Hybrid bikes are exactly what they sound like: a cross between two different bikes—a road bike and mountain bike—designed to offer the best of both worlds. While the definition of a hybrid bike has expanded quite a bit as components and geometries evolve, the fundamental concept remains unchanged. If you’re looking for a versatile, general-purpose option that can tackle the roads, trails and all manner of terrain in between, there’s a good chance a hybrid bike will meet your needs. But because a bike is an investment these days, only the best hybrid bikes should be on your list.
A capable, comfortable hybrid bike—complete with a flat handlebar, larger tires and versatile gearing—can help you make the most of your time on two wheels.
To that end, all of the hybrid models on this list are more than capable of tackling varied terrain, whether you’re commuting to work or kicking off the weekend with a trail ride. By serving more than one purpose, they empower you to explore your surroundings, save space at home and conserve a little money. If your bike stable grows or your needs change over time, remember to revisit this article, as we’re constantly hauling our bikes to remote locations, testing essential equipment and updating this guide. And if you’re new to cycling or in need of biking gear, be sure to peruse our other reviews, from the best bike helmets and bike pumps to space-saving bike storage solutions.
Because we’ve published plenty of stories on bikes and biking equipment, our staff is well-versed on the subject of two-wheeled transportation. We’ve conducted hands-on reviews of mountain bikes, electric bikes and even biking accessories for seasonal pursuits. For this story, we started by researching top-rated and bestselling hybrid bikes from reputable manufacturers, considering their features, specs and reviews, and we relied heavily on previous research in the same field. A culmination of years of research and first-hand experience among our writers, editors and contributors has given us a keen sense of which hybrid bikes are worth the money, and which ones will meet your individual needs.
