Many people are keen on 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 bike will solve all 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 vertical position. Today we will examine in more detail what are the main advantages and disadvantages of these products.
Features
Modern models of hybrid bicycles, although they are considered mainly urban, this does not prevent them from being a successful combination of highway and mountain specimens. Such options have a design consisting of several components.
- Frame. She adopted the characteristic “weightlessness” from standard highway models, and from the mountain ones - the strongest materials, competent detailed geometry. Hybrid bikes are characterized by a smooth ride. This feature is due to the impressive distance left between the central part of the rear wheel and the carriage assembly. The circumference of each wheel is 28 inches.
- Steering wheel. Hybrid bikes are equipped with the same wheel as mountain specimens.
- Fork shock absorber.
When a person rides a bicycle hybrid, his back is slightly bent and tilted forward. At first glance, such a location of the saddle may not seem most convenient for many (especially to users who are used to mountain biking), but in practice, over time, landing of this type has a much better effect on the condition of the back.Today, the assortment of hybrid bicycles allows you to choose the best option for any wallet.
The requirements for these designs are constantly growing, and therefore the market is developing. Different models of hybrids can vary significantly. Some options are dominated by the characteristics of mountain bicycles, while others - highway.
That is why it is so important to correctly choose a product that will be in use as convenient and practical as possible.
Advantages and disadvantages
Many users today prefer hybrid bikes. This is not surprising, because such devices have a lot of positive qualities that attract the consumer, namely:
- such models are characterized by light, “playful” statistiness on virtually any surface;
- during the ride they show themselves to be very maneuverable and dynamic, which is noted by many users of hybrid bicycles;
- as mentioned above, such models are characterized by a mild stroke - this is one of the most important advantages of hybrids;
- on uneven surfaces, a hybrid bike maintains stability without problems, does not “wag”;
- in most bicycle structures of this type, useful additional elements are present, such as the luggage compartment and holders, in operation they turn out to be very relevant; when using these elements in the dynamics of the bicycle, there is no loss;
- when using a hybrid bike, the user's fatigue at impressive distances is less in comparison with standard mountain models;
- hybrid bike designs are distinguished by excellent strength characteristics, they are not subject to deformation;
- the assortment of hybrid bicycles cannot but please 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 rates of resistance, which takes place due to tires with a deep tread;
- usually the weight of hybrid bicycles is impressive, because their design consists of massive frame pipes and other necessary components;
- Such bicycle models cannot boast of impressive speed and fast acceleration, especially when compared with classic road models;
- when operating a universal hybrid bike, the user will not be able to change the position of the hands on the handlebar, while on standard road racers there is a steering wheel that allows for such manipulations;
- Despite the fact that hybrid bicycles are designed for operation in various places, their performance in mud or sand is not the highest.
Kinds
All existing bicycle models were produced for different purposes and at different time intervals. Consider what varieties are divided into modern hybrid models.
- MTV hybrid. This variety can be safely considered the ancestor of the entire hybrid class as a whole. In such instances, a reliable MTV frame, a carriage-type unit (standard, but slightly underestimated), elongated rear feathers are provided. The wheels of these models are 28 inches in size and 40 mm in rubber. The design of these hybrids is characterized by unsurpassed strength characteristics and can easily withstand very large loads. Bicycles of this type are considered one of the most convenient for long trips - users do not suffer from rapid fatigue.
- Highway hybrid. Demand varieties of hybrid bicycles. Their design provides for vibrake brakes. Often produced with a rigid fork, 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 direct structure, long frame feathers.There are practically no serious and noticeable differences from the classic highway options here.
In addition, a simple steering wheel has a convenient steering wheel, the position of the hands on which can be changed if necessary, which cannot be done using modern hybrid models. However, some people consider the bent steering wheel to be not the most convenient and give preference to hybrids, refusing standard road specimens. It all depends on the wishes and tastes of the buyer.
- Trekking bikes. Each manufacturer has his own opinion regarding the bikes of this variation. Hybrid versions of trekking bikes are made specially adapted for long bike rides. Here in the construction there is a rudder of a bent structure, as well as a strong, elongated frame made of wear-resistant steel. On sale you can also find products that do not have a bent, but a direct steering wheel. 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.
The level of preparedness for various trips can vary depending on the usual fixed trunk to absolute equipment, flesh to special dynamo-bushings.
Application
Given all the features, pros and cons of hybrid bike models, You can find them worthy of application in the following areas:
- daily cycling on flat roads;
- riding on rough roads from time to time;
- cycling wild places and areas;
- calm and measured riding on the ups and downs.
In tourism, such structures are allowed to be used, but do not think that they are designed for maximum, extreme operation.
Manufacturers Overview
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. Consider a small rating of the most popular and well-known companies that produce hybrid bikes.
- Format Top manufacturers of hybrid bicycles opens this domestic company. The manufacturer’s assortment is huge: mountain, and tourist, and extreme models of high-quality bicycles are offered. You can pick up not only a two-wheeled adult, but also a tricycle for a child.
- Hybrid model is in great demand Format 5342combining the functions of both mountain and city structure. The bike has a very strong frame, high-quality body kit and attractive design.
- B'twin. A well-known French brand of no less well-known, large company that produces high-quality bicycles of various modifications. The assortment includes designs for users of different age groups. Good equipment, parts and accessories are also available. The brand produces good hybrid bicycles, characterized by high stability, smooth running, durability and incomparable maneuverability.
- GT Bicycles. One of the largest manufacturers of road, mountain, women, men and children models of bicycles. It was founded in Southern California. High-quality company hybrids are especially popular, such as Transeo, which have a strong and durable frame, forged aluminum rods, and smooth construction joints. The products are characterized by trouble-free operation and are convenient in operation, which attracts many buyers.
Selection tips
A hybrid bike should be selected carefully and thoughtfully, paying particular attention to a number of important criteria. You must immediately determine how you will use the purchased model. It is advisable to make a test trip before payment. It is worth considering that not all hybrids can be fitted with a boot or wings. On some options there is no shock absorber fork, which affects their versatility. Similar models are closer to simple road specimens.
True, many hybrid bicycles, even without additional components, are more convenient than their simple, traveling "brothers." This is due to the location of their seat.
You should pay attention to the equipment of the chosen bike.
On sale there are models with tick or disk brakes, planetary bushings, belt drive and other characteristics. To choose the best equipment, 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 specimens.
On sale you can meet special, female models. If an ordinary hybrid bike seems too bulky and heavy, you can choose a more convenient folding option, which has a more modest size. It is recommended to buy only branded hybrid bikes. It doesn’t matter which device you pick up - a city or mountain bike, a folding model or an ordinary children's scooter - in all cases, it is worth giving preference to well-known manufacturers.
Comparison of a hybrid and a mountain bike in the video below.