I max out my big chainring on my rides when the wind is right Like I said, my biggie is a 46 so it doesn't take much to max it out, yet I'm probably not going more than 27 MPH. Back when I used to have a cyclocomputer, I'd max out around 26 MPH. I often get passed by roadies on the gradual downward grades (they pass me so fast it's embarassing). And it's not because they're bike's so lightweight or that they're in a more aerodynamic position (well, those help, too ) but I'm maxing out my chainring and the best I can do is just coast while they're still pedaling away.

I've never had a hybrid before so don't know what their gearing is like, but I'm talking strictly mountain bike vs. roadbike when it comes to gearing. MTB gearing is at a huge disadvantage if speed is the issue. You can put Lance Armstrong on my commuter bike and he won't go any faster than 25-28 MPH on a level surface cuz he'd be maxing out the gearing.