Trek 3900 Disc vs. Specialized Hardrock Comp Disc?

Question

What bike do you think is of better quality? The Trek is 479.99 and the Specialized is 550. Not much in price difference. I definitely want disc brakes because I go downhill and through mud a lot. These are the only 2 mountain bike brands my LBS carry's and for my budget these suit me best. Now all I have to do is make my mind up. Good advice would be great.

I'm including links to the specs. of the bikes.

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/3_series/3900disc/print/

http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=32573

Answer 1

be wary of any "bike shop pro" who can tell you the best bike for you, on the internet, without first fitting you to a bike! with the major LBS brands, the quality is virtually the same in various price ranges. ride the bikes (and don't limit your search to just Trek & Specialized), and buy the one that you are most comfortable on. I would try to get to a few more bike shops, if you can, to ride a few more bikes. in my shed there are 6 bikes, all different manufacturers, because of their fit, not their names. all that said, I've always prefered Specialized MTBs. I had a Rockhopper previous to getting my Stumpjumper..

Answer 2

As a Trek dealer, I would have to say Trek.

BUT

The reason why we are a Trek dealer is because they are slightly better than Specialized. ;)

Trek is the #1 retail store brand name in America, by the numbers. It's true they often go head to head with Specialized.

Seriously though, the Trek is the better buy for your dollar, when people come into the store with questions like these, and they buy a 3900, they never come back months later and say "My wallet is too heavy, I wish I had paid $70 more for that Specialized". When you're dealing with entry level bikes outfitted with disc brakes, there's not going to be any difference really, other than cost..

Answer 3

The specialized has better components so that would be my choice. With that said, I think it is important to ride both bike to see which fits better. I am tall so certain bikes fit me better than others. The same will be true if you are shorter. If they fit the same, i'd spend the extra on the specialized.