San Antonio Cycling Club Travel Journal

Not all biking is the same, and hybrid bikes prove that. They are a combination of mountain, road, and touring bikes. If you’ve been in a large city, and have seen some of the people on bikes, chances are they are hybrid bikes. They come in handy when you’re in a city, trying to dodge traffic and pedestrians. While you may have thought all bikes are the same, the simple answer is no. When you’re looking for a hybrid bike there is a lot to consider. This review will look at several hybrid bikes for you to find the best one for you.

Things to Consider For Best Hybrid Bikes Under 1000

Wheel Size

The wheel size will help you decide which bike is the right one for you. Most bikes come with a standard of 700c tires, which is a good choice if you’re not planning on going crazy. 26-inch wheels are smaller than your typical 700c wheels, which means you’re going to go faster. Since the wheel size determines your speed, you want to make sure you have wheels that will work easily for you. It shouldn’t be difficult to determine if the wheels are going to be the right size, especially since you can change the tires out to fit your riding style better.

Gears

The gears are another component of hybrid bikes, and you can find bikes with various gears. There are bikes that have one gear, but they can go up 30. When you’re looking at the gears, you should consider the more gears your bike has, the more components it will have. Your fitness level and the area you’re riding are going to help you decide which bike will work better for you. Areas with lots of hills are going to require more gears to help you get over the hills easier. Fewer gears are better for flat terrain.

Suspension

Mountain bikes are excellent for handling tough terrain because the suspension allows you to traverse over rough terrain. Hybrid bikes are going to have a front suspension, or none at all, depending on who makes the bikes. Most hybrid bikes will not have a suspension because it adds to the overall weight of the bike. A suspension will also make pedaling more difficult, which doesn’t help when you’re riding around a city or on a paved trail. Suspensions are good for riding on beaten-up streets since the suspension will absorb the impact you feel.

Brakes

When you’re looking for a hybrid bike, you should consider the brake type on the bike. Rim brakes are economical because they have a pad that will help you slow down. You can determine when the pads need to be replaced, and easy to replace. Disc brakes have started to become quite popular, and there are two types of disc brakes. Hydraulic disc brakes have excellent stopping power and don’t need too much pressure for them to work. Mechanical disc brakes will need to be adjusted constantly, especially if you ride a lot. While disc brakes work in any condition, they are difficult to maintain and replace.

Frame Materials

The frame materials should be another factor in your decision because different materials are going to work differently. Aluminum is one of the most common types of materials, it is durable and affordable. Steel is going to make the bike heavier, but it provides a smoother ride because it is more rigid than aluminum. Carbon fiber is going to be the strongest material, but it is going to make for the lightest bikes. For those that don’t mind spending a lot of money on their bikes, carbon fiber is an excellent choice. You should determine how much time and money you can afford to give your bike before deciding.

Handle Bar Shape

The shape of the handlebars can vary depending on your riding style. Drop bars are the most common forms of handlebars on many bikes, and they are lightweight and aerodynamic. The flat bar is the most common handlebar for hybrid bikes, and they let you sit in a more relaxed position. A riser bar extends upwards, and are set further back for a more comfortable riding position. A mustache bar has a small drop and allows you to have more handling positions. You can find the bars that fit your style the best for a comfortable bike.

Accessories

Depending on what you’re going to use the bike for, you should consider the accessories that you can add to the bike. You can add cargo racks and fenders if the bike allows you to install them. These are perfect ways to increase the space you can carry your things on when you’re riding. Adding a fender allows you to protect the tire from curbs and other edges when you’re riding, which helps prolong the life of your tires. A bike rack allows you to keep larger bags in front of you, which is good if you ride around a lot.

Best Hybrid Bikes Under 1000 – Reviews

1. Tommaso La Forma Lightweight Aluminum Hybrid Bike

For those that need a light bike for their adventures, this is an excellent choice. It includes aluminum and carbon fiber, making any trip easy. The gears on the bike allow you to ride over any terrain you find yourself in, and the bike is compact. If you’re planning on riding to work every day, this bike is one you should consider.

Aluminum Alloy Frame

The aluminum alloy frame makes the bike lightweight, which is good for any commuter. The carbon fiber fork is light and provides excellent durability. If you’re looking for a bike that is light, this is the one you should consider. It’s the perfect balance of lightweight and durability.

Lots of Gears

For those that live in hilly areas, or need to traverse them, this bike has a crankshaft that includes all the gears you need. You can choose higher gears for more speed, or slow things down to get up a steep incline. The selection of gears makes the bike practical for riding on any type of trail you come across.

Smooth Shifting

The Shimano shifter on the handlebars allows you to shift smoothly and efficiently. There is a heads-up display that tells you which gear you’re in, so you can adjust accordingly. Most bikes don’t provide any insight into the gear you’re already in, so that makes it difficult when you come to an incline that requires you to shift.

Compact

One of the best things about this bike is that it is compact. The upright geometry allows your body to stay in a comfortable position, and the flat handlebars are easy to grasp. You’ll have so much fun riding this bike, you won’t want to get off of it. It’s the perfect bike for those looking to commute to work every day.

Pros

• The bike is comfortable to ride
• It is lightweight
• The bike is perfect for commuters

Cons

• It can be difficult to learn the gears
• Highlighted Features
• Aluminum and carbon fiber
• Large drivetrain
• Smooth shifting
• Comfortable and compact design

Final Verdict

This bike is designed for the city, and if you’re looking for a way to commute to work, you won’t find a better bike. Though you will need to take it to a shop for assembly, the price is quite reasonable. Not only that, but the light frame material makes it easy to carry up and down stairs. You can use the bike on different types of rides, which good if you’re looking for versatility. If you’re planning on getting a hybrid bike for your commute, this is a perfect choice.

2. New Montague Urban Folding 700c Pavement Hybrid Bike

While some bikes can lack the essentials you need to ride comfortably, this bike has everything you need to start riding right away. It includes 21 speeds, making it perfect for getting over tough hills, and you can fold it up. It doesn’t take too much time to fold up the bike, which is always good when you’re in a hurry.

Lightweight

The bike is light enough that you can take it just about anywhere. You can pedal all day long easily, which is good if you’re trying to get to and from work. It’s the perfect way to get to work on time and stay in shape.

21 Speeds

The 21 speeds available on the bike make it easy to get over tough hills, especially if you live in a city. While the terrain may look flat, you will notice a difference when you start riding up different streets.

Standard Wheels

The bike comes with the standard 700c wheels, which isn’t a terrible option. However, if you don’t like the standard wheels, you can change them out for some that are more suited to your style. The wheels are easy to change out, so it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker if you’re looking for a bike.

Folds Up

The bike has the ability to fold up, which is good if you’re riding your bike to work every day. You can store it away under your desk, or in a more convenient place. It is easier to keep an eye on your bike when you know where it is. It will also save you money on buying a padlock.

Pros

• Easy to fold up
• Fits in tight spaces
• Includes a rack

Cons

• May not be for everyone
• Highlighted Features
• Lightweight
• 21 speeds
• Standard wheels
• Folds up

Final Verdict

People that bike to work know how important it is to keep their bike somewhere it won’t get stolen. Since this bike folds up, you can take it into your office, and it doesn’t take too much effort to fold it up. There is a rack that is included with the bike, which can help you carry your briefcase. This is practical for those that need a bike that makes their commute a lot easier and more enjoyable.

3. Giordano G7 Men’s Hybrid Bike

A light bike is always the main factor when looking for a commuting bike. The bike is also durable enough to handle daily rides, which is good news for any bike rider. The bike includes 21 speeds to help you get over any terrain you come across. For those looking for a comfortable ride, this is an excellent choice.

Aluminum

The aluminum frame makes the bike light and durable. You don’t need to shell out a bunch of money to replace any parts if it gets damaged. You can spend a lot of time riding the bike around.

Riser Stem

The riser stem allows you to raise the seat up to your most comfortable position. Since it is adjustable, you can share the bike with other people so they can see if they want to get one for themselves.

21 Speeds

The Shimano shifters are easy and smooth to use, making it easy to get up the steepest hills. You can choose to go as fast or as slow as you want, making it practical for any rider. You will be ready to go once you’ve entered the office riding this bike.

Suspension Seat Post

What makes this bike so much different from other bikes, is the suspension seat post. While most bikes have some sort of suspension system, you can tell the difference between this bike and others in its class. You will feel like you’re riding on air, thanks to the suspension seat.

Pros

• It is excellent quality
• Easy to assemble
• Wheels are durable

Cons

• May not be for everyone
• Highlighted Features
• Aluminum frame
• Alloy crown suspension fork
• Adjustable riser stem
• 21 speed Shimano shifter
• Suspension seat post

Final Verdict

For those looking for a quality bike for a reasonable price, this is an excellent choice. While you may not be able to enter the X-Games with the bike, it is still reliable enough to get you where you need to go. It is the perfect commuting bike, and you can assemble it yourself. The suspension seat post is another great feature to give you a more comfortable ride.

4. Diamondback Bicycles 2016 Women’s Clarity 2 Complete

This bike is perfect for any woman that want to have a bike that allows them to ride fast. It has 21 speeds, and the handling is excellent. For anyone looking for a bike that is easy to control, this is the one for them.

Aluminum Alloy

The aluminum alloy frame provides a light and durable frame for the bike. Not only is it light and durable, but it is also comfortable to use. You can ride it comfortably without wearing out your body.

Confident Handling

The Aero alloy straight blade fork provides an excellent response time to the front tire when you’re riding. If you need to turn quickly, the bike will respond to your movements, allowing you to handle the bike with confidence. You can enjoy riding the bike the way you want to.

21 Speeds

For those that are familiar with bikes, you’ll know how good Shimano shifters are, and this bike includes 21 speeds. You can traverse over any terrain when you’re riding the bike, making it more fun, and easier to ride. The bike is ideal for those that live in hilly areas, especially during their commutes.

Disc Brakes

While mechanical disk brakes can be difficult to change and monitor, they do allow the rider to have more freedom. You’ll have plenty of stopping power with the mechanical brakes, making it the best way to prevent an accident.

Pros

• Good for commutes
• Feels good to use
• It is durable

Cons

• Disc brakes can bend
• Highlighted Features
• Aluminum alloy frame
• Aero straight blade fork
• Shimano 21-speed shifter
• Mechanical brakes
• 700c hybrid tires

Final Verdict

As a commuter bike, this is an excellent option. You can traverse over hills easily, thanks to the 21 speeds available at your fingertips. Though you shouldn’t ride it on trails, the bike is durable enough to handle almost any trail. It rides over the pavement easily, which is good for those in the city. The disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, making it practical for city life. No matter where you want to ride the bike, it will work for just about anyone.

5. Diamondback Bicycles Insight 2 Complete Hybrid Bike

For those that need a bike they can handle easily, this is a perfect choice. It is also lightweight, which makes it ideal for daily commutes. When you roll up to your office every day of the week, you may inspire others to do the same thing. This bike is stylish, and reasonably priced, allowing you to have a great bike for a price you can afford.

Aluminum Frame

The aluminum frame makes the bike lightweight, and also makes it more durable than other bikes. Since it is lightweight, you won’t expel too much energy trying to gain traction. It’s the best way to ensure you have enough energy to get up any stubborn hills on your commute.

21 Speeds

The Shimano shifter makes getting anywhere quick and easy, especially when you have a long commute ahead of you. No matter if your riding in the city, or taking a trip out in the wilderness, the shifter will help you get to where you need to go.

Reliable Handling

The Aero alloy straight blade fork makes the bike steering more reliable than other bikes. You can point and direct yourself more efficiently with the straight fork, making it practical for those looking for a bike that is easy to ride.

Disc Brakes

The mechanical disc brakes make stopping fast and easy. The bike will respond quickly to your hands, which helps when you’re trying to stop quickly. You will have more control over the bike when you’re riding, which is something you should consider before deciding.

Durable Wheels

The wheels are double-walled, which makes them more durable than other types of wheels. When you’re riding down a trail with a lot of obstacles, the last thing you want to deal with is a bent rim. The wheels can take a beating, making them some of the strongest wheels available.

Pros

• The bike rides smooth
• It is worth the money
• Good for any rider

Cons

• May not be for everyone
• Highlighted Features
• Aluminum alloy frame
• Aero fork
• Shimano 21 speed shifter
• Mechanical disc brakes
• Double-walled wheels

Final Verdict

This durable and light bike is ideal for any commuter. No matter how far you need to ride to get to work, you can rely on the bike to get you there. The 21 speeds will help you get over the toughest hills you’ll face on your commute. Though you may need to take the bike to a bike shop to have it assembled, it is worth the price. When you’re comparing value, isn’t that what you want?

Overall Final Verdict:

Hybrid bikes are an excellent option for those looking for a way to get to work. While public transportation can be faster, there is nothing like riding your bike to work. A hybrid bike is more efficient than other bikes you may have looked at for your commute. The Diamondback Bicycles Insight 2 Complete Hybrid Bike is the perfect hybrid bike, and it is highly recommended. It is reasonably priced, and provides a smooth ride, even if your route has a lot of obstacles. You can command it to go wherever you need when you’re riding. You will appreciate riding this bike every day you have to go to work.