specialized sirrus v giant fcr

[NickMiller]

I have had a good look at hybrid bikes via websites and bike shops. I had been advised of getting the Specialized Sirrus Elite (£499) but recently read an article ina magazine which rated the Giant FCR 2.0 (£495) really well.

Both have got similar specs - the main differences being:

Pure carbon forks on the Giant
Tektro leavers on the Giant brakes (what are these?)

I would appreciate a bit of advice on which of these is a better buy (based on brand reputations, spec etc) and if you know any similar spec or priced bikes you would buy as an alternative?

Thanks

Nick

 

[bonj2]

prob'ly not much in it. Can you ride them both? just get the one you like the look of (and/or feel of) best.

 

[Slim]

From my discussion in the LBS....

"The FCR is a bit more geared towards the road-bike-with-flat-bars end of the hybrid spectrum."

"The Sirrus is a bit more robust and would suit the, Ahem!, heavier rider like you".

I bought the Sirrus (Comp model FWIW) and have been more than happy with it. As much as I liked the FCR, the Sirrus just felt about right.

 

[008]

I test rode both bikes and there isn't much in them at all. The Sirrus Elite was slightly more comfortable but the FCR 2 felt a little quicker. In the end, I went for the Sirrus Elite as it just happened to come up in the sales and was £70 cheaper.

I also tried a couple of Marins (Fairfax & Sausalito) which are similarly spec'ed but just didn't like the feel of either. The old advice of trying before you buy really is a must.

I've just put 23c Schwalbe Stelvio Plus tyres on and it feels even better, much quicker without any loss of comfort.

 

[Maz]

I have the Sirrus Elite too. Unless they've changed the spec for this year's model, mine came with front carbon fork and carbon seatpost. It's a nippy lightweight bike. Great for commuting and can take mudguards if you want them. I too have changed the 28mm tyres down to 23mm.

 

[Spicy]

Hi, I bought the Sirrus Elite in Feb for 20 mile comute (round trip). Fitted bar ends and mud guards. It's fast, robust reliable and comfy!

 

[008]

If you think it's fast now... wait til you get some 23c tyres on it, then you'll be flying!

I was a bit worried about compromising on comfort at first but the Stelvio Plus' are excellent... can't recommend them enough!