Specialized Sirrus

Reviewers say the Specialized Sirrus is a good choice for those who want a fast, lightweight hybrid bike for commuting -- without the breaking the bank. This hybrid bike, which combines features of both a road and mountain bike, has a lightweight aluminum frame and linear-pull brake (a women's frame is also available). Reviewers say the Specialized Sirrus is a good value, and it can cover long distances while maintaining a comfortable ride. The geometry is more relaxed and upright than a traditional road bike, so riders get a good view in traffic and don't feel hunched over. Testing also shows that the Specialized Sirrus is a good choice for hilly areas, because it has multiple gearing options to help riders power up climbs. Shifting performance does lag slightly behind the top-rated hybrid bike, the Fuji Absolute 3.0 (MSRP: $600). Like the Fuji hybrid bike, the Specialized Sirrus doesn't come with commuting accessories like cargo racks or fenders, but the frame has mounts so you can add your own.

ConsumerReports.org includes the Specialized Sirrus in a recent independent test, and the bike is also featured in a brief review in Philadelphia Magazine. Buzzillions.com compiles a good number of user reviews, but only a few refer to the most recent model.