Hybrid Bike

MbikeWorld.com - new article about difference between road-oriented and mountain-oriented hybrid bikes:

"Hybrid bikes are the perfect option when budget allows for only one bike. The rider has a choice of road-oriented or mountain-oriented models, and women's-specific models are also available. Since hybrids aren't specialized bikes, they have the capability of doing just about anything. Choose the mountain-oriented models if you will be spending time on gravel roads or dirt trails. These hybrids have mountain gearing (fairly low), mountain bike wheels and tires, and may have front suspension. They are not suited for difficult, rocky, technical terrain, however - they are not durable enough for that kind of abuse! They are also quite heavy, which makes climbing hills more difficult.

For road-oriented use (that is, mostly pavement with a gravel road or two thrown in occasionally), choose a road-oriented hybrid with larger wheels and narrower tires. The emphasis here is on smoother, faster rolling, and it's not uncommon to see these types of hybrids on long rides, even centuries (100-milers). Gearing is higher than on mountain hybrids, but the handlebars and shift/brake levers are the same as... (Read more)"