One of the fastest growing areas of bike sales is for the ‘hybrid bike’ – a cross between a racing bike and a mountain bike. A hybrid is designed for the urban commuter. The main criteria for an urban cyclist include:
- Strength and durability for year round use.
- A more upright position for better visibility and comfort.
- Practical add-ons such as mudguards and panniers.
A typical hybrid bike takes a compact from of a mountain bike, but dispenses with suspension and the more expensive components like hydraulic brakes. Other hybrid bikes tend to be closer to the traditional road bike – standard diagonal frame, 700c Wheels and narrower tyres; however, they would be without the drop handlebars, typical of the road bike.
A popular choice of material for the frame is Aluminium. Generally, this is one of the cheapest materials and is fine for every day use.
When buying a hybrid bike for commuting try to spend as much as you can. By spending more you will get better quality and your daily ride will be more enjoyable. If you are reluctant to spend a good sum of money on the bike, think how much it would cost to run a car, with petrol and car parking fees. However, make sure you leave enough money for all the accessories like lights, locks, panniers e.t.c.
Suggested Hybrid Bikes
Giant Escape
The Giant Escape is a popular commuting bike, coming in both men’s and ladies and different models. There are quite a few choices for less than £500. For £499, you can get the very good Giant Escape 1 Excellent value. The bike has aluminium frame and Carbon fork; Good quality Shimano group set. It is a good standard of components for the price. It is hard to find many other bikes which give such good value.
Giant Escape 1
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