I could be a moron for saying this but IMO Hybrids are by far the best bikes for getting around the city. I have a Trek 7.2FX and it has been nothing but a great bike. It cruises quickly, doesn't get damaged by rough roads and potholes and is comfortable to ride. I wouldn't climb mountains with it but I rarely encounter hills in the city that I can't handle easily with it. Not quite sure what the hybrid hate is about...
Originally Posted by
Exit.
Hybrids are a godawful plague. There is absolutely no reason to ever own one. Save your money and find a bike that will actually do what you want it to well, instead of buying a supposed do-it-all bike that does everything poorly. Even if you can't make up your damn mind as to what kind of riding you want to do, a 'cross bike will do everything a hybrid will, and do it better.