Hybrids

Hybrid bikes were originally a cross between mountain bikes and road bikes. Early ones were the same as touring bikes, apart from the handlebars. In recent years they have become a class on their own. An exact definition is difficult, but they have 700c wheels, fairly wide tyres, about 35mm, flat straight handlebars, the braking system from a mountain bike (cantilevers, V brakes and now disks). They will take mudguards and a rack, though many come without these.

Hybrids are the default choice for many commuters, and people who want one bike that can 'do it all'.

There are problems with Hybrids. They are uncomfortable for touring due to their straight handlebars, the wide range of gears are not needed for commuting and they are no better than a touring bike offroad. With better handlebars, they are good for use with a childseat, where the powerfull brakes and low gears come in handy.

We always have a few in stock, and can fit them with north road handlebars to make them more comfortable. We can also reduce the number of gears they have, as many customers who have had a hybrid before say that they never use the front gear system.

Some of the old steel hybrids can be fitted with drop bars and will make good touring bikes. Here's one we made in 2009, and another one here with multibars.

Interesting fact: Raleigh invented the hybrid with their Pioneer (or even the Merlin) but didn't call it that.