Advice on hybrid for road use

[IJWS15]

I have had a Halfords Carerra non-suspension MTB for a number of years (since she decided we would start cycling). Have started cycling more for health reasons, but on road and as the distances rose the limitations of the bike (gearing/26" wheels) became more noticeable. Currently do 10 mile rides but looking to increase that.

Don't really want dropped handlebars and there are plenty of hills where I generally cycle (around Romsley in Worcestershire) so gearing is critical (Current bike's lowest is 28fx34r which is rarely used, but next cog up is 24 and is used). Shortlist is Giant Escape 1, Trek Zector 2, Specialized Cirrus and Boardman HYB8.6. Tending towards the Trek.

Any other suggestions or issues with any of the above?

[bigdom]

I get what you mean about drops if you've never used them, although they do provide more hand positions. Anyway, as you listed hills/gearing as a concern, I'd buy whatever provides the widest (and closest) gear range, they won't be much difference between the bikes in ergonomics, just how they've been spec'd.

Just checking the Trek, it appears to have an 50/34 with an 11-32 8 speed cassette. That's quite large gaps between the cassette, no idea why they think a flat bar commuter needs 50-11, pretty pointless imho.

[IJWS15]

Not looking to commuting and I can spin the current bike out on the flat so 48 or 50 x 11 would be an advantage.

Went into the local Trek dealer last night and turns out the Zector is this years model and there are none left, it is replaced by the FX-3 which they won't be able to get until December.

Going into the Giant/Specialized place tomorrow.

[bigdom]

IJWS15 said:

Not looking to commuting and I can spin the current bike out on the flat so 48 or 50 x 11 would be an advantage

I wasn't suggesting you were commuting, it's how Trek markets the bike. From what you've mentioned on the current bike, the gearing is quite a lot lower, circa 30%. I'd have a look here: http://www.bikecalc.com/gear_ratios

50x11@ 90rpm is circa 32mph, at that speed, you'd probably be better off with drop bars.

[IJWS15]

Thanks for the advice, I was looking for something that was faster on the flat than my current bike but that "I" would still be capable of pedalling up the hills around the office. Having never ridden dropped bars I am nervous of switching and if all I am going to do is use the horizontal part m logic is to get straight bars. In a couple of years I may feel differently but then I can seek permission to get a third bike . . . . . .

Reserved a 2018 Giant Rapid 3 on Saturday having ridden it around Rutland Cycles car park. I will be quite happy if it is only the wind resistance that stops me hitting its top speed rather than my legs.