Time for a "real" bike?

[Cedric]

I ride an old hybrid to work. I have bad knees from doing martial arts in my youth and have to be careful not to overdo it on my commute. I've recently discovered that my knees seem less stressed if I place my hands in close to the stem and lean forward a wee bit. I'm wondering if this might indicate that I'd be more comfortable on a proper road bike? Anyone have any thoughts on this? I've heard it's not wise or economical to just change your handlebars to the racing type. Anyone know if this is true?

Cheers!

 

[Black Sheep]

could be.

with regards to changing your bars, your hybrid's frame shape is going to be different to that of a road bike. your riding position pivots slightly forwards centred on the bottom bracket, however this does affect your legs positioning.

the main reason that its un economical is partly that a road bike is normally lighter than a hybrid but also that the road bike brake and gear levers cost over £100

with regards to your knees, road bikes are best ridden letting your legs spin a little. the best way of explaining myself seems to be, your leg movement ought to be as easy as a brisk walk along a road, using your gears to both keep your leg speed comfortable and to get the best speed and distance

 

[HLaB]

When I changed mine (flats to drops) last year it was economical but prices have went up I don't know if it still is. I also had a good light frame to start with (flat bar road bike), I don't think it'd be worth doing it to an old Hybrid. I fitted narrower bars (40cm) and I find the position good as I've got narrow shoulders. Braking however ain't as good as a conventional road bikes calipers as v brakes are not compatible with road levers. I partly overcome that with 'problem solver' units but it isn't perfect.