And here's 0,02 euros from someone who rides purely hybrid (and is quite happy with it). Certainly, if money is not an issue, buying a special bike for each purpose is the way to go. I for one cannot justify that kind of spending, so I have a hybrid which I use for commuting, leisure rides and touring. However I am going to change to dropped handlebars in the near future for reasons Pat stated above.

I don't think disc brakes are a necessity unless you go downhill racing. I use V-brakes year round (our winters can be harsh) and they provide enough modulation and stopping power for me.

--J