All bicycles used to fall under 2 common categories - mountain bike and road bike. The mountain bicycle is meant for rough terrain riding, while the road bike is meant for smoother roads. However, many riders are uncomfortable owning more than 1 bicycle. They usually travel on a wide variety of terrain - both rough and flat. So the mountain bike alone or the roadie alone just won't meet the needs of such people very well. So bike manufacturers come up with the idea of hybrids - a cross between a mountain and road bike. What are some characteristics of a hybrid bike? 1) Flat handlebars with more than 1 hand position. A traditional mountain bike has flat handlebars. But the rider is forced to stay in the same hand position. On occasion, a hybrid rider can change hand positions due to the improvements made on the handlebars. This will help achieve a more aerodynamic posture, or provide a more comfortable posture. Many riders prefer such handlebars as it makes it so much easier to navigate the bike through different types of terrain. 2) Thinner tires for less rolling resistance. Hybrid bikes have thinner tires compared to mountain bikes. But these wheels are still thicker than those on road bikes. The size of the wheels is the perfect size if you are looking for a balance between safety and speed. It's safe enough to ride (even in wet conditions) and it provides less rolling resistance compared to traditional mountain bike wheels. Over long distances, such wheels can save the rider lots of precious energy! 3) Middle weight frames for a balance of stability and speed. There are many types of bike frames in the market, and the frame on a hybrid can vary greatly. However, most hybrids are targeted at the "leisure riding" group. So prices are quite affordable. Most of the bicycles are built with aluminum. Aluminum is an affordable material that can be easily engineered into durable frames. Unfortunately, such frames are usually heavier and less stiff, which leads to power loss. If budget permits, take a look at hybrids that are made from carbon fiber frames. Such bikes can cost thousands of dollars, but once you own one, you won't want to own another hybrid bike. The carbon hybrid is the cream of the crop. It's one of the lightest building material around, and it offers very good power transfer capabilities. That means every pedal and every ounce of energy comes from you is put into good use. Such bikes are perfect for those who are safety conscious. Due to the rider friendly designs of hybrids, even beginners find it easy to ride one. The next time you go social riding with your friends, bring a hybrid along and zip past all those mountain bikes as if they are standing still!
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