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You may already have a hybrid bike in your garage, but do you know how to ride it? Or do you even know what it is? A hybrid bike is an electric assisted bicycle that combines the best elements of a traditional bike and a bicycle. They are relatively fast, quiet, and convenient to ride. In addition, they also offer a healthy ride, without the worry of carbon monoxide poisoning.
We have been creating the most complete and accurate reviews of hybrid bikes, e-bikes, electric bikes, city bikes and folding bikes. Our goal is to help you find the best hybrid bike for you, whether you’re a beginner, a casual rider, a professional racer, or even an experienced enthusiast.
Get ready to find the perfect hybrid for you! The best hybrid bikes are here, and they’re going to win your heart. Whether you want to commute the city, cruise the countryside, or get some training in the woods, there’s a hybrid bike for you. Find the one that fits you best today and prepare to have your mind blown.
These are the finest hybrid bikes you can purchase in 2021, according to BikeRadar’s professional testers.
Hybrid bikes are among of the most adaptable bicycles on the market, with features tailored to beginners and leisure riders. They are an excellent choice for commuting and city riding, as well as weekend pleasure riding.
If you’re unsure about which bike to purchase, a decent hybrid will let you handle virtually any terrain, enabling you to go out without worrying about whether or not your bike is up to the task.
Most bike manufacturers sell hybrids (also known as fitness bikes), and they come in a variety of pricing ranges. We’ve listed a selection below from each of these price ranges.
Not sure whether a hybrid bike is suitable for you? Read our explanation to find out which bike is ideal for you and your requirements.
All of our suggestions are based on bikes that BikeRadar has tested.
If you’re new to biking, we suggest that you check out a few different models to see what works best for you. A reputable bike store will often allow you to test before you purchase, as well as ensuring that you leave with a bike that fits you properly.
In 2021, the top hybrid motorcycles will be
- £849 Treadwell EQ by Cannondale
- £350 for the Subway 2 by Carrera.
- £1,699 / €1,199 SL Cube Travel
- £699 for 1 Disc Giant Escape
- £465 for 1 Presidio of Marin
Cannondale Treadwell EQ
The Cannondale Treadwell EQ is an excellent errand bike. Smith, Robert
- £849
- The neat front rack can hold up to 10kg.
- Ready for any weather
- It’s quirky, but it’s also a lot of fun to ride.
The Treadwell from Cannondale is a very pleasant and convenient mode of transportation. Its front rack, which can hold up to 10kg of cargo, makes it perfect for running errands like grocery excursions. There are pannier rack mounts incorporated neatly into the bike’s seat clamp if you need to carry extra.
This year’s top-of-the-line EQ model is no longer available, but the 2021 model is almost similar. The Tektro hydraulic discs are strong, and the basic Shimano transmission is perfect for commuting miles. The mudguards that surround the Maxxis DTR-1 tyres prevent the worst of the rain from splashing back at you, and the thick 47mm wide Maxxis DTR-1 tyres make the ride pleasant.
Cannondale has included a speed and distance sensor inside the front wheel, which can interact with a mobile software created in collaboration with Garmin. You can also attach your phone at the stem and use it as a bike computer if you use a suitable SP Connect case.
The Treadwell isn’t for the faint of heart, but it does provide a really enjoyable riding experience.
For a fraction of the price… Treadwell 3 by Cannondale
The Cannondale Treadwell 3 is the cheapest bike in the lineup, with Shimano 7-speed gearing and mechanical disc brakes.
Carrera Subway 2
Halfords is the only place to get Carrera’s Subway 2. Immediate Media / Oliver Woodman
- £350
- Disc brakes using hydraulic fluid with a lot of power
- Mudguards or a rack may be installed.
- A big tyre with enough of cushion is possible with 650b wheels.
The Carrera Subway 2, available exclusively from Halfords and Cycle Republic, is a great way to travel about, especially given its low price.
This model has just been replaced, so you’ll have to search for one used, but we’ll be testing the more current version of this bike shortly, which has a very similar spec and appearance to the bike you see here. In our 2020 Carrera range overview, you can learn more about the newest Carrera Subway.
The Subway 2 has been around for a while now, and that time has enabled it to develop into a highly powerful bundle.
The metal frame has all of the necessary connections for attaching bottles, mudguards, and racks, as well as 650b wheels with big 1.95in tyres for more cushioning and comfort.
Despite its cheap cost, the bike has hydraulic disc brakes that provide constant and dependable stopping force. While the other components are on the cheaper side, they function excellently and add up to a well-thought-out package that’s ideal for short city riding.
To learn a bit more… All-Weather Carrera Subway
An aluminum frame, mudguards, heated grips, Shimano gears, and hydraulic disc brakes are included in the Carrera Subway All Weather Edition.
Cube Travel SL
The Cube Travel SL is well-equipped for any situation. Immediate Media / Oli Woodman
- £1,699
- Mudguards, dynamo lights, and internal hub gear make this bike ready to ride in any weather.
- Belt drive that requires no maintenance
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes are dependable.
The Cube Travel SL is the ideal bike for getting from point A to point B with little hassle. It’s a straightforwardly utilitarian vehicle intended to get you and your belongings where they need to go.
A rear rack, mudguards, dynamo hub, and lights are included with the bike. Maintenance-free belt drive, internal hub gear, and dependable Shimano hydraulic brakes will get you moving and slow you down.
You’ll be able to simply hop on and ride thanks to the well-organized handling. Because it’s so well-equipped, the Cube Travel SL is a dutiful ride that you’ll certainly take for granted.
A less expensive option… Hyde Cube
Cube’s streamlined flat-bar hybrid, the beautiful Cube Hyde, will save you money over the Travel SL.
Giant Escape 1 Disc
The Giant Escape 1 Disc wowed us with its solid build and responsive handling. Immediate Media / Russell Burton
- £699
- Ideal for commuting on a variety of surfaces.
- Tektro disc brakes provide reliable all-weather braking.
- 38mm tubeless-ready tyres that are both comfortable and durable.
The Giant Escape 1 is an excellent option for people who wish to be comfortable when commuting or who spend a lot of time off the beaten path.
That’s because the Escape 1 has tubeless-ready alloy wheels with durable 38mm urban tubeless tyres below its amazing aluminum frame and complete carbon suspension.
With all much rubber, you’ll breeze over towpaths and gravelly bike paths, but you’ll pay the price in outright speed on the road.
Its design puts you in such a position that you’re acutely aware of the traffic around you, yet it’s not upright enough to prevent you from running sometimes.
It’s a mash-up. Shimano gearing provides every ratio you need, while Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power.
For a fraction of the price… 3rd Giant Escape
The v-braked, steel forked Escape 3 is worth a look if you like the appearance of the Escape but want a more simpler, lower-specced variant.
Marin Presidio 1
The Marin Presidio 1 is a reasonably priced and flexible bike that easily handles the everyday commute. Immediate Media / Russell Burton
- £465
- Looks great, especially given the price.
- Disc brakes using hydraulic fluid
- Simple 18-speed transmission
The Marin Presidio 1 is a commuter that looks great, rides well, and is a great deal.
The quality on the aluminum frame is great for the budget, and if you want to add a rack or appropriate mudguards, you’ll have no trouble doing so.
Marin has even managed to choose hydraulic disc brakes, resulting in remarkable stopping force and control.
The Marin is a quick steerer and a fun bike to ride thanks to its upright riding posture and short stem.
The single chainring in the front, which is coupled with an 8-speed (11-34) cassette, makes the gears smooth and easy to use.
The durable wheelset and 32mm tyres prioritize durability above speed, but they still offer plenty riding comfort.
If you had more money… 3rd Presidio of Marin
The highest level of specification The Marin Presidio is equipped with a Shimano Nexus 8-speed internal hub gear and belt drive mechanism that is quiet, smooth, and virtually maintenance-free.
Take into account
These bikes didn’t quite make the 4-star cut for our top lists, but they’re still a solid option that may fit your requirements.
Croix de Fer 10 Flat Bar by Genesis
The Croix de Fer (CDF) has a flat bar, which sets it apart from the rest of the bikes on this list. Immediate Media / Russell Burton
- £1,000
- Frame and fork with a strong yet distinct personality
- Exceptional adaptability
- Feels great to bike.
It’s odd that Genesis waited so long to release this flat handlebar version of the Croix de Fer, since it was one of the first road bikes intended to travel beyond the asphalt.
It’s a fun bike to ride and has a lot of versatility, but the steel frame makes it heavier than most of its rivals.
The flat bar Croix de Fer offers a dynamic feel, particularly while riding on uneven terrain, thanks to the Genesis’ butted steel chassis.
If you swap out the standard tyres with some fast road slicks, this Genesis becomes a great city commuter.
Carpe Orbea 40
The Orbea Carpe 40 is a hybrid with a flat handlebar. Immediate Media / Russell Burton
- £519
- Geometry inspired by fixies that’s a lot of fun.
- Looks that are sharp
- Hydraulic disc brakes
The Carpe 40 is almost perfect for commuting, although it’s limited a little by some of its component choices.
The frame has a short wheelbase and sharp angles that are comparable to those seen on many fixies, making it particularly enjoyable to ride. Thanks to Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, it also stops well.
The single chainring and 7-speed rear cassette are great for brief trips, but the flexy Orbea-branded chainset falls short.
The typical fit 38mm Kenda tyres are heavy, with steel beads and unforgivingly rigid sidewalls. By replacing them with some good 35c rubber, this bike became what it was meant to be.
For a fraction of the price… Katu Orbea 40
The Katu is a real wildcard due to its small 20in wheels, which make it practical, attractive, and unique.
Ridgeback Acceleration
The Ridgeback Speed commuter bike is a well-equipped machine that will not break the bank. Immediate Media / Russell Burton
- £500
- Mudguards and a rack are included as standard.
- Handling is enjoyable.
- Looks smart
It’s rare to find bikes with complete mudguards, a rear rack, and a full Shimano gear at this cheap. Ridgeback has left its Speed with v-brakes rather than discs to do this — they’re OK, but won’t equal the performance of hydraulic discs in the rain.
The triple chainring in the front and seven gears in the cassette, as smooth as they are, are excessive for what this bike is likely to be used for, and it’s also a loud configuration.
The 42mm Vee tyres roll surprisingly smoothly, although their weight is noticeable on the slopes, and they run close enough to scrape against the mudguards on occasion. If you need to fix a puncture, you’ll need a spanner, although bolted axles are far more secure than quick-release components.
However, this is still a fun bike to ride, and it looks great as well.
For a fraction of the price… Comet Ridgeback
The Ridgeback Comet, with its aluminum frame and steel fork, may be the bike for you if you want a no-frills commuting bike from a reputable manufacturer.
For more information on specific products, see our complete collection of BikeRadar hybrid bike reviews.
What is the definition of a hybrid bike?
Hybrid bikes combine the finest aspects of road and mountain bikes, enabling you to handle the most of your riding needs.
This makes them perfect for novices learning to ride or leisure riders seeking for a single bike that can do it all with little effort.
High-volume tyres are standard on hybrids to enhance comfort and traction on a variety of terrain. This is particularly beneficial for tackling more difficult terrain, such as canal pathways and gravel roads.
You may equip your hybrid with mudguards, racks, and other equipment to prepare it for every situation, whether you intend to carry a lot of baggage or ride in all weather.
Flat bars provide a confident, upright, and comfortable riding posture. Immediate Media / Matthew Allen
Hybrids, like road bikes, will enable you to move about fast. They are, however, usually equipped with long-lasting components that are suitable for city riding and everyday usage.
Hybrids, like mountain bikes, will feature more relaxed geometry and flat handlebars, allowing you to ride in a more comfortable and upright posture. This is especially useful while riding in traffic since it gives you an excellent perspective of what’s going on around you.
While hybrids with front suspension forks are available, we would steer clear of them on less expensive versions. The suspension is often low-end and adds a considerable amount of weight without significantly improving performance.
Disc brakes are now standard on a growing number of hybrids, providing constant stopping power in all circumstances.
In all weather conditions, disc brakes provide strong and reliable stopping force. Immediate Media / James Huang
Hybrids are competent machines with a variety of practicality and comfort compromises that make them a hassle-free bike to ride.
What kinds of hybrid bikes are there?
Hybrids are a cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. The position of a model on that scale determines how well it handles rough off-road terrain and how quickly it can drive on asphalt in the city.
If you’ll be riding on tougher terrain, a bike with bigger tyres will offer more cushioning. For that additional amount of comfort, you may wish to consider a suspension fork on higher-end models.
Hybrids intended for city riding are often equipped with slick road tyres and components similar to those found on a road bike, enabling you to go swiftly and effectively.
Will my tyres deflate?
We hate to break it to you, but no matter how puncture-resistant your tyres claim to be, they will never be totally impervious.
Hybrid bikes, on the other hand, are often equipped with durable, puncture-resistant tyres. They’re designed to get you from point A to point B every day. So there’s a good chance you won’t have to worry about punctures.
If you do have a puncture, we offer a comprehensive tutorial on how to repair a puncture and pump up your bike tyre. It’s not that tough, we assure you!
What are the gears on my hybrid?
Derailleur gears are used on the overwhelming majority of hybrid bikes. A derailleur moves your chain between cogs on the back wheel (cassette) and chainrings on the cranks, giving you a wide variety of gears to select from.
This is the most common kind of drivetrain you’ll find on a bike. Immediate Media / Oliver Woodman
However, such an exterior system is vulnerable to the environment and the risk of damage.
Internal gear hubs are an alternative to external gear hubs. Depending on the type, the back hub includes an internal gearbox with three to fourteen gears.
Despite the cost, there are some clear benefits. Hub gears need relatively minimal maintenance since the enclosed system is shielded from dirt, mud, and sludge.
For gear hubs, belt drives are occasionally utilized instead of chains. Unlike a chain, which has to be cleaned and lubricated on a regular basis to function properly, a belt drive utilizes a toothed belt that requires less maintenance.
You may also prevent the grease stains on your pants that come with the conventional chain.
Is the saddle going to be comfortable?
Because hybrids are designed with comfort in mind, there’s a good chance you’ll like the saddle that came with your hybrid. Keep in mind, however, that saddles are a highly personal decision, and one size does not fit everyone.
Contrary to popular belief, a lot of padding isn’t always a good thing.
If you’re cycling longer distances, less cushioning may be preferable. BikeRadar
When riding a bike, your sit bones should provide the most support. Excess padding may put strain on your soft tissue, obstructing blood flow and resulting in numbness – this is especially true the longer you ride.
The best course of action is to get professional guidance from your local bike store. You’ll frequently be able to test out various saddles on your bike if you ask nicely.
Should I use steel, aluminum, or carbon in my hybrid?
Aluminium will be used to make the overwhelming majority of hybrid bike frames. This is a great option since it combines a competitive weight with a cheap price.
Aluminium frames can be manufactured to ride nicely for a fraction of the price of higher-end alternatives, and they’re often combined with a carbon fork to improve front-end vibration absorption.
The most costly hybrids may have a carbon frame, which may improve the ride while reducing weight and increasing comfort.
Carbon fiber, on the other hand, is costly and must be handled with caution. We usually advise avoiding using carbon for a daily bike that will be used and damaged unless you are certain that you can lock your bike in a safe and secure place.
Steel frames aren’t very common. While the material has numerous benefits, including being very durable (and, in some cases, visually attractive), it is also rather heavy.
Hybrid bicycle accessories
The variety of accessories that are either developed especially for hybrids or that can be added adds to their flexibility.
Mudguards are standard on a significant proportion of hybrid bikes, especially those targeted at commuters or urban cyclists who are likely to use them in all weather situations, even on wet roads.
Mudguards aren’t everyone’s idea of fun, but getting splashed with mud isn’t either. Immediate Media / Jack Luke
If mudguards aren’t included, any decent hybrid will have mounting places on the frame where you may attach them.
Eyelets for mounting racks should also be present, enabling you to carry your baggage in panniers rather than a hefty backpack. If you prefer to carry your belongings on your back, there are a number of high-quality commuter backpacks to select from.
Anyone biking after dark should have bike lights. For added visibility, we suggest using lights throughout the day.
Some hybrid motorcycles will come equipped with lights. These are usually powered by a dynamo, which uses the bike’s pedaling effort rather than batteries to generate electricity.
Lights are necessary for visibility and safety. Immediate Media / David Caudery
Bike computers can in useful as well. The simplest ones are excellent for keeping track of how many miles you’ve traveled and how long it took you to get there.
Advanced GPS solutions, such as those offered by Garmin, will also allow you to plan and monitor your trip.
Make sure your bicycle is secure.
Of course, you’ll need a good lock wherever you store your bike to keep criminals out.
We put 24 of the most popular bike locks to the test, so you can have the greatest possible protection for your bike.
We put locks to the test to discover the best fit for your requirements. Immediate Media / Ben Healey
It’s also a good idea to insure your bike so that you’re protected if anything goes wrong and your ride is stolen. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of things to look for when purchasing bicycle insurance.
Finally, if you’re looking for anything other than a hybrid bike, have a look at our comprehensive guide to the finest bikes for commuting by bike.
We all want to look and feel our best. The problem is how do you know what is the best hybrid bike option for you. With so many different types of bikes out there it can be hard to find one that fits your style. Luckily for you we have researched some of the top hybrid bikes out there so you don’t have to. From beach cruisers to road bikes you can find the perfect fit for you.. Read more about best hybrid bikes for the money and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hybrid bicycle on the market?
The best hybrid bicycle on the market is a Trek, which has been rated as the best hybrid bike by many sources.
How much should I spend on a good hybrid bike?
The best hybrid bike is one that you can afford and fits your needs. You should also consider the terrain you will be riding on, as well as what type of riding you are doing.
Is hybrid bike good for fitness?
A hybrid bike is a type of bicycle that has both road and mountain bike features. It is designed to be used on different surfaces, which makes it good for fitness.
Related Tags
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- best hybrid bikes for the money
- best hybrid bikes under 1000
- best hybrid bikes under 300
- best hybrid bikes
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