Dawes 601 (2007), Giant Escape M Zero (2009), or Fuji Absolute LX (2007)??

[Woden1809]

Hi everyone

I'm sure you've answered similar questions before, but I would really appreciate some advice. I'm looking at buying a decent hybrid for around 400 quid. I'm looking to get a more expensive bike but get it on discount. I've narrowed it down to these three:

Dawes (http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/product/11770/Dawes_Discovery_601_Bike_2007)

Fuji (http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2007&Brand=Fuji&Model=Absolute+LX&Type=bike)

Giant (http://www.ashcycles.com/power/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=521)

As far as components go I am fairly ignorant, but for my 23 mile daily commute I have been told these are ok. I would love the Fuji for looks, and I think I would prefer a road-ish bike for speed. The Giant has more of an MTB look and has 26" wheels. Would this make it slower than the Fuji or Dawes, on an inner-city commute? I would like a road style bike, but with the agility of an MTB.

I'm sorry for my lack of knowledge!! I would really appreciate some unput from more knowledgeable people on this. I also wonder if buying a 2007 model over a 2009 model will make much of a difference?

Thanks so much!

 

[Plax]

Dawes Discovery 601.
That's the bike I was going to get before I opted for my Dawes Ultra Galaxy touring bike. I still sometime hanker after it...............

 

[garrilla]

I have Dawes. I like Dawes. Reliable and robust.

 

[Woden1809]

Cheers for the input! After some research on the forums, it seems these are reliable and well-liked bikes.

Being used mostly for inner-city commuting, would the lack of carbon forks make it a rougher ride? This is in comparison to the Fuji and the 601 2009 range...

Cheers

 

[Keith Oates]

Of the three bikes you've listed the Dawes would be my choice, but having said that I don't think you'd be disappointed with the Giant!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Maz]

Out of those 3 I'd get the Dawes (I used to have the '401' for my commute). Personally, if you want a flat-bar bike with roadbike-type speed I would suggest a Specialized Sirrus.

 

[summerdays]

I like my Giant Escape but I have no idea how it compares to the other two. You need to sit on them and see for yourself.

 

[Piemaster]

Giant. I am biased as I've got one and not ridden either of the other two. Try them all before you decide if possible.

 

[superdry]

Out of those 3 I'd get the Dawes (I used to have the '401' for my commute). Personally, if you want a flat-bar bike with roadbike-type speed I would suggest a Specialized Sirrus.

Which sirrus do you mean though? the 2009 standard, the sport?

I'm a bit in the same boat and could get a fiji DX for £210 delivered or an LX for £310 with a discount code on bikemarket.com.
I wouldn't be able to try before I buy though!
Would you plump for the xtra cash & get the sirrus/sirrus sport/other?