One need only look at the different types of hybrids available from Specialized to see how much variety exists in bikes classified as hybrids.

Specialized Sirrus Pro:
- Lightweight A1 aluminum frame with carbon fiber fork, seatpost, and seat stays
- flat handlebar with slight sweep
- 50/39/30 front crank
- Shimano 105 12-27t rear cassette
- Shimano 105 rear derailleur
- Crank Brothers eggbeater pedals
- 700x28 tires

i.e. a lightweight, flat bar, near-road bike with road bike gearing.

Specialized Expedition Elite:
- A1 aluminum frame, heavier weight
- Relaxed geometry with slight crank forward pedal position
- Suspension fork w/63mm travel
- Suspension seat post
- Adjustable stem
- Wider, more padded seat
- 42/34/24 front crank (super granny gears)
- 11-32t rear cassette
- 26"x1.95" tires

i.e. several pounds heavier, cruiser-type gearing & tires comfort bike.

Both are considered to be hybrids. The Specialized Globe and Crossroads hybrids lie between these extremes.

Other companies have different takes, some being very close to mountain bikes.

Thus it is hard to generalize about hybrids as there are so many different types.