What features are important on a hybrid bike?
Some hybrid bikes are more similar to mountain bikes, and others are closer to road bikes.
28 inch is the standard wheel size found on most hybrid bikes, which are considered road-style wheels. Though some are equipped with smaller 26 inch wheels which are commonly found on mountain bikes.
What features you go for on your hybrid bike depends on the type of riding you’ll be doing, though things like tyres and handlebars can be changed.
Here are some of the other features to look out for:
• Wheels and tyres: The bike tyres on hybrids are often a mid-way point between thick mountain bike tyres, and the thin tyres you’ll see on road bikes.
Commuters who spend most of their time in cycle lanes may choose to go for a more road-style slick tyre for performance, whereas those wanting to use their bike for touring at the weekend on grass, trails or muddy country roads would benefit from a tyre with good tread.
For more information on tyres, take a look at our guide on how to choose your hybrid bike tyres.
• Frame: A hybrid bike frame again takes elements from both mountain bikes and road bikes. Although they look slender, hybrid bike frames are usually reinforced at certain points for durability.
A hybrid bike frame also tends to feature geometry designed for more relaxed riding, though the seat and handlebar post can be tweaked to increase performance when required.
Handlebars: The handlebars are what make hybrid bikes unique. They’re flat and straight, and come with the upright seating position similar to that of a mountain bike.
Although you can install any handlebar you like on your hybrid bike, so you can choose which works for you and the type of riding you’ll be doing.
• Forks and suspension: There are a few choices when it comes to forks and suspension systems on a hybrid bike. The forks hold the front wheel in place, and you can get rigid, front suspension or full suspension bikes.
Suspension absorbs bumps and uneven terrain, so if you’re planning on taking your hybrid bike on more adventurous rides, you might want to consider additional suspension over a rigid fork that connects straight to the wheel axle.
• Brakes: Mountain bikes often have disc brakes, which provide optimal stopping performance on hillsides and tight turns. Road bikes use rim caliper brakes that sit on the frame, squeezing the rim to provide stopping power. Hybrid bikes can have either of the two, or even more complex brakes using hydraulic fluid - so think about the type of riding you’ll be doing when making your decision.
• Gears: Bikes can have a broad range of gears: 1, 3, 18, 21, 24, 27, or 30 speeds. To keep it simple, the most important things to consider are the terrain you’ll be riding on and your fitness levels. If you’re going to be doing a lot of uphill riding, then you’ll want to opt for more gears. These bikes have a freewheel mechanism in the rear hub that allows you to coast just like you would on a standard bike with multiple gears.
• Panniers and accessories: There are lots of accessories available, depending on what you’re going to be using your bike for. If you’re using your hybrid for commuting during the week, then panniers and racks will make it easier to carry your bags. You may also consider adding things like a water bottle cage and a pump holder onto your bike for weekend rides. Just beware that anything extra on your frame will make the bike heavier.