Choosing the correct bicycle for one self is difficult. One has to consider a lot of factors. Following are the comparisons of most important factors that determine the perfect bicycle for a rider.
| Hybrid Bicycles | MTB Bikes |
Single speed bicycles are best for short commutes and rides (upto 10-15km per day). Their maintenance is very easy & economical, however they are difficult to ride on inclines. Example - Hampi series, Ladakh series, Model 1 series | MTB is focussed more on offroading, riding on trails. The tires are thicker in profile, and geometry / suspension are set in a way to provide more comfort on bad terrain. Example - Manali G1, G7 |
| 700c Wheels | 26" Wheels |
700c rims are larger in diameter and use thinner tires. This makes their ride very fast, the weight is lighter. However, the ride is slightly harsh, due to thin profile. Example - Hampi series (Hampi 700, Hampi 707) & Ladakh Series (Ladakh X1, X7) | 26” have thicker profile, so this makes the ride more comfortable but slightly slower as compared to 700c wheels. Example - Model 1 series (Model 1.0, 1.7) and Manali Series (Manali G1, G7). |
| Thin Tires | Thicker Tires |
Thinner tires offer better speed, by compromising on comfort & road grip. For most Indian urban usage, we prefer thinner tires over thicker tires. Example - Hampi series, Ladakh Series, Model 1 series | Thicker tires provide better cushioning effect and grip while compromising over speed & effort to ride the bicycle. Example - Manali Series |
| Rigid Fork | Suspension Fork |
Rigid fork does not offer any shock absorbing effect, however, is very fast for urban usage. For most urban usage we recommend rigid forks as the overall experience is much better with them. Example - Hampi Series, Model 1 series | Suspension offers a comfortable ride quality. However, it also makes the bicycle slow. Suspensions can be used in MTBs and city hybrid bikes. Example - Manali Series, Ladakh Series |
| Ladakh Series | Manali Series |
Ladakh has bigger and thinner wheels which provides it more urban hybrid MTB nature. This means it can ride effortlessly on both city roads, and offer decent offroading also. Ladakh is suitable for 5’6” to 6’2”. | Manali series has better off-roading capabilities due to smaller wheel, thicker tires, and more MTB friendly geometry. Manali is suitable for upto 5’10” rider height |
| vBrakes | Disc Brakes |
vbrakes offer adequate braking performance for all most urban purposes. vBrakes can be repaired, replaced at very nominal costs & most mechanics can tune a vbrake. For most urban purposes, we recommend vbrakes. | Disc brakes offer better braking, particularly when riding at higher speeds. Disc brakes are much expensive to repair, and require technical professionals. For offroading & MTB bikes, we recommend disc brakes. |