Best 'classic style' hybrid around £500?

[JDeacon]

Hi all,

I am hoping someone wonderful out there can help? Firstly I am pretty clueless on bikes, and secondly I understand that the type of bike I am after isn't perceived as the best quality. Taking that into account...

I am after a bike for a small commute that involves flat roads and a few hills. I am specifically after a hybrid in a 'classic' style. For me the style is just as important as the quality, but obviously I don't want something completely useful.

I have had a look around and come up with the following...

https://www.evanscycles.com/bobbin-bicycles-dark-star-2016-hybrid-bike-EV275392
https://www.evanscycles.com/dawes-camden-cromo-2016-hybrid-bike-EV238315
https://www.evanscycles.com/bobbin-bicycles-beat-2016-hybrid-bike-
http://theidleman.com/brands/foffabikes/foffa-dandy-bike-matte-black.html

I like the style of all of these bikes, but I have no idea how they compare to each other. I would be very grateful to anybody that can advise on the above or even suggest a bike that I may have overlooked?

Big massive thanks to anybody that can help,

CA

 

[vickster]

Three are from Evans, they have a v good and simple test ride policy, just need photo ID and a bank card to be swiped

Give them a go and see which works best for you

Halfords Pendleton range might also be worth a look

Although are you a guy? If so, they may not work being women's designs (should have clicked on links)

 

[Mrs M]

Maybe have a look at Pashley bikes.
They have some lovely classic styles.
Solid and well built.

 

[velovoice]

I agree with @vickster that the best way to see which works best is to go try them.

I see that some of these have straight handlebars while others have curved "sweptback" handlebars which will bring your hands closer to your body and give you a more upright position. That difference alone will make the bikes feel very different to you. Worth trying both. Swept back is very "cruisy" and comfortable but you may like the sportier feel of bikes with straight bars. Some of that will be down to your balance and confidence on the bike, which of course may change over time.

My tip would be, keep an open mind as you test ride different bikes, and don't let yourself be talked into anything -- whether by shop staff, family or friend who may be with you or even yourself if you're not entirely comfortable but find yourself thinking "oh surely I'll get used to it".

Enjoy!


Edited to add: "Hybrid" as a category may have something of a bad name (jack of all trades, master of none), but all the models you have shared are from well-respected manufacturers, so there's no need to feel that you are somehow looking at inferior bikes!

 

[vickster]

And definitely make sure you get the right size for you...not the one available on the shop floor

 

[velovoice]

And definitely make sure you get the right size for you...not the one available on the shop floor

A thousand times this, especially the sportier the position you think you might like to go for.

 

[JDeacon]

Hey all, big thanks for your replies.

For everyone's info I am a guy and I am particularly looking at that 'sitting up' kinda style. I will definitely take your advice and try them at Evans.
My shortlist so far is...
Bobbin Dark Star
Bobbin Beat
Dawes Camden
Bobbin Noodle
Fofffa Camden

I am trying to cut my shortlist down further so I can just road test a couple at Evans. The only thing I can see that differentiates the above, is the gear types. Does anyone know the difference between Shimano Claris, Tourney and Alivio gears?

Oh yeah and I used to have a Pashley, but it was too heavy and not good on hills. I am looking for something a bit more flexible.

Thanks so much for all your help so far!