Same old question ... MTB or Hybrid?

[gillian]

Forgive me for raising the old question but I am totally new to cycling and looking to buy a decent bike that suits my needs.

Its likely that I will be using the bike mainly on roads as a means of keeping fit. I probably hope to cover distances of about 10-20 miles on average (once I build up to that!!) but with the option of going further. Forever the optimist!!

I'm also a keen hillwalker and maybe about a dozen times a year would like to take the bike on the longer approaches. Probably looking at about 8 miles on some rougher terrain (gravel, muddy puddles, some rocks and tree roots and occasional streams etc). I do not intend to do any serious mountain biking.

What's peoples thoughts on the best type of bike? Any stand out makes/models? Have had a look but just getting confused with all the bike speak!!

 

[Pat "5mph"]

Hi Gillian and welcome!
Hybrid for sure. Can't advice on makes as I ride solely old tanks somebody will be along shortly with loads of suggestions no doubt.
A hybrid with a set of good puncture resistant tyres - Marathons will take you where you want to go.

 

[vickster]

What's your budget? A hybrid type bike with a lock out suspension fork for the roads might suit your needs. 10-20 miles will keep you fit. An mtb will be much harder work on the roads and unnecessary for tracks

Look at something like a giant roam or specialized Ariel, probably £400-500 rrp, less if you can find one locally on sale. Best go to a few local shops and see what they have

 

[Kies]

A hybrid for sure, but I would say a road hybrid without any suspension. I have taken my Specialized Sirrus Elite across brooks, canal tow paths and muddy terrain and it coped just fine. Washed down and doing 20-30 road miles the very next day.
Around 400-500 will get you a decent specialized, giant, trek or cannondale . the key is to try all of them before buying. Pick the one you like the most.

 

[gillian]

Thanks, got myself a trek D's 8.3 and so far so good. A bit of shoulder pain the first couple of rides but managed 20 miles today and feel OK (at the moment, might be different tomorrow!)