What is a hybrid bike?
A hybrid is exactly what it sounds like – a mix of a road bike and a mountain bike. The result is a bicycle that's suitable for general-purpose riding over various types of terrain, which is why most hybrid bikes tend to be used for commuting.
Hybrid bike vs road bike vs mountain bike vs gravel bike
The best hybrid bikes usually have a flat handlebar, as found on a mountain bike, rather than the drop bar you'd find on a road bike. This means shifting and braking components are often very similar to mountain biking units, instead of being STI-style integrated brake and shift levers as you'll find on nearly all road bikes.
This allows for a more upright riding position that many will find more comfortable, and potentially safer, in traffic, even if it doesn't offer as much speed as a road or gravel bike.
Hybrid bikes also tend to use larger-volume tyres than road bikes, offering more comfort than narrower road tyres.
Some hybrids are closer to mountain bikes than road machines, and others fall closer to the tarmac side of things. Wheel size is usually a good indicator; hybrids using a 26in format commonly found on mountain bikes tend to be more off-road biased. Bikes with road-style 700c wheels are usually less ideal for off-road use.
Combining elements from road and mountain bikes, hybrids might seem a lot like gravel bikes. However, hybrid bikes tend to be designed for optimal practicality and comfort, whereas gravel bikes are focused more on performance.
Braking can vary from model to model, but disc brakes are very common on hybrids, with either mechanical or hydraulic actuation.
Hybrids usually offer generous gearing. In the past, many hybrid bikes had triple cranksets. Now, hybrid bikes often have 1x drivetrains with wide-ranging cassettes. Hybrids can sometimes have hub gears for near-maintenance-free mile-munching, while singlespeed models are also available if simplicity is your thing.
Many hybrid bicycles come with full mudguards, and even pannier racks, while most are made with the eyelets and clearances required to retrofit such items.
Some hybrid bikes will also be fitted with a suspension fork. These are usually basic units that will provide comfort for bumpy terrain but offer very limited use for off-road riding.
There are also a growing number of electric hybrid bikes, which have battery-powered motors to provide assistance while you pedal.
The important thing to remember with a hybrid bike is that it's a jack of all trades but likely a master of none. A road bike will be faster, a mountain bike will be much better off-road. But for someone who dips in and out of disciplines or who wants to ride mixed terrain in comfort, a hybrid can be ideal.
