Trek's FX models are flat-barred bikes with city riding in mind. The top of the range 7.6 is the most speed orientated of the lot, with zippy looks and a lively ride that makes it a good fitness tool as well. With hydroformed aluminium tubing it's fairly lightweight overall (and the lightest on test), which makes all the difference on those long climbs.
Luckily the frameset isn't lacking in useful details either - there are well-spaced rear rack mounts, mudguard eyelets, generous tyre clearances front and rear and a disc mount. Forks are carbon fibre for weight-saving and to dampen out road vibrations.
There's only one bottle mount on the down-tube, but as the frame features a low standover height, two bottles wouldn't have fitted anyway. The frame has a high quality look with tidy welding, thoughtful cable routing and an attractive matt grey finish.
Making its mark as a flat-barred road bike, rather than hybrid, the 7.6 FX has a 50/36 compact chainset >and 11-26t cassette. This means it has a higher (harder) gear range than the other bikes on test. On the plus side, the gearing encourages you to push yourself on the climbs and flats. However, for better versatility and load-carrying commuter duties, a triple chainset would have been sensible - the 7.5 and 7.2 both have triples. The wheelset will also appeal to the racer in you, with flashy black spokes and fast rolling 700x28c RaceLite tyres. The riding position is still fairly upright, comfortable and great for visibility in traffic.
The brake levers and grips are specially designed for women to give a closer reach. Shifting is smooth and easy thanks to the Shimano components, including the 105 rear mech. A carbon seatpost and ladies Bontrager cut-out perch finish it off.