Newbie to cycling

[AmericanWoman]

Hi everyone! I tried to do a search for my questions but came up short.
Anyway, I am looking into getting a new bike. I had a Kuwahara Shasta hybrid bike but it just wasn't right for me so I sold it. I've saved up about $1000 and have been doing some research on different styles of bike. I would love to get into serious touring one day but don't have the budget right now for that sort of thing. I've tested some Trek and Giant bikes that seemed nice. I think I've settled on the 2012 Trek 7.3FX w/Disc brakes. I guess I should say that I'll be using this bike for recreation and commuting. Do you guys think that this bike would be a good entry level bike for touring as well? I've found a few Miyata and Cannondale touring bikes on craigslist but I'm wary of buying used bikes especially when I have little knowledge of bike components or mechanics. I know that $1000 probably is the low end for a great bike but it is what it is. Thanks in advance!

 

[the snail]

It looks like a nice bike, but I'd go for something with mudguards to keep you clean if it's wet on your commute, and a rack (or at least mountings for rack) - then you would be set for some touring
something like this?

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/ridgeback/speed-2011-hybrid-bike-ec025096

welcome to the forum too!

 

[Cyclist33]

Why not look out for 2011 models which should be cheaper by this time of the season? Like you could probably get the Trek 7.5FX which is the next one up, for the same price as next year's 7.3...!

Cheers

Stu

PS Welcome :-)

 

[AmericanWoman]

That is a great point Stu! It's just been difficult to find last years models. For some reason the bike stores here tend to sell out fast and obviously they push the new ones pretty hard.

@the snail, I will definitely be adding fenders and rear rack it's just that they don't sell bikes here with ANY accessories, not even a kick stand!

 

[Angelfishsolo]

Looking at the spec I think it would be a great bike for touring on.

 

[AmericanWoman]

TY Angel! I wasn't sure. The guy at the store told me that this trek is considered an "exercise" bike. haha