by from an American manufacturer (I live in America), but I bought a bike from a German manufacturer (Bulls). The Bulls bike had 105 components across the board and cost about 1/2 (yes, a full half) of the closest equivalent Specialized or Trek. In my opinion, Specialized and Trek make some very good bikes, but they are more expensive.

I have a Specialized Roubaix Sport 2017 model which I bought to do Ride London 100 in August this year. My first carbon bike. I bought it on recomendation from a work colleague and I love it. Such a good comfortable bike. I had a professional fit on your recomendation Monty. 105 groupset. I put a 34/11 cassette on the rear to help me up the hills in the peak district. Don’t believe Shimano. 105 can take a 34 rear cog without any adjustment. All in all very happy.

Despite all the advice regarding Disk brakes I went for the Trek Emonda SL7 Disk, purchased at the end of May this year (2019) and not at all what I set out to buy. I use a Spa Audax Ti bike for winter and commuting so have only done 506 miles so far but have to say that the SL7 has exceeded my expectations in many areas including the Disk brakes. The bike was set up with data from a previous Retul bike fit in 2016 done on a Bianchi Infinito CV (loaned to me for a couple of years by my Son) and from the beginning has given me pain free cycling, I do intend to have another Retul fit done on the Trek when time and money allows. I would not hesitate to recommend both Trek as the manufacturer and the SL7 Disk as a fast, sporty climber that ticks many of the “Endurance” qualities along with a comfortable and smooth ride.

Trek Emonda ALR 5, this is my first bike since my Schwinn Varsity when I was a kid a long time ago. So not much to compare to, it goes up hills really nice, around turns with confidence. If I want to reduce any weight, the best way would be to lighten the rider not the bike! I think it is lightweight, had several people have asked if it is carbon, the welds are great. I ride it on the road and rail trails.

I’ve got a Trek Domane 5.2, 2014 vintage, replacing a Cannondale R2.8 that I really liked. But I was really amazed at the differences in the old Dale vs. the Trek. I had ridden several other bikes before selecting the Domane and all the others seemed to be just a newer version of the Dale, the trek felt like an actual upgrade beyond just newer.

Finally, I’ll be expecting Mont to compile these comments and add these survey notes to one of the remaining 3 posts : )

iI am a vintage weekend warrior (so to speak) ie +50 , i bought a Trek Emonda SL6 with upgraded Mavic wheel set about three years ago – best bike I have had ! especially on the hilly bits. Before this i was ( in recent times anyhow) a Specialized convert with an aluminium Allez followed by a carbon Roubaix – both great bikes

Thanks for posting this blog.. I’m recently getting back into road biking after over 20 years away from it when i was in college riding my, then at the time, Bianchi race bike. I’m been riding pretty regularly recently and just did a recent sportive, and looking to upgrade my bike, originally was thinking ‘endurance’ but others in my ‘sportive team’ all ride the ‘race’ bikes. Been back and forth between Trek Emonda vs Cannondale Supersix / CAAD13, as well as carbon vs aluminium. Specialized keeps coming up in my research but not sold by my LBS. Just asking out of curiosity and because I’m really interested in learning more.. 1) why you didn’t include Cannondale in your blog.. I thought this would have been a natural comparison in the mix (is there a reason i should discount Cannondale) 2) are any bikes still manufactured in the US by Trek and Specialized?… and more specifically the models you listed above? This would be helpful as I continue my search for my next bike and value the opinion in the other comments above. Cheers!

Hi Monty Firstly love your work please keep it up especially the videos, great fun 👍

I missed this last year so apologies

I spent a year waiting for the new Roubaix to be released in Australia and went to buy one May 2019 I wanted the Di2 version with a 61cm frame Well the only color Specialized would offer was Matt black I’m not a drug dealer so why would I want s stealth matt black bike

My local bike shop where amazing, they asked Specialized to offer another color anything but black but no luck After a month or so of trying the bike shop even offered to paint the bike for me

At that point I decided Specialized did not deserve my $6000 and purchased a Cervelo R3 which I am really happy with in fluro green 😎

May be you could do a blog on bike color/ paint jobs in the future

Keep up the great work Safe riding

KS Brisbane AUS

Thanks KS. Glad you’re enjoying the blog and the vids. That’s great to hear. I’ll keep the bike colour topic in mind for future content. Cheers, Monty

Kinda late, but just reading this. The Trek Domane versus S Works Roubaix argument. I have a 2012 Domane 6.1 P1 with the Ultegra, a superb bike, but no front suspension dampening. I’ve demo’d the Spech Roubaix also, and these bikes are quite different in their handling, IMO Mostly due to frame dimensions.

The Spech has a ton of stack ( I ride 58 cm at 5-10 ) and is a bit.more jittery at higher speeds on windy roads. So, I’m buying another Domane, the SLR 9 with Dura Ace as a P1 (mostly paint). I may also get the Spech S Works, same components, but I really need to ride the 56 and 58 again.

I’m older (62), so no racing, just like nice bikes!!

Did you ever wrote the comparison articles as I cannot find them

Hmm, I did…. but then I haven’t quite finished and posted them. You’re prompt is a helpful kick up the bum. I’ll get them published. loveyoubyeeee

Hi there, i hope you can help me out.

Im looking for a road bike. i am 5’8″ and 130 lbs. What size is good for me? thanks so much

I have trek madone 2013 after specialized tarmac 2016 now i have giant tcr advance 2019 and its the best for qualité and price

I have a Trek Emonda SL6 disc, which I bought new a little over 2 years ago. After reading about how light the Emonda was, I went to the Trek store to ride one. They didn’t have any SLs, but one of the guys at the shop let me ride his personal SLR disc. On a quick spin, the bike felt amazingly responsive and quick. I figured how much difference could there be between the SL and SLR, so for probably 1/2 the price, I got the SL6 instead of the SLR6. HUGE MISTAKE! The two bikes are nothing alike. I’m super disappointed in the SL, which weighed 17.75 lb without pedals or bottle cages at delivery. Plus it came with 60 tpi tires that roll like square blocks. I replaced the tires with Conti GP5000s, so at least the bike is rideable, but I now ride my wife’s old Trek 5000 WSD instead. I average about 10,000 miles per year, but I probably have only about 5000 miles on the Emonda in the past two or three years. That’s what I get for trying to save a few bucks.

2012 Madone 4.5, great bike, fast very comfortable 2015 S-Works Tarmac, great bike, extremely fast

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The 7 Best Hybrid Bikes For Exercise, Commuting and Casual Fun

Hybrid or ‘exercise’ bikes make for a great introduction to cycling.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

They’re also great for casual riders and commuters, since they’re fairly stable and designed with an upright riding position. Throw in some feature mounts for fenders and racks, and you have an easy-going bike that’s perfect for getting you places and running errands, then taking the long way home.

The Best Hybrid Bikes

• Best Overall: Cannondale Quick 3
• Best Value: Co-Op CTY
• Best All-Arounder: State 4130 All-Road Flat-Bar
• Best Step-Through: Liv Alight Disc
• Best Commuter: Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger
• Most-Stylish: Cannondale Bad Boy 1
• Best Hybrid Electric: Velotric T1

What to Consider in a Hybrid Bike

Why trust us, how we selected the best hybrid bikes, our hybrid bike reviews, q+a with our experts, flat bar vs. drop bar.

A hybrid bike starts with a traditional road bike platform: fast-rolling 700c wheels and a lightweight, efficient frame. But while a road bike typically comes outfitted with a drop bar, a hybrid bike’s signature feature is a flat handlebar. This provides a wide hand stance for better control, easy brake-lever access, and a more upright position that’s comfortable and conducive to looking over your shoulder in traffic. These are just a few of the reasons why new cyclists and commuters are often drawn to this type of bike.

But a proper fitness bike is more than just a road bike with a flat bar: It’s a bike that’s been specifically designed to be ridden with one. Chad Price, core research and development director at Specialized, says that a fitness bike typically has a longer reach than a road bike, resulting in better handling from a flat bar and shorter stem.

Disc Brakes

One of the best technologies to come to fitness bikes is disc brakes . Although they cost a little more than rim-style brakes, discs offer more control and precision, particularly in wet conditions . They also don’t require as much hand strength to operate, making them a reliable choice for rides with long, winding descents.

Some lower-cost bikes may come with cable-actuated disc brakes, a cheaper alternative that’s not quite as powerful or as low maintenance as a fully hydraulic disc-brake system but that delivers similar all-weather performance and reliability.

The Right Gearing

Most fitness bikes come with two chainrings in the front and between nine and 11 cogs in the rear. Having more gears in the back allows you to fine-tune your shifting so you can keep a steady cadence, no matter the terrain. Bikes with three front chainrings typically cost less, but the third ring can make shifting less precise. A single-ring option simplifies shifting and cuts down on maintenance but may not have the range you need for climbing.

Belt Drives and Internally Geared Hubs

A belt drive (which takes the place of a chain) with an internally geared hub (where all the gearing is packaged inside the rear hub’s shell and sealed from the elements) requires less maintenance than a traditional chain-and-derailleur drivetrain. It’s reliable and clean, says Andrew Lumpkin, CEO of Spot Bikes.

A belt drive is also easy to use (one shifter controls everything) and, perhaps best of all, lets you change gears while sitting still at a stoplight. It’s a great, low-maintenance option if you can afford it, though it adds a small amount of weight.

Bicycling recommends bikes based on the extensive work of its test team, which currently includes Deputy Editor Tara Seplavy, Senior Test Editor Matt Phillips, Test Editor Dan Chabonov, and Maintenance Editor Gabe Ortiz. Together, they have more than 60 years of ride-testing experience and bring that insight to every recommendation they touch.

For our guide to hybrid bikes, Tara Seplavy recommended many of these selections based on the team’s collective testing experience, as well as her extensive knowledge of the category.

Vanessa Nirode has been writing about bikes, adventure travel, and cycling gear for 15 years for a variety of outlets including Bicycling , Time , Adventure Cycling , Fodors , BBC Travel , Next Avenue , and many others. With 20 years of riding experience, she’s owned and pedaled everything from a heavy commuter bike to a carbon racing road bike on her daily commutes and errands.

In addition to ride-testing many of our selections, she surveyed bike commuters and messengers at two of her favorite New York bike shops– Bicycle Roots in Brooklyn and Specialized Long Island City in Queens: They’re great places for cyclists to hang out and hear from riders about their favorite bikes, and learn what works (or doesn’t) work.

Caitlin Giddings tested bikes for Bicycling for over a decade, and has ridden bikes for more than two decades as an everyday commuter cyclist. She’s had the chance to ride nearly a hundred different bikes designed for fitness, recreation, and commuting on varied terrain.

We’ve been asked to recommend a lot of bikes over the years. Anticipating these queries, we’ve made a big effort to test as many hybrids and city bikes as we can—not only because they’re great for commuting, fitness, and fun, but also because they’re the bikes our friends who aren’t bike nerds are most interested in buying.

Our selections were recommended by the Bicycling test team, which has extensive experience testing all kinds of bikes, including hybrids. We’ve performed extensive ride-testing of many hybrid bikes on bike tours, city commutes, long bike path cruises, and bike shop test rides. Lastly, we considered a diverse range of external notes from bike messengers and commuters, as well as customer reviews.

Cannondale Quick 3

If you’re still holding onto the belief that hybrids are sluggish and heavy, the Cannondale Quick will disabuse you of that notion right away. This lightweight bike is a favorite for its fast feel and smooth ride, as well as a comfortable upright riding position that makes it an easy choice for recommending to new riders who may be a bit hesitant about incorporating regular cycling into their routine.

It features reflective accents to boost your visibility, mounts for racks so you can carry stuff (except on the front, as the carbon fork precludes rack mounting), and fenders to keep road spray out of your eyes and off your backside during commutes in questionable weather.

The 2x9-speed drivetrain comes courtesy of Shimano, with a decent range for tackling the hills on your commute. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes give you confident stopping power, while the 35mm Schwalbe tires barrel over urban debris.

If you’re looking to spend a little less, we also like the Quick Disc 4 , which features a steel fork, microSHIFT Advent groupset, and 1x9 gearing. It rides similarly well and costs a bit less, though we ultimately prefer the Quick Disc 3 for its carbon fork and higher gearing, which bring more speed on downhills and flats.

Co-op Cycles CTY 1.1

Keeping in line with REI’s inclusive ideology and the simple goal of getting more people outdoors and (in this case) on bikes, Co-op Cycle’s CTY bike is a capable and affordable hybrid bike that will suit a varied range of riders, especially beginners.

The CTY has wide, flat-resistant, wire-bead 40mm tires with reflective sidewalls so you can easily roll over potholes, dirt, gravel, random road debris and the occasional curb. Its Tektro mechanical disc brakes ensure that you can slow your roll when needed. The Shimano 3x8-speed drivetrain provides 24 gears, enough to get you most anywhere you want to go.

The CTY has an upright riding position (as opposed to the more competitive bent-over posture encouraged by road bikes.) A comfortable memory foam saddle and gel handlebar grips help you complete your commute and/or errands without introducing any soreness or aches into the equation.

State Bicycle 4130 All-Road Flat-Bar

State Bicycle’s All-road flat-bar stands out for its versatility, strong steel frame, and plethora of customizable options that allows you to set it up exactly like you want. Steel bikes have their own dedicated following : Fans love their springy feel. They’re also durable and reliable, which is an important quality in a bike you use to get around every day.

We love how much room there is to tinker with this bike. State offers two extra wheel sets–a 700c with slick 38mm road tires and a 650b with knobby 2.1 inch (53mm) off road tires. These sets, which cost an additional $390 apiece, come with tires, tubes, brake rotors and cassettes for easy switching. You may also want to upgrade to a SRAM drivetrain for an additional $1,000, and hydraulic brakes for another $100 for added reliability, power and smoothness (especially when it comes to changing gears).

The State 4130 is a bike you’ll be able to ride for years. We might even go so far as to say for the foreseeable future. You’ll need to replace the components as the years go by–time comes for us all, even our bike parts–but that steel frame will persist.

Liv Alight Disc 3

Whenever Vanessa leaves her regular bike overnight at her local shop, her mechanic gives her this bike as a loaner. The flat handlebars and upright riding position make it a comfortable and stable bike without compromising speed. It isn’t a ‘fast’ bike by any means, but it’s far more nimble than what you’d expect by just looking at it.

Throw in the included fenders, rear rack, and kickstand, and the Alight emerges as a rather perfect errand bike. The fenders keep road muck from your person, the rack provides a place to hook on a set of panniers, and the kickstand saves you from scouring for a leaning spot when you stop for a much-needed (and deserved) pick-me-up coffee.

Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger

The Trek District 4 Equipped Stagger is built for any kind of weather. It features a front dynamo hub that provides power to your rear and front lights, and an internally geared rear hub with a Gates CDX belt, rather than a chain. The dynamo hub powers your lights, so you’ll never have to worry about remembering to charge them. The geared hub and belt cuts down on chain and derailleur maintenance, so you don’t need to make adjustments after riding through bad weather.

Belts tend to be quieter than chains, so while this adds a level of stealth, make sure to add a bell and alert others when you pass them, which you’ll need to use often as the Stagger doesn’t cramp your speed. Or style.

The powerful hydraulic disc brakes provide great stopping power, and the 700x40mm Bontrager wire bead tires with reflective strips keep you moving no matter what obstacles get thrown in your way. The Stagger includes a kickstand, fenders and rack for a quick and easy commute, or getting a workout in while you get things done.

Cannondale Bad Boy 1

The Cannondale Bad Boy represents some of the latest innovations in bike design, making it a very capable way to get around, no matter where you decide to take it. It’s also just plain fun to ride, dodging and cornering more sharply than other bikes allow when a wayward obstacle ends up in your path.

This is because of perhaps the most significant flourish of its design and legendary urban style; the LightPipe Lefty fork. Unlike most every other fork on the market, the Lefty features a single pipe on–you guessed it–the left side that connects to the front wheel hub. The entire suspension is squeezed into a package that’s effectively half the size (and half the weight) of the standard component. The Lefty (also referred to as an “upside-down fork”) is thicker and stiffer at the headtube where you need the leverage, so it performs exceptionally well when braking and cornering.

The Bad Boy 1 also has a bevy of cool quality-of-life features, including an integrated LED light strip on the fork, an integrated tail light on the seat post, internal geared hub and belt drive for minimal maintenance, and top tube bumpers that protect your frame from scratches and nicks when leaning and locking.

Velotric T1

Powered by Velotric’s new, smart drive system motor, stealthy internal wiring and an integrated battery, the T1 is an electric bike that doesn’t look or feel like an electric bike. Weighing just 36 pounds, you can easily hoist it onto your shoulders and carry it up or down stairs when needed, which is not something you can do with most other e-bikes.

A Class 1 e-bike, the T1 features 5 levels of pedal-assist power. On pedal-assist bikes, the power only kicks in when you’re pedaling. This also means you can take your T1 out on most trails and multi-use paths where Class 2 e-bikes are prohibited.

“With its mix of styling, power, and passive security features, Velotric’s T1 is great for city and around town use, notes Bicycling Test Editor Tara Seplavy. “It has a fingerprint lock to keep someone from turning on the bike when you’re not around and a ‘Find My Bike’ feature in the Velotric app in case you forget where you locked it up. A torque sensor helps provide a smooth ride feel and the motor has plenty of zip, especially in the higher power settings.”

Speaking of power, Velotric designed some of the smallest and lightest electronic components we’ve encountered on an e-bike and housed them all inside the frame, which is part of what gives the T1 its stylish, sleek look. And, the integrated headlight comes on when the sun goes down - just like the street lights do, so you never have to worry if you remembered to charge your lights or not.

As required by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and local laws in some cities , the Discover 1 is UL certified for safety within the Standards for Electrical Systems, so it has been tested and engineered to eliminate accidental battery fires.

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Hybrid bikes are great for riding long distances and casual rides where speed isn’t a top priority. The flat, wide bars provide a better vantage point when you need to quickly look behind you and side-to-side. 

They also offer a more upright riding position that many people find more comfortable when navigating city streets compared with the experience you get with a road bike and their drop handlebars.

A hybrid bike can be a great fit for commuters, running errands, and a solid all-arounder for anyone who likes to get out on their bike and ride for awhile.

What are the benefits of a hybrid bike?

Hybrid bikes are, above all, comfortable and casual. Sitting upright is often a more comfortable riding position, and makes it easy to keep track of your surroundings. They often feature mounts for racks,  fenders  and  lights , so you can add some  accessories  that you may need if you plan to work it into your day-to-day life. Last but not least, hybrid bikes often cost less than a road bike or full-featured mountain bike.

Are there any disadvantages to riding a hybrid bike?

As you’d expect, hybrid bikes occupy a middle ground that’s useful for new and casual riders, but may hold more advanced cyclists back as they take on tougher routes or pursue more competitive challenges. 

They aren’t as capable as mountain bikes in rough off-road conditions. Conversely, most hybrids aren’t as aerodynamic as a great road bike, and will move slower when you pedal at top speed.

Vanessa Nirode is a freelance writer who covers wellness, culture, outdoor adventure and travel for Hearst , HuffPost , PopSci , BBC Travel , and Threads , among others. She’s also a pattern maker and tailor for film and television but most of the time, she’d rather just be riding her bicycle.

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

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Trek Dual Sport 4 vs Specialized Sirrus x 4.0 (11 Differences)

Trek and Specialized are two of the most popular bike brands on the market. They offer a wide range of bikes for different riding styles and budgets. If you’re looking for a versatile bike that can handle both paved and unpaved surfaces, then a dual-sport or hybrid bike might be the right choice for you.

We’ll compare the Trek Dual Sport 4 and the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0, two of the most popular hybrid bikes on the market. We’ll discuss their key features, prices, and how they compare to each other.

Trek Dual Sport 4 vs Specialized Sirrus x 4.0

The main difference between the Trek Dual Sport 4 and Specialized Sirrus x 4.0 is that the Trek has a more upright riding position, making it better for commuting, while the Specialized is designed for longer rides and has a more aggressive riding position.

Both bikes have similar specs, with both having aluminum frames, suspension forks, and Shimano components . However, the Trek has slightly better components, with hydraulic disc brakes and a 9-speed drivetrain, while the Specialized has an 8-speed drivetrain.

If you want a bike that’s better for commuting, then the Trek Dual Sport 4 is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a bike that’s better suited for longer rides, then the Specialized Sirrus x 4.0 is a better option.

Trek Dual Sport 4

The Dual Sport 4 also comes equipped with powerful disc brakes , making it capable of stopping on a dime in all weather conditions.

Specialized Sirrus X 4.0

The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 is another versatile hybrid bike that’s built for both paved and unpaved surfaces. It has a durable aluminum frame, 24-speed Shimano drivetrain, and a front suspension fork. Like the Dual Sport 4, the Sirrus X 4.0 also has powerful disc brakes.

How They Compare

Frame difference.

The Trek Dual Sport 4 and the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 both have durable aluminum frames . However, the Trek is slightly lighter than the Specialized, making it easier to ride for long periods of time.

Suspension Difference

Both bikes have front suspension forks to absorb bumps in the road. However, the Trek Dual Sport 4 has 21 speed Shimano drivetrain, while the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has 24 speed Shimano drivetrain. This gives the Specialized bike an advantage when climbing hills or riding on rough terrain.

Fork Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has a suspension fork with 80 mm of travel. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has a suspension fork with 100 mm of travel. This means that the Specialized bike will handle rough terrain slightly better than the Trek.

Bottom Bracket Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has a standard threaded bottom bracket. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has a cartridge bottom bracket. This means that the Specialized bike will be slightly easier to maintain over time.

Stem Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has an adjustable stem that can be raised or lowered to fit your riding style. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has a fixed stem. This means that the Specialized bike is less versatile than the Trek but may be slightly lighter as a result.

Handlebar Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has flat handlebars. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has riser handlebars. This means that the Specialized bike will be more comfortable to ride for long periods of time.

Seatpost Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has a standard Seatpost. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has a suspension Seatpost. This means that the Specialized bike will be more comfortable to ride on rough terrain.

Tires Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has 700c tires. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has 650b tires. This means that the Specialized bike will have slightly better traction on loose surfaces.

Saddle Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has a standard saddle. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has a suspension saddle . This means that the Specialized bike will be more comfortable to ride on rough terrain.

GroupSet Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has a Shimano drivetrain. The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has an SRAM drivetrain. This means that the Specialized bike will be slightly better equipped for climbing hills or riding on rough terrain.

Price Difference

The Trek Dual Sport 4 has an MSRP of $850, while the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 has an MSRP of $950. Both bikes are available in multiple frame sizes, so be sure to check out the size chart before making your purchase.

Is Sirrus x Fast?

Yes, Sirrus X is one of the fastest bikes on the market , thanks to its sleek design and powerful motor. It can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, making it perfect for commuters or anyone who wants to get around quickly.

Plus, its lightweight frame makes it easy to carry and store, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Whether you’re looking for a fast and efficient way to get around town or just want a bike that’s fun to ride, Sirrus X is a great option.

What Does Sirrus X 4.0 Weigh?

Weighing in at just under 4 pounds, the Sirrus X 4.0 is one of the lightest full-suspension mountain bikes on the market. With its lightweight aluminum frame and 100mm of travel, this bike is designed for cross-country riding.

Whether you’re racing or just out for a leisurely ride, the Sirrus X 4.0 is sure to give you a great experience.

Thanks to its Shimano Deore drivetrain, the Sirrus X 4.0 is also one of the most affordable full-suspension bikes on the market. So, if you’re looking for a great cross-country bike that won’t break the bank, the Sirrus X 4.0 is a great option.

What Is The Difference Between Sirrus And Sirrus X?

The main difference between the Sirrus and Sirrus X is that the latter is a bit more expensive and has a few additional features.

For instance, the Sirrus X comes with hydraulic disc brakes, which provide more stopping power than traditional rim brakes. It also has a slightly higher-quality suspension fork, which helps to smooth out bumps in the road.

Overall, the Sirrus X is a slightly upgraded version of the Sirrus that is perfect for anyone who wants a bit more performance out of their bike.

Is Specialized Sirrus A Road Bike?

Yes, the Specialized Sirrus is a road bike. It is designed for fitness and recreational riding. The bike has a lightweight aluminum frame and fork and features Shimano Sora components . The Sirrus is available in men’s and women’s versions.

What Is The Difference Between A Road Bike And A Fitness Bike?

A fitness bike is a type of road bike that is designed for fitness and recreational riding. Fitness bikes typically have a lightweight aluminum frame and fork and feature Shimano Sora components. The Sirrus is available in men’s and women’s versions.

A road bike is designed to be ridden on paved roads. They have drop handlebars and narrow tires for increased speed and efficiency. Road bikes typically have a higher gear ratio than fitness bikes, making them better suited for longer distances.

So, if you are looking for a bike to ride on the roads for fitness or recreation, the Specialized Sirrus is a great option. However, if you are looking for a bike to ride on paved roads for longer distances, a road bike would be a better choice.

Is Sirrus X 2.0 A Gravel Bike?

Yes, the Specialized Sirrus X 2.0 is a gravel bike. It’s designed for comfort and stability on rough roads and features a durable frame and fork that can handle plenty of abuse.

The bike’s geometry is also well-suited for Gravel riding , with a longer wheelbase that provides stability at speed and a higher bottom bracket that keeps you pedaling through tough terrain.

The Sirrus X 2.0 comes equipped with wide tires that provide traction and comfort on all kinds of surfaces, making it a great choice for exploring new roads and trails. So if you’re looking for a gravel bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Sirrus X 2.0 is a great option.

What Is Future Shock Suspension?

Future Shock Suspension is a special type of suspension that is designed to absorb impact and reduce vibration. It’s found on some mountain bikes and gravel bikes and can be a great way to improve comfort and control on rough roads.

The Sirrus X 2.0 has Future Shock Suspension built into the fork, which helps to absorb bumps and vibrations from the road. This makes for a smoother ride and helps to reduce fatigue on long rides.

So if you’re looking for a gravel bike that can take the bumps in stride, the Sirrus X 2.0 is worth considering.

What Size Frame Is Specialized Large?

The bike’s geometry is well-suited for Gravel riding, with a longer wheelbase that provides stability at speed and a higher bottom bracket that keeps you pedaling through tough terrain.

What Is The Bottom Bracket Height On The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0?

The bottom bracket height on the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 is 12.5 inches. This is a bit higher than average, which helps to keep your pedals clear of obstacles when riding over rough terrain.

The higher bottom bracket also provides extra ground clearance when pedaling through mud or sand. This makes the Sirrus X 2.0 a great choice for riders who want to explore off-road trails.

So if you’re looking for a gravel bike that can take on anything, the Sirrus X 2.0 is a great option.

What Are The Tire Clearance Sizes For The Specialized Sirrus X 4.0?

The Specialized Sirrus X 2.0 comes with 700c wheels and tires that are 32mm wide . This provides plenty of traction and comfort on all kinds of surfaces, making it a great choice for exploring new roads and trails.

So if you’re looking for a gravel bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Sirrus X 2.0 is a great option.

The Trek Dual Sport 4 and the Specialized Sirrus X 4.0 are both great hybrid bikes for riding on paved and unpaved surfaces. The Trek is slightly lighter and more affordable than the Specialized, while the Specialized has a better drivetrain for climbing hills or riding on rough terrain.

Both bikes have powerful disc brakes that can stop you in all weather conditions.

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Top 10 Men’s Hybrid Bikes for Cyclist Looking to Commute and Have Fun

Best Hybrid Bikes

Giant Escape 3

The Giant Escape 3 is a true hybrid bike offering opportunities for a city bike and some light trail riding. With a small lightweight aluminum frame, this bike is good for a beginner biker delving into the pleasures of a  fitness bike or looking to dabble with a road biking. The puncture proof tires ensure that you will keep going on your way even when the way gets tough.

Utilizing a 3×7 drive train, the Giant Escape 3 gives the rider a large gear range to tackle the varying terrain. The downside to having this 3×7 drivetrain is that the rider may need to be attentive to tuning. The braking power is commendable with the Tektro V brakes, which are quick and efficient for most situations.

Overall, the Giant Escape 3 is excellent for a beginner rider looking for a bike for commuting while being durable enough to handle some off-road situations. At $560, that’s a hard price point to beat for a reliable bike. One of the best Hybrid Bikes under $600.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Santa Cruz Stigmata

The Santa Cruz Stigmata Road Bike is phenomenal offroad system which will crush many other bikes in long distance races. Designed and built for cyclocross and gravel racing in mind. This means that is great for getting you the places you need quickly, but it doesn’t have the luxury of many hardpoints for packs or bags.

Weighing less than 17 pounds, this bike will crush through lighter trails and roads with ease. Being highly modular, this bike comes in a variety of wheel sizes and drivetrains to fit your specific needs, whether it be racing or commuting. The drop bars are great for getting into that road riding position, but if you’re unfamiliar with this style you might want to veer away from this bike.

Overall, the Santa Cruz Stigmata is for the veteran cyclocross or gravel bike racer. It can be used for your daily commutes if you’re looking for high speed performance and efficiency. With a price point of $4,599 the bike is worth every dollar if you’re looking to compete with the best of the best.

Sizes: Contingent on 700C/650B selection

Rondo RUUT AL2

The Rondo RUUT AL2 is an elegant and complete bike, serving those who want to have a reliable and agile performance bike. This bike delivers offroad performance with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, an excellent balance strength and weight. Combined with tubeless tires this bike is ready for almost anything.

The most remarkable feature about this bike is the carbon Twintip fork. This fork allows for two different axle positions. There is a “lo” position which creates better rides through rougher terrain and longer distances while the “hi” position is optimized for speed. This fork alone makes the RUUT AL 2 riding, especially if you’re looking for a bike that can take you through plenty of terrain.

Ultimately, this bike is fantastic for someone looking to get into gravel riding while sustaining their commuting rides. The Rondo RUUT AL 2 is a genius build and will satisfy those who have the need for speed.

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL

Cannondale Quick 4

The Cannondale Quick 4 can be described as nimble and agile road/ fitness bike. Designed for the city, it comes with midgrade components that can turn any commuter into a biking enthusiast. Having a 1×9 drivetrain makes shifting and easy.

One interesting thing about this bike is that is comes with the Cannondale Garmin sensor. This sensor, paired with the Cannondale App, gives feedback about speed, distance, when to service your bike, and the calories you burn. This makes the Cannondale Quick 4 an excellent bike for those who are looking to get into the fitness side of biking. The Quick 4 from Cannondale is the best Hybrid Bike under $1,000 for 2022.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

Marin DSX 1

The Marin DSX 1 is an all-around hybrid bike built for those who want to use their bike for commuting and light weekend trails. The 1×11 drivetrain makes shifting through gears simple. The flat handlebars on his bike are the perfect middle ground for those looking for a gravel-bike feel but are not ready to embrace the drop bars like those of a road bike.

Built from an aluminum frame and equipped with a carbon suspension fork, the Marin DSX 1 is extremely light weight, providing more push with every pedal. The carbon fork is more expensive because it is significantly lighter than aluminum. The aggressive 700C tires are prepared to take on a variety of terrain types including road and gravel. The hydraulic disc brakes make this bike stop on a dime.

The versatile nature of this Marin Hybrid bike makes it ready for the mountains and the city. Internal routing in the frame provides an opportunity to install a dropper post. Additionally, hardpoints and large frame space will be a delight for anyone looking to throw on some packs and frame bags. If you’re looking for a quiver bike for multi terrain commuting, the Marin DSX 1 is for you.

Norco Storm 5

The Norco Storm 5 is an entry level mountain bike with a lot to offer the beginner rider. This bike is your classic hardtail mountain bike which can be used to conquer mountains and roads. Additionally, the 100mm Suntour fork provides a cushy ride experience. The tire sizes offered by the Norco 5 are 27.5” from XXS-M and 29” from M-XL which scales the bike appropriately for different sized riders.

The internal cabling on this Norco Storm Bicycle allows for good protection against the elements from wearing down your cable. The 3×7 drivetrain is reminiscent of older mountain bikes, but the progressive geometry puts the rider in a position take this from the road to the trail anytime.

This bike is for beginners who are looking to get good use out of their bike both on and off the trail. The lightweight aluminum frame is a welcoming experience for travelling uphill and enduring the ride downhill. At $719, the Norco Storm 5 is a highly affordable option for a hybrid bike.

Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL

Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Roebling

The Brooklyn Bicycle Co. Roebling is a strong and mighty bike built with your city in mind. Constructed with a chromoly frame, this bike is heavier than aluminum bikes, but provides stability and strength to pack more onto your frame. The Roebling is ready to go for both short and long rides.

The 9 speed Shimano drivetrain will aid you in getting to all your destinations faster and with less effort. The frame is ripe for placing baskets and fenders on it, which means you can turn this into a delivery machine with ease. Puncture resistant tires will keep you going through the thick and thin.

Ultimately the Roebling Bike is excellent for anyone looking for a reliable bike for city riding. It can help you get from point A to point B while being rugged enough to manage rougher road conditions.

Ghost Square Cross 1.8

The Ghost Square Cross 1.8 is a beautiful blend of cross country road bike and mountain bike. This bike is designed specifically to be a mountain bike at its core, featuring a 50mm fork to absorb rougher road conditions. Simultaneously, the geometry of this bike is well suited , it’s an especially comfortable bike for riding long distances.

Internal cable routing keeps your shifting and braking lines from harsh environments. Hydraulic disc brakes on the Ghost Square Cross 1.8 allow you to come to a quick stop both on the trail and on the road. The Kenda Flintridge tires are excellent for keeping a solid grip on streets, but they are also aggressive enough to take a beating on the trail.

If you’re looking for a decent multiuse bicycle that can take you many places, look no further than the Ghost Square Cross 1.8 Bike. With a price tag of $799 it is on the lower end of mountain bike cost, but it will provide many years of good riding.

Surly Cross Check

The Surly Cross Check is a fun, playful, and useful bike. Coming equipped with an 8-speed cassette, one will find this bike quite pleasant for off road and city road rides. This bike has plenty of hardpoints for your panniers and frame bags.

The bike is built with the vision of using it for multiple activities. Being able to fit 700cx28 tires gives the Cross Check many options for use depending on the type of tire you choose to put on there. Simple Tektro V Brakes ensure that you can stop when you need to, and they make maintenance simple.

If you want a bike that you can have lots of fun working on, riding, commuting, and adventuring, this is the bike for you. There could be endless days spent reconfiguring this bike the way you want it, or you could ride it as is and be completely satisfied.

Sizes: Many

Cannondale Quick XC 2

The Cannondale Quick XC 2 is midrange quality bike in the Cannondale Quick Series bikes. This gorgeous bike looks very much like a trail mountain bike, but it is speed efficient for roads as well. Both light and strong, the Quick XC 2 can handle your commutes even through some rougher terrain.

With a 63mm fork, it is a forgiving and mellow ride as it can absorb a lot. The lockout system on the fork can optimize each pedal stroke you take for maximum speed. The Cannondale XC 2 uses a 2×9 drivetrain which is less weight than a 3 by drivetrain while give you more gears than a 1 by drivetrain. With this drivetrain you will be able to travel both up and downhill with ease.

If you are looking for an upgrade from an entry level bike that can crush some trail but can be a speedy rid

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Mike Hardaker

Mike Hardaker grew up surfing and snowboarding in Orange County, California and followed his love of surfing to Hawaii before eventually moving to the mountains. He went on to found Mountain Weekly News based in Jackson, Wyoming. Mike can be found testing e-bikes, camping gear and hunting gear in the warmer months and then switching over to splitboards and snowboard reviews in the winter time. Mike's an avid splitboarder, hunter, athlete, & gear tester that is always on the go.

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Trek FX 3 VS Specialized Sirrus 3.0

The Trek FX 3 and the Specialized Sirrus 3.0 are both excellent commuter bikes. They have many features that both die-hard bike commuter veterans and newbies alike can get behind. These include a light but strong aluminum frame, 700c wheels, and a price that is not going to break the bank. 

If you are in the market for a reliable commuter bike no matter if you are just getting started or upgrading your current bike then you can’t go wrong with one of these two. 

In this article, we will explore both in more detail and give you the tools to let you decide which is better suited for your desires and your needs. Read on as we pit the Trek FX 3 against the Specialized Sirrus 3.0.

Trek FX 3 and the Specialized Sirrus 3 are very similar: hydraulic disk brakes, lightweight aluminum frame , 9-speed drivetrain and 700c wheels. When focusing on the differences the Trek FX 3 is the winner. It comes with Shimano components throughout including shifters, drivetrain, brakes, and it is $100 less to add insult to injury.

Don’t get us wrong, the Sirrus is an awesome bike but the Trek FX 3 is the better buy in this case! See below to find out why.

The Main Differences Between The Two Bikes

The biggest difference between these two bikes is of course the manufacturer. Both Trek and Specialized have been around since the 1970s and are well known for making high-quality bikes at a variety of price points. 

FX 3 Disc is a versatile hybrid bike that's primed for performance, comfort, and utility. It has features like a lightweight aluminum frame, a carbon fork, and powerful disc brakes that stop in any weather. It's a commuting pro if you want it to be, or the perfect fitness companion on pavement and rail trails.

The Trek FX 3 and the Specialized Sirrus 3.0 are hybrid models from each company designed to fit the customer looking for the relaxed geometry of a mountain bike with the speed and maneuverability of a road bike. Hybrid bikes are the perfect bike for the weekend rider, serious fitness freak, or avid bicycle commuter. 

Their comfortable ride and position are well suited for long or short rides and loved by many cyclists. While the FX 3 and the Sirrus 3.0 share a ton in common they do have some key differences primarily in the components. Here are some of the tech specs for each.

• Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminum
• Fork: FX Carbon
• Tires: Bontrager Comp H2 700X32c
• Shifters: Shimano Acera 2X9
• Drivetrain: Shimano Acera 2-speed Front and 9-speed Rear
• Brakes: Shimano MT201 Hydraulic Disc Brakes with 160mm Rotors

Specialized Sirrus 3.0

• Frame: Specialized A1 Premium Aluminum
• Fork: Specialized FACT Carbon
• Tires: RoadSport Reflect 700X32c
• Shifters: microSHIFT 2X9
• Drivetrain: microShift 2-speed Front and Shimano Sora 9-speed Rear 
• Brakes: Tektro HD-R280 Hydraulic Disc Brakes 160mm Rotor Front, 140mm Rotor Rear

Both the Trek FX 3 and the Specialized Sirrus 3.0 share a strong yet lightweight aluminum frame. However, both are made to each company’s design specs and have a different aesthetic to them. Both are covered under the company’s lifetime warranties so the looks are about where the differences end. 

The FX and the Sirrus also share 700c wheels and tires. They are fast and maneuverable with the ability to roll over any road conditions. Both models come equipped with 700X32c tires for a smooth and comfortable ride with just the right amount of grip.

Sirrus features a super light Aluminum Alloy and carbon fiber construction, as well as reliable Shimano components that are built to withstand years of daily abuse on the world's pavement. 

One key difference between these two awesome models of bikes is in the shifters, drivetrain, and brakes. The FX 3 has Shimano equipped components through and through which we think is a nice touch. 

Of course, not the top of the line stuff but the Shimano Acera Shifters coupled with the 2X9 Shimano Acera drivetrain means a trusty and reliable setup that is well suited for daily use. 

The cherry on top is reliable and easy to work on Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. This makes the FX 3 a consistent product that is outfitted with components that every mechanic loves.

On the other hand, the Specialized Sirrus 3.0 is not outfitted with bad components by any means. It is however mismatched and some of the bike nerds within us might want to look away. 

That being said, the Sirrus does have one redeeming aspect to its drivetrain mismatch issues. It has a Sora rear derailleur which is a pretty decent step up from the Acera that the FX features. 

Another drawback to the Sirrus though is the Tektro Brakes and microSHIFT shifters. The Tektro brakes do a fine job of stopping and the microSHIFT shifters do a fine job shifting but they are not nearly as reliable and long-lived as Shimano. In this rider’s opinion, the trade-off for the Sora Derailleur is not worth the downgrade in other components. 

Trek FX 3 and Specialized Sirrus 3.0 Unique Features

While the FX 3 and the Sirrus 3.0 are very similar in a multitude of ways they do have some features that make them unique. Check out these differences in both bikes:

• Shimano shifters, drivetrain, and brakes: Everything is Shimano meaning you have quality components you can trust and so does your mechanic. 
• Blendr stem and DuoTrap S compatible: Easily install things like lights and computers. The Blendr system gives headlights and displays the perfect spot right in the middle of your handlebars. DuoTrap S  component ports make installing a computer sensor with Bluetooth capabilities that go directly to your phone simple 
• Hardcase Tires: Bontrager H2 Hardcase are some of the most puncture -resistant tires on the market. Enjoy a ride free from flats with these tough tires. 
• 4.8 stars out of Five: 250 total reviews with an average of 4.8 stars. This shows the love this model gets from its users each day. 
• Shimano Sora 9-speed Rear Derailleur: A lightweight, reliable, and smooth road derailleur. This model is a step above Acera providing a bit smoother of a shift.  
• Three eye-catching colors: Available in black, summer blue, and dusty turquoise this ride is sure to liven up your quiver. The FX is only available in plain old black and red. Sirrus wins us over in the color department though.
• Sizes down to an XXS: For the shorter riders among us the Sirrus is available down to an extra extra small. 
• 2.5 stars out of Five: 36 total reviews with an average of 2.5 stars. This is one of Sirrus’s biggest drawbacks. It does not share the same love and ultimately the reliability of the Trek.

How Do These Features Affect The Ride?

The Trek FX 3 and the Specialized Sirrus 3.0 are very similar in the way they ride. This is because they share so many similarities in design. Their aluminum frames, 700c wheels, hydraulic disc brakes, and 9-speed drivetrains mean that in many ways they will feel the same. 

However, the Sora derailleur on the Sirrus 3.0 may be a bit smoother when compared to the FX 3. That being said the unique features that separate the FX 3 from the Sirrus 3.0 boil down to aesthetics and design choice. 

The truth is the FX 3 and the Sirrus are so similar it is hard to find unique differences

Who Are They Best Suited For?

The FX 3 is the perfect bike for the beginner just starting out commuting to the hardcore seasoned cyclists who wouldn’t dream of ever owning a car. The FX 3 is also the best for those on a budget. For only $900 this bike comes with high-quality gear and is backed by a lifetime warranty from Trek. 

However, the Sirrus 3.0 is an excellent bike for those who love Specialized. It makes an awesome platform for the serious roadie to rep their favorite brand with a sweet relaxed geometry commuter. Other than that, stick to the Trek FX 3.

The Bottom Line

In our eyes, the FX 3 is the clear winner and takes the cake. While they both share a lightweight aluminum frame, carbon fork, 700x32c tires, 2×9 drivetrain, and comfortable geometry the FX 3 is less expensive, comes with matched Shimano parts and has a higher overall rating. The FX 3 is well-loved and ridden by commuters around the globe for good reason.

The Specialized Sirrus 3.0 is by no means a bad bike, and if you must have a Specialized or cannot stand the idea of a Trek, then it is an awesome option. That being said we here at the blog think the Trek FX 3 is our favorite in our head-to-head comparison.

Wanna Know More About The FX?

Head over to our page about the Trek FX series and learn more about this famous commuter model. Looking for an FX but not ready to spend $900? Be sure to check out the FX 1 and the FX 2 both amazing bikes without putting too much strain on your budget.

Don’t let the price of these bikes fool you. They are the high quality you can expect from Trek without the cringe-inducing price. We will see you over there!

In the meantime,

Happy Pedaling!

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Sam Benkoczy

Hi, I'm Sam. I own and maintain 6 e-bikes, 15 regular bikes (road bikes, folding bikes, hybrid bikes, city bikes among others). I learned about bikes from my local bike mechanic as well as from bike maintenance courses. I love being out there in the saddle, and using my bike as a practical means of transportation. You can also find me on my YouTube channel at youtube.com/bikecommuterhero Say hi to me at [email protected].

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Trek FX Vs. Verve: Complete Comparison! [2024 Update]

October 16, 2022

Erik Bassett

Last updated: January 13th, 2024

The Trek FX, FX Sport, and Verve are fun and practical hybrids with a nice range of spec levels.

All three series are appropriate for riding in roughly the same situations : mostly pavement, at a non-racing pace, with some gravel or well-kept trails thrown in.

Riding posture is the biggest practical difference. The FX and FX Sport prioritize efficiency whereas the Verve prioritizes comfort —something I’ll cover at length below. That’s not to say the FX is uncomfortable or the Verve is slow. Rather, they have some geometry and component differences that tilt the balance one way or the other.

This guide will cover what stands out to me in terms of value, suitability, or overall riding experience, so you can find the right model for you .

This article might contain affiliate links. As a member of programs including Amazon Associates, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Trek Verve, FX & FX Sport compared

Verve for relaxed, everyday riding & commuting.

The Verve series has more upright posture, slightly swept-back handlebars, and wider tires that hint at traditional city bikes. Consider the Verve if you like the concept of a classic Dutch bike , but need something much lighter, livelier, and more affordable.

It’s a terrifically practical bike, and livelier than any beach cruiser, but perhaps still too relaxed to satisfy performance-oriented riders.

FX for sportier riding & commuting

The FX models use slightly aggressive, forward-leaning posture that’s more efficient and nimble. If you ride for sport as much as transportation, or you need more nimble handling for hectic downtown traffic, then you should feel at home on an FX.

Posture is moderately forward-leaning, as on a mountain bike. Most riders find that pleasant enough, but it won’t feel as relaxed and comfortable as the Verve.

FX Sport for all-out speed (or just enjoying the best)

Finally, if what gets you excited is an ultra-light flat-bar road bike for chasing PRs and even venturing onto some gravel , then the FX Sport (one of today’s lightest hybrids ) might be right up your alley.

It would be a top-tier commuter…but the lack of rack mounts reduces its utility.

My quick picks

The FX 1 and Verve 1 are terrific budget options —not just within the Trek range, but overall. The more relaxed, comfy Verve and the livelier-feeling FX have long been my favorite affordable hybrids on the market.

Rather than flashy components or cutting-edge materials, your money buys a reliable and versatile bike that’s easy to upgrade if you like , but will keep most riders happy off the shelf.

But unlike cheap-o Target bikes , they’re from a supremely reputable brand that’s sold (and serviced) worldwide.

If weight is a goal and budget’s not, then the FX Sport 6 has nearly all the lightweight goodies money can buy. By my reckoning, it’s the third-lightest hybrid around, losing out to Specialized and Canyon by only a pound or so. It adds a grand onto the already high price tags of the FX 4 and 5…but if you’re looking for the best , then simply buying it is usually more satisfying than going halfway.

Finally, if you have the budget for thoughtful upgrades but aren’t keen to go all out, then the Verve 3 and FX 3 are the best value . Both have meaningful drivetrain and brake upgrades over their cheaper variations.

Frame and fork

The FX line shares an aluminum frame made of Trek’s proprietary Alpha Gold alloy. The FX 2 and 3 add internal cable routing, which is a nice aesthetic touch that’s worth the mild headache when it comes time to replace cables.

Forks do differ, with steel on the FX 1, aluminum on the FX 2, and carbon on the FX 3. Carbon’s obviously the lightest, and in my general experience, it provides the best vibration dampening of the three: better than aluminum, and generally better than entry-level steel. Take that with a grain of salt, since I haven’t been able to test all three FX variations side-by-side.

The FX Sport uses an identical carbon frame and fork across the line.

Finally, the Verve line also shares an aluminum frame, and the Verve 2 and 3 offer a lighter aluminum fork compared to steel on the Verve 1.

Notes on weight

Weight varies by size, but you can expect:

• Verve: 30–32 lbs
• FX 1 and 2: 26–27 lbs
• FX 3: 25 lbs
• FX Sport 4 and 5: 22–24 lbs
• FX Sport 6: < 21 lbs

Pragmatically, bicycle weight matters far less than marketers (and many cyclists) would have you believe. Wheel and tire weight does affect acceleration, since it’s exponentially more work to start mass rotating versus merely moving forward. Otherwise, unless you’re regularly picking the bike up, a couple pounds in the frame and fork won’t make a meaningful difference while riding.

Granted, more upright bikes like the Verve will feel slower since their posture is less aerodynamic. They also happen to weigh more, but it’s just a coincidence. Any perceived sluggishness has more to do with posture and less to do with weight . (They’re also more comfortable, so less efficiency is just a trade-off, not necessarily a problem.)

Finally, before paying top dollar to shave weight, consider what racks, accessories, and cargo you’ll carry . A few pounds’ difference between two bikes—say, the FX 1 and FX Sport 4—might seem like a lot, but it’s a tiny percentage by the time you throw on a pannier and baskets full of groceries.

Geometry & sizing comparison

I find that geometry affects ride quality at least as much as the frame and fork material or weight. You can tweak it with seatpost and bar/stem changes, but you can’t fundamentally change it, so geometry might be the single most important thing to understand when comparing bikes.

Verve geometry: long & relaxed with a convenient step-through option

The Verve is available with a step-over or step-through frame, with sizes S-XL for riders approximately 5’1″ to 6’6″. The step-through version adds an XS option for riders down to 4’10”, so there’s an option for probably 99% of adults and older children.

I applaud Trek for not calling the Verve step-through a “women’s” bike. Men—myself included—often ride step-through frames for the sheer convenience of mounting and dismounting with cargo or a child on the back!

The Verve has noticeably longer chainstays and a slightly longer effective top tube than the FX/FX Sport or most other hybrids. I find that these longer-wheelbase bikes have a smoother, predictable feel in general. Length only becomes a liability in racing situations or technical singletrack, but those are far outside the intended use of these and all other hybrids.

The Verve’s 70.5° head tube angle is about one degree slacker than most hybrids’. This cooperates with the long wheelbase and taller front end to make steering feel a bit steadier , especially at high speeds.

The seat tube angle varies by size (that’s typical) but is a bit more relaxed than on other hybrids. That helps maintain a decent hip angle relative to the higher handlebars.

FX geometry: a quintessential, versatile hybrid

The FX comes in step-over or “stagger” (low-step) options. Both come in sizes S-L for riders 5’1″-6’1″, and the step-over FX extends to XXL for those between 6’1″ and 6’8″.

If you were to write down the archetypical hybrid bike geometry, it would probably resemble that of the FX. Everything, from head and seat tube angle (74° and 71.5° on a medium) to the 450mm chainstays, are more relaxed and generous than on a road bike , but still lively enough for weaving through traffic (if that’s your thing).

Some low-step sizes get 1° slacker head tubes than their step-over counterparts, but that isolated difference won’t be too apparent, and certainly won’t be a game-changer.

The low-step FX Stagger models are not true step-through frames. They’ve got far more standover clearance, but aren’t that much easier to swing a leg through. If you want low clearance for getting on and off, then go with the low-step Verve instead.

FX Sport geometry: a surprisingly steady feel

As for the FX Sport, it’s strictly a step-over design , in keeping with practically all high-performance carbon bikes. Sizes XS-XL cover riders from 4’10”-6’6″, so there’s a super-light option for almost everybody—or at least everybody with the cash.

You might expect the FX Sport to share the steep angles and snappy feel of most road bikes, but that’s not the case. Its geometry is nearly identical to that of the regular FX, differing by only a few millimeters here and half a degree there.

I’m of the opinion that aggressive road-bike geometry is overrated in general, and downright undesirable with flat bars (due to their greater leverage and torque), so the FX Sport’s geometry should still keep aggressive riders happy without introducing quirks or unpredictability for less intense ones.

You can always upgrade drivetrain parts (subject to some compatibility limits), but it’s still nice to have good value and plenty of gear range out of the box.

Rather than rehashing the manufacturer’s specs, I’ll draw your attention to a few notable points.

Gear range comparison

Below are the minimum and maximum gear inches for all FX, FX Sport, and Verve models. I’ve also noted the gear configuration, although overall range (high gear inches minus low gear inches) is what really counts.

In my experience, a low under 30″ and a high above 90″ should let you pedal up and down almost anything you’ll tackle on a hybrid. All models check those boxes. To learn how to interpret these numbers, check out this guide to hybrid bike gearing .

Derailleurs

All FX and Verve models use Shimano derailleurs , but from significantly different tiers . I’m glad to see that Trek skips the entry-level Tourney rear derailleur altogether. While serviceable, I always perceive it as less crisp than its slightly upgraded siblings. (It’s manageable as a front derailleur, where shifting is less frequent and needs less precision, so the front Tourney on the Verve 1 + 2 and FX 1 doesn’t bother me.)

I believe the Acera rear derailleur on the FX 3 and Verve 3 makes a meaningful difference from the Altus on the 1-tier bikes…but not enough to justify an upgrade by itself.

On rough terrain, the FX 3’s and FX Sport 4’s clutch-equipped Deore will make a significant difference in shifting precision. The FX Sport 5’s and 6’s GRX (also clutch-equipped) is an appreciable bump up again, but not the night-and-day difference of going from no clutch to clutch in the first place.

Wheels & tires

The Verve 3, FX 3, and all FX Sports come with tubeless-ready rims . It’s still possible to set up conventional rims as tubeless, but it’s a less painful process when they’re designed for that in the first place. Rims are alloy across the board, except for the FX Sport 6, where your (considerable) money buys a carbon set from Bontrager.

The Verve comes with 700C x 45mm tires, which is also the maximum width with or without fenders. That’s a terrific size for city riding: plenty of air volume to absorb all reasonable bumps and chatter, but not so bulky as to slow you down. Sensitive riders might perceive a suppler feel from the Verve 3’s 60 tpi casings (versus 30 tpi on the 1 and 2), but I suspect few will notice and fewer will care.

The FX takes 700C tires up to 38mm without fenders or 35mm with fenders. That’s good clearance for most paved riding, although I’d like to see a few more millimeters to clear fatter tires for rougher city streets and occasional gravel adventures. The FX 3 comes with 32mm tires, as opposed to 35mm on the 1 and 2, which is on the skinner side of what I find appropriate for a modern hybrid.

The FX Sport has stock 700C x 40mm tires. That’s the maximum width with fenders. If you choose to skip fenders, then the tire clearance bumps up to 42mm—nearly as wide as the Verve! That’s quite a bit for such a speedy, pavement-focused, so you’ll be covered for any halfway-decent city street, most gravel routes, and even some gentler trails.

Other components

Beyond what I’ve already covered, you’re likeliest to notice and care about differences in braking and in the feel of the cockpit (namely, the bar and stem).

All FX, FX Sport, and Verve models (except the FX 1) have disc brakes . Hybrids generally don’t need disc brakes unless extreme terrain, sticky mud, or massive cargo are on the agenda. Still, they’re nice to have. (I’m partial to the power and modulation of hydraulic discs over entry-level mechanical. However, high-end mechanical disc brands like Avid and TRP are terrific for anything shy of extreme mountain biking.)

The FX 1’s Tektro V-brakes work terrifically when properly set up. I’ve owned many pairs on many different bikes over the years, and actually find them more powerful and better-modulating than entry-level mechanical discs.

The Verve 1 has Tektro mechanical disc brakes . They’re par for the course in this price range: definitely on the bottom end of usable mechanical discs, and less powerful than good rim brakes, but at least consistent in wet weather. Once the pads bed in with use, they’re serviceable as long as you keep them in meticulous adjustment. Consider upgrading to TRP or Avid mechanical discs if you find them inadequate…although it’s probably cheaper (and definitely easier) just to buy the hydro-equipped Verve 2 in the first place.

You’ll find hydraulic Tektros on the mid-tier Verve 2 and FX 2, and a roughly similar Promax model on the FX Sport 4. I’m not enamored of them, but they’re at least a worthwhile step up from mechanical Tektros. For my money, things start to get good with the Shimano M2xx-series hydros on the Verve 3, FX 3, and FX Sport 5 and 6.

The FX 3, Verve 3, and all FX Sport models use Bontrager IsoZone bars and grips , meaning they include foam inserts to dampen road vibrations. I strongly prefer locking grips like these, since they stay in place perfectly and are easy to remove/replace.

The IsoZone inserts are a simple (and effective) alternative to the suspension stems that some competitors offer. They do not replace proper suspension forks on rough trails, but suspension isn’t necessary for commuting, cruising, fitness riding, or most other uses that hybrids are intended for.

The FX 2 and 3 and all FX Sports have 15mm of handlebar rise and very little sweep (I’d eyeball it at ~10°). The FX 1’s 30mm of rise will feel just a hair more relaxed .

The Verve has a bit more rise—about 45mm depending on the version—but I estimate closer to 30° of sweep for a more neutral wrist angle. You’ll also get a quill stem, which does feel less stiff under power, but is far easier to raise/lower and helps further dampen vibrations.

So, what’s the better cockpit configuration? I’m partial to swept-back handlebars for any and all paved riding, so in my book, the Verve wins for posture and comfort . The wrist angle is simply more pleasant, and I don’t notice a significant difference in control.

Accessories & mounts

Finally, a few details can make it easy or hard to configure your bike for commuting or other practical uses.

Blendr mount compatibility

Besides the FX 1 and Verve 1, all models have Blendr-compatible stems . It’s a nifty mounting system that attaches one or two accessories (like a headlight, phone, and/or computer) directly to the stem rather than cluttering the handlebars.

But given how easily those things mount on their own—usually with a 1/2″- or 1″-wide rubber strap—I’ve never seen the need for a Blendr stem on my personal bikes.

Racks & fenders

All models have fender mounts , so they’re a cinch to equip for year-round rides.

As for luggage, the FX and Verve all include rack mounts . Racks are useful on their own, and perhaps more importantly, they allow for panniers, which are far more comfortable than a backpack and don’t impact handling like a basket.

Unfortunately, the all-carbon FX Sport line skips the rack mounts , so luggage options are essentially limited to a backpack. (You can roll the dice and mount a basket or rack with P-clamps…but carbon frames and forks aren’t always meant to handle forces from those angles.)

Common questions & comparison about the FX & Verve

Should i get the trek verve vs. dual sport.

They differ quite a bit in posture, but not much in performance. Consider the Gen 5 Dual Sport if you’ll regularly ride on dirt/gravel, and prefer a sportier feel than the upright Verve. Conversely, get the Verve if you prefer more upright posture or you need a step-through frame.

I would avoid the Gen 4 Dual Sport. It had a heavy, poorly performing suspension fork, and its 40 mm tires were a bit narrow for off-road use. I’ve recommend the Gen 5 Dual Sport only because Trek switched to a rigid fork and bumped up to 2.0″ (~50 mm) tires.

How about the Dual Sport vs. FX?

The FX and the Gen 5 Dual Sport have substantially similar riding posture, so it’s a question of how much time you’ll spend on pavement versus dirt/gravel.

If you stick to pavement and you like a sportier feel, then the FX still makes sense. Otherwise, if you spend significant time off-road or just want a smoother feel over nasty pavement, the Dual Sport is a terrific option.

Note that between the two, only the FX has a step-through option.

Is it worth upgrading to the Trek Verve 2 vs. Verve 1?

If the extra $200 isn’t a big deal, then I recommend the Verve 2 over the Verve 1. The biggest upgrade is hydraulic disc brakes, which greatly outperform mechanical at this price range. And the Shimano Altus rear derailleur feels modestly but appreciably crisper than the budget Shimano Tourney—especially when shifting over bumpy ground.

The Verve 2 also adds a suspension seatpost, but I wouldn’t let that guide the decision. In my experience, sprung saddles are preferable on upright bikes since they don’t affect leg extension.

Is the Trek FX 1 or FX 2 a better deal?

Budget permitting, I’d pick the FX 2. I staunchly believe the FX 1 is a great value at its price point, but those with extra cash will appreciate the FX 2’s hydraulic disc brakes (vs. rim), slightly more dependable Shimano Altus M2000 derailleur (vs. Altus M210), and nearly two-pound weight savings.

And what about the FX 2 vs. FX 3?

The differences between the FX 2 and FX 3 are more marginal. If price is a concern at all, then stick with the FX 2 and use the savings for apparel or accessories .

To be fair, the FX 3 has a couple of legitimately nice upgrades that I don’t mind paying for. It swaps the aluminum fork for vibration-dampening carbon fiber, and uses a more modern 1×10 drivetrain with the terrific Shimano Deore rear derailleur. But those are incremental improvements, not game-changers.

Summary: Trek FX vs. Verve

I consider all FX, FX Sport, and Verve models good examples of their style and price point . You may find arguably better specs for your money with some direct-to-consumer brands (I’m partial to Priority and Brooklyn) but you’ll sacrifice the convenience and easy test-rides of mainstream bike-shop brands.

The FX and Verve are both terrific for commuting, leisure riding, and fitness/training. Choosing between them comes down to maximizing speed versus comfort . They’re actually more similar than not, but the Verve will keep you slightly more upright. That’s easier on the back and neck, but can feel slow when accelerating or battling a headwind. Don’t worry: the Verve is far from a beach cruiser , so you’ll have no problem climbing hills or navigating tight spaces.

The FX and FX Sport will encourage moderately forward-leaning posture (albeit less aggressive than any drop-bar road bike), which most of us will find more efficient but also less comfortable.

I consider the Verve 3 and FX 3 the best value . On a tighter budget, the Verve 1 and FX 1 remain outstanding choices , especially if you won’t encounter steep hills and foul weather where high-end disc brakes really count. If money’s no object—and you can live without rack mounts—then the FX Sport 6 spares almost no expense to create a snappy and featherweight package.