Hybrid bikes are a universal non-motor vehicle. They combine the stamina and power of the mountain counterpart, as well as the dynamics and speed of the highway option. With these machines, you can easily travel both over rough terrain and within the city. Consider the device, features, characteristics of such units. In addition, we will conduct a brief review of popular models and study user reviews about them.
Design Features
The design of the hybrid bike is almost the same as that of the mountain counterpart. However, this is only at first glance. In reality, a combined bike is a mixture of a road bike and MTB (from the English mountainbike). This applies to assembly and running parameters. Among the main elements of the vehicle, the following details can be noted:
- The frame, the geometry and strength of which is inherent in mountain models, and the softness and lightness of road bikes (achieved by increasing the distance from the carriage block to the central part of the rear rim).
- Large wheels (diameters from 21 to 28 inches).
- Medium-sized tires with a pronounced pattern (they are thinner than MTB, the tread depth is less).
- Steering from a mountain bike.
- There is a fork-type shock absorber.
Landing on the "hybrid" is the middle position between the bent position on the "highway" and almost direct posture on the MTB. For some, this placement of the saddle in relation to the steering wheel may seem uncomfortable, however, based on reviews and practical tests, such a landing better affects the condition of the back during active and long trips.
Advantages
As a separate species, a hybrid bike optimally combines the parameters of both of its “relatives”. Among the advantages, the following points are noted:
- Excellent dynamics and recession on the paved surface.
- Good performance on rough terrain (provides stability, maneuverability and softness).
- It is possible to install the trunk, wings and holders, with virtually no decrease in dynamics.
- Less fatigue is observed compared to mountain models, especially when traveling long distances.
These features make it possible to use combined modifications for tourist trips. Since in such trips transitions from asphalt to off-road are not uncommon, a universal bike is optimally suited for these purposes.
Minuses
Unfortunately, the hybrid bike device, due to trade-offs in design, has several disadvantages. The main ones users include the following points:
- Low acceleration and moderate speed, compared with the "road racing".
- There is no possibility of changing the position of the hands on the steering wheel.
- Compared with mountain modifications, there is insufficient patency on sand and forest roads.
- Extreme riding is not allowed, due to the increased wheels, a rigid frame and insufficient depreciation.
Given these disadvantages, the models in question are suitable for moving along city and country roads, on small off-road roads, for overcoming minor descents and ascents, as well as for tourist trips.
Dynamics
To increase dynamic performance allows the presence of thin and relatively smooth tires. If the bike is used mainly along ungrounded paths, it is better to pick up thickened and “patterned” analogues. In the second case, the hybrid bike is as close to MTB, losing its versatility.
It is quite possible to adapt the considered bicycle machine for city walks. It is suitable for all lovers of cycling, regardless of gender and age. Units can be used both for aerobic training, and for city walks to keep leg muscles in good shape.
Hybrid Rating
Despite the general similarity, the combined models differ from each other in one way or another. When choosing, it is advisable to focus on the advice of relatives and friends, as well as reviews of specialists and owners. Among the most popular models, the following brands are distinguished:
- Stealth.
- Schwinn Discover ("Shwin Discovery").
- Specialized Sirrus ("Specialist Sirus").
- Merida.
- Jamis Coda Elite ("Jamis Coda Elite").
- Giant Escape City ("Giant Escape City").
- Takara Sugiyama ("Takara Sujiyama").
Consider these bikes in more detail, let's start with the most versatile and popular models.
Hybrid stealth bikes
The combined two-wheeled bicycle Stels of the Tourist series has 21 transfers. The diameter of the wheels is 28 inches, weight - 13.5 kg. The frame part is made of aluminum alloy, has increased strength, is not subject to aggressive environmental influences. The design is equipped with large diameter pipes, durable and practical.
On bikes, the installation of a spring-elastomeric fork on front shock absorbers is provided. This design allows you to cope with the control in almost any conditions, does not transfer the maximum load to your hands, saving them from fatigue. The removal of the steering column is adjusted in height, this makes it possible to ensure an optimal fit of the rider. Gear shifters - from the well-known company "Shimano" (Shimano). Despite the fact that they belong to the amateur class, the brake system guarantees timely stop and reliability during operation. One-block trigger type, rim - made of aluminum alloy.
Schwinn discover
These bicycles are focused on road traffic, assembled from an aluminum frame, equipped with large wheels and medium-sized tires. The steering wheel is a variant in the country style, the speed knot contains 21 positions. The seat is equipped with a small and effective shock-absorbing corrugation, which allows you to level the discomfort when driving on bumps and bumps. Landing on a bike is comfortable, which has a positive effect on long trips.
Certain disadvantages of the model include poor equipment with low-quality parts. Also, users are not enthusiastic about the decent mass of the unit and the low dynamics on the highway. Reasonable price and durability of the main structure cover these disadvantages with interest.
Merida
Mountain-highway variation combines the parameters of "highway" and MTB. On a flat asphalt road, the car shows excellent results, not inferior to the classic counterpart. On the road, the owner will also feel confident, with a more comfortable fit. Hybrid bicycles "Merida" are available in several versions. They differ mainly in wheel diameter, color scheme and some additional characteristics. As the reviews of the owners show, this bike combines the best price and quality indicators for its category.
Specialized sirrus
This modification can be called a road bike, which is slightly transformed into a "wagon". The main parameters, including the absence of shock absorbers and the placement of the seat relative to the steering wheel, speak of its original purpose. Nevertheless, the right angle of control and the configuration of the frame indicate that this bike is not as simple as it seems at first glance. It combines the performance of both "ancestors", although it is not intended for driving on impassable sands and other serious off-road conditions, it is mainly focused on city walks and skiing on country roads.
Takara sugiyama
This beautiful hybrid-design bike evokes conflicting feedback from users. For some, it is an original model with an interesting exterior and convenient functionality. Some owners note its inconvenience for long trips and overcoming off-road.
Equipment:
- Strong and rigid frame construction.
- Thick and fairly wide tires.
- The ability to overcome significant distances on sand and flat asphalt.
- Simplified but effective transmission, which includes a fixed gearshift unit, decent speed parameters, good brakes.
Jamis Coda Elite
Another answer to the question of why hybrid bikes are needed will be the indicated brand. This technique took equal shares from representatives of the mountain and highway product. Despite a decent price, the bike justifies itself in all categories.
Equipment:
- Shimano transmission kit.
- Excellent quality tires.
- The presence of disc brakes .
- Lightweight and durable fork on shock absorbers.
- Excellent maneuverability on virtually any surface.
Recommendations
Standard hybrid bicycles, reviews of which are given below, are equipped with platform-type pedals. Advanced racers prefer to use contact mechanisms that provide a more professional ride in difficult areas. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the fact that such a design of mechanisms does not provide adequate comfort on the city highway or special walking paths.
Modern “hybrids” have a special bicycle computer that takes into account operating parameters. Also included in the package are water containers, a spare chamber, a pump and a tool bag. When choosing a model, decide on its main purpose. This will not only allow you to choose the right bike for driving performance, but also give you the opportunity to enjoy every trip.
What do the owners say?
Testimonials about hybrid bikes indicate that this technique perfectly combines the parameters of mountain and road bikes. However, some owners note that the hybrid is not so easy to move along forest roads and sands. They are not intended for extreme trips, however they cope perfectly with their duties. Among manufacturers and modifications it is not so easy to choose just such a hybrid that is suitable for you. The above recommendations will help solve this problem.