I need a new mountain or hybrid bicycle or bike...help I'm going green?

Question

I am a new biker and I'm in pretty good shape but I just want to quit using so much gas for my commute to work (going green, save the earth, save money on gas, blah blah blah) and I'm trying to purchase a new bike that's either a hybrid or a mountain bike because where I live there are plenty of hills but my commute is all paved. Anyways I've been searching around for a new bike and I want to stay right at or below $600 and still get a good bike I can have for awhile. I've looked at Specialized, Gary Fisher, I don't like Trek but could be convinced otherwise I suppose (yes I know Trek owns Gary Fisher) etc and I was just hoping someone would have some advice or a bike they'd like to recommend. Also one thing you might need to keep in mind, but probably not, is that I'm a tall guy 6'5"-ish. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Go to a bike shop.

Answer 2

A cyclocross bike could be another option.

Answer 3

if you're only riding on the road and commuting, go with a hybrid or road bike. the road bike is actually going to be the best climber of the 3 options (MTB, hybrid, road), it's lighter, stiffer, has harder tires (higher psi), and is geared to move. if you're looking for a MTB to actually go on trails with, I'd go with the MTB, and get a cheap wheelset to throw some slicks on. that way you can hit the trails on your day off, and commute about town the rest of the week. or you can let the disease totally infect you, and collect bikes for different purposes!

Answer 4

"Which is a better bike, a Trek or a Specialized?

Or Cannondale or Orbea or Scott or Schwinn or Cervelo. We're asked "Which brand is better?" almost daily. While each brand has its diehard fans, we can't answer the question. It's not because of any political reason, but because it's not the right question to ask--you're buying a bicycle, not a brand. .."

Bike Buying Tips: Buyer Be Wise;...Here we answer 10 of the most common queries to help you find the right bike.

By Bicycling Staff

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Answer 5

Try Cannondale.  They're really light, if you get a hard-tail, and would be good for a commute.  They can also handle some hills.  I wouldn't take it on anything too aggressive, but you didn't mention any serious trail riding.