Trek 3500 Vs 3700 Mountain Bikes

Are you planning to buy a new mountain bike and have been wondering whether to go for Trek 3500 or Trek 3700? (Trek 3500 Vs 3700) Choosing the right mountain bike is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable ride on rough terrains. Both bikes have pros and cons, and deciding which one to go for can be challenging. In this article, we will compare Trek 3500 vs 3700 mountain bikes and help you make an informed decision.

Overview

Before diving into the detailed comparison, let’s overview both bikes.

Trek 3500

Trek 3500 is a versatile mountain bike designed for entry-level riders who want to explore off-road trails. It features an aluminum frame, a 21-speed drivetrain, and front suspension. The bike is available in various sizes, and the price ranges from $500 to $600.

Trek 3700

Trek 3700 is an upgraded version of the Trek 3500 with some additional features. It also has an aluminum frame and front suspension, but it comes with a 24-speed drivetrain, hydraulic disc brakes, and a lockout feature for the suspension. The bike is available in various sizes, ranging from $700 to $800.

Comparison

Let’s compare Trek 3500 Vs 3700 bikes based on their features and performance.

Frame

Both Trek 3500 vs 3700 have an aluminum frame, which is durable and lightweight. However, the 3700 has a slightly bigger frame size, which makes it suitable for taller riders. The 3700 also has internal cable routing, making it look cleaner.

Suspension

Trek 3500 Vs 3700 both have front suspension, but the 3700 has an additional lockout feature. This feature allows you to lock the suspension, which makes it easier to climb hills or ride on smooth roads. The lockout feature is missing in Trek 3500, so you must deal with some bouncing while climbing.

Winner: Trek 3700

Drivetrain

Trek 3500 has a 21-speed drivetrain, which is good enough for entry-level riders. However, Trek 3700 comes with a 24-speed drivetrain, which gives you more options to adjust your speed and cadence. The additional gears also come in handy when you are riding on steep hills or challenging terrains.

Brakes

Trek 3500 has V-brakes, which are sufficient for moderate off-road trails. However, Trek 3700 comes with hydraulic disc brakes, which provide better-stopping power and control, especially on steep downhill sections.

Performance Comparison

Trek 3500

The Trek 3500 is a solid entry-level mountain bike that can handle a variety of terrain. It’s great for casual riders who want a bike that can handle some light off-road riding, but it’s not designed for more serious trail riding. The suspension is basic, but it does a decent job of smoothing out small bumps and vibrations. The drivetrain is reliable, but it can be clunky and shift slow.

Trek 3700

The Trek 3700 is a step up from the Trek 3500, with more advanced components and features. It’s a great choice for riders who want a bike that can handle more challenging trails and terrain. The suspension is more advanced, with a lockout feature that can provide a stiffer ride for climbing. The drivetrain is smoother and more responsive, which can make a big difference on technical trails.

Pros

Trek 3500 Pros	Trek 3700 Pros
Affordable price	More advanced suspension system than the Trek 3500
Lightweight and durable frame	More precise and smoother shifting with the Shimano Acera derailleur
Versatile and suitable for various terrains	Larger disc rotors for improved stopping power
Reliable Shimano gearing and derailleur	Suitable for various terrains
Powerful hydraulic disc brakes	Easy to assemble and maintain
Easy to assemble and maintain

Cons

Trek 3500 Cons	Trek 3700 Cons
Basic suspension system may not be suitable for more challenging terrains	Slightly heavier compared to the Trek 3500
Limited gear range may not be suitable for steep climbs or high-speed descents.	Higher price point compared to the Trek 3500
Basic Shimano Tourney derailleur may not be as smooth or precise as higher-end models	Basic suspension system may not be suitable for more challenging terrains
Smaller disc rotors may not offer as much stopping power as larger ones	Limited gear range may not be suitable for steep climbs or high-speed descents
No option for a larger wheel size	No option for a larger wheel size
Not as versatile as other models in the Trek mountain bike lineup	Not as versatile as other models in the Trek mountain bike lineup

Tires

Both Trek 3500 Vs3700 have 29-inch wheels, which provide better stability and control on rough terrains. However, Trek 3700 has wider tires with better traction, which makes it more suitable for technical off-road trails.

Price

The Trek 3700 is more expensive than Trek 3500 but has more features and better performance. If you are on a tight budget, the Trek 3500 is a good option. However, if you can afford the extra cost, the Trek 3700 is a better investment in the long run.

Conclusion

Both Trek 3500 Vs 3700 are good mountain bikes, but Trek 3700 is a clear winner when it comes to features and performance. If you are an entry-level rider and want to explore off-road trails occasionally, Trek 3500 can be a good choice. However, if you are a serious rider and want a bike with better performance and features, Trek 3700 is the way to go. It is a more versatile bike that can handle various terrains and riding styles.

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