Which type of bike?

clarkie28

Hey everyone!

I currently have a mountain bike which gets used for light cycling over distance and not really for using off road. Was thinking of getting a racing cycle as i used to have one when i was a youngster, but the roads are far too busy and dangerous for one where i live!

Is a hybrid a good compromise between the two? And as i dont know much about the 3 types of bike, what exactly is a hybrid? And can anyone recommend a decent bike for around £500.

Many thanks for all your help - clarkie28

daz51

hey,

check out the which road bike thread at the top of the beginners forum,

In general a hybrid is half mountain / half road. There are differential extremems between manufacturers though.

I.e. Giant Tcr range is nye on a road bike with straight handle bars.

overall though gear ratios, tyres and position.

Personally i like the idea of a tourer bike. you get the dropped bars which technically three riding positions yet is set up more for relaxed speeds.

Edinborough Bicycle Co do a nice touring bike (for the money) for £399. recently got good reviews in a test by Cyling Plus.

hope this helps

Jez mon

Just wondering what particular aspect of a racing bike is putting you off using it where you live. Many couriers use track bikes with no brakes on in London (I'm not saying you should, but just that drop bars/racing geometry, can be used successfully in the city).

A touring bike wouldn't be a bad idea, just remember they are quite heavy and don't offer the most sporty ride.