If you’re into bikes, this might not be your first encounter with the term ‘Hybrid Bicycles’. In case, if you would like to explore the world on two wheels with all the different landscapes from mountainsides to beaches, what you need in simpler terms is the best hybrid bicycle. Even if you’re unfamiliar with these varieties and buying one for the first time, worry not since we are here to guide you in your mission. We have also had our experts test some of the top favorite models of hybrid bicycles which the customers have been purchasing most frequently and handpicked from among them only the ones which we found perfect in every respect. You will find these handpicked models in the hybrid bicycles reviews section of our guide.
What is a Hybrid Bicycle?
For all those who haven’t heard the name hybrid bike before or aren’t really sure as to what it means, you need to first be able to understand the meaning and the purpose of a hybrid bicycle before you can decide if you really need one in your life.
As the name itself suggests, it is a cross between a mountain bike and a standard road bike in the simplest terms. The manufacturers of hybrid bicycle have utilized the best features of both basic types of bikes to come up with a bike that is suitable for riding on any type of path comfortably and smoothly.
If you want to go into the technical stuff, you should know that the tyres of these hybrid bicycle are a bit wider than those which you will find in a standard road bike but are somewhat narrower than the tyres of mountain bikes. Around 30mm is the standard wheel size for most types of hybrid bicycles. The handlebars are flat while the seat is positioned in a way that allows the rider to ride comfortable with their backs straight.
Best Hybrid Bicycles in Summary
What types of hybrid bicycles are there?
Hybrid bicycle is not a simple category of bikes by any means. There exists a huge range of varieties in which these hybrid bicycles are available. Your preferences and the type of terrain you usually take will determine which types of hybrid bicycle would suit you best. We have categorized the different types of hybrid bicycles in a few basic classifications to help you decide your choice. Here are the basic types of hybrid bicycles among which you can make a choice.
Mountain bike influenced hybrid bicycle:
The hybrid bicycles which are closer in design to mountain bikes are the ones that are called mountain bike influenced hybrid bicycles. In these hybrid bicycle varieties you will find greater technology and features which promote off-road riding. You will usually find in them a suspension fork, wider tyres to provide greater grip on rough roads, and hydraulic disc brakes for greater control. There tough construction and sturdy design makes them almost as ideal as a mountain bike for hillsides and rough tracks.
Road bike influenced hybrid bicycle:
Road bike influenced hybrid bicycles are different from the first category of hybrid bicycles that we have listed in the sense that these types of bikes are closer in design to the standard road bikes that you find in stores. The technology and the design features that these types of hybrid bicycles include are quite similar to those which you will find in a road bike. Sometimes the only feature which will set apart a road bike influenced hybrid bicycle and a standard road bike is the handle bar. These hybrid bicycles will have flat handlebars unlike the standard varieties of road bikes. The gearing on these bikes is pretty similar to that on a road bike and so are its narrow tyres and aluminum frame. These hybrid bicycles are fast on smooth roads but not very suitable for riding off-road.
Lifestyle hybrid bicycle:
These are the luxurious varieties of hybrid bicycles; their designs are less influenced by road bikes or mountain bikes and more by the fashion of the present day. The construction is simple with hub gears and a straightforward brake system which are also easy to maintain as compared to most other varieties of hybrid bicycles. They will take you at a reasonable pace keeping your comfort and style its top preference.
Utility hybrid bicycle:
Finally we bring for you the category of hybrid bicycles which have it all! You will find utility hybrid bicycles as comfortable to ride as a lifestyle hybrid bicycle, as fast as a road bike influenced hybrid bicycle and, at the same time, as tough in design as a mountain bike influenced hybrid bicycle to take on most kinds of off-road paths with expertise. They will offer a relaxing position for the rider to take, mudguard mounts for a comfortable off-road ride, gears with a wide range of speeds to suit all kinds of terrains, strong brakes and a good wheel size suitable for many types of paths.
Hybrid Bicycle Reviews
#1. Schwinn Discover Hybrid Bicycle
If you have had even a little experience with bicycles, you would know that Schwinn produces one of the best ones. Here is a top-of-the-class hybrid bicycle constructed with a frame that’s made with aluminum to keep it lightweight and is available in separate designs for based on gender. Although it features a classic look, it includes all the features you would expect in a modern hybrid bicycle from a front suspension fork and rear rack to a 21 speed twist shifter which lets you take all kinds of routes and all kinds of terrains with complete ease. The 28 inch tires offer a speedy and a smooth ride on the roughest of the terrains while the front and back linear pull brakes allow for better brake feedback. The combination of the upright handlebars and its cushioned seat makes riding comfortable while the fenders over the tires keep of the dirt from your fancy clothes. Overall, this particular hybrid bicycle makes a classy and enjoyable ride and that too at a very affordable price. Whether you are pedaling uphill for leisure or riding back home from work, you won’t regret your decision to pick this hybrid bicycle. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
Something you need to be aware of before purchasing the bicycle is that it will not come pre-assembled. You will have to spend a little while putting it together before it’s ready for a ride. You might even have to take a professional’s help to be able to do so correctly.
#2. Sixthreezero Evryjourney Women’s Hybrid Bicycle
This one makes a classy ride for women which is available in a bunch of different styles and color schemes to match your preferences. Besides the different colors schemes, you will also find different designs for the same model which vary in the size of their tires and speed choices. While this women’s hybrid bicycle features a 7-speed external hub, you will also find 1-speed, 3-speed and even 27-speed options in the same bicycle. The front and rear hand brakes allow for superior braking performance while the upright riding position makes it comfortable to ride long distances. Furthermore, the aluminum frame makes it super light in weight while the cushioned dual-spring saddle makes it comfortable to sit on. The matching fenders give the bicycle a classy look while also preventing any mud splashes from reaching the frame. The rear rack is where you will be hanging all your groceries on a trip back from the store. The 26” tires are sufficiently wide to provide stability on the road while also absorbing most bumps on the road without letting the rider take any notice. You can also find the same design in 24” tires if you want an even lighter hybrid bicycle. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
While everything else about this hybrid bicycle is commendable, the assembly isn’t. Yes, as is the problem with many other models of hybrid bicycles, this one too comes in parts when ordered online and will require a good amount of time and brains to be assembled.
#3. Schwinn Volare 1200 Hybrid Bicycle
Here is another hybrid bicycle around the same price range as the first one we have listed. It comes with a durable and lightweight frame of aluminum which is built for both comfort and performance. Ideal for both regular and leisure riding, this men’s hybrid bicycle comes with a set of alloy pull brakes at the back and front just like those included in the Schwinn Discover model discussed above. 21-speed EZ Fire shifters are reinforced with Shimano rear derailleur for an even better response of speed adjustments. The wheels are made of alloy to give superior performance on the road while maintaining the weight of the bicycle to a minimum while the 700c tires offer an improved grip on all road conditions. The handlebars are flat styled and the seat is rather high to add speed to your ride. To top it all off, the Schwinn Volare 1200 comes with a limited lifetime warranty so that you won’t face any trouble riding it for as long as you hold it in your possession. Overall, with the great finish, superior riding performance and a simple assembly, it is among the top favorite of most customers. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
Although the majority of the features are excellent, the seat could have been more comfortable according to many users. Also the handlebars are not the most comfortable ones since they are not ergonomically designed.
#4. Sixthreezero Evryjourney Men’s Hybrid Bicycle
Here is another one from the same company as the third one on our list with pretty much the same design features except that it is built for men. It comes at exactly the same price and with the same 7-speed external hub to allow speedy rides on flat ground and effortless riding at an angle. The exact same design for men is also available in 1, 3 and 21 speed options. The lightweight aluminum frame is perfect for leisure riding as well as daily commuting. The riding style is upright along with an adjustable seat and handlebar which makes it a comfortable ride for everyone. You will also like the matching fenders and the rear rack which safely carries your belongings to work or back home. The bicycle offers both front and rear hand brakes to offer better braking power. Furthermore, the 26” wide tires of the hybrid bicycle make for a stable and smooth ride. Even with all the quality features involved, the hybrid bicycle weighs only 40 pounds and is very simple to maneuver through sidewalks as well as rocky pathways. With the large wheels, lightweight body, padded saddle and a stylish look, it is truly one of the best rides in the market. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
Some of the issues which were found in the model were its difficult-to-assemble brakes as the bicycle does not come pre-assembled when ordered online. Also the weight limit of the bicycle is 300 pounds which makes it unsuitable for some heavier riders.
5. Schwinn Wayfarer Hybrid Bicycle
Here is yet another pick from Schwinn which made it to the list since it’s currently the no. 1 best selling hybrid bicycle on Amazon. There are actually a number of reasons which make it a best seller including its classy steel frame and suspension fork which also makes the bicycle much more durable in comparison with the rest. It’s a solid bike for daily commuting and for leisure riding for women with handlebars of swept-back design so that the rider may enjoy the comforts of an upright riding position. The 7-speed shifter enables smooth transitions in speed so that you enjoy comfortable rides on both flat and hilly surfaces. Besides, the braking system is superior and responsive with front and rear alloy brakes. Its 700c tires which account for a stable and smooth ride on all kinds of surfaces are also reinforced with fenders which keep the dirt and water from puddles far from your bike’s frame. With all the other superior features of this hybrid bicycle, you also get to enjoy the limited lifetime warranty available from the manufacturer which is surprising at such a small price. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
Besides the difficult assembly which seems to be a common con with bicycles, some users have pointed out that the seat isn’t super comfortable and the bicycle is a bit heavier as compared to most other models.
6. Kent Springdale Hybrid Bicycle
Among the cheapest on our list is this one by Northwoods which comes with a classy retro look and a lightweight frame made of aluminum to allow for easy maneuverability. Although the price is among the lowest, the features are just as attractive as you would expect in any of the high-end hybrid bicycles with linear pull brakes and 21-speed Shimano gear shifter to make the vehicle suitable for all kinds of riding; a crowded street, a bumpy pathway or up a slope. This multipurpose bicycle is designed with an upright riding position to give a comfortable ride. To ensure further comfort of the rider, the cushioned seat is fitted with a quick release clamp. Besides the front and rear fenders to prevent the rider from any splashes when they ride through a puddle, there is also a front suspension to ensure a smooth ride even on a bumpy road. Of course the 700c tires also contribute to a speedier and a smoother ride on all surfaces. Overall, with all the fancy features and extras including great quality alloy rims and rear rack, the bicycle makes a great purchase. The same design is also available in a white frame designed for women. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
The feedback for this bicycle is generally all good except regarding its gearing system which can be a little problematic at times. Also, you should know that it is not the most lightweight bicycle that you should expect to find. It is, in fact, a bit heavier than many other hybrid bicycles that are available.
7. Diamondback Bicycles Vital 2 Hybrid bicycle
Whether you ride a bicycle to stay fit or to commute to work, this hybrid bicycle is designed for all the active women out there. One of the distinguishing features of this hybrid bicycle has to be its unusually strong frame constructed out of 6061-T6 aluminum which makes your purchase a lifelong investment. The bicycle is designed for an upright riding position and the stem is adjustable so that you can adjust the position of the handlebars to suit your comfort. Furthermore, to ensure a completely smooth ride on a bumpy road the HL zoom suspension fork at the front works together with the suspension seatpost to absorb shocks that may come from a bumpy surface. As for riding uphill and downhill, it’s no problem at all with the 21-speed drive train with reliable shifting. Besides, 700c tires not only ensure a smoother ride but a faster one as well. While most hybrid bicycles will need to be assembled upon arrival, this one is delivered 95% assembled. You can easily get it in ready to ride in about half an hour without any professional help. What’s just as great is that it is available in two sizes so that both taller women and shorter women may easily find their perfect fit. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
The only drawback to the bicycle seems to be the absence of fenders and mudguards which would mean you need to be especially careful on a muddy road as there is nothing to prevent the splashes of dirt from reaching your clothes.
8. Retrospec Urban City Hybrid Bicycle
If you like a hybrid bicycle which poses a retro look but includes all the modern features, this is the one you really need. Available in a bunch of different styles and 3 sizes to make your pick from, this hybrid bicycle is designed for men who will use it for commuting to work, riding for leisure or riding as an exercise. The hand-crafted steel frame isn’t simply lightweight and stylish, it also means that the bicycle is built to last. The 7-speed drivetrain and RevoShift twist shifters allow for crisp and simple transitions between speeds whether you are riding uphill, downhill or on a flat surface. Front and rear pull brakes further ensure that you have complete control of your bicycle at all times. As for the tires, you should be completely reassured that you will enjoy a stable and smooth ride with the 700X35c tires that are a part of this hybrid bicycle. Although, the bicycle comes 85% assembled in the box, the clear instructions and simple-to-use assembly tools will make the rest of the task quite simple for you. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
Some of the concerns of the customers were related to the assembly of the bicycle which takes a bit of an effort while some mentioned that the seat lacks enough cushioning to make the ride comfortable. One of the users also mentioned that the seat becomes loose pretty soon after you start riding it.
9. Raleigh Cadent 2 Hybrid Bicycle
Available in a bold green color and 4 sizes to choose according to your height, this hybrid bicycle is among the more expensive choices in the market. Built for all weather conditions, the bicycle comes with a well-built aluminum frame that makes the bicycle lightweight and exceptionally simple to maneuver through a crowded street. What’s also great about this hybrid bicycle is the Tektro Novela Mechanical Disc Braking System which ensures a reliable stopping power no matter what situation you might encounter on the road. The 35c tires accompanied by the large 700c wheels offer improved traction on the ground and encourage a faster ride. 3 front and 8 rear speed shifter make a total of 24 gears for making it even easier to ride uphill. Besides, the clear assembling instructions and online tutorials will make it very easy to put the bicycle together and begin riding it. Built by a trusted brand, you can rest assured of the quality, durability and performance of this hybrid bicycle which is probably the reasons why it makes such a popular purchase despite the higher price tag. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawbacks:
The bike comes with a fender mount but does not include a fender in the package. You might want to buy it separately in case you might need it on a muddy day. Also the gear system requires proper tuning to work with perfection. The price might also not be within everyone’s budget.
10. Fortified Theft-Resistant Hybrid Bicycle
If you are hunting for the ultimate King of the Road in case of a hybrid bicycle, this is just the one for you. Although this model is only for those for whom price isn’t a constraint, it is a reliable commuter bike for the city which can also be taking on an off-road weekend adventure just as easily. What makes this bicycle so reliable for transportation is that it comes with custom security bolts to render it completely safe from thieves. Besides, the lightweight aluminum frame together with the chain of the bicycle is 100% rust resistant to make it suitable for riding in all weather conditions. Besides, the disc braking system provides a more reliable braking power than what one might find in most other hybrid bicycles available in the market. The 8 speed KMC shifter with simple-to-use thumb gear switch makes it simple to transition between speeds whether you are riding up the hill or accelerating on flat ground. You will also appreciate the puncture resistant 700X32c tires which keep the bicycle always ready for a spin without showing any signs of a flat tire. With the anti-theft features and the tough frame, it is quite frankly a smart purchase for anyone. Read Complete Review Here.
Drawback:
Besides the higher price tag of this hybrid bicycle, there aren’t really any potential drawbacks to talk about.
11. Raleigh Cadent 1 Fitness Hybrid bicycle
Ride in style with this elegant fitness bike on our list which is also highly comfortable and versatile for regular commuters. Top of the class aluminum makes the bike lightweight for hauling while the upright seating position for the rider makes it comfortable for longer travels.
The 35C tires fitted on 700C wheels which are incorporated into the design provide superior contact with all kinds of surfaces to maintain the right balance on rough surfaces and provide excellent speed on smooth surfaces. With these set of tires you can take hilly terrains or smooth city pathways without compromising on the speed or the balance of the bike.
3×7 Shimano Tourney gears which are features in the design of this hybrid bicycles lets you switch between 21 different speeds for easily accelerating to high speeds on a flat surface and maintaining a good speed while moving uphill.
The hybrid bicycle will be shipped partly assembled to you which you can easily assemble on your own and start riding it right away without the assistance of an expert. The hybrid bicycle offers 4 sizes in the same design so that you can pick the most appropriate one for your height.
Drawbacks:
You won’t find any suspension forks in the design meaning that you are going to feel all the bumps you drive through while cruising on an uneven surface. However, you can purchase it separately to install it on your hybrid bicycle if you generally take rough pathways on your journeys.
12. Schwinn Phocus Flat Bar Hybrid Bicycle
Although it says ‘road bike’ in its name, the 1500 model which comes with a flat bar makes it more suitable for commuters who wish for a hybrid bicycle for riding on all kinds of surfaces. Aluminum is used in the construction of its frame and it includes a front suspension fork which is there to absorb all the jolts that are a result of a bumpy road to maintain a comfortable ride. The flat handlebars are such that they let the rider maintain an upright sitting position for a comfortable ride when going on a long journey.
The design features mechanical disc brakes which are easy to maintain and powerful enough to bring the bike to an abrupt or smooth halt depending on the situation. The versatile gear system offers you to select between 24 speed settings to handle all sorts of journeys: moving uphill, downhill or racing on a flat road.
The tires used for the hybrid bicycle are closer to those of a road bike rather than a mountain bike to keep the frame lightweight and faster to ride. However, they are still a bit wider that the standard size for a road bike to give more balance on flat roads as well as rocky terrains.
Drawbacks:
Since the design is closer to that of a road bike, it will not provide as superior traction on hilly terrains as many other hybrid bicycles and is therefore more suitable for everyday commuting on flat roads.
13. Mongoose Reform Comp Hybrid Bicycle
This is a versatile hybrid bicycle with design features that will keep up with the high demands of regular commuters. Whether you are searching for daily commuting to work or off-road cruising, this hybrid bicycle won’t let you down with its durable frame and top-of-the-line performance. The lightweight frame is made with aluminum which also gives it strength and the SR Suntour NSV suspension fork included in the design ensures a smooth travel no matter the number and the size of the bumps that you drive through.
Hydraulic brakes are present on both the rear and the front wheel of the hybrid bicycle to let you rely on them despite what the condition of the road or the weather may be. Other than that, the 700 c wheels are covered by kenda happy medium 30 tpi tires to promise a smooth ride on even the roughest roads. Strong tires such as these ones also mean you have a better balance and grip on uneven terrains.
The innovative Altus gear offers a wide range of 21 speeds to ride with whether you want to move up the hill or on a flat road. This particular hybrid bicycle model is available in 3 sizes from which you can find the perfect type to suit your height.
Drawbacks:
You won’t find any storage rack installed in the hybrid bicycle however, you can buy one separately if you make frequent visits to the grocery store. Also, some customers mentioned that the seat isn’t comfortable enough for long trips.
14. Raleigh Alysa 1 Hybrid bicycle
Another great hybrid bicycle is this one which is especially designed for offering comfort and style while riding to women. The bike exists in four sizes to accommodate different heights of women. It is as light in weight as a road bike and as stable in structure as a good mountain bike to provide superior traction on all sorts of surfaces.
The 700c wheels come with 35c tires to provide a strong grip on rough surfaces for an improved balance without compromising the speed. The flat bar handlebars maintain an upright sitting position for the rider for providing a comfortable journey on flat routes and even when going on an off-road adventure.
The design is complete with fenders and storage racks to make your daily commuting easier but the hybrid bicycle comes partially assembled when you order it online. However, that’s not something to worry about since it only takes around 20 minutes to assemble it without any professional help.
The hybrid bicycle lets you smoothly shift the gear between 10 speed levels using its patent Shimano Revo Shift mechanism. Additionally Tektro V-brakes can be relied upon to stop the vehicle safely in case of heavy traffic in an urban region or in the case of an emergency when you have to stop immediately.
Drawbacks:
The seat isn’t the most comfortable among hybrid bicycle varieties and could do better with a little extra cushioning under the seat.
Hybrid Bicycles Buyer’s Guide:
Once you have decided the type of hybrid bicycles which suits you better than the rest depending on your style and the paths which you usually take, there are certain additional features too which need to be thought about before you actually pick one to bring home. Here are some of the major features regarding a hybrid bicycle which need consideration by the rider before he or she buys one:
Material for the frame:
Most hybrid bicycles frame will either be made of steel, carbon or aluminum. Although steel is strong and makes the bike more comfortable to ride, it also adds to its weight which means you will have a hard time dragging it through spaces where you cannot ride it. On the bright side, steel gives the hybrid bicycle a shiny, cool look if you want to flaunt it to a bunch of friends.
Most common choice of material is aluminum since it is reasonably priced and gives the hybrid bicycle a comfortable design to ride on. Additionally, the material is much lighter compared to steel and will survive tough terrains with much ease giving optimal riding experience for a couple of years at the very least. Hybrid bicycles made out of aluminum is a good choice for you if you’re looking for a lightweight, convenient ride.
The most powerful hybrid bicycles are made out of carbon but on the downside, these bikes also happen to be the most expensive of the lot. If you want powerful performance at an affordable price, you will find those which have their frame made out of aluminum but it includes a carbon fork. These bikes intelligently use carbon where it’s needed most for delivering a smooth ride on a rough track while the rest of the construction is aluminum to cut down on its price.
Quality of Gears:
In general, the pricier the hybrid bicycle is that you buy; the better will be gearing that it is equipped with. Better gearing means two things: a wider range of gears and a smooth transition between the gears. Both of these factors make up a good gear system which is very important for a safe and easy riding experience whether you are still at the learning stage or cruising through hilly terrains.
If you’re looking for a very simple gear shift mechanism, you may like to consider hybrid bicycles which include triple chain sets. Although these hybrid bicycles offer easy shift of gears, they have a smaller range as compared to hybrid bicycles with two rings.
In short, you want an easier gear shift if you generally take rocky terrains and a wider range of gears if you generally use it for commuting to work on smooth tracks.
Type of Brakes:
You will usually find two basic types of brakes in a hybrid bicycle: rim brakes and disc brakes. The basic mechanism of the two brakes is very different which is why they will each have a list of advantages and disadvantages over the other type. The more you understand about these braking systems, the better you’ll be able to decide which would suit your needs better.
Rim brakes consist of pads which hold onto the rims of the wheels to bring the hybrid bicycle to a halt. As compared to disc brakes you will find this braking system cheaper to buy, lighter and simple to adjust and replace.
Disc brakes will consist of pads which hold onto a rotor which is attached to the wheel hub of the hybrid bicycle. Disc brakes come in two different forms: hydraulic disc brakes and mechanical disc brakes. The hydraulic disc brakes are much stronger in performance while requiring less effort from the rider and adjust automatically in case of wearing. Mechanical disc brakes will need manual adjustments every time the pads start to wear.
The disc brakes have several advantages over the rim brakes. They are more reliable for different kinds of terrains, cheaper to replace since you will need to replace simply the rotor instead of the whole wheel and involves less effort from the rider to apply the brakes. You will also find some disadvantages of these types of brakes in comparison to rim brakes: you will not be informed as easily about the wearing of the brakes as is the case with rim brakes and hydraulic brakes are a bit expensive to maintain.
Size of wheels:
The standard wheel size that you are going to find in most of the hybrid bicycles in stores is 700cc. However, the tyres which cover the wheels will vary considerably in their widths. You need to consider your skills and the terrains you usually take to decide the width of the tyres which will work perfectly for you. If you generally take smooth paths, narrow tyres will work fine for you with the added advantage of keeping the hybrid bicycle lightweight for hauling and faster to ride. Wider tyres will suit you better if you take rough paths more often and will provide a more comfortable ride on these paths.
Suspension Fork:
Another important question when choosing a hybrid bicycle is whether you need it to include a suspension fork or not. The purpose of these suspension forks is to compress and absorb the jolts from an uneven road to prevent these jolts to be transferred to you so that you experience a smooth ride despite the condition of the terrain.
Suspension forks are simply some sort of springs attached on top of the wheel or below the seat to take in all the impact from the bumps on the road and preventing it from reaching the rider.
On the downside, these suspension forks add to the hybrid bicycle’s weight and make pedaling a bit more tiresome, which is why some hybrid bicycles will not include these components at all. If you generally ride on smooth pathways, you might like to consider hybrid bicycles which come without suspension forks as they are cheaper, lighter and relatively easier to ride.
If you find a hybrid bicycle which you would love to buy but it does not include a suspension fork, you can also add one separately to the seatpost in case you usually ride on rough terrains and could benefit from one.
Shape of the Handlebar:
The positioning of the seat and the handlebar determine the position that the rider’s body will take while riding a hybrid bicycle. A handle bar which is further away from the seat will allow the rider to position his or her back upright while riding it which accounts for a more comfortable ride. There are certain types of hybrid bicycles which position the seat slightly above the handlebars. These kinds of hybrid bicycles will make you go faster but won’t be as comfortable to ride as the other varieties which allow the rider to sit up straight. In general, you will find the following different positions for handle bars to choose from:
Drop Bar:
Drop bars are the ones which you will most commonly find on road bike influenced hybrid bicycles since they are lightweight and give a position to the rider’s body in which he or she can apply more force for pedaling and move at faster speeds. The downside to these varieties of handlebars is that your back might start to strain from the hunched position if you go on long journeys using the bike.
Flat Bar:
These types of handlebars are a more popular variety which you will find in most hybrid bicycles which, although are somewhat heavier than drop bars, let you take a better sitting position without straining your back while also allowing you to keep a better watch on the road.
Riser Bar:
Taking the design of flat bars a step further, the riser bars are the handlebars on hybrid bicycles which are a bit higher and angled towards the rider. The advantage of these handlebars is that they allow the rider to take an even more upright position for an even better visibility of the road and better control over the hybrid bicycle.
Moustache Bar:
Moustache bars are similar to drop bars but they are not positioned as low as the drop bars. They will let you take a bit more upright position as compared to drop bars which will offer a fast ride but with less strain on your back.
Type of Pedals:
There are different types of pedals that are included in a hybrid bicycle which you need to select among depending on your riding skills, terrain and the size of traffic that you generally find on your usual routes. You will find platform pedals which are the most suitable choice if you need to put your feet on the ground often either due to lack of confidence in riding or due to heavy traffic in the area. If the traffic on the route and your riding skills allow you to go at a fast pace without frequent brakes, you would appreciate clipless pedals which can fix your cleated shoes to the pedals for a better grip and a faster pace.
Presence of Cargo Racks:
Although not a determining feature in the purchase of a hybrid bicycle, you might find a cargo rack helpful if you make frequent trips to the grocery store on your hybrid bicycle. Most hybrid bicycles will include a rack at the front or the back to carry your groceries or backpack in case you’re off to work or school.
Choosing a hybrid bicycle which includes cargo racks is beneficial in most cases and you even have the choice of removing them if you wish to get rid of some of the extra weight for convenient hauling or a speedy ride.
Find the Right Fit for You:
Now that you know about each of the feature which needs to be considered when selecting a hybrid bicycle, it’s time you find a suitable size that fits you right. Not every variety of hybrid bicycles that you find at the store will be built for your body size.
The frames for hybrid bicycles come in different sizes which makes them suitable for different body sizes. In general, each frame size will have a specific range of heights for the rider which it can support easily. This range of heights of the rider will be mentioned in the size chart for the particular hybrid bicycle. You will need to consult the size chart of the hybrid bicycle which you are planning to buy to see if your height comes within the range to decide if its suitable for you or not.
The best test to see if the hybrid bicycle actually fits you right or not is to take it for a test ride. See if the store you are buying it from allows you to take it for a test ride. If it does allow you to do so, try riding the hybrid bicycle in a straight line, take turns and also apply brakes. Make sure it fits you right and you are able to ride it comfortably before purchasing it.
Are there Separate Hybrid Bicycles Designed for Women?
Many brands which manufacture hybrid bicycles nowadays have designed separate models for women cyclists. However, if the brand which you choose does not have a women’s specific model, don’t worry since it will most probably work for both men and women.
Usually the models which are specifically designed for women will feature narrower handlebars to suit the narrower frame of a woman. The tube top will generally be a little shorter than usual while the tube head will be a bit taller to present a comfortable position for a woman of average height.
However this isn’t a primary consideration at all, it is best that you select a suitable model based on your body size and your riding requirements. If all the rest of the features suit you perfectly, it’s even better if the design is specific for women since all its components including the handlebars and the saddles will be suited for your size.
Are Hybrid Bicycle Really Worth Your Money?
A major question that most of you might already have asked yourself is whether you really need a hybrid bicycle in your life. Are there any solid reasons for replacing your old bike with this fancy, new type of bike? Here is a list of some of the major reasons why hybrid bicycles are definitely a good investment:
Best of both worlds:
The most important reason for buying a hybrid bicycle is the one which we have already mentioned; it’s perfect for riding on smooth roads as well as rocky paths.
Cheaper than most:
You will find hybrid bicycles much cheaper than the professional mountain or road bikes. Also, with their growing popularity, many varieties have appeared in the market which makes finding an affordable model much easier than with other varieties.
Versatility of Use:
Since hybrid bicycles are built for versatile use, they offer support for many types of accessories such as storage racks, bike stand, suspension fork and child seat. These attachments may be attached or detached easily depending on whether you are making a trip to the grocery store, going for a ride as part of your morning exercise routine or looking for some adventure down the hill.
In most hybrid bicycles you will also have the option to make adjustments for either a comfortable ride in an upright position or a fast ride at an angled position of the rider’s back.
Simple Maintenance:
A hybrid bicycle does not require as much maintenance from your end as other types of bikes. You will simply need to keep it clean and oil its chains every once in a while to keep if functioning properly. Unlike most other types of bikes, hybrid bicycles do not have very sophisticated suspension systems which are troublesome to maintain.
Simple to Ride:
Instead of using a mountain bike to ride the hilly terrains, you could pick a hybrid bicycle which will offer almost the same performance but without putting your back through too much strain since it will offer an upright sitting position for the rider unlike the one he would get while riding a mountain bike. Furthermore, you will find most hybrid bicycles much lighter in weight when compared to most other bikes, making it easier to haul down a narrow path.
How much will a Hybrid Bicycle Cost you?
A hybrid bicycle is an intelligent investment which will save your money in buying separate bikes for mountainous trails and flat roads. The versatile nature of these hybrid bicycles lets them offer the functionality of both mountain bikes and road bikes at the price of only one. The vast range of varieties which you are going to find in the market also makes them affordable for everyone no matter what their budget is.
Although the higher priced models can even cost you over a thousand dollars, you will find a good quality hybrid bicycle at around $200 to $300. Even though you may even be able to find some varieties below $200, they might not have all the right features which account for a comfortable ride.
The smartest approach is to find a suitable price which lies within your budget among the models featured by the reputable hybrid bicycles manufacturing companies. You will find all the renowned brand names in the reviews section of our guide and since we have added the most popular hybrid bicycles with a wide range of prices, you will find all sorts of varieties from the cheapest to the most highly priced to choose from.
Conclusion
A hybrid bicycle is already a good choice for riding all sorts of terrains and if you find one with well constructed parts, it will make your rides even more enjoyable and comfortable than they already are. It is the construction of the components that will judge the durability and the performance of the hybrid bicycle during its time on the road.
After you have figured out the most important features that judge the performance of the hybrid bicycle, you also need to keep an eye out for certain secondary features which make commuting easier such as storage racks, locks and light. Take care of all the things about a hybrid bicycle that we have mentioned in this guide before you pick one out for purchase and we are positive you will find the best one. Take your brand new hybrid bicycle out for a ride and you’ll see how the experience is different from what you have had with any of your previous bikes.
