Understanding the difference between an MTB and a Hybrid Cycle

Bicycles are some of the most effortless vehicles in the world, and you can simply hop on and ride to your destinations. After the pandemic, the sale of bicycles has also gone up. Today, there is a cycle for everyone. Gone are the days when there would be only one model, and everyone would ride the same. Now, bicycles have become highly specific to the rider’s style and choices. There are so many types of bicycles available; in fact, some of these types have sub-types too! We have futuristic e-bicycles, road bicycles for paved surfaces, mountain and all-terrain bicycles for off-roading, and hybrid bicycles, which fall somewhere between mountain and road bicycles. 

There is often a debate between MTBs and Hybrid bicycles. However, they differ in certain key aspects. Let’s look at the distinguishing factors of MTBs and Hybrid bicycles. 

1. Frame: One of the major distinguishing factors is the bicycle's frame. The frame of a hybrid bicycle is closer to a road cycle. A Hybrid bicycle’s frame happens to be slimmer and lighter. The frame has an aerodynamic design which makes them suitable for road bikes. However, aerodynamics doesn’t play a big role in mountain biking. Mountain bikes are heavier and sturdier and are built to keep in mind the rugged temperament of a terrain. 

• Suspension: Suspension is a key aspect of almost all cycles today. Even though most hybrid bicycles are a mix of MTBs and Road cycles, they are still better suited to paved surfaces and a maximum of gravelly roads. Most hybrid cycles don’t even come with suspensions. However, they may sometimes come with front suspension. Mountain bikes, on the other hand, come with not just a front but with full suspension. The rough terrains offer various bumps and obstacles that require a suspension system to give a jerk-free ride to the cyclist. 

• Brakes: While certain hybrid bikes have started using disc brakes, however, they are known to use rim brakes which are lighter and affordable. Rim brakes are also easy to replace after wear and tear. Rim brakes are ideal for hybrid bikes. However, most MTBs have disc brakes, which can be mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Brakes have to be stronger when riding on a mountain, and they are especially needed when the cycle is hurtling down a steep decline. 

• Gearing: Bicycles now have gears, which also play an essential role. An MTB tackles a variety of terrains, from steep inclines and declines to bumpy terrains, and this variety needs a wider range of gears to maneuver. However, most Hybrids come with no to few gears. 

Hybrid bicycles and MTBs are some of the most loved variants of the traditional cycles, and people worldwide are investing in them. While there are major differences between the two of them, and therefore, every rider should go for a cycle that suits his personal riding preference. If you enjoy road biking and love venturing into the countryside over the weekend, then a Hybrid bicycle is for you. However, if you are a daredevil who likes to get up and close to the face of nature, a Mountain bicycle is up your alley. The Bloodwing 700C by Ninety One Cycles is an excellent hybrid variant, while the Wolverine 29T is better if you’re a mountain biker. 

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