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Hybrid vs Road Bikes: Which to Choose

Are you looking to get into biking in Colorado and not sure where to start? There are a lot of options to consider when you are in the market to buy your first bike. It can be hard to choose whether you want a hybrid or road bike, especially if you are not sure about the differences between them. In this article, we will break down all the important distinctions and features of both so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

What are Road and Hybrid Bikes for?

Before we get into the differences between road vs hybrid bikes, it is helpful to remember the goals of each. As the name implies, a road bike is used for cycling on paved roads. They tend to be sleek and lightweight, great for professional cyclists, commuters, and cycling hobbyists. If you are getting a bike for your daily commute to work or weekend rides down paved bike trails, a road bike might be right for you. 

When you hear the name hybrid bike, you are probably wondering, a hybrid of what? It is a hybrid between a road and a mountain bike, giving you some of the capabilities of a mountain bike without quite so much extra weight. Biking in Colorado offers so many opportunities to off-road, from bike paths to mountain bike courses. If you have any interest in checking out the sport of mountain biking, a hybrid bike might be your best bet. While you can certainly ride a hybrid bike around the city, you will just find that your commute takes a bit more effort than it would with a road bike. The fourth type of bike to consider is electric bikes or e-bikes, which give you extra power and can help with long commutes or tough ascents.

Photo by Alex Diffor on Unsplash

The Main Differences between Road and Hybrid Bikes

Unless you know what to look for, it is easy to confuse road and hybrid bikes. Both have similar shapes and roughly the same features. One of the most obvious differences is the tires. Where road bikes have tires that are narrow and slim, hybrid bikes have wider tires. In order to allow for off-roading, hybrid bikes have bigger tires that are puncture resistant and more durable against biking over gravel and dirt. The extra width also provides added stability and grip on potentially slippery conditions.

The other main difference you can spot between road vs. hybrid bikes is the position and shape of the handlebars. Road bikes have drop handlebars that curve down and allow the rider to adopt a more aerodynamic riding position. This more crouched body position can be harder to get used to as a beginner cyclist, but drop handlebars have some other benefits, too. They tend to be more narrow, thus fitting into smaller gaps in traffic. They also allow for three distinct hand positions, which help long-distance cyclists stay comfortable and adapt to the cycling conditions. 

Hybrid bikes, on the other hand, have the same flat handlebars as mountain bikes. These flat handlebars keep the rider upright for better stability and visibility on the rough terrain of mountain biking trails in Colorado. While this style is easier for beginners, it lacks versatility and proper positioning for faster rides.

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Factors to Consider with Hybrid vs. Road Bikes

Comfort of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

Road bikes have a lot of perks, but they can also take a bit of getting used to. Because of the more crouched posture, road bikes are initially tough on the rider’s back and arms. The most comfortable and unstressed riding opportunity definitely comes from a hybrid bike. The trade-off to this is that road bikes have multiple positions, which you can switch between on a longer ride. This helps prevent stiffness and makes it easier for long-distance cyclists to adapt to a steep uphill slope or be aerodynamic to preserve speed.

Weight Differences between Hybrid and Road Bikes

Hybrid bikes are always heavier than road bikes, and this can be an important factor to you. Because of the bigger tires and a few more gear options, hybrid bikes tend to weigh around five to ten pounds more than road bikes. Road bikes are also usually carbon fiber, which is lighter but more expensive, while hybrid bikes opt for durability and the stability of added weight. If you have to haul your bike up a flight of stairs or are looking for the easiest commute to work, this difference might be a key point in favor of road bikes. Bike weights can also vary by brand and model. If your bike has added features, for example, that will mean added weight. If you are really concerned about minimizing weight, a road bike should be under twenty pounds.

Speed Potential of Road Bikes vs. Hybrid Bikes

The difference in speed possible between hybrid and road bikes is significant. This is from a lot of factors, including weight and riding position. If you are hoping to get involved in some  Colorado Springs cycling events or just want to shave a few minutes off your commute, a road bike is the way to go. You will find that a road bike is much more efficient in terms of converting your work into speed. With less weight and a more aerodynamic posture, you can make every rotation of the pedal worth your effort.

Road v.s Hybrid Bikes and Riding Terrain

If you have any interest in off-roading, you will need to opt for a hybrid bike. This would make your decision very easy, as it is not possible to go off-road with a road bike. It is, in fact, dangerous. Not only will you likely pop a tire, but road bikes are not heavy or stable enough to manage uneven terrain. If you have ever accidentally gone off-road on a road bike, you know it is not safe or comfortable. You need the wider tires, sturdier frame, and more upright posture of a hybrid or mountain bike to safely enjoy unpaved bike trails. If you are not sure if you would enjoy mountain biking or trail biking, consider trying a guided bike tour where you can hop on a mountain bike and see if cycling through nature appeals to you.

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Price Difference of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

You may be surprised to find that road bikes can be more expensive than hybrid bikes. You can certainly find either at any price point, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Because road bikes prioritize being lightweight, they are often made of carbon fiber which is lighter and more expensive than aluminum or steel frames often found on hybrid and mountain bikes. It would be best to avoid spending too much if this is your first foray into cycling in Colorado. That way, you can ride for a year, better understand what you personally need from your bike, and upgrade to a more long-term investment bike. 

Maintenance Needs of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

As noted above, road bikes are often made with a carbon fiber body. This extra expense should be considered as a potential recurring expense, as replacement parts and maintenance can be more. On the other hand, road bikes tend to have a slightly more simple construction, offering fewer gear shifts, for example, than hybrid bikes. These extra mechanics on hybrid and mountain bikes translate to more care in terms of bike maintenance and potential added expenses. In this consideration, the specific brand and model of bike will need to be evaluated.

Final Thoughts

If this is your first bike since you were a kid, you may want to start with something less expensive to get a feel for it. While the riding is, well, just like riding a bike, you may find that you don’t like the handlebars of a road bike or the weight of a hybrid bike. You can rent a hybrid bike for the day or borrow a friend’s bike to help you make your decision. Once you know better what you are looking for, you can invest in a quality bike that will serve your needs. Please make sure to always wear a helmet and obey traffic laws. Happy riding!

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Cycling Events Near Colorado Springs this Fall 2022

If you are looking forward to hopping on your bike this fall, you’re going to want to check out these awesome cycling events near Colorado Springs. Colorado is known for its gorgeous landscape, and the fall is the absolute best time to take advantage and explore the state’s natural beauty. 

Within a couple hours of Colorado Springs, you can find tons of fun and exciting opportunities to ride with other cycling enthusiasts. There are plenty of courses available for beginnings, youngsters, and competitive riders alike. Here are just a few of the best Colorado cycling events you can enjoy this fall in 2022. 

CU Boulder Buffalo Bicycle Classic

When: Sunday, September 11, 2022

Where: Boulder, CO

Register Here

This historical ride is celebrating its 20th year this September, and now is a great time for you to try it out. There are nine different courses for riders of all ages and abilities, ranging from 14 to 100 miles, and all riders are welcome, even those with e-bikers and trailers. The longer routes head west to the foothills of the Rockies and take you to Nederland, then up to Allenspark. If you haven’t been cycling in Boulder, it is a beautiful place!

Aside from how fun the courses look, this cycling event is also the largest scholarship fundraising event in Colorado. Registration and donations support local “scholars” – Colorado residents attending CU Boulder. At less than two hours driving from Colorado Springs, this cycling event is a great opportunity to challenge yourself.

Pikes Peak APEX 

When: Thursday, September 22, 2022

Where: Colorado Springs, CO

Register Here

This epic cycling event is something you do not want to miss. It is a four-day mountain biking challenge with a total of $25,000 in prize money. The course is, on average, about 30 miles and 3,000 feet elevation per day and takes you cycling through all the must-see locations near Colorado Springs. You will get to explore Gold Camp Road, Palmer Park, Pikes Peak, Cheyenne Cañon, Royal Gorge Park (including biking over the Bridge!), and so much more. It is not too challenging on technical biking abilities, though it will certainly challenge your endurance. If you have checked out the Pikes Peak Cog Up Bike Down tour, then you might have some idea of what to expect.

There are also two options for folks looking for something a little less intense. You can sign up to cycle for just one day – either Thursday or Sunday – and complete the route without worrying about the competition. This option is perfect for beginner cyclists looking to get started in more formal events as it follows USA Cycling regulations and will give you a great feel for the spirit of the competition. If you are considering signing up, don’t wait: because of permit and preservation limitations, there are only 370 slots available, so get yours today.

Photo by Axel Brunst on Unsplash

Denver Century Ride 

When: Saturday, September 24, 2022

Where: Denver, CO

Register Here

This Colorado cycling event is a really unique opportunity. All of the courses are urban and take you through the streets of Denver. Not only is this a really cool way to explore the city, but also it will get you used to street cycling and show you all the ways the bike-safe streets of Denver connect. If you are considering commuting to work or cycling more in urban areas, this is a great way to get started and learn how to stay safe as a biker on the road.

The routes are 25 to 100 miles long and open to riders of all ages on all types of bikes: tandem, e-bikes, trailers, and more. The shorter routes take you through downtown, City Park, and the Denver Botanical Garden for what is surely a quaint, scenic ride. The longer rides will give you a tour through the greater Denver area, all the way down to Chatfield State Park and up to Golden. This supportive cycling event is a fun way to see Denver and get comfortable with cycling on urban roads. 

Gravel Locos 

When: Saturday, October 1, 2022

Where: Pueblo, CO

Register Here

The Gravel Locos cycling events happening on October 1 are epic. There are four race options, the shortest (La Pequeña) being a non-competitive 30-mile course and the longest (La Loca) a ridiculous 170-mile race with a 13,242-ft elevation gain. The three competitive, timed races will give you the chance to compete against some high-profile cyclists and see how you match up. 

Just an hour south of Colorado Springs, this event is a great day trip during a consistently beautiful time of year. You will enjoy a picturesque ride through Pueblo and the front range of the Rockies. One nice plus is that the ride is for a good cause: the event is supporting the Red Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue to help them expand their firehouse.

The ‘Rad Dirt Fest

When: Saturday, October 8, 2022

Where: Trinidad, CO

Register Here

In a beautiful part of Southern Colorado, just two hours south of Colorado Springs, you can enjoy one of three invigorating cycling events. These races are wonderfully scenic, as you will bike past the Spanish Peaks, mesas, and plateaus and surely see some interesting wildlife. The roads are maintained but gravel and dirt, so it is definitely a different feel than biking on paved city streets.

The course options are The Frijole, at 38 miles, the Anteloop at 99 miles, and the longest Stubborn Delores at a killer 166-mile race with an 11,213-ft elevation gain. The longer two races will take you west from Trinidad toward the Spanish Peaks Wildlife Area and San Isabel National Forest. The races may be tough, but the views will surely make it worth it. 

Final Thoughts

There are so many fantastic cycling events near Colorado Springs, not just in the fall but year-round. If you are thinking about getting into cycling or mountain biking and are not sure where to start, you can check out a guided mountain biking tour. This will allow you to see if you like it, learn some helpful safety tips and techniques, and learn more about Colorado’s cycling community.

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Can You Mountain Bike in the Snow?

The appearance of snow on the ground often covers the dirt tracks that we live to ride during the rest of the year. The disappearing trails will move most to put their mountain bikes away for the season and pull out skis or snowboards as a replacement. What many people can often look past is the joy of mountain biking in the snow and how it brings an entirely different level of enjoyment to the sport. 

Winter mountain biking can be challenging for those who struggle with the cold. Many recent trends point towards needing a fat tire bike to go out biking in the snow. Fortunately, you don’t need to make a considerable purchase to go out riding all winter long. With the right precautions and winter biking tips, you can spend beautiful snowy and bluebird days on your bike doing what you love most. 

Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash

Keep a good attitude

First and foremost, keep your spirits high. Of all the winter biking tips you read, keeping a smile on your face and a resilient attitude will be the most important.

Your winter ride will be slower and most likely filled with a fair number of falls and slides that will get you cold and wet. Regardless, this can be the most fun you’ll have all winter if you remember to keep smiling and focus on the positive.

Lower your tire pressure

If you’re feeling strapped for cash or want to try mountain biking in the snow without spending a huge amount of money on a fat tire bike, you can start by letting some air out of your tires. Take a look at the sidewall of your tires and find the lower number on the pressure range, then drain the tires to that level.

You’re going for more surface area and contact between your tires and the ground. One great way to do this is to lower your tire pressure and let the tires sag a bit more, and hug the ground. 

The biggest thing to look out for when flattening your tires is pinch flats. A great way to avoid this easy problem is to go tubeless. Tubeless tires are relatively new, and replacing the tube with a sealant makes getting a flat much harder. Not only is that great for lower tire pressure, it means you’re much less likely to get stranded on a snowy trail in the middle of winter!

Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Widen your tires

Winter mountain biking may be your next big sport, and you may feel that it’s worth it to invest. In that case, buying a fat tire bike is the best way to truly enjoy the snowy drifts that the winter months have to offer.

The wide tires on these rigs allow for more surface contact between the bike and the snow. That way, you’re able to float on deeper powder and slide less. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll slide around a bit while biking in the snow, but this way, you can control it some more. 

That being said, fat-tire bikes are expensive. They aren’t totally necessary, and you can bike without them. They’re also incredibly fun to ride and shift the experience to a much easier ride. 

Photo by Tim Foster on Unsplash

Opt for flat pedals

Clip-in pedals aren’t the best option for cruising on slippery trails. You’re going to do some sliding, which means you’ll need the option of throwing a foot down for stability much more often and faster than normal. With flat pedals, you can get a foot in position quickly and keep yourself upright.

Steel-pin flat pedals allow for the extra grip that is mighty helpful in the slick and icy winter. They’ll give you plenty of traction and the ability to dismount. They also allow for a lot more space, which means the potential for bigger, warmer boots is there. Even riding at your hardest, it’s likely to result in cold extremities if you’re tackling trails in the dead of winter. 

Pay attention to trail conditions

One of the most important parts of riding in the snow is getting to know what you’re riding. True, you can go out and check the trail conditions firsthand, but you may want to save yourself some time and choose the right trail from the start. 

With winter mountain biking being one of the most popular winter activities in Colorado Springs, you’ll be able to find loads of trail information on the web. Mountain biking forums and Facebook groups will certainly have someone on them that has checked out the trail before you have. Use their experience to your advantage and look around before throwing your bike on the car and heading out. 

What you’re looking for is a beautiful snowpack that either allows easier access to the ground or a hard pack of snow. In the middle of winter, you’ll be more likely to find the latter. 

Two to three inches of powder is ideal for biking in the snow. It gives you a nice layer of snow to cruise through but allows some interaction with the ground. As it starts to warm up or the snow gets too soft, you may spend more time picking yourself up than biking. The softer the snow, the more your bike turns into a sled.

Trails that take you on a cruise and slightly hilly rides are much better than those that demand steep climbs and fast, aggressive descents. You’ll find your tires slipping as you push to climb, and the moment you hit an icy patch on the descent will be the end of your riding for the day. Choose a moderate trail that will let you stay on flatter terrain. 

Does Broadmoor Outfitters Run Tours in the Winter?
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How to Start Mountain Biking

Are you looking to add some excitement to your cycling? Mountain biking is an awesome exercise, adventure, and challenge all in one. The trail can be intimidating to beginners, but you’ve come to the right place to learn how to start mountain biking. If you know how to ride a bike, you’ve got all the fundamentals you need.

In this beginner’s guide to mountain biking, we’ve got everything else you should know before hitting the trail.

Photo by Joanne Reed from Pexels

What is Mountain Biking?

First and foremost, you should know some fundamental differences between road cycling and mountain biking. This is because mountain biking involves biking over uneven terrain, like rocks and tree roots, creating a need for a very different type of bike than those used for road cycling.

Unlike road bikes, mountain bikes have wider tires with improved grip and suspension frames to provide a smoother ride over bumpy terrain. You can imagine how a rigid frame wouldn’t fare well on a mountain biking trail, so the suspension is key to a comfortable ride. Mountain biking frames also allow riders to sit taller to have better visibility of the trail. 

Finally, it’s best to use platform pedals on a mountain bike, which means you don’t clip in. Most important for beginners, you should be prepared to fall or jump off the bike at any time when going down a trail for the first time as you can pick up speed incredibly fast. Strapping into your pedals can actually be more dangerous on a mountain bike.

Gear Needed for Mountain Biking

The Essentials

Obviously, you’ll need a mountain bike. As noted above, you should make sure your bike has partial or full suspension for the most comfortable ride. Some mountain bikers use rigid bikes, as they use less energy for climbing the mountain. However, this beginner’s guide to mountain biking recommends at least partial suspension to absorb some of those bumps on the trail. This will keep you safer and more comfortable as you get used to the difference between road cycling and mountain biking.

The other essential items for getting started mountain biking are protective equipment. As a beginner, you should expect to fall, and protecting yourself will save you from a rough descent that ends early and in pain. A helmet is an absolute must while mountain biking, as there are plenty of hazards, you could hit your head on if you fall. Unlike road biking, mountain biking helmets are full face, with visors to protect your eyes from tree branches and debris. Elbow and knee pads are other important pieces of gear to keep you safe on the trail.

Photo by Nick Rickert on Unsplash

What to Wear on a Mountain Biking Trail

Dress according to the weather to stay comfortable and safe on the trail. It’s best to wear a dry-fit shirt that will wick away moisture and keep you dry. Mountain biking shorts with chamois padding (aka butt pads) are key for absorbing some bumps and reducing saddle fatigue.

Similarly, gloves are essential for keeping your hands and wrists comfortable all day long. Mountain biking with bare hands can cause blisters, and when you fall, you could cut yourself. Gloves will protect your palms and offer a little padding and warmth. 

Finally, a comfortable pair of light boots are the best alternative to mountain biking shoes if you’re learning how to start mountain biking. You want something with a stiff sole for stronger pedaling, breathable material to keep your feet dry, and a grippy textured bottom for good contact with the pedals. Another alternative is skate shoes, though these tend to be less breathable. High-rise shoes are also helpful to protect your feet and ankles in the event of a fall.

Packing Smart for a Mountain Biking Trip

There are many things you should pack on a mountain biking trip, and this is where there is a big difference between mountain bike rentals vs tours for beginners. When you rent a bike, you’ll just get a mountain bike and a helmet. On a mountain biking tour for beginners, you’ll have a guide who will pack all the essential gear and help ensure you have a great day.

The most important bit of gear is a map! If you’re heading out without a guide, please don’t forget a hard copy of your directions. It’s important to not rely on electronics on the trail: there likely won’t be cell service, your battery could die on an unexpectedly long day, or a hard fall could break your phone. Know the trail and the day’s plan before heading out, and always bring emergency gear in case you get lost. 

Next, a small first aid kit is essential for a beginner mountain biking trip since we all fall when we’re learning. As far as getting your bike back in shape after a crash, there are a few things you’ll need. You should always carry a spare tube or two and a bike pump. Unlike biking on the road, potential tire busters are all around on a mountain biking trail. Knowing how to replace a tire and having the gear you need will keep you prepared and safe on the trail.

A bike multi-tool is another must, especially for longer rides. Even with suspension frames, mountain biking is a bumpy ride, and it’s normal to need to make small adjustments or fixes over the course of the day. A bike multi-tool with the right size hex wrenches for your bike will make a huge difference in your trip’s success.

Finally, when you pack food and water for your day on the trail, go ahead and pack extra. It’s easy to get a little lost or delayed due to a mechanical issue. Expect a mountain biking trip to last longer than an equivalent road cycling trip, and pack accordingly. If you have one, a hydration pack is a great way to make sure you’ve got enough water for a long day. We promise: it’s worth the extra weight to have the energy and hydration needed to finish strong.

Photo by Chris Henry on Unsplash

Mountain Biking Tips and Techniques

Get a guide

Finding a tour that specifically offers mountain biking for beginners is a great first step. You’ll get in-person professional advice on how to start mountain biking, and you’ll start down an easier trail that is suitable for beginners.

Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Stretch Well and Don’t Tense Up

When going over obstacles on the trail, it’s important to stay loose and let the bike ride free. Hover your butt over the seat, so you don’t feel every bump, and keep your elbows high and your knees out so you can go with the flow.

Stay Balanced 

A big difference between road and mountain biking is the need to shift your weight around to stay on the bike. On a flat road, you can pretty much sit back and relax. On a mountain bike, you need to make constant small adjustments – side to side and front to back – to maintain your center of gravity and not tip over. It’s sort of like riding a bull, hopefully with less bucking.

Keep a Steady Pace

One thing that will help you manage rough terrain is maintaining an even speed with your brakes and gears. Big obstacles are frightening, and it makes sense that you’ll want to slam on the brakes sometimes. But that’s a good way to go over the handlebars (via the front brakes) or fishtail and skid out (on the back brake). 

Gentle use of the brakes will help you keep an even speed and give your bike the momentum it needs to get over bumps without too much work on your part. You can also move between gears in response to terrain changes that you see down the line. Paying attention and shifting early will make your life easier and help you keep your momentum. 

Chin Up, Eyes Down

Paying attention while on the trail is key. Road cycling offers consistent, smooth terrain, and you have time to look around, enjoy the scenery, and even change the song on your phone. As a beginner mountain biker, you need to stay vigilant by watching the trail in front of you. Look past obstacles and focus your eyes on where you want the bike to go. This will help you naturally bike around danger without needing to think too much about it. 

Proper biking posture will also keep you focused and safe. Mountain bike frames keep riders in a more upward stance for a reason. You want to keep your head up, looking down the trail at future terrain. This will give you time to prepare and react to potential obstacles. Just like driving, focus your attention a few seconds down the trail and use both your central and peripheral vision. This way, you can see the whole trail, including problem areas and safer alternate routes.

Have Fun!

Now that you know what to wear and pack and how to start mountain biking, you’re ready for your first trail experience. We hope you are feeling confident and excited to explore this rugged alternative to road biking. Thanks for checking out this beginner’s guide to mountain biking.

Have a safe and amazing time on a mountain biking for beginners guided tour!