[LyncStar]

Any thoughts on a good hybrid bike that REI might sell??? What is the story with the Novarra (sp?) line????

 

[wsexson]

Several:

http://www.rei.com/online/store/Sea...ext=1&link=1&cm_re=toc*4M*Comfort_Urban_bikes

Go to REI and have them show you what they have available.

 

[Cory]

Just bought one for my wife...15% off until May 14

Any thoughts on a good hybrid bike that REI might sell??? What is the story with the Novarra (sp?) line????

Actually hers isn't a hybrid in name--they call it a "road bike with the comfort of mountain bike controls"--but it's perfect for the riding she does, casual around-town and MUT stuff with an occasional 50-miler. She got this one:
http://www.rei.com/online/store/Pro...63&parent_category_rn=4500865&vcat=REI_SEARCH
It's fairly light for the price and came with road tires (700x28), but there's room for fatter rubber if you want it.
I've NEARLY bought REI bikes two or three times before, but decided on something else for various reasons (usually fit--they don't make most frames bigger than 62cm, and I need at least a 64). My impression is that the quality is decent in a given price range, and the prices are competitive. I don't see many Novaras on the road, but people I've talked with who have them seem pleased. If you're an REI member ($15 for a lifetime, I think) you get 10 percent back in credit at the end of the year, which is nice.

 

[bundokbiker]

I was just cruising their new store in santa monica

and noticed a 700c bike. I couldn't decide if it was a hybrid, 29er or CX with a flat bar. the bike seemed to be priced and speced competitively. They look to be nice bikes, but don't have much recognition/marketing behind the brand.

http://www.rei.com/online/store/Pro...&parent_category_rn=4500775&vcat=searchrefine

Novara is REI's store brand. I'd guess they're made in Taiwan... probably in the same factory as other brands you're familiar with. At least you'll have REI backing if you have frame issues.