Want a Ride That Goes Everywhere? A Hybrid Bike Is the Answer

If you're in the market for a new bike, but overwhelmed by the abundance of options, you’re not alone. Road, mountain, cyclocross, cruiser, commuter, fixed-gear, electric, and so on — how can you possibly pick just one? Enter the hybrid bike (also called “fitness bike) — a bike that blends comfort, versatility, approachability, and affordability — a bike with a flat bar and more upright position to prioritize comfort versus speed — a bike that is one part big hill climber, one part light trail crusher, and all parts awesome.

As our colleagues over at Bicycling.com mentioned, not only are hybrid bikes “great for commuting, fitness, and fun, but also because these are the kinds of bikes that my non-bike-geeky friends and family are most interested in buying.”

When compared to a road bike, hybrids are more comfortable and less intimidating. When compared to a mountain bike, hybrids are lighter, require less effort, and more affordable. And when compared to a gravel bike, hybrids feature a more upright riding position for comfort (versus speed).

So whether you can only afford or only have the storage space for one bike (instead of 4), or if you’re just looking for something multipurpose for some casual fitness riding, a hybrid bike will take you where you need to go.

Best Hybrid Bikes

What to Consider

For the purpose of this review, we compare hyrbid bikes to road bikes, since they are most similar in design. But some key differences make the hybrid more comfortable for casual riders, such as a more compact frame geometry, flat handlebars, and wider wheels and tires. Some differences within hybrid bikes will come in the gearing and brake department. Read along for a deeper dive into the most important considerations.

Frame: Hybrid frames are pretty similar to road bike frames, but they are a bit shorter in length, which allows for a more upright riding position. Most are made of steel or aluminum for cost-saving, as carbon is typically reserved for serious racers and, thus, not appropriate for a hybrid.

Flat bar: Hybrid bikes have a flat handlebar, while road bikes often have drop bars. The flat bar, again, allows the rider to sit more upright, versus a drop bar which puts you hunched over into a racing position. This upright position is much more comfortable for your back, especially over longer distances, with speed being the main sacrifice.

Wheels & Tires: Hybrid and road bikes share the same diameter 700c wheel size. But hybrid wheels and tires are wider, as is the frame and fork to accommodate wider wheels and tires. These wider wheels and tires provide more grip on loose surfaces, absorb bumps better on rough roads, and resist flat tires better than their skinny, road bike counterparts. Because of the added surface area, hybrid tires require more effort to move, but the difference is minimally relevant for casual riders.

Gearing: Most hybrid bikes are built with somewhere between 7 to 11 chainrings in the rear. Up front is where the differences are most relevant. Most hybrids are equipped with with two chainrings in front, which is a good balance of versatility without sacrificing shifting performance. A third chainring actually costs less, and provides more options, but this often makes shifting less precise, is susceptible to damage, and requires maintenance. On the other hand, a single chainring is much more simple to use and maintain, but its range is limited for steep or long climbs.

Brakes: Disc brakes are the new gold standard, with modern bikes transitioning away from the old-style rim brakes. Disc brakes apply more even pressure for better stopping power, especially when wet. Many affordable hybrid bikes feature mechanical disk brakes, with hydraulic options mainly reserved for fancier bikes.

A note on availability: Due to increased demand and supply chain issues that continue to affect the bike industry, some of these products may fluctuate between in and out of stock. We will be frequently checking and refreshing the links to these products as they become available again.