Hybrid bicycles?
 

After some thought and discussion with friends, I've decided that I am likely going to purchase a hybrid bicycle in the near future. I have another thread focused primarily on road cycling, and given that it's over two years old and not quite relevant, I wanted to create a more fitting one here.

My main question/concern is in regards to hybrid bike brands, and which companies and models are generally considered to be the best in their class?

As for how much I'd like to spend.. I'm not entirely sure. What price range do hybrid bikes generally fall into? I'd be looking to buy a well made and reliable bike, but am not familiar with how much that is going to cost me. If it came to spending less or more, I'd be willing to spend more if it was justfiable and worth it.

Beyond that, the more general question I have is what hybrid bicycles can be used for. I read the Wikipedia article on them, but was hoping for some further clarification. I generally enjoy riding on the road, but friends are into trails and mountain bike-type environments; nothing to crazy, but definitely off road. Would a hybrid bike be suitable for this type of riding as well?

Lastly, do hybrid bikes have different sizes, or is it more of a "one size fits all" setup? I am a taller guy, and actually felt the road bicycles could be more comfortable due to me being able to lean over and not have as much of my torso upright; though that might not even be a legitimate solution, as I've sat on Kawasaki Ninja motorcycles that were not comfortable, due to too much leaning.

Bonus question: Can hybrid bicycles be ridden for long periods of time comfortably? When I do things, I tend to do them for a long time, and ideally a hybrid bicycle will allow me to be comfortable if I opt to ride for a few hours.

In general, I'd appreciate any and all comments you might have in regards to hybrid bicycles and bicycling. I am really excited to get a bicycle and go riding on a daily basis, but I want to make sure I approach things in the right manner instead of rushing out and making a bad purchase.

Spinelust here at TFP is a seasoned bike nerd. I'd consult her.

Hybrid bikes are different sizes. Go to a reputable bike shop to buy your bicycle; they'll size you and allow you to try out the bicycles so that you can find one you like and one that fits. Make sure to get all the accessories you need for the bicycle as well--fenders are important if you plan on riding in the rain, and lights are necessary if you're planning to ride after dark. Choose a bike shop you feel comfortable building a relationship with, because if you really like riding, you'll be going back there again and again.

I have a hybrid bicycle. It's suitable for riding on easy trails with good surfacing (i.e. gravel). It's not very good on anything rougher than that. It is absolutely perfect for riding around town. I have a Trek 7100 WSD. I love it. I paid about $400 for it, but have since spent more on associated accessories. I have it kitted out with fenders, a rack, a detachable basket, lights, and a wireless cyclocomputer. I've also invested in a good pair of gloves. My next purchase will likely be a pair of bike shorts. I recently acquired a nifty t-shirt with a picture of a bicycle on it that says, "This is how I roll."

Be careful--it's addictive!

Before road bikes I had a very nice Raleigh I purchased for $400. Aluminum frame so it was lighter.

BIke shortsd really change things for you in a good way. Also clipless padels. SPD pedals are great for hybrids since you can walk into a store with your shoes on. Also, look at a good seat and dump the gell seat that comes with the bike IMMEDIATELY. It will do nothing but numb your nuts. A hard seat that fits your butt is actually more comfortable because it uses the "sit" bones in your ass. Minimal nerve endings on those bones.

I have a similar bike to Snowy's. It's a Trek 7100 Multitrack. ...except hers is far more tricked out than mine with those awesome additions.

I agree that it isn't meant for "off-roading," but it's perfect for city dwellers who have access to paved and unpaved park areas. You mentioned "definitely off-road." If you are getting into rugged terrain with a hybrid, you might need to take it easy, as the wheels aren't designed for it, plus the frame will be less durable (i.e. lighter). The wheels I have are great for relatively smooth surfaces, but I wouldn't want to jam them on rough spots. They're a bit smaller (skinnier) than most mountain bike tires. Think of a size between a 10-speed and a typical mountain bike, and that's what you have.

You should be able to get most models adjusted to your size. What is "taller" exactly? You shouldn't have many problems, unless you're uncommonly tall.

I've ridden mine over fairly long treks, and I didn't notice any undue discomfort. It is more about getting the right sizing and having a proper seat than anything, I think. I agree with thingstodo's suggestion of using gel for seats.

Bottom line: a hybrid probably won't get you the off-road ruggedness you're after...but they're great for casual/park/city riding.

If you already have a roadbike, and are looking for something that you can take offroad and ride around town I would go with a hardtail mountainbike. If you do not have any bike at all then I might consider a hybrid.

Thanks for the replies.

I'm not really interested in mountain biking, and would only pursue this activity if friends were going. If I head into the woods, it's to hike, not bike. I already have an older Trek 820 mountain bike that I could use as well.

Thus, the hybrid bike seems like a nice option. The Trek options (7000-7500) seem like nice options, and I'll likely be heading to a bike store in the near future to take a look at them in person.

Right now I am trying to decide between buying a used motorcycle or bicycle. A motorcycle is a larger investment, but it's also something I haven't experienced yet and know I would enjoy immensely, whereas I've ridden bikes for a large portion of my life, but enjoy the opportunity to turn riding into a physical activity instead of relying on a motor.

In regards to comfort... I'm likely more concerned about comfort on a motorcycle than a bicycle and am transferring that concern to my bicycle considerations. I'm about 6' 2", but haven't really had comfort issues in the past with any bicycle I've ridden.

If anyone has any additional comments or individual bike model recommendations, please share them.

Definitely check out Specialized as well as Trek. Some of their bikes like this series may be what you're looking for. If you are really going off road with your friends, I would just take the 820 (it's heavy-ass steel, but you're not going out there much). Otherwise, have the efficiency of the 700 wheels. Specialized Bicycle Components : Crosstrail Comp