I remember the usual suspects giving them bad press (Bicycling!), saying something like they were a compromise so not particularly good for road or off-road riding. While there's a grain of truth in that, they're good bikes for other things, commuting, for example. Some of us clamor after touring and cyclo cross bikes, but the hybrids have a lot in common with them, and they're available in like new condition for cheap. I got one late last year, and the thought of a Brooks and drops on it have crossed my mind.