Gary Fisher Zebrano

Price Paid:  $450.00 at LBS

Model Year:
2005

Favorite Ride:
Gary Fisher Zebrano

Bike Setup:
Front and rear fenders
Aluminum rack
Cateye Tomo XC computer
Front and rear lights
Wellgo MTB pedals (replace GF platforms)
Considering seat replacement

Summary:
I was forced into buying a new bike after breaking the frame of my existing ride in an accident. It was early August and I soon found that most dealers could no longer get the XL frame I needed.

I didn't want to rehabilitate my old Raleigh 10 speed for the remaining 3-4 months of this cycling season.

I looked at the Giant Cypress, Rocky Mountain Whistler, Trek 7500, Gary Fisher Nirvana, Miele Toscana and the lovely Devinci Copehagen (another class of bike altogether). I ended up settling for the Zebrano S (front suspension)because I could get it now.

I've been commuting with a FS hybrid for 4 years and was confident I wanted to stay with that configuration. You never know when you will be forced off the bike path by a renegade goose or pass over a pothole that didn't exist the day before.

The ride is comfortable, and it is certainly faster than my old bike - thanks to the 8 speed cassette.

My biggest beef is the pedals. The cheap Wellgo plastic platforms don't grip well, particularly in wet weather. I've swapped in the old Wellgo MTB style pedals from my old bike.

I'm not in love with this ride, but it meets my commuting needs. Hopefully next time I will have the luxury of time when buying new bike.

Strengths:
Shimano components
Great looks (Black themed frame, black rims, black seat posts and handle bars)

Weaknesses:
Platform pedals don't grip, plastic "Gary Fisher" tread shredded quickly.

Similar Products Used:
Miele San Marino

Price Paid:  $400.00 at David's World Cycle

Model Year:
2004

Favorite Ride:
Gary Fisher Zebrano

Bike Setup:
Stock bike with addition of back rack, tool bag, front & rear lights, cycling computer, two water bottle holders.

Summary:
I use this bike for almost daily exercise rides - about 40 miles per week. It is comfortable to ride and reasonably fast ( average close to 14 mph). I also use it for running errands (within 3 or 4 miles of my house). I hope to start doing some commuting with it in the near future.

I upgraded from a 5 speed Schwinn "cruiser" so having an aluminum frame and 24 speeds was quite an improvement.

The hybrid is perfect for me - I ride on neighborhood streets - fairly flat with a few hills. The tires are wider than a road bike and provide a smooth ride and excellent stability.

Strengths:
Overall quality - very solid bike, good components

Weaknesses:
None that I have encountered in 3 years.

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $360.00 at AJ Barnes

Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Zebrano

Summary:
Great choice for a true hybrid. My wife wanted to ride but was afraid of road tires and this bike fit her perfect. She can still ride as fast as she wants and does fine off pavement.

Strengths:
Light. Durable frame. Versatile.

Weaknesses:
Only room for one bottle cage on female version.

Similar Products Used:
Treks, Specialized.