What is the ONE change you would make so your hybrid rode faster?
 

I would change out the dual sport type tires to a slightly narrower but smoother road tire.

Doesn't necessarily have to be narrower. I've heard that some testing has shown not much difference, and depending on road surface, wider may be faster.

I'd drop 10lbs of the mid section, if I could afford it, that would certainly make uphills faster :)

A lightweight, high-performance engine

Also, riding and handling skills.

The best quality of asphalt friendly tyre.

Doesn't need to be super skinny, just made from high quality compounds.

wheels. I actually kept the stock tires but changed the wheels.

As BigL mentioned wheels are the best upgrade. Most hybrids come with heavy wheels so adding some lightweight wheels would make a huge difference. Unfortunately, light also usually equates to expensive and I think the majority of hybrid riders are not looking to spend $600+ on a lighter set of wheels.

definitely lightweight wheels, something in the 1500 gram range with specialized S-Works Turbo tires. should shave around 900 grams total.

I hardly notice any speed loss going from 28mm Spec Turbo Pro tires in the rear to a 32mm Gatorskin. More comfortable by a enjoyable margin.

I like light wheels like anyone else but the cost is sometimes more than the hybrid bike itself.

What kind of bike?

Specialized Sirrus. I changed lots of other stuff too --virtually everything-- but if asked to make only one, it'd be the wheels.

Which wheels would you suggest? Is there a benefit of swapping out the wheels on a 7.4 FX?

Most decent wheels which make it worth the effort run 800-1500 dollars, which is not going to happen for this rider.

Not to break the rules of the thread, but what else did you change ...if you don't mind?

here you go: http://www.bikeforums.net/hybrid-bic...ts-o-mods.html

Wow! I don't think I even want to know how much you have in it... ;)

I dropped the tire size on my '02 Jamis from 38 (80 psi off road tires) to 32 (100 psi tires nearly slick tires) and it made a nice improvement in the speed of the bike.

I liked my older frame style better. :p

http://www.bikeforums.net/hybrid-bic...rbon-disc.html

that makes one of us!;)

Lol! That's why we're all different dude! We all like what we like. Your bike is awesome, I just liked the older frame style a little better. Although I do wish it would have accommodated a larger tire. I would have kept it.

Just curious, what does your's weigh with all the mods?

Haha, was just a joke man, in response to yours. Your bike certainly was beautiful as well. I weighed it, quick and crude, and it registered about 19.25 pounds.

That is not entirely correct. If you plan on buying a new set, then yes that's about what a really good set of wheels would set you back. However, if you spend some time on ebay there are lots of great deals on pre-owned wheels in great shape.


Yes, there would be a huge benefit. I would try and source some used Mavic Ksyrium SL, SLR's or something similar. If you're patient you can find a good set on your local craig's list or on ebay for around $300-400.

I know Bro! We're all good! As I said, your bike is awesome! But too heavy! ;) Mine weighed 17 lbs 3 oz complete with water bottle cage and Garmin. :thumb:

LOL. Mine was weighed with cage also. Yeah, I'd imagine a repurposed Roubaix frame would be lighter. Had I dropped a chainring/FD and gone to lighter tires, I could've shaved some more. Still a decent disparity; has to be the frame.

Stronger legs.

I'd speculate wheels > tires > crankset. Anything that you have to use energy to spin so that you move forward. In automobiles, it's called "unsprung weight" and it's a performance killer.