Buying Advice

equinefunk

Hi, I hope this isn't an inappropriate post & hopefully you can help.

I am a keen MTBer with 2 bikes, Hard Tail & Full Sus.
I want to cycle the 9 miles to work a couple of times a week & want to use the Cycle 2 work scheme we have. I am looking at some bikes & I'm getting a little bit lost on what is best to buy.

The ride is all on tarmac following cyclepaths & B-roads.

I set a £500 budget.

I've tried the Marin Belvedere & the Specialized Sirrus. I prefered the Belvedere as it seem quicker. The Sirrus was quite close the a MTB....which is not what I want as I can easily put some semi-slicks on my Harad Tail MTB.

What can anyone recommend for £500ish. I've left the budget this low because I want good lights & a good jacket.

I can't use Halford's on our scheme but can use most of the major independent & online retailers.

UndercoverElephant

I didn't think much of the Sirrus, when I was looking around. If it's a hybrid you're after, take a look at the Merida Speeder. I liked that one a lot, I'd probably say it felt faster than the Giant Defy 4 Road bike I also looked at.

That said, I plumped for a BeOne road bike in the end, and am somewhat infatuated. I think I would still have been happy with the Speeder, except for in today's headwind.

equinefunk

Thanks I'll take a look at that. If it's a hybrid I want a fast one, I might consider a road bike as well, if it's accessable & useable for a shorter ride.

UndercoverElephant

I think the general advice is to try as many as you can. I wasn't into the idea of road bikes either when I was looking. Then I tried one, and could see the appeal of the extra hand positions. The Speeder is a bit utilitarian looking, but ultimately would make a pretty good commuter.

jetsstar1

After a lot of research and procrastination I went for a Trek 7.5FX for my daily commute. Some of my commute is off road paths and I chose it for its robustness, reasonable specification and weight for the price. I also lock it outside at work so it couldn't be too pricey. I have to say I am very happy with my choice and would recommend it if you decide a hybrid is good for you.

equinefunk

Thanks one of my LBS choices does the Trek but they were closed over the weekend. I'm also going to look at the Scott Speeder.

equinefunk

Had a look at a couple of bikes but appreciate more feedback if anyone has experience:

Scott Speedster S40, on the list but not sure
Trek 7.5FX
Giant Defy 3
Trek 1.2, delivery is November though now

I like the FX but I'm worried that it might not be quick enough. My LBS has sold out of all the sizes at the moment but is getting some in apart from the Trek 1.5.