Which bike to choose?

Question
Hi Scott,

My name is Mike.  I am currently at a crossroad.  I am trying to decide between a Trek mountain bike 3900/4300 or a Trek 7300 FX.  This is my first time buying a bike so I'm pretty new at this.  I am currently a college student and will using it mostly for commuting purposes and exercising.  But at times I may be riding along rough terrain but not as rough as in down muddy hills.  It's more so maybe down a grassy hill or along a dirt bike path.  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Mike

Answer
I'm more of a road cyclist so not that familiar with Mountain bikes. I took a look at the three models you mention. I would be inclined to recommend the 7300 because of the better frame. The thing I couldn't tell well was the tires. You might opt to change the tires for ones with a more rugged tread.

HTH
Scott<>