Hi, I just joined this forum. Long time biker but still consider myself a newbie especially when it comes to buying a bike. I usually rent mine and use it on flat (for the most part) bike/dirt trails.

What are the major differences between a hybrid vs a road or mountain bike? I know it falls in the middle, but is it more because of the frame/body (hope I'm using the correct term) or is it because of the tires? Are the gears or other parts any different? I'm just wondering if it's better to just get a mountain bike and swap it out with a road tire if I need it for the road.

I plan on using this on pavement roads and also on dirt roads.

I was looking at bikes from Walmart but hear that their bikes are not that good. Not a hardcore biker but I do want one that won't break down on me in a few months. I was looking at the Schwinn Avenue 700c Men's Hybrid Bike. I was also looking at the 700c Schwinn Fifth Avenue Men's Hybrid Bike but don't like design. From what I read these are similar to 26' bikes so at 5'7" I think it will be a good fit.

Are there any other bikes that you recommend preferably around the same price range? I actually wanted to buy one from Walmart and assemble it myself to get more familiar with how everything works but afraid I might screw it up.

Thanks.