A hybrid bike is made by combining the best features of both road bikes and mountain bikes. Sturdy, fast and comfortable, this bike is perfect for trips both on-road and off-road.
Hybrid bikes can go fast like road bikes because of:
- Taller gearing;
- Lighter rims;
- Lighter components.
Hybrid bikes are stable and comfortable like mountain bikes because of
- The upright frame offering a comfortable seating position;
- A stout frame capable of saving the hassle of encountering potholes on the road;
- Wide tires for improved stability and traction;
- Useful components of hybrid bikes.
Useful components of hybrid bikes:
Tires
Just like the bike itself, the tires of the hybrid bikes are also made by combining road bikes and mountain bikes tires. The wider tires like the mountain bike bring more durability and stability to the bike. At the same time, they have a higher recommended air pressure like road bikes at the inflation level, which reduces rolling resistance and allows the bikes to go faster. It is similar to the differences of a properly inflated basketball and a slightly flat basketball bouncing.
Gears
Hybrid bikes have a vast range of gearing so the rider can climb hills and ride fast on even surface and downhills easily. Generally, a hybrid bike is equipped with a couple of chainrings in the crank assembly. The rear wheel in the back has a cassette with eight or nine gears in it. This setup allows the bike to have about 16 to 27 gear combinations that can satisfy all the needs of a hybrid bike rider in any type of terrain.
Handlebars
Going straight out from the stem, handlebars of a hybrid bike are generally flat like mountain bikes. With a wider grip, these handlebars help the bikers to sit upright so they can view the road and control the bike better.
Frame
Hybrid bike frames are mostly made of metals like steel and aluminum. Not only these metals are strong and durable, but they are also lightweight. So, the rider is safe while riding the bike and control it smoothly. Moreover, using these metals make the bikes moderately low priced.
Riding position
A hybrid bike is designed like a mountain bike that provides the riders with an upright sitting position while riding the bike. With the right riding position, the rider can be well placed in the center of gravity and control the bike easily. Moreover, the right posture will reduce the neck pain and back stress of the rider.
Pedals
General hybrid bikes available in the market are equipped with platform pedals. Riders that put their feet down often find these pedals useful. More advanced and experienced bikers, however, prefer pedals with toe clips or clipless pedals. Those pedals help them to secure the cleated shoes to the pedals. As the end, it all comes to comfort. People choose a different type of pedals according to their levels of comfort.
Rims and spokes
Like the hybrid bike frame, the rims and spokes are also lightweight like a road bike. You do not need heavy rims and spokes like mountain bikes because you will not use your hybrid bike to travel off-road all the time. On the contrary, light components will make it easier for you to control and support the bike.
Accessories
Due to the combined features of road bikes and mountain bikes, hybrid bikes can be used for daily commuting and touring both. As a rider, you need to be self-sufficient while going on long tours. Hybrid bikes have many accessories for this purpose, including cyclo-computer, tool bag, cage and water bottle.
A tip on how to buy a hybrid bike
Using a hybrid bike is a great option when you are riding in the town or go off-road. To get a good one, you will have to keep an eye on the ones with decent components. The performance of the moving parts will determine how long your bike will last while functioning properly.
Lastly, if you are buying a hybrid bike for daily commuting to and from school or work, check out the accessories for your trips to be more convenient. For example, built-in features like locks, lights and racks will make riding easier.
