On average, the hybrid bike average speed is between 11 and 18 mph. This range makes it good for commuters and hobbyists alike.
If you’re looking to increase the speed of your hybrid bike, there are a few factors to consider.
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What Factors Affect the Hybrid Bike Average Speed?
When we say average speed, we’re rounding up the number to a close estimate. That doesn’t mean that you can’t get a higher gear out of a hybrid bike.
Many seasoned bikers can easily do 25 mph on their hybrids. This depends on your stamina, among other factors.
The speed of a hybrid bike depends on the following factors:
- Terrain ruddiness (on-road and off-road)
- The cyclist’s stamina
- Riding position
- Cargo load on the rack
- Gear conditions
- Bike’s weight and geometry
- Wind direction and speed
Do Hybrid Bikes Have Adjustable Speeds?
Gear shifting is an essential part of hybrid bikes. Since the whole point of a hybrid bike is to replace the need for two bikes, it usually comes with multiple gear shifts.
In most cases, hybrid bikes come with standard seven-speed gear.
The derailleur is near the handles and it’s controlled by one of two modes: twist or trigger. There’s a bit of a learning curve to mastering the twist shifters. Even on brand new bikes, it shouldn’t take you more than a month to learn.
Is It Possible to Increase a Hybrid Bike’s Speed?
It’s fairly easy to buy an upgrade to increase the gear options to 21 speeds. This option is more suitable for serious bikers going through different terrains.
However, if you only need the bike for casual commuting and exercise, a 21 gear might be a bit of an overkill.
Here are some other modifications that can help increase a bike’s average speed:
- Getting thinner tire replacements
- Removing suspension forks to reduce bulk
- Removing racks
- Using carbon for frame/handle replacements
How to Bike Against the Wind?
Let’s just start by saying that biking in extremely windy conditions can be dangerous. If you’re a seasoned cyclist, you might be able to handle up to 20 mph wind speed.
If you feel like you’re ready to handle biking in windy weather conditions, you need to take all of the necessary precautions.
Here are some tips that help you increase your cycling speed against the wind:
Wear Aerodynamic Gear
Ditch any bulky or baggy apparel; you want to be as aerodynamic as possible.
Buffy coats, baggy pants, and wide collars are all bad options for cycling. Go for tight outfits with zippers or velcro closures.
Keep in mind that windy weather can make it seem colder than it is.
Did you know that moderate wind can make a 50℉ feel like 43℉? To minimize this effect, invest in thermal sporting gear to stay warm.
Googles are essential for cycling against the wind. Without them, you’ll be left with minimal vision and you won’t be able to see ahead.
Pay particular attention to any flying items (bags, paper, etc.) that might get blown by the wind.
Build Up Stamina
This isn’t an overnight fix or something you can get done in a day. Building up stamina means months (or even years!) of dedication.
Take your sport seriously and make a habit out of it. After a while, you’ll develop the muscle to cycle against the wind.
Keep in mind that riding against the wind is tricky and feels like putting in double the effort. On a clear day, a novice biker can go around 15 mph, while a more experienced one can do 18 mph. People who train daily can maintain this 18 mph speed through mild wind currents.
Ride Low
It’s recommended to ride in a low aerodynamic position when you’re going against the wind direction.
To do so, hunch over the handlebars and keep your back arch low to the bike’s frame.
Make sure you have a clear line of vision and your helmet doesn’t slide down when you’re hunching.
Ride in Groups
It might seem like a cliche joke, but biking with a group of friends can make beating the wind easier.
There’s a reason why road racers go in groups. Riding in groups helps break the headwind and it’s easier to take turns at the front spot.
Even a couple of bikers by your side can make the exercise easier. Just try to communicate clearly before turning or stopping to avoid any accidents or bump-ins.
Mountain Bikes vs Hybrid Bikes: Which Are Faster?
Hybrid bikes are faster than mountain bikes, especially when it comes to paved roads. The difference in speeds isn’t significant, but it’s still worth considering.
While hybrids win the speed comparison, mountain bikes still have their own merits:
- Their tires are usually wider
- They have a more reliable fork suspension
- Their handlebars are sturdier and usually curved
Overall, mountain biking demands more resistance, hard frames, and strong support. Meanwhile, hybrid bikes tend to offer a balance between mountain and road biking styles.
You can modify your hybrid bike to suit more heavy-duty use, but it’ll never turn into a full-on mountain bike. After all, there are a lot of aspects that go into designing mountain bikes.
Road Bikes vs Hybrid Bikes: Which Are Faster?
Road bikes are generally faster than both hybrid and mountain bikes. An experienced cyclist can go up to 22 mph on a well-maintained road bike without much effort.
A hybrid bike is more of a beginner’s choice. It’s versatile and handles moderate wear and tear.
Meanwhile, road bikes are meant for high-speeds and rough exercises. They don’t require a lot of modification to boost their speeds since they are made with lighter frames and thinner tires.
What Is a Hybrid Bike Best For?
Hybrid bikes are popular among commuters with an adventurous side. They combine the resistance of a mountain bike with the practicality of a road bike.
Overall, it’s a good choice for skilled cyclists looking for a bike that handles daily use.
Yet, hybrid bikes aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. They come in various models and features.
You can choose a model with suspension if you’ll be going through rough terrains. You might need a model with a rack if you want additional carry space.
Are Hybrid Bikes Good for Long Distance Cycling?
Yes, hybrid bikes are suitable for long distances.
With moderate frame weight and balanced features, hybrids are rather versatile. They’re much better for long rides than mountain bikes.
One modification that we’d recommend to make your hybrid bike more suited for long rides is upgrading the seat. Most bikes come with generic seats that aren’t particularly comfortable.
Invest in a decent seat cover or replace the seat altogether to make riding more enjoyable. Without this modification, most hybrids are best used for short commutes and brief exercises.
What Are Some Alternatives to Hybrid Bikes?
If you want an alternative for hybrid bikes, here’s a list of bike types to consider:
- Cyclocross bikes for long-distance biking
- Spin bikes if you only want the exercise and not the outdoor experience
- Gravel or mountain bikes for rough terrains
- Touring bikes are equal in speed to hybrids
- Road bikes for commuting on paved surfaces
- BMX for stunts and heavy-duty cycling
Summary
There’s a long list of factors to consider before judging the speed capability of a certain bike. For instance, the terrain type and the wind speed will make all the difference in the bike’s average speed.
As a rough estimate, the answer to the question “What is the hybrid bike average speed?” is 11 to 18 mph.
Sure, you can modify the bike’s frame here and there to boost speed. Still, it would be simpler to get a bike that’s suited for your needs from the get-go.
If you want a higher cycling speed, road bikes might be a better option. Hybrids sacrifice a bit of the road bike’s speed in exchange for the mountain bike’s ruggedness.
