Not sure what bike to go for..

Robw757

Hi everyone, this is my first post

I am planning to get back into cycling after a four year break, I previously rode a Specialized MTB which I used on and off road. I live in north wales and have access to a very good paved cycle track so I would like to get some fitness back by getting into riding again.

Problem is I'm not sure what type of bike to get. I am considering getting a Specialized Hardrock sport disc and some road tyres, or a Scott Sub 30 hybrid which I rather like the look of. Only problem is, if I go for the Scott it really limits me to road and cyclepath, whereas the hardrock is definitely an all terrain vehicle. Also I would prefer disc brakes if possible.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Thanks
Rob

-spider-

Don't get a hybrid. I got one and it is really the worst of both worlds. If you you want a good bike for on and some rough stuff have you considered a cyclo cross machine?

Robw757

what was bad about the hybrid, just out of interest? I haven't had a look at cyclocross bikes, will have to check them out!

mudcow007

How far is your commute?

you may be better with a CX (CycleCross) bike?

waaay faster than a mountain bike and more comfy over distances

-spider-

As I said it was good at nothing - slow on road and unresponsive off. Maybe for touring off road it might be useful as a load carrier. I would recommend you go one way or the other. Or be like me and go both ways (but not on the same bike though )

Robw757

The ride to work and back is only about 10 miles, but I want something I can use to get fitter and just enjoy riding. I don't really like road bikes, and I'm on quite a low buget at the moment, so it needs to be a maximum of £500, hence the hybrid route, there are some quite good deals at the moment on 2011 bikes.

MonkeyMonster

If you're going to need "proper" off road capability and you can't afford 2 bikes go for the mtb and use slicks/semis when commuting.
If you aren't then cyclo-cross might be an idea but from where you are and what you've mentioned I think you will need a mtb with a few twists. Make sure sus is lockable and rims can take narrowish tyres - get 29inch wheels if you can perhaps...
proto-roadies and roadies hate hybrids (if they have one) because they hate to admit they made a mistake in purchasing or get annoyed because they get scalped on them. If one suits the style of what you are doing then get one.

veronese68

CX bikes often come with discs now. What about a rigid 29er? Somebody on here has a Surly sumfinkorother with drop bars fitted. Pretty much like a CX bike but can take even bigger tyres for silly off roading.
I've got a Kona Jake CX bike and it's fine for light off roading, but I still take my mountain bike for proper rough stuff.

UndercoverElephant

Five miles each way is pretty do-able on any bike. Get whatever you fancy for the weekend if you can only get the one bike, you can make do during the week.

moonio

Get a boardman hybrid comp

Jay dubbleU

Take a look at Edinburgh Bike Coop - some good bikes at reasonable prices including a couple of good CX bikes