Looking for a Hybrid/Fitness Bike

polstralian on 10/10/2020 - 20:31
Last edited 10/10/2020 - 20:31

Hi everyone. I posted a similar question a few weeks ago. Ever since I tried a number of bikes and changed my perspective on what I like vs the last post.

I still need an advice from someone who has a better knowledge and expertise.

The last time I owned a bike I was 10 and that was 20+ years ago. I am finding it difficult to decide what to go for with the countless options available. I will be riding for leisure and fitness a few times a week around mostly flat paths with the occasional gravel/dirt or sightly uneven paths (Melbourne).

I have narrowed it down to:

Cannondale Quick 3 – https://www.cannondale.com/en-au/bikes/active/fitness/quick/…
Giant Cross City 1 2020 – https://www.giant-bicycles.com/au/cross-city-1-disc-2020

I love the look of the Cannondale but the Giant Cross City is $399 cheaper and it has a slightly better groupset, unofrtunately I am not entirely convinced that I like that silvery blue-ish colour.

Can anyone comment on the main differences between the Shimano Altus rear derailleur on the Giant and the Altus on the Cannondale, please?

The Cannondale is sleek and gorgeous though.

I genuinely appreciate any advice. Thanks!

Poll Options

  • 3
    Giant Cross City 1 2020
  • 2
    Cannondale Quick 3 2021
Sports & Outdoors

Comments

  • brendanm on 10/10/2020 - 20:49
    +1

    Looks like it's only the rear mech that is alivio on the giant. Rest of the components are lower end/similar to the Cannondale.

    I'd be more worried about which is lighter, they both look pretty good.

  • Hugh G Rection on 10/10/2020 - 21:17

    the more you spend, the better it is. buy once, cry once.

    • Euphemistic on 11/10/2020 - 11:52
      -1

      That doesn’t necessarily apply when buying a premium brand. While there might be some differences, it’s like comparing a Volvo with a Toyota. Both well built, both offering similar features but one with a premium brand image and price to match.

  • nandystam on 10/10/2020 - 22:16
    +1

    "Puncture-resistant tyres, featuring the new Giant EasyRide Tubeless system"

    I would be asking if those tires on the Giant are mounted tubeless, or if the wheels are simply "tubeless ready" e.g. able to mount tubeless tyres (but not included). If the bike comes with tubeless tyres that would make it a much better deal.

    EDIT: Also worth asking that EasyRide Tubeless system is proprietary - can you mount other brands of tyres on it or do you have to use Giant tyres?

    • polstralian on 10/10/2020 - 22:31

      They are tubeless on the Giant.

  • brotherfranciz on 10/10/2020 - 23:37

    I love the look of the Cannondale but the Giant Cross City… I am not entirely convinced that I like that silvery blue-ish colour…

    The Cannondale is sleek and gorgeous though.

    I've learnt not to judge bikes by their paint jobs, especially just through images.

    I would suggest doing a test ride, although not sure how during the lockdown…

    • polstralian on 10/10/2020 - 23:58

      Both bikes have been tested in person. Both ride beautifully. The Cannondale looks much better in person than in the photos.

  • silverbluephoenix on 11/10/2020 - 03:23

    normally, its recommended to choose who got better frame over the groupset as you can always upgrade gears later on. choose who got carbon frame (even if its just carbon fork). if both are aluminum, might as well go with the one whose color you prefer.

    • Euphemistic on 12/10/2020 - 16:26

      While I agree with this, the practicality of upgrading groupsets on a first bike would very rarely happen. More likely to upgrade the whole bike.

      Do agree with buying the best frame possible. That may not mean the ‘best’ frame if it doesnt suit your riding style though.

  • Euphemistic on 11/10/2020 - 06:36
    +4

    There is a little difference between the different group sets. The hierarchy is Altus, Acera, Alivio from lowest to highest. They are all good and will work well. Generally the lowest group is heaviest with least gears. If it was the final decision maker in my choice I’d pick the highest spec shifters as they make the biggest difference for upgrades.

    Don’t get lost in the minutiae of specs, leave that for the cycle nerds. Go with your gut if the spec is similar.

    End of the day buy the one you want to ride more - and that might just be chosen by your favourite colour. Both bikes will do the job well. Giant is a bit like Toyota while Cannondale is more like Volvo. Ie both good and solid, but one has a mildly premium reputation. If you can afford the extra cash just do it.

    • polstralian on 11/10/2020 - 11:25
      +1

      This is a great, comprehensive answer! Really appreciate it.

  • MisterNobody on 17/10/2020 - 09:58
    +1

    Definately worth a look: https://www.99bikes.com.au/norco-search-xr-a-fb-gravel-bike-…

    • polstralian on 17/10/2020 - 10:08

      Looks like a nice option however no stock. Do you own one?

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