If you’re a keen cyclist, there’s nothing better than getting out there and feeling the miles fly past. But if you’re in the market for a new bike, you might be feeling bewildered by the huge number of choices you need to make to find the right model for you.
Modern technology means bike styles have evolved substantially in the last few years. It’s no longer a case of choosing how many gears you can afford and going with it; you now need to know your cranksets from your brake levers, and your carbon frames from your drivetrains.
If you’re choosing between a road bike and a hybrid, there’s much to consider. Both types of bike have their pros and cons; ultimately the choice is a highly personal one and will depend on your intended use of the bike, your preferences, and your cycling style.
At The Edge Sports Superstore, we’re experts in all things cycling. From road bikes to hybrids, accessories to wheels, tyres, and tubes, we stock all that you need for the premium cycling experience. We’re passionate about the art of cycling and can help you sort your bar ends from your bottom brackets. Here’s our guide to road bikes vs hybrids.
What is a Road Bike?
Road bikes, as the same suggests, are designed for use on a paved road surface. They feature thinner 700c wheels and narrow tires and are orientated towards speed and performance. The seat design of a road bike is aimed towards optimizing aerodynamics, positioning the rider lower and with a longer reach. One of the distinguishing features of a road bike is the drop handlebars – allowing the rider to hold in a variety of positions.
Road bikes usually come with 2X drivetrains (2×11spd or 2×12spd). They offer enough gears for most scenarios you encounter on a road bike.
What is a Hybrid Bike?
A hybrid bike is also known as a city bike, or a trekking bike, and is designed with a wider variety of terrains in mind than a road bike. While they will travel fine on a paved surface, they can also navigate dirt roads, uneven surfaces, and forest environments.
Hybrid bikes feature wider tires, and different geometry to a road bike – with a shorter reach and a higher stack giving a more upright riding position.
Hybrid bikes can use anything from 3X to 2X to 1X drivetrains, and the number of speeds also varies. Some hybrid bikes even have one fixed gear. So your gearing needs are an important consideration.
There is more variety amongst hybrid bikes, depending on whether you want to focus on the all-terrain possibilities or keep things as sleek as possible. Some models feature suspension (although not as comprehensive as on a true mountain bike).
Hybrid bikes are all about compromise, taking what you need from other styles and combining them into one multi-use vehicle.
What are the Pros of a Road Bike?
Road bikes are the ultimate speed machine. They are designed to excel on paved roads, so they focus on aerodynamics and weight. Road bikes are:
- The fastest type of bike
- Very Light
- Aerodynamic
What are the Pros of a Hybrid Bike?
Hybrid bikes offer a flexible solution for riders hoping to get an all-in-one package. Their pros include:
- Versatility – ride on a greater variety of terrains with the wider hybrid tires
- Greater comfort – a more upright riding position and the possibility of extras such as suspension can make hybrids a much more comfortable ride
- Compatible with a wider range of accessories such as panniers
- The more upright position is a great asset if you are riding in traffic and need to be aware of what is happening around you
- Stability – the wider wheelbase of a hybrid model means you are automatically steadier and it will be easier to balance
What are the Cons of a Road Bike?
While offering an impressive level of specialization, road bikes can limit opportunities for riders who want a wider range of activities. Road bike cons include:
- Inflexible – they are not suitable for any terrain other than paved road surfaces
- Uncomfortable – the riding position could be very uncomfortable for the less experienced rider
- A less comfortable ride – due to a lack of suspension, narrow tires, and accessories that tend to be designed for speed rather than a luxury
- Less compatible with a wide range of accessories
What are the Cons of a Hybrid Bike?
The hybrid bike is all about compromise, so there are downsides to selecting this type of vehicle.
- Slower – you won’t be winning competitions on a hybrid bike
- Heavier – this can daunt those of smaller stature or novice riders
- Less aerodynamic – if you’re hoping to cover some distance, the thought of putting in more effort for less return can be very disheartening!
How to Choose Between a Road Bike and a Hybrid Bike
What is your main intended use of the bike?
Ultimately, the choice between a road bike and a hybrid bike will come down to your personal needs and circumstances. If you are intent on racing and using the bike competitively, you will need a road model to give you the necessary edge. However, if you are hoping for a more mixed-use vehicle, a hybrid is a more sensible choice.
Within the hybrid category, there are many variations. So it’s possible to choose a model that leans towards the sleek features of a road bike, minimizing weight and maximizing speed. Or if you want something that feels solid and is better on rough terrain, you’ll be able to find a hybrid that nods towards the mountain bike.
What is your budget?
Your budget will also play a large part in your choice. The more you have to spend, the more likely you are to be able to find a model that encapsulates all the features you are looking for.
What are your drivetrain needs?
Gearing is an important feature of any bike. 2X and 3X drivetrains offer more gears, but are more complex (for maintenance and use), are heavier, and more things can go wrong.
1X drivetrain, on the other hand, is simpler, but the jumps between gears are larger.
A 2X drivetrain is a good choice for both hybrid and road bikes, as it’s a solid compromise between 1X and 3X.
Which type of brakes do you prefer?
Modern road bikes often come with disc brakes, while hybrid models tend to vary between disc and rim brakes.
Rim brakes are lighter, but less effective in wet conditions. Disc brakes come with a higher price tag, but are more effective.
What is your preferred frame material?
The bike’s frame material will make a big difference to the feel of your ride and the weight you carry. The gold standard of bike frame materials is carbon, as it is not only wonderful lightweight, but it absorbs vibrations, giving a more comfortable ride.
Most top-end bikes, whether hybrid or road, will have a carbon frame.
Aluminium is another material of choice for bike frames. More budget-friendly hybrid and road bikes are likely to be made of aluminium. You might also find some hybrid bikes with steel frames, but this is very unlikely on a road bike, as it would be too weighty.
Are you Looking for a Road or Hybrid Bike?
Whether you decide that you’re all about speed and opt for a road bike, or you want more versatility, so you’re looking for a hybrid model, come to The Edge Sports Superstore.
Here at The Edge, our team of friendly experts will be able to help you make the right choice. Find the greatest range of bikes plus accessories, parts, and cycling wear at The Edge.
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