I consider myself a cyclist and I've done a lot of road cycling and mountain biking over the years(few thousand miles a year). I recently purchased a Specialized Sirrus to do more green way rides and to just be able to get on a bike without a kit and just ride. I have enjoyed my hybrid much more than I expected and if I could only have one bike I'd probably pick my hybrid. They are faster than a mountain bike, more comfortable than a road bike in my opinion and I don't have to wear spd's and lycra just get on and go. Also getting a little older have had neck issues and shoulder surgery and it's easier on my body.