The Hybrid Bike Buyer’s Guide

For someone who wants a lot of choice when it comes to cycling terrain, a hybrid bike is a very good option.

In this blog, we’ll be going into some more detail on what you should be looking for in your brand-new hybrid bike, as well as some of our suggestions to get you started. But firstly, we’ll talk a bit more on what hybrids actually are.

What are Hybrid Bikes?

Hybrid bikes are an in-between bike, incorporating the best parts of both mountain and road bikes. We find that people who like to use their bikes for a wide range of activities from commuting to fitness activities really fall in love with their hybrid bike. So whether it be on a busy urban commute, or even trekking through woodlands, a hybrid is a great all-rounder kind of bike.

What makes a good Hybrid Bike?

Apart from the versatility, there are a few characteristics you should look out for when making your purchase.

Is it lightweight?

For maximum speed you’ll likely want a bike which has a light frame (as there’s less weight for you to push).

We stock a few variations of lightweight frame materials in our hybrid range which include:

• Lightweight Aluminium
• Hi-tensile Steel
• Lightweight Alloy

Essentially, the lighter the frame, the easier it is to pedal.

Handlebars

Unlike road bikes, the handlebars on a hybrid are placed into an upright position. This means that you’ll be positioned on the bike upright too, making it a more comfortable position for long rides.

These kinds of handlebars do compromise your potential for extreme speed compared to a road bike with dropped handlebars. It is very much a case of personal choice and the style of riding that you prefer. If you are all about speed, then it is worth considering a road bike, but if it is utility and multi-terrains that interest you then a Sports Hybrid is the way to go.

Wheels

The size of the wheels you go for can make quite a difference in your ride quality.

Smaller wheels are nimbler, making it a bit easier to take turns. We’d suggest that if you mostly cycle on roads, then these wheels equipped with thinner tyres would best suit your commute.

On the other hand, if you like the thrill of going fast on off-road trails, then wider tyres would likely suit you better. Remember, the larger surface area and wheel diameter increases your traction and speed in forests – ensuring the best ride possible.

However, if you still want the best of both worlds, then it’s a really simple fix to make your hybrid ready for any kind of terrain by having two sets of tyres. Swapping wheels out is a very simple job, and all it will only take a few minutes (with practice).

Brakes

Both kinds of brakes work well on a hybrid bike, being V and Disc brakes.

We would suggest, however, that it would be more beneficial for those who like off-roading to opt for disc brakes. This is because they’re more precise in their stopping power, even with a greater mass, making them very beneficial to a cyclist on loose terrain.

Suspension

Again, like brakes, the importance of this varies depending on what you’ll be doing on your hybrid bike.

We have in our range of hybrid bikes the option to have forks with built-in suspension, and those which do not offer any of these capabilities. A cyclist sticking to the main roads likely wouldn’t have a need for suspension, whilst one who enjoys the bumps and jumps that come from off-roading would need such a feature.

Saddle position

Depending on what sort of saddle your bike comes with, you can adjust the position of yours to suit your cycling style.

To get the most speed out of your hybrid, it is better to position it so that you’ll seat yourself further down the saddle. This aggressive setting makes it easier to put more force down on the peddles and, henceforth, increase your speed.

If going fast isn’t your top priority, then keep the saddle level. This will force your back into an upright position and encourage you to sit up on the bike. But you can still get some good speed in this position on your hybrid bike.

Falcon Urban Sports Hybrid Bike Green

This model is a great starter hybrid bike as it comes with the essential features for a great price.

It is better suited to commuting with its V-Brakes and Hi-tensile steel frame, but does not come with suspension on the forks. You can still enjoy some less intense off-roading, but not as much in comparison to our other hybrid bikes on offer.

 Ammaco Road Runner Pro V Sports Hybrid Silver

Enjoy the best of both worlds with this hybrid model in a cool silver and yellow colourway.

Being equipped with zoom front suspension, preinstalled propstand, and a 21 speed gearset, this model is a great pick for those who want a bit more off-roading in their cycling life.

Falcon Urban Low Step Sports Hybrid Bike Orange

With the model using high quality trekking tyres, you’ll find that going between terrains won’t require a change of wheels – making your bike very easy to use wherever.

This bike can handle some off-roading, but is mostly designed for simpler rides on flat roads.

2021 GT Transeo Sport Fitness Bike in Blue

Sweep through traffic jams with this sports hybrid option in an electric blue colourway.

Equipped with Shimano gears and a lightweight aluminium frame, you’ll have no problems speeding on flat terrain in addition to some off-roading capabilities.