Drop handlebar hybrid?

[Deskpilot]

Hello! I am looking for a new bike and I have not ridden for ages. My wife has ordered a Scott e bike but we cannot afford 2 e bikes. I am planing on using the cycle to work scheme. I like to be able vary my hand position so would like drop handlebars but hybrid bikes do not seem to have them. I will be riding on roads and trails like Tissington. I wonder if anyone has any advice? Should I just go with a hybrid! or is there a drop handled equivalent?

 

[vickster]

Hello! I am looking for a new bike and I have not ridden for ages. My wife has ordered a Scott e bike but we cannot afford 2 e bikes. I am planing on using the cycle to work scheme. I like to be able vary my hand position so would like drop handlebars but hybrid bikes do not seem to have them. I will be riding on roads and trails like Tissington. I wonder if anyone has any advice? Should I just go with a hybrid! or is there a drop handled equivalent?

Rugged drop handlebar bikes are known as CX (Cyclocross) or Gravel/Adventure bikes, so take a look at those - they'll take bigger tyres than a roadbike

Something like this would do what you need
https://www.merlincycles.com/merlin-malt-g2-claris-gravel-bike-2021-197226.html
or with a better groupset
https://www.merlincycles.com/merlin-malt-g2p-tiagra-gravel-bike-2021-197427.html

or https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/15990777/calibre-lost-lad-road-bike-blue-15990777
or https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/16007713/calibre-dark-peak-road-bike-16007713

You don't mention a budget but bikes are in quite short supply generally, so you may have limited choice

Whether you can get on C2W will depend on which scheme your employer uses (not some retailers add a surcharge to the bike cost to take C2W - usually 10-15%, as they get charged).

The advantage of these bikes is you can fit mudguards and a pannier rack for your commute

 

[Ming the Merciless]

Take a look at touring bikes. Will easily handle what you describe.