City Commuter & Hybrid Bikes

Hybrid bikes are often used for leisure cycling and are a mixture of the features of both road bikes and mountain bikes. They generally have flat handlebars and a more upright riding position, making them more comfortable for city commuting and a gentle cycle in suburban areas.

Hybrid Bikes & City Commuter Bikes

Hybrid bikes are a great all-rounder in the bike world. This is because they are designed to have a combination of both road bike and mountain bike features and technologies to give you the best of both worlds.

There are several benefits to using a hybrid bike. Firstly, they are very versatile and can be used on both smooth roads and rough paths. They are comfortable. This is due to the addition of a comfortable saddle and upright handlebar, allowing you to cycle in a comfy position. The upright cycling position also gives you great visibility and control, contributing to your safety as a rider.

Finally, they can carry extra weight. This is particularly important to those who use them to commute to work.

How to Choose a Hybrid Bike

To determine which type of hybrid bike is best for you, it is important to consider what it will primarily be used for: commuting in and around the smooth paths of the city, travelling across the countryside for leisure, or a combination of the two. Once you have made this decision, there are some key features to consider to help narrow your search for the ideal hybrid bike further.

First, are the number of gears, which can range from one all the way to 27 or more. Knowing how many gears you need will depend on both your level of fitness and the terrain that the bike will typically be used on. Generally, more gears will help you climb hills and so ideal for those whose fitness levels are lower or who want to use the bike in hilly areas. Less gears are more useful for smooth city cycling, or to challenge more able cyclists.

Next, consider the bike suspension. Hybrid bikes tend to have no suspension at all, to make pedalling more efficient on smooth roads. However, if you plan to use the bike on rougher terrain then it is worth looking for a hybrid bike that has front suspension.

Then, take time to think about brakes. Some hybrid bikes have rim brakes, whereas others have disc brakes. Disc brakes are more responsive in all weather conditions compared to rim brakes. However, they are much more difficult to replace and can be expensive, especially if they are of the hydraulic variety.

Afterwards, the material of the bike frame itself is also important. Most hybrid bikes are made from aluminium, which is lightweight, strong and the most affordable option. Yet, if you want a material that is more robust for heavy use, steel or carbon fibre may be a better option.

Some final key features will be optional, depending on the main use for the bike. These include the addition of cargo racks and fenders. Cargo racks make it easy to take belongings with you when you ride and can be removed when no longer needed. Fenders are designed to minimise dirt from the road being splashed on you when cycling, which is an essential feature when commuting to work. These can also be moved to reduce weight for an increase in speed.