How to choose the right Hybrid bike
In this article, I will be discussing the different styles of Hybrid bikes and the best way to make sure it is right for you. This will give you the best way to size yourself on a Hybrid bicycle and offer a few tips on what to look for in a new bike.
Hybrid bicycles are very popular with urban commuters and as the name suggests, these bicycles are a mix of Mountain bike and road bike qualities.
Before looking into getting a Hybrid bike, you need to decide what the bicycle will be primarily used for. After this, you can start looking into bikes that are tailored to suit your needs.
There are two different styles of Hybrid bicycle: the 'speed' hybrid and the 'comfort' hybrid.
The 'speed' Hybrid shares most of its features with a road bicycle. It has a lightweight thin frame, a smaller gear range designed to offer more speed with less effort, thinner tyres much like the tyres found on a road bike and most often a rigid front fork. Depending on price, this fork could be made from carbon which offers a natural shock absorbtion of the vibrations encountered on the road.
Speed Hybrids force the rider to have a more forward and bent over position when riding, something that buyers with back problems should bear in mind.
'Comfort' Hybrids are less about speed and more about leisurely travel, sharing its features more closely with a mountain bike. The frame is more robust and the gearing has more range allowing the rider to not only cruise along, but climb hills with little effort. The tyres are wider and thicker than the 'speed' Hybrid and as such, tend to have more grip which makes these bikes suitable for canal paths and park rides.
The positioning is more upright which allows a better view ahead and over cars and traffic, and is easier on the back, suiting the older generation as well. Again depending on the price, these bikes may have front suspension.
When it comes to sizing your bike, a general rule is when sitting on the bicycle you want to have the balls of your feet touching the floor. If you are on your toes, adjust the saddle height or try one size down. With your arms, you want a slight bend in them when gripping the handlebar. Make sure you do not feel overstretched.
