Hybrid bicycles: advantages and disadvantages, varieties, brands, choices

Many people are addicted to cycling. But how to choose a model on which you can go to work, and ride around the city, and go on vacation? A modern hybrid bicycle will solve all of these problems. These options are designed specifically for the urban environment, so the steering wheel in their design is made even, and the seat is straight, so that the back is in a clear upright position. Today we will take a closer look at the main advantages and disadvantages of these products.

Modern models of hybrid bicycles, although they are considered predominantly urban, this does not prevent them from being a successful combination of road and mountain bikes. Such options have a design consisting of several components.

• Frame... From standard road models, she adopted the characteristic "weightlessness", and from mountain models - the strongest materials, competent detailed geometry. Hybrid bikes are characterized by a soft ride. This feature is due to the impressive distance left between the center of the rear wheel and the carriage assembly. Each wheel has a circumference of 28 inches.
• Steering wheel. Hybrid bikes are equipped with the same handlebars as mountain bikes.
• Vilkovy shock absorber.

When a person rides a hybrid bike, their back is slightly bent and tilted forward. At first glance, such a saddle position may not seem the most convenient to many (especially to users who are accustomed to mountain bikes), but in practice, over time, this type of sitting has a much better effect on the back condition.Today, the range of hybrid bikes allows you to choose the best option for any wallet.

The requirements for these structures are constantly growing, and therefore the market is developing. Different models of hybrids can vary significantly among themselves. Some options are dominated by mountain bikes, while others are road bikes.

Hybrid bikes are preferred by many users today. This is not surprising, because such devices have a lot of positive qualities that attract the consumer, namely:

• such models are characterized by a light, "playful" roll on almost any surface;
• in the process of riding, they show themselves to be very maneuverable and dynamic, which is noted by many hybrid bike users;
• as mentioned above, such models are distinguished by a soft ride - this is one of the most important advantages of hybrids;
• on uneven surfaces, the hybrid bike maintains stability without problems, does not "wobble";
• in most bicycle structures of this type, useful additional elements are present, such as a luggage compartment and holders, in operation they turn out to be very relevant; no losses occur when using these elements in the dynamics of a bicycle;
• when using a hybrid bike, user fatigue at impressive distances is less compared to standard mountain models;
• hybrid bike designs have excellent strength characteristics, they are not subject to deformation;
• the range of hybrid bicycles cannot but delight modern consumers; on sale you can find the perfect solution for every taste.

Before rushing to the store to buy such an effective and convenient "iron horse", you should familiarize yourself with the following disadvantages:

• such products are characterized by high resistance values, which occurs due to tires with a deep tread;
• Hybrid bikes are usually heavy because they are built with massive frame tubes and other necessary components.
• such bicycle models cannot boast of impressive speed and fast acceleration, especially when compared with classic road examples;
• when operating a universal hybrid bicycle, the user will not be able to change the position of his hands on the handlebars, while on standard road bikes there is a steering wheel that allows such manipulations;
• Although hybrid bikes are designed to operate on a wide variety of terrains, their flotation rates in mud or sand are not the best.

All existing bicycle models were produced for different purposes and at different times. Let's consider what varieties modern hybrid models are subdivided into.

• MTV-hybrid... This variety can be safely considered the ancestor of the entire hybrid class as a whole. In such instances, a reliable MTB frame, a carriage-type assembly (standard, but slightly understated), and elongated rear stays are provided. The wheels of these models are 28 inches, and the rubber is 40 mm. The design of these hybrids is characterized by unsurpassed strength characteristics, and can easily withstand very heavy loads. Bicycles of this type are considered among the most comfortable for long trips - users do not suffer from quick fatigue.

• Road hybrid. Popular varieties of hybrid bicycles. Vibrake brakes are provided in their design. They are often available with a rigid fork, and there are models with a planetary hub. The rubber in the products is wide and is 28 mm. There is a steering wheel of a straight structure, long frame stays.There are practically no serious and noticeable differences from the classic road options.

In addition, simple road bikes have a comfortable steering wheel, the position of the hands on which can be changed if necessary, which cannot be done with modern hybrid models. However, some people consider the curved steering wheel not the most convenient and prefer hybrids, refusing to standard road copies. It all depends on the wishes and tastes of the buyer.

• Trekking bikes. Each manufacturer has their own opinion on this bike variation. Hybrid varieties of trekking bikes are made specifically for long bike rides. There is a curved steering wheel in the design, as well as a sturdy, elongated frame made of wear-resistant steel. On sale you can also find products in which not a bent, but a straight steering wheel is provided. When buying a hybrid trekking bike, do not forget about its impressive weight, which makes itself felt in operation. Although this bike is designed for serious bike rides, it is still not touring.

Considering all the features, pros and cons of hybrid bike models, you can find a worthy application for them in the following areas:

• daily bike rides on flat roads;
• driving on uneven roads from time to time;
• visiting wild places and zones by bike;
• calm and measured driving on ups and downs.

If you buy a hybrid bike, then only from a well-known manufacturer with a good reputation. Today on sale you can find a large number of brand models of the highest quality at different prices. Let's take a look at a small list of the most popular and well-known hybrid bike companies.

• Format. The top manufacturers of hybrid bicycles are opened by this domestic company. The assortment of the manufacturer is huge: mountain, tourist, and extreme models of bicycles of high quality are offered. You can pick up not only a two-wheeled adult, but also a tricycle for a child.

• Hybrid model is in high demand Format 5342, combining the functions of both mountain and city structure. The bike has a very sturdy frame, high-quality body kit and an attractive design.

• B'twin. A well-known French brand of an equally well-known, large company that produces high-quality bicycles of various modifications. The range includes designs for users of different age groups. And also good equipment, spare parts and accessories are produced. The brand makes good hybrid bicycles that are characterized by high stability, smooth ride, durability and unmatched agility.

• GT Bicycles. One of the largest manufacturers of road, mountain, womens, mens and childrens bicycles. It was founded in Southern California. Especially popular are high-quality hybrids of the company, such as Transeo, which have a strong and durable frame, forged aluminum connecting rods, and smooth construction seams. The products are distinguished by their trouble-free operation, are convenient in operation, which attracts many buyers.

A hybrid bike should be chosen carefully and deliberately, with particular attention to a number of important criteria. You need to immediately decide how you will use the purchased model. It is advisable to make a test drive before paying. It is worth considering that not all hybrids can be fitted with a roof rack and fenders. Some variants do not have a suspension fork, which is detrimental to their versatility. Such models are more close to simple road examples.

Truth, many hybrid bicycles, even without additional components, are more comfortable than their simple, road "brothers". This is due to the location of their seat.

On sale there are models with caliper or disc brakes, planetary hubs, belt drive and other characteristics. In order to find the optimal configuration, it is better to seek the help of specialists, especially if you are a novice user of such devices. Among hybrid bicycles, there are both universal and specialized copies.

On sale you can meet special, female models. If a conventional hybrid bike seems too bulky and heavy, you can choose a more convenient folding option that has more modest dimensions. It is recommended to buy only branded hybrid bikes. It doesn't matter what kind of device you choose - a city or mountain bike, a folding model or a regular children's scooter - in all cases, preference should be given to well-known manufacturers.

Comparison of hybrid and mountain bikes in the video below.