Hybrid vs Mountain Bike – Comparison and Differences
Bicycles have been around since the 1800s and have long become a very valuable mode of transportation. But it’s only in the past few years that cycling has become more than just a way to travel from Point A to Point B, a means of exercise, or leisure activity. Cycling has become trendy! And with its increase in popularity comes innovation, more bike models to suit the discerning buyer.
One of the most popular bike models is the mountain bike and it has been around since the 70s. Another well-known bike type is the hybrid, which combines features of the mountain bike with other models such as the road bike and the touring bike. A lot of people who are just begging their cycling journey can’t decide between hybrid vs mountain bike. If you are caught up in this dilemma, check out the comparison and differences between the two below.
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Comparing Hybrid vs Mountain Bike
From the get-go, hybrid bikes and mountain bikes look a bit alike. For starters, both have flat handlebars and offer an upright riding stance. To know how they are different, you can compare the two with the following features:
Gears
The best hybrid bikes under 200 usually have 7 to 8 gears. However, there are now hybrid bikes with a steeper price point that has up to 11 gears. The modern mountain bike, on the other hand, has 11 gears and has only 1 chainring. Older mountain bikes used to have a triple crankset.
Suspension
This is one of the biggest differences between a hybrid and a mountain bike, the former does not have suspension as it can add a lot of weight. Meanwhile, the mountain bike has a front suspension to offer support for situations like riding downhill. A full-suspension mountain bike also has rear suspension for better absorption of large impacts on rough roads.
There is, of course, a mountain bike that doesn’t have a rear suspension called a hardtail. This special type of mountain bike offers more speed and can be used for jumps.
Construction
It’s easy to distinguish between a hybrid bike and a mountain bike when you check its frame. The hybrid bike is definitely more lightweight than a mountain bike and also has an aerodynamic design. Since mountain bikes are designed for harsher riding conditions, it’s frame is more durable which results in them becoming heavier.
Tires
When it comes to tire sizes, hybrid vs mountain bike, the latter is definitely the bigger one. The standard mountain bike usually has a tire with a diameter of 26 inches, although 27.5 and 29 inches are also available.
Hybrid bike tires are typically 700c, which is around 24.5 inches in diameter and about 1 to 2 inches wide. These tires are usually thinner than the mountain bike ones as they are designed for smoother terrain.
Brakes
Typically, a hybrid bike uses a rim brake while a mountain bike has a disc brake. The difference between a rim and a disc brake is where force is applied to make a bike’s wheel stop spinning. As the name implies, the rim brake is on the bike’s rims whereas the disc brake is right in the middle, by the wheels’ rotors.
Rim brakes are lighter than disc brakes and are easier to repair plus are more aerodynamic. However, a disc brake is able to offer better precision when it comes to stopping.
Hybrid vs Mountain Bike
If you still can’t decide between a hybrid bike and a mountain bike, you should start considering your use of this 2-wheeled vehicle to help you out. You should also consider care for the bicycle as well as repairs so you can make an informed decision.
Usage
Hybrid bikes are generally designed for use in urban locations. If you are in the city and just want to go on a casual ride around the neighborhood. It’s also perfect for commutes and errands like if you are going to work or need to make a quick stop at the grocery. Hybrid bikes can also be used for leisurely rides on bike paths in your city park.
Mountain bikes are not necessarily just for the mountains. However, this bike model is definitely for rougher terrain. Maybe there are a lot of unpaved roads in your area or even fire roads. Mountain bikes are definitely perfect for technical rides going uphill or down rocky trails.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, mountain bikes require more attention. For every ride, you need to check the tire pressure and lube the chains. After every few rides, you also need to check your brake pads, service the rear shocks, fork, and frame.
Hybrids are a little low maintenance. You need to service it once a year. However, if you use your hybrid bike frequently, then you should increase the service to every 6 months.
Conclusion
The winner in the battle of hybrid vs mountain bike will depend entirely on you. These two bike types have specific uses, with the hybrid bike more for city spots and mountain bikes for rural areas. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t switch up the two around. You can but you’ll definitely need to take better care of your bicycle. You should also consider your comfort when riding a bicycle in multiple locations.