Hybrid Bicycle Comparisons

*Collaborative Post

From daily run-around to weekend adventures – the hybrid bike could handle just about anything. These bikes present a delight-filled wide range of cycling, whether on or off the road, urban or countryside, or any of the in-betweens.

Hybrid bikes have always been known as those unique bikes that can do more than one stuff – It remains your favourite pick for a truly adventurous ride.

Here at Bobbins, they come in different shapes and sizes, stylish enough to suit your taste.

In this post, we compare some of the features of the hybrid bike, showcasing their difference and edge over one another.

Hybrid Bicycle Comparisons

Hybrid bikes could be compared using a couple of features – whichever falls short in these features is considered less superior and unlikely to give a pleasant, long befitting ride.

While this is greatly dependent on the riding you’re getting the hybrid bicycle for, Here are some of the most important features to keep your eyes out for;

Size of the wheel

Many hybrid bicycles adopt the conventional 700c wheel size, whereas others go for the smaller 26-inch wheels. The wheel size has a way of determining who and what the bikes are for. 

Thus it would be best to choose bikes with wheels that perfectly serve your riding style.

The bicycle frame make

Steel and carbon fibre are widely used, but aluminium tops the list of materials used for bike design. All three frames have their benefits and shortcomings, so you must explore your priorities before making a choice.

Aluminium is light, solid, and reasonably priced. It often feels harsh on bumpy roads. Owing to its increased degree of flex, steel despite being heavier than aluminium, delivers a smooth and more comfortable ride. 

Carbon fibre stands out as the preferred choice for high-end bicycles, It is stronger and lighter than both aluminium and steel frames.

Brake type

The hybrids make use of either the rim or disc brakes. Rim brakes are more common and possess pads that stick to the rims of the wheel. They are inexpensive, easy to detect faults and simple to replace.

Some of their drawbacks are their ineffectiveness in moist environments, increased finger strain and ability to wear out the wheel gradually.

Disc brakes on the other hand utilize brake pads that attach to braking rotors affixed to the wheel hubs. They perform way better in steep and slippery terrain, reduce finger strain and are considerably cheaper to replace than a full wheel. 

It’s quite tricky to detect pad wear for replacement in disc brakes.

Handlebar Structure

When selecting a hybrid take a closer look at the handlebars and the seat. In general, the bike would be more enjoyable if the seat were farther from the handlebars. On the other side, a faster ride is achievable with seats that are slightly above the handlebars.

Types of Handlebars

Here are some of the popular handlebars; 

Drop handlebars

This is found mostly on road bikes and is perfect for quick rides owing to its lightweight and aerodynamic build.

Fat handlebars 

They allow you to sit in a more relaxed position, boosting your ability to observe the road.

Riser handlebars 

They’re extended backwards and upward toward the rider. They keep you erect and far back so you can enjoy superb control accompanied by an excellent trail view.

Moustache handlebars 

They mimic the drop bars but have a much lesser drop and come with a range of hand positions. 

Putting all these together gives you an idea of what the perfect hybrid should look like. Whichever you choose is great, provided it caters for your own unique needs!

You would also want to match your unique bike with the best helmets, rack, pannier, and set of mudguards to give it an appealing and more personalised feel.

Conclusion

The most fantastic hybrid bikes always come in a unique design. While some may have a stronger inclination for fast highways and metropolitan areas, others would fancy the gravelly lanes and rugged off-road terrain.

A stylish basket and bell attachment would be perfect for your kid this festive season!

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.