Hybrid bike required for a newbie - how good is the...

[wax lyrical]

Specialized Crosstrail sport disc 2013/14? RRP about £500.

I need a bike that's well built, will cope happily with light 'off-road' use and have lockable front suspension (essential) and hydraulic brakes (ideally).

All advice and opinions welcome. Also, is a helmet REALLY essential? Most of the fatalities on our roads seem to be the helmeted commuters rather than the (helmet-less) numpties on the London 'Boris bikes'.

Once I buy the bike, what additional equipment will I need? Bike rack/ Lights / Pump/ tyre repair kit/ anything else??

[Burrow01]

wax lyrical said:

Specialized Crosstrail sport disc 2013/14? RRP about £500.

Also, is a helmet REALLY essential? Most of the fatalities on our roads seem to be the helmeted commuters rather than the (helmet-less) numpties on the London 'Boris bikes'.

Where are you riding - generally when out and about on local lanes I don't wear a helmet. When I ride in London or off road I do

[Disco You]

wax lyrical said:

Specialized Crosstrail sport disc 2013/14? RRP about £500.

I need a bike that's well built, will cope happily with light 'off-road' use and have lockable front suspension (essential) and hydraulic brakes (ideally).

All advice and opinions welcome. Also, is a helmet REALLY essential? Most of the fatalities on our roads seem to be the helmeted commuters rather than the (helmet-less) numpties on the London 'Boris bikes'.

Once I buy the bike, what additional equipment will I need? Bike rack/ Lights / Pump/ tyre repair kit/ anything else??

What do you mean by "light off-road"?

A helmet is up to you. It will protect your head in many situations where you would otherwise be seriously injured. I don't rind without one since seeing one save the life of a friend.

[wax lyrical]

'Off-road' use would mainly be through parks and woods. Nothing too rocky/hilly. I agree that a helmet is probably a good idea - better safe than sorry!

Any opinions on the bike though? Any other brands that offer better value (i.e. better components) at the same price-point (£500ish)?

[TwistingMyMelon]

Id wear a helmet, I never used to for about 10 years! Now I have kids and ride every day I want to maximise my chances!!

You never know what's round the corner..

[Pulse]

I don't personally wear a helmet currently, but think I will do soon. In terms of mitigating risk, it has to be one of the best investments you can make.

[Jonnny]

I always wear my helmet.. Just feels safer with one on.

[Gargamel]

Specialised make good bikes, that last, wear well and are generally solid.

Nice bike.