Are you trying to decide between shopping for hybrid bikes for women and shopping for regular road bikes? Each type of bike has its own set of benefits, so it’s important to figure out what benefits appeal most to you. For example, is it more important for you to be able to ride on a variety of terrain types, or is speed a higher priority? Go through bike size chart and decide what size bike you should choose.
If you’re looking for an alternative mode of transportation that will get you from point A to point B as quickly as possible, you’re probably wondering if road bikes are faster than hybrid bikes, and vice versa. The simple answer is yes, but here’s what you should know about the speed of both options.
Hybrid Bike Speed
Hybrid bikes can be speedy, but they’re designed more for their comfort and reliability. If you’re looking for hybrid bikes for sale, you’re making a great decision for your everyday riding needs. They’ll keep you from getting too sore too quickly and will help you maintain a comfortable posture.
Hybrid bikes differ from road bikes in a few key ways. The handlebars are higher, which allows you to maintain an upright position while you ride. This position also makes you less aerodynamic, which cuts back on your speed.
Another key difference is the wheel and tire size. Hybrid bikes have wider wheels, which gives you more contact with the road and more control. However, the wider tire size increases friction and further reduces your speed. While you can still ride fairly quickly with a hybrid bike, you won’t be able to reach or maintain the speed of a road bike.
Road Bike Speed
When you compare a 21-speed road bike to a hybrid bike, you’ll immediately notice the handlebars are much lower on the road bike. This lower position forces the rider to lean forward on the bike and minimizes wind resistance. That’s how road bikes obtain their impressive speed. When you minimize wind resistance, you have the ability to go much faster than you otherwise could.
Road bikes also have narrow wheels and tires. This helps to further cut back on wind resistance. When you ride a road bike, you have to expend much less effort to go fast than you would expend if you were riding a hybrid bike. While road bikes aren’t particularly comfortable and can strain the muscles in your neck, back and arms over time, they can’t be beaten when it comes to speed.
Riding padded shorts and slowly increasing the amount of time you spend on your bike can help your body become accustomed to the position you have to maintain on a road bike.
Find the Bike That’s Right for You
Now that you know the main differences in speed between hybrid bikes for women and road bikes, it will be easier for you to decide which option is better for you. If you plan to ride long distances or become a competitive rider, a road bike is a must.
If you’re just looking for a way to stay in shape or get around without driving a car, a hybrid bike may be a better match for your needs.
Featured image source: DuVine