so why do i want a hybrid anyway?

[uk elephant]

How about going for a cyclocross bike? Fast as a road bike, but seems a bit tougher. That's what I did. I needed a bike that could handle rain and sleet in the winter (no proper winter here in England, more like a Norwegian spring), the occasional trail (dirt and gravel) to Uni yet was speedy enough for longer road-rides. I went with the Specialized Tricross, but I'm sure there is a wide selection out there.

[lph]

Thanks for the tip! I'd never heard of cyclocross bikes before, but once I started reading up they sounded perfect for my use. Fast and light but just a bit more robust.

Only problem is the market for cyclocross bikes is small here, so they're all for enthusiasts, and just out of my price range...

In the meantime - woo hoo! I've arranged to borrow a real road bike that should fit me reasonably well! I'm REALLY pleased with this, because it gives me a chance to try out a completely different type of bike in peace and quiet for several long rides.

I'm thrilled