Hybrid bicycles blend characteristics (in highly variable degree) from road bikes, touring bikes and mountain bikes — to create bikes more robust than road bikes,[citation needed] more generally capable than touring bikes and faster than mountain bikes. Hybrids may integrate the triple crank, handlebars, upright posture and brake system of a mountain bike; the numerous accommodations for accessories (front and rear racks, water bottles, and fenders) of a touring bike; with the larger wheel diameter (e.g. 700c) and lighter componentry of a road bike — and a rim/tire configuration that falls between the road/touring bikes and mountain bikes. Hybrid bikes have spawned numerous sub-categories satisfying diverse ridership. They are classified by their design priorities, such as those optimized for comfort or fitness — and those offered as city, cross or commuter bikes.[1] So-called cross bikes utilize a road bicycle frame similar to a racing or sport/touring bicycle, and are normally equipped with nearly flat handlebars to provide a more upright riding position than a racing or sport/touring bike.[1] As a hybrid bike intended for general recreational and utility use, the cross bike differs from the cyclo-cross bicycle, which is a racing bicycle purposely designed to compete in the sport of cyclo-cross competition. Cross bikes are fitted with 700c wheels using somewhat wider semi-treaded tires (1.125–1.25 inches, or 28–32 mm) than those fitted to most racing or sport/touring models.[4] The additional tire width and tread is intended to give the cross bike hybrid some ability to deal with rough or littered surfaces that might be encountered on paved or unpaved bike trails, such as gravel, leaves, hard-packed sand, and shallow mud. Most cross bikes are biased towards moderate off-pavement use and light weight, and as such are not normally fitted with fenders, lights, or carrier racks. The larger 700c wheels are a little fast

r on paved surfaces and can give an advantage for longer trips or for touring purposes.[1] [edit]Commuter bike The commuter bike is a hybrid designed specifically for commuting over short or long distances. It typically features derailleur gearing, 700c wheels with fairly light 1.125 inch (28 mm) tires, a carrier rack, full fenders, and a frame with suitable mounting points for attachment of various load-carrying baskets or panniers. It sometimes, though not always, has an enclosed chainguard to allow a rider to pedal the bike in long pants without entangling them in the chain. A well-equipped commuter bike typically features front and rear lights for use in the early morning or late evening hours encountered at the start or end of a business day.[1] [edit]City bike The 2005 Giant Innova is an example of a typical 700c hybrid city bicycle. Similar to the commuter bike, the city bike is more optimized for urban commuting.[1] The city bike differs from the familiar European city bike in its mountain bike heritage, gearing, and strong yet lightweight frame construction.[1][5][6][7] It usually features mountain bike-sized (26-inch) wheels, a more upright seating position, and fairly wide 1.5–1.95 inch (38–50 mm) heavy belted tires designed to withstand road hazards commonly found in the city, such as broken glass.[1][8] Using a sturdy welded chromoly or aluminum frame derived from the mountain bike, the city bike is more capable at handling urban hazards such as deep potholes, drainage grates, and jumps off city curbs.[1][8] City bikes are designed to have reasonably quick, yet solid and predictable handling, and are normally fitted with full fenders for use in all weather conditions.[1] A few city bikes may have enclosed chainguards, while others may be equipped with suspension forks, similar to mountain bikes. City bikes may also come with front and rear lighting systems for use at night or in bad weather.[1]