How to choose a hybrid bike?
There are several types of hybrid bikes. Every type is suitable for different uses. How to find out which one is the best for you? Ask yourself the following questions:
- On what surface do you want to ride?
- How often do you want to use your bike?
- How do you want to ride?
- What is your riding style?
- What is your budget?
- Will you need to buy other bike accessories?
Let me give you an example. If you decide to take family trips to your countryside, a cruiser bike probably won’t be the best option. If you have a very limited budget ($500), it may also be difficult to find a roadworthy trekking bike because they tend to be more expensive. We will guide you through the hybrid bike types and their benefits below.
Trekking Bikes
Trekking bikes are also sometimes called fitness bikes. They are specific for their flat handlebars and more aggressive geometry (compared to other types of hybrid bikes) that allows you to ride in a faster, more aerodynamic position.The geometry of trekking bikes may vary depending on their type and the manufacturer.
Based on our market research, we have identified 3 basic types of trekking bikes:
Trekking bikes with relaxed, upright geometry suitable for family trips. These bikes usually feature wider tires that allow you to ride on rougher surfaces (light gravel, dirt & forest roads, etc). Thanks to their relaxed geometry, they are comfortable for longer trips.
Trekking bikes with a more aggressive geometry allows a faster ride to maintain your fitness level. They come with narrow tires, ideal for paved roads, cycling paths, or light gravel. You can use them for family trips as well, but it can take some time to get used to the riding position.
Trekking bikes form a compromise between the above-mentioned two categories. They are very versatile and suitable for various terrains depending on the tire width used (the wider the tires, the better for rough terrains). They are ideal for people who want to ride on paved surfaces as well as on terrain.
Commuter Bikes
Commuter bikes (sometimes also called ‘urban’) are designed for commuting. You can use them to commute to and from work and grocery stores or bike around your neighborhood. They have more relaxed geometry than trekking hybrid bikes, so they are more comfortable.This hybrid bike type is ideal for paved roads but can handle light terrains. Together with city bikes, commuter bikes are ideal for commuting in cities. Commuter bikes may have extra accessories like mudguards, a rack, a basket, or lights. It again depends on the manufacturer.
City Bikes
City bikes are very similar to commuter bikes. According to Richard Ballantine, the author of Richard’s 21st Century Bicycle Book, they differ from other hybrid bikes by using 26” inches wheels (smaller than regular wheels) and wider tires. Nevertheless, manufacturers often use the same category for commuter and city bikes and don’t follow Ballentine’s book’s definitions. There are very few differences between them.
Summary
City bike is primarily a commuter bike with a smaller wheel. The difference between a regular hybrid bike and a commuter/city bike as mentioned above is in the utility. When making the decision on whether to select a hybrid bike or a city bike, the most important thing to consider is the intended use. If you’re planning on cycling to work in the city, running errands, or exploring the urban environment on two wheels, then a city bike would make a great choice.
On the other hand, those that wish to venture a little further afield should consider a hybrid bike. Hybrids are still an everyday bike, but they’ll go the extra mile to where a city bike might not. If you’re a weekday commuter who enjoys escaping the city at the weekend, then a hybrid would be the perfect choice. It will be just as at home on the city bike paths as it is on light gravel roads or canal paths.