Reid Blacktop 2017 - Hybrid Sports Bike

What is a Hybrid bike?

With fast rolling 700c wheels and flat handlebars hybrid bikes bridge the gap between road and mountain bikes. They are great all-rounders.

What type of hybrid bike do I need?

Hybrid classic bikes

With an emphasis on comfort and practicality, hybrid classic bikes combine the looks of a traditional bicycle with modern components. The upright riding position makes them easy to ride as well as being comfortable. Often ready fitted with mudguards, racks and even baskets on the front, these are great bikes for gentle rides around town.

Hybrid sports bikes

Faster and more efficient than the classic hybrids, these are ideal for fitness training and commuting. There are two main types of hybrid sports bikes that can be defined by their fork.

• With a suspension fork – These bikes are robust and are designed for riding both on and off road. The suspension fork helps to smooth out rough tracks and the tyres, being slightly wider, offer a little more cushioning as well as improving grip on loose surfaces.
  
  
• With a rigid fork – Designed specifically for road riding these are the fastest hybrid bikes and are ideal for urban riding. Tyres tend to be narrower so they roll quicker on smooth surfaces.

What are the frames made of?

Aluminium alloy- These are strong, lightweight and are found on most hybrid bikes. More expensive hybrids tend to have lighter ‘butted’ frames.

Steel – These frames are heavier but offer a smoother ride.

What gearing options are there?

Derailleur gears

Most hybrid sports bikes and many hybrid classic bikes feature mountain bike derailleur gears. With triple chain rings on the front and 7 – 11 cogs on the rear cassette these offer a wide range of gear options so you can cycle up steep hills as well as power along the flat.

Hub gears

More common on hybrid classic bikes hub gears require less maintenance tend to be more reliable than derailleur gears. 3 speed hub gears offer a limited range so are best for fairly flat riding. 7 and 8 speed hub gears offer a wider range so you can take on the climbs.

Which are the best brakes?

Rim brakes – mountain bike style V-brakes are powerful in the dry but less powerful in the wet.

Disc brakes – these are powerful in all conditions.

Hydraulic disc brakes – these offer increased power and braking precision in all conditions.

Can I fit mudguards and a rack?

Yes. All hybrid bikes have lugs on the frame and fork for easy fitting of mudguards and racks.