Originally Posted by Eric F

I was trying to make a bit of a joke. This is getting far too serious.

My previous comment about early hybrids being mediocre (low to mid priced) bikes for mediocre (casual) riders was a generalization based on what I've seen over many years with the riders that tend to buy that type of bike, as well as how the bikes are marketed. There will always be exceptions to generalizations. Indyfabz' riding partner is a good example of an exception. I suspect you are, too. I don't know much about how you ride, but since you are a regular and long-term member of this site, it's pretty likely you aren't the average casual recreational rider.