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General => General discussion => Topic started by: Wazzzer on 05 August 2015, 16:22

Title: Hybrid bike help
Post by: Wazzzer on 05 August 2015, 16:22
Looking to purchase a hybrid Carrera push bike over the next few days and I've got the Crossfire 1 or Crossfire 2 in mind...

Now my question is are the disc brakes and the apparent slightly better suspension worth the extra £70?

I'm only using it for commuting to work and back which is just over a mile and the occasional trip out so it's not something I'll use all the time

The bikes in question...

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/hybrid-bikes-and-classic-bikes/carrera-crossfire-1-mens-hybrid-bike-2015

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/hybrid-bikes-and-classic-bikes/carrera-crossfire-2-mens-hybrid-bike-2015

I have a 10% discount code which I'll be using plus I'll get some cashback on them which will help a bit. I've also got to get some accessories such as helmet and some mud guards as I intend using it all weathers as I can't keep running the car on such short distances, it's killing the mpg and my wallet!
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: Waspy on 06 August 2015, 09:28
Disc brakes are a big debate. You decide: http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest-news/the-disc-brakes-debate-are-they-necessary-on-road-bikes-157272

However, my question is; if you are 100% using it for commuting. Why do you want a hybrid? That suspension is pretty heavy. Why not save the weight (and extra energy you will use bouncing up and down) and just get a road bike?
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: jv on 06 August 2015, 10:17
That was my thought. Halfords used to do a single speed, flat bar Carrera bike for about 200. That's what I used to use for work, moving from fat tyres and pointless suspension was a shock!
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: VW BUSH on 06 August 2015, 13:51
Buy an old racer and put a flat bar on it an 25 tyres.
Not impressed with halford brand bikes of late
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: Waspy on 06 August 2015, 14:32
That was my thought. Halfords used to do a single speed, flat bar Carrera bike for about 200. That's what I used to use for work, moving from fat tyres and pointless suspension was a shock!

Not a single speed, but probably a better commuter than the hybrid.

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/road-bikes/carrera-zelos-road-bike-2015

Somewhere in the region of 5kg (40%!) lighter that the hybrid, and ten bob cheaper.
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: jv on 06 August 2015, 14:40
Yeah much better idea. They don't seem to do this anymore:

(http://cdn.mos.bikeradar.imdserve.com/images/news/2009/05/15/1242380709130-14put95elhoyi-960-540.jpg)

but that kind of thing is what I would buy.
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: Wazzzer on 06 August 2015, 21:30
I decided against a roadie as I'd like some sort of suspension to absorb the missing bits of the roads over here especially in the industrial estate I have to cycle through, they are in a terrible condition with no likelihood of them being repaired any time soon...

I took the plunge today and ordered myself the Crossfire 2. At least I can go out with the lads from work on their MTBs as long as they're not going too mad lol
Title: Re: Hybrid bike help
Post by: Booth11 on 06 August 2015, 23:02
I have a Felt Hybrid bike and I hate it.  It's neither one thing nor the other.  Fortunately I also have a  good road bike and a decent MTB, much prefer a bike suited to it's proper purpose.  The hybrid will rarely see the light of day, except when my partner uses it.

But if you are a having a hybrid I would shell out the £70 for disc brakes and suspension, at least then you can use the bike off road as well.