Hardtail MTB or Hybrid

Jake254

I mainly cycle on roads to get to friends houses and cycle some canal paths etc. I have recently realized that as I'm overweight and am starting college next September I NEED to lose quite a bit of weight, I'm not obese or anything just a bit stocky. So finally I get to the point of asking do I need a hybrid or just a regular hardtail mtb? Thank yoooooou

nealgs

My opinion is that if you don't plan on doing anything more extreme than the Canal paths then a decent Hybrid would more than likely suit you better.

Don't need the extra weight/strength from a MTB - two of my work collegues recently purchased Hybrids - Claud Butler Urban 200 & 300 models - both nice bikes, light, and one has covered a fair few miles since getting his.

If on the other hand you may do some more difficult terrain then something that is more likely able to cope would be required - hence Hardtail of some sort - depending on budget

regards
Gary

ratty2k

TBH, if its only road and canal tow path then I wouldn't bother with suspension forks at all. Flat bar hybrids are designed to be comfy and still reasonably good rolling, plus you get the advantage of being able to fit a full mudguard- believe me they are a worthy investment!

nealgs

if the canal tow paths are anythink like the one near us, then I think some sort of front damping system is a must.

My current MTB (no shocks of any sort) is a nightmare with all the vibrations from the tow paths travelling right throw wheels, to handle bars and into arms, head - definately a bone shaker experience - hehe, hence my looking for a new decent Hardtail also.

Gary

switchback18

I've never been keen on hybrids - some are actually much heavier than a mountain bike, so you have to be careful what you buy. I like to ride my MTB(s) on the road, just prefer the feel of them wherever I'm riding, and I reckon an entry level but capable MTB is more versatile - get some slicks & it's as good as a hybrid on the road, but with the original tyres it'll work off-road way better (even on easy stuff), and if you get more into the off-roading, you don't need a new bike.
...but, as always, try before you buy, then get what you like the feel of.

Jake254

Thanks for the advice, I've had a Giant Rock SE for the last 3 years (I got it as my last bike got stolen and they just gave me that) and it has done me fine but the frame is only 17" and i need a 19/20" now . Also I'm starting college next year I will need to cycle to the station so I just need a general upgrade, looks like I might just get a Hardrock

switchback18

A Hardrock is quite a nice bike - tough frame & fairly multi-purpose.