What Bike Should I Buy? Part 4: Hybrid Bikes
(Note: this article first appeared on RVTravel.com. It’s intended for RVers, and not for the cycling enthusiast. But much of the information is relevant for cyclists as well, so I’m reproducing it here.)
This is the fourth and final entry in this series providing an overview of the different types of bikes. Here are links to the first three discussed:
Each of these bikes has their strengths and weaknesses, and they vary in their suitability for RVers. I believe that, for the majority of RVers, they’re not the best fit. Today I go over the type of bike that should be at the top of your list: hybrid bikes. Why are they the top choice? Let’s take a look.
Hybrid Bike Characteristics
Flat handlebars. Hybrid bikes have non-curly handlebars, the type found on road bikes and gravel bikes. This flat profile means that the riding position is upright, which is the most comfortable way to ride—it’s easier on your back and neck. If you’re a bit older, this becomes specially important.
Semi-wide tires. Hybrid bike tires are wider than road tires, and narrower than mountain bike tires. That makes them great for the type of dirt roads and mild off-road trails (like rail trails) that they’re typically ridden on. And they handle paved roads well, too. This makes them excellent all-arounders.
Large, comfortable seats. In general, hybrid bike seats are made for comfort more than performance. They usually have more padding than other types of bikes, and work well for the shorter types of rides they’re most often used for.
Hybrid bikes very often have ebike versions. In fact, it’s safe to say that there are as many hybrid ebikes as non-electrics—they’re that popular.
Should You Buy a Hybrid Bike?
For the first time in this series, the answer is a big Y-E-S! For the vast majority of RVers, a hybrid bike is the right choice.
The upright riding position means miles of comfort. The wider tires, while being able to handle rougher surfaces, are also more comfortable than narrower road bike tires. And pretty much any model you’re looking at will have an ebike version, which is the strongest trend among the RV crowd right now.
Hybrids are built for the kinds of places RVers like to ride—the kinds of trails typically found in and near RV sites. And since they’re great for roads, they’re perfect for running errands if you use a bike as a car replacement. One hidden advantage of upright riding positions is that you can see more of the traffic around you.
When you begin shopping, it’s good to know that there are a ton of options for buying a hybrid bike. There are many types of frame materials, including steel, aluminum, and carbon. There are lots of choices on component groups, wheels, and other details, providing a huge range of price points. With a big of digging, you should be able to find the perfect hybrid bike for your needs.
Probably your first decision will be to determine if you want an ebike or non-ebike. In my next column, I’ll go over some of the pros and cons of ebikes, to help inform that decision. Until then, happy riding!