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What makes a hybrid bike? Basically a hybrid combines those features of mountain and road bikes that most appeal to the leisure cyclist. For many, the weight and wide tyres of a full mountain bike make cycling on the road tiring. At the same time, the uncompromising riding position of a road bike is too uncomfortable for leisure cycling and the narrow tyres make it unfeasible to explore the tracks and trails.

So how does this compromise work?

All have flat handlebars. Far better for the leisure cyclist than the drop bars fitted to road bikes. You can change hand position regularly and thick padded grips smooth out vibration.

Semi slick tyres, the width being somewhere between road and MTB tyres. These produce a great combination of reduced resistance for road speed, together with enough grip for ventures off the beaten track. Wheels are generally 700 mm diameter road rims instead of 26″ MTB wheels.

A stretched MTB-style frame, or toughened road frame. The choice of style will depend on the market the manufacturer wants to target. The frame material is typically aluminium, although carbon is an option for those with deep pockets. You can frequently find suspension forks – superb for rough roads. There is often a choice of mens or womens geometry.

The gears typically have the low ratios needed for climbing hills, but will also incorporate a larger chainring for speed on the road.

Now, no compromise can ever be ideal. So you have a choice to make depending on where and how you will be doing the majority of your riding.

Will you be predominantly an on-road rather than an off-road rider? For you, a road-bike inspired design would probably be the best option. A slender frame and rather narrow tyres will help with speed on the road. To be more comfortable with off-road riding, you would probably look for the designs with suspension forks and wider tyres.

So the choices are out there, whatever your style of riding. There’s little doubt that a hybrid bike is the best choice for those who just want to get out cycling.

Check out the Bianchi Camaleonte or Specialized Crosstrail ranges as great examples of road and trail-friendly hybrids – in-depth reviews from Tern Cycling Reviews.