Giant Simple 7 or Simple 3 for newbie.

[Shilks]

Hi all,

New to the forum and haven't ridden a bike in almost 20 yrs, and am now about to buy a Giant Simple 3 or 7 - mainly to take casual rides with my 7 and 10yr old daughters, mainly on bike tracks/ around parks etc.

I've picked the cruiser style as I have back issues, made worse by forward bending, so the 'sit up straight' style of the cruisers is best (not to mention that the style suits my attraction to all things vintage!).

I hate to start a form vs function debate, but when I trailed both bikes the simple 7 (ie gears 1-7) was the more comfortable ride when going up hills, and the range of gears and smaller transition between each were more comfortable too ... But (and please be kind) I just really love the colour and the extras (wheel guards, bag rack, etc) of the Simple 3.

So, my question is, 3 months down the track when I've been riding a bit, will I likely be comfortable with the less gears of the 3, or should I just buy the bike that's the better ride right now?

Thanks

Todd

[MattyK]

The 7 speed would always be easier. Can't answer without knowing your ability, mental strength and the hills in your neighbourhood.

[StevOz]

I agree the 7 speed will always be easier, faster, lighter and more efficient, though those a not reasons to buy a cruiser. The Simple 3 does indeed have more appeal as it will be more comfortable riding through puddles and has that ability to carry some supplies or shopping on the rack. The 3 will it be slower, as it is slightly heavier and it's gear range less efficient, though I'd say for your intended purpose it will most likely be the better buy with also less maintenance required. After 3 months of regular riding I should think you will indeed become comfortable with the 3 speed, it's a nice looking ride and has a more classic look to it.