Buying Advice
Hybrid bikes are compromise between road and mountain bikes and offer the best features of both if most of your riding will be shorter trips on pavement. With skinnier, smooth tires, they typically can go faster than mountain bikes, yet feature the upright seat and handlebar position that many people favor.
Hybrids are a good choice for most city riding, and offer speed, durability and comfort.
A hybrid bike is one that blends the best characteristics of both road and mountain bikes into a bike that is sturdy, comfortable and fast, and ideal for riding on streets and bike paths.
Features of a hybrid that come from mountain bikes:
- a more upright frame, offering a more comfortable riding position
- a stouter frame that can handle more weight — in rider and/or cargo — as well as absorb the day-in, day-out punishment of potholes, etc., that you might encounter in a commute
- slightly wider tires for better traction and stability
Features that come from road bikes:
- lighter rims for faster riding
- lighter components and taller gearing for going faster
A hybrid is a good choice for much in-town riding. The key to getting a good bike is to find one with decent components. It is these moving parts that will determine how well your bike will function and for how long.
Also, if you’re going to be using a hybrid bike for commuting to work or school, check out the accessories that may make your trip easier and more convenient, such as lights, racks, and locks that can come as built-in features with many models.