A hybrid bicycle is a versatile combination of a road bike and a mountain bike, designed for general-purpose riding over various types of terrain. They are suitable for commuting, leisure riding, and beginners, providing comfort, control, and the ability to handle various terrains at an affordable price. Hybrid bicycles blend characteristics from more specialized road bikes, touring bikes, and mountain bikes, resulting in a general-purpose bike that can tolerate a wide range of riding conditions and applications.

Hybrid bikes typically borrow the flat, straight handlebars and upright seating posture of a mountain bike, which many bicyclists find comfortable and intuitive. They also employ the lighter weight, thinner wheels, and smooth tires of road bikes, allowing for greater speed and less exertion when riding on the road. Hybrid bikes often have places to mount racks and bags for transporting belongings, much like a touring bike.

Hybrid bikes have spawned numerous sub-categories satisfying diverse ridership. They are classified by their design priorities, such as those optimized for comfort or fitness, and those offered as city, cross, or commuter bikes. Some hybrids are closer to mountain bikes than road machines, and others fall closer to the tarmac side of things. Hybrid bikes that come equipped with front and/or cargo racks are generally designed for urban riding that includes trips to the grocery store and commuting to work.

The right type of hybrid bike largely depends on how you plan to use the bike. There are two main decision points when shopping for a hybrid bike: bike features and components, and bike fit. To figure out what type of hybrid bike is right for you, the first consideration is to know what type of riding you’ll be doing: commuting in the city, riding paved paths and smooth streets for a workout, or cruising on a mix of gravel and pavement. Once you know this, you can look at the specific features on a hybrid bike to decide if the bike is suitable for where you plan to ride.