Messages

1

Gear Talk / Re: Trek 520

« on: June 08, 2010, 08:25:37 am »

The only similar bike is the Surly LHT; everything else is either cheaper, pricier, or meant for a slightly different purpose.

So why should you buy the LHT instead? The componentry is better. The XT/Tiagra derailer combo shifts better than the LX/LX combo, and quite frankly 48 teeth on a MTB front derailer - although very common - isn't a great idea. The LHT's XT hubs are better than the 520's LX hubs, and the LHT's rims are generally held in higher regard than the 520's. The 520's cassette is of lower quality than the LHT and you can get (marginally) lower gear ratios with the LHT. The 520 uses V-pull brakes while the LHT uses Cantilevers (one isn't necessarily better, but some prefer one or the other).

BUT

The 520 is a great choice and looks about 10,000 times better than the LHT. Why do you want to talked out of purchasing a fantastic bike? If you like the bike, if it looks good, if it feels right, if it does what you want, and if you can afford it, BUY IT!

It's not that I want to be talked out of buying the bike, it's that I want to make sure I'm getting the right bike.

2

Gear Talk / Trek 520

« on: June 07, 2010, 10:40:46 pm »

So I've gotten hooked reading about touring. I've a pretty avid hiker, and this appeals to me in so many ways. Well, my question is this...

I've been doing tons of research, and it seems that I'm leaning toward buying a Trek 520 for my first touring bike. I want to know why some of you think I "shouldn't" buy this bike. I keep reading great reviews, but I need the opinion of some vets to reassure me that I'm making the right decision.

Thanks in advance!
SPC