Cannondale F6 Feminine vs. Trek 4500WSD

[lilred]

Of course, I am trying to make the best bike choice.
I am beginning to narrow my choices but I don't want to make a stupid decision in components.

I'd appreciate any and all thoughts in comparing the above referenced bikes. Is there any reason why I should choose connondale over trek or vice versa?

Rock shox 2 or Rock shox 3
Rear Derailleur Shimano Alivio or Shimano Deore
Shifters: Shimano SL-MC40 or Shimano Alivio, 8 speed
Tires CST Caballero or Bontrager Jones

Does anybody know how the cannondale women's frames differ from the Trek WSD.

It seems to me that the Cannondale F6 Feminine and Trek 4500WSD are similar; what do you think?


I haven't been able to contribute any opinion to this forum, but I have really appreciated the knowledge you all have to give. Thanks for your responses.

[cyclesafe]

These two bikes are essentially the same.  However the turn key lockout and external rebound adjustment on the Rock Shox 3 gives the nod IMHO to the Trek.

Component name obfustication is a marketing tool to keep consumers confused and subject to the LBS's pitch.  If your heart is set on one of these two bikes, or if your budget is limited to bikes of this overall quality, then if I were you I'd test ride both and decide for yourself which one you like best.  Also, I would ride non-woman-specific bikes since you might find one that fits you better - please, no offense intended.  The sex differentiation of bicycles, including seats, IMHO is another silly marketing ploy to reduce competition and to make the consumer pay more money.  Between bikes of essentially equivalent componentry, buy the one that is the most comfortable for you to ride regardless of what the decal says.  Decals come off if you don't like the name.

If you plan to tour with a rear rack, make sure that there are mountings for them - otherwise you're limited to pulling a trailer (not an inferior option).  Most importantly, however, if you plan to tour, you should get better wheels.