I take long rides on my hybrid all the time. I did get rid of the heavy power-robbing suspension seatpost though. I also swapped the uncomfortable "comfort" saddle for a regular women's road saddle with the cutout in the middle (a Serfas Terazzo Select). Because the original riding position was too upright, I lowered the adjustable stem as far as it would go. I put bar ends on for additional hand positions, especially while climbing, and I always keep the tires inflated to the max pressure of 80 psi.