quote:

Originally posted by g8rforester:
As a former "hybrid" bike owner, follow the advice further up the thread: don't buy one. It truly is the worst of both worlds. I suffered with one for about a year before I bought a road bike and a mountain bike.

If you are riding on roads/rail trails, get a road bike. They make flat bar road bikes now, sometimes called "fitness" bikes, so you don't have to have the curly handlebars. They are actually very comfortable to ride, even if they don't look it.

If you are riding off road (or if you'll just be riding casual/slow on road), get a mountain bike. Period. Hybrid forks won't take the pounding that a trail can give. Plus the wider tires will make your ride easier and more comfortable.

Also, go to a bike shop and get an entry-level Trek/Specialized/Felt/whatever. You'll spend an extra $200, but it will be worth it over time. You're going to get a better frame, better components, better service, and the bike will be built by an actual bike mechanic, instead of Bubba what likes to turn them wrenches in the stockroom.

quote:

Originally posted by konata88:
...Another does a mix and he using hardtail bike but has two sets of wheels - one with trail tires and one (thinner and more smooth) set for pavement. Good compromise that works for him. Not as ideal as having dedicated bikes for pavement and trail but close enough...