There are many types of bikes and the hybrid bike is one of the most popular types of bike in the market right now. Many cyclists prefer hybrid bikes because they can use them in any type of terrain. What makes the hybrid bike unique is its versatility because it has both the features of a road bike and a mountain bike.
When choosing a Hybrid bike you must first know what features you want in your bike. Do you prefer comfort over speed? Or do you want a balance sports bike? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself before deciding to purchase your first hybrid bike.
What are the Different Types of Hybrid Bike
There are four different types of Hybrid bikes that a buyer can choose from. You have the Trekking, Commuter, City, and Cruiser types. Here are the different features of each type.
Trekking Bikes – The key feature of a Trekking Bike is its flat handlebar. This gives the rider a more aggressive riding position for a faster ride. You can also find some Trekking bikes that are designed for comfort. These bikes have more relaxed upright geometry positions which allow riders to do long rides. You can use this type of hybrid bike on light terrains, bike paths, and paved roads.
Commuter Bikes – This type of hybrid bike is designed for paved roads. But don’t get me wrong Commuter bikes can handle light terrains as well. Accessories like baskets, lights, and panniers are commonly found on a Commuter bike. This type of hybrid bike is ideal for commuting to work or going to the grocery store.
City Bikes – The City bike shares the same features as the Commuter Bike. The only difference is wheel size. The City bike features a 26-inch wheelset and wider tires which allow you to ride through potholes.
Cruiser Bikes – Also known as Comfort Bikes, these hybrid bikes allows the rider to place both feet on the ground. Since the bike is designed for comfort the riding position is mostly upright. The Cruiser Bikes are ideal for riding around the neighborhood or on the beach.
How To Shop For A Hybrid Bike
Before you go shopping for a hybrid bike the first thing that you should do is decide on your budget. You can easily find a hybrid bike for under $500 however you still need to check the features before getting it. Here are the things that you need to consider when looking for a hybrid bike under $500.
Breaks – There are two different types of breaks the V Break and the Disk Break. The V Breaks or Rim Breaks are easy to maintain and way more cheaper. Meanwhile, the Disk Breaks even though expensive have great stopping power.
Gears – Hybrid Bikes under the $500 budget offer a good range of gears. You will have multiple options of 2×7, 2×9, 3×7, or 3×8 gearing. When choosing the right kind of gear you need to consider what terrain you will mostly ride on.
Frame – Most Bike Frames are made of Aluminum or Steel. Steel frames are sturdy but are a bit heavier. Aluminum frames on the other hand are lightweight and less expensive. The downside is that Aluminum frames are rigid so you will feel all the bumps on the road.
Wheels – Hybrid bikes usually come with different wheel sizes. Typically you will see Hybrid bikes with 20 inches to 29 inches size wheels. Wheel sizes do matter in the type of riding you’ll be doing. Bigger wheels are good when riding on trails while smaller wheels are good on the descent.
My Recommendation For The Best Hybrid Bikes Under $500
Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike
The Vilano Diverse 3.0 Performance Hybrid Road Bike comes with a high-quality 6061 aluminum frame and fork and also boasts a 24-speed drive train. It also features Shimano Disc Breaks and the speed shifter is a Shimano EF 51 3 /8. The rim is a 700c rim from Weinmann which can carry up to 300lbs of weight.
Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike
The Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike has a frame made out of lightweight aluminum material. It has a 21 Speed drivetrain which is enough to take you up and down the hill. Other features include an alloy double-wall rim, mechanical disc brake, 700c wheels, and an integrated suspension fork. You also have eight different color combinations to choose from.
The Hiland Road Bike Hybrid is a cross between the cruiser bike and the road bike. It has a full Shimano 24-speed drivetrain and a lightweight aluminum frame and suspension. The rims are also made of aluminum and it has mechanical disc breaks with 180mm front and 160mm rear. The tire size is 700*40C High-performance tires from Kenda and it also has a SHIMANO 12-32T cassette. With the Shimano and Kenda parts found on this bike, the Hiland Road Bike Hybrid can be a good choice for you.