Which 2012 Hybrid for £1000

thedrummer
thedrummer Posts: 10
edited February 2012 in MTB buying advice
Hi All,

I've just posted a thread about top 3 2012 MTB Hardtails, I am also in two minds about a hybrid. Any thoughts on best 2012 hybrid for the same £1k budget?

Thanks again

Comments

  • supersonic
    supersonic Posts: 82,708
  • Well I currently have a Rockhopper but it's not great for the cycle to work commute but I still enjoy a bit of off roading (nothing too serious). I only came to know of hybrids the other day (so I apologise for coming across as a complete novice) so I don't know what the different types are, just an idea of what I would use it for. 60% of the time I would probably use the bike on the road cycling to work, 40% I'd look to use it on some off road tracks and cycling around with the family through forests, etc.

    Unfortunately I can't get bikes like the Boardman because I'll be purchasing the bike through a bike to work scheme and our supplier doesn't stock those.

    Would really appreciate any recommendations

    Thanks
  • supersonic
    supersonic Posts: 82,708
    A lightweight MTB XC hardtail might be the best bet, or certainly a hybrid that leans towards the rougher sort of riding.

    Something like this:

    http://www.jejamescycles.co.uk/cube-ltd ... 77021.html

    Light, well equipped, and with slicker tyres will still be quick on the road. Or a Trek 6500:

    http://www.jejamescycles.co.uk/trek-650 ... 74002.html

    Most hybrids od the same price are geared more towards the road, with taller gearing, larger wheels and slick tyres. Though Cube again do one:

    http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Mode ... tedKingdom

    And Trek:

    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tre ... gn=froogle

    I still think the XC hardtail is the best bet, are barely heavier, much better forks and will cope with more demanding terrain.
  • Thanks for the info, will concentrate on the XC Hardtails. Unfortunately it appears that the cycle to work scheme company that we use don't stock Cubes or Treks and the only XC Hardtail brands in the price range are as follows:

    http://cyclesolutions-shop.co.uk/catalo ... r%20Unisex

    From what I understand about cycle to work schemes the savings are pretty good with the Tax & NI break so its just about finding the best frame & kit for the money.

    Are there any that anyone would recommend or should I steer clear?

    Thanks for the advice
  • benpinnick
    benpinnick Posts: 4,148
    How big is your company? Just ask if they would ditch cycle solutions and change provider? It would be much better for you.
    A Flock of Birds
    + some other bikes.
  • Quite a large company and unlikely to change provider I'm afraid
  • benpinnick
    benpinnick Posts: 4,148
    Whats the company? I know the guys doing workriders - could arrange for a call to be put in.
    A Flock of Birds
    + some other bikes.
  • The cycle to work cut off is the 27th Feb so even if they did change it wouldn't be in that window and with lots of agreements in place already switching for them would be quite a headache so I think its a non starter, but thanks for the offer.

    Just interested to know which of the bikes available would be the best to go fo. Probably favouring a Cannondale SL 1 or a Kona but just not sure about the equipment specs and just looking for the best value for money I guess.