Sub £2k Hybrid. Carrera , Orbea or Cube ?

DJW

Just Joined
Dec 29, 2018
4
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End of last summer I test rode a Carrera Crossfire and loved it up until about 7 miles into ride and the electrics cut out.

Then tried the Crossfuse which was a step up in quality , although still preferred Crossfire when it worked lol.

Fast forward to now and I’ve decided I need to get fit , so time to buy a bike. Ideally would like to be around £1500 but can go to £1800 if needs be.

So I test rode the Crossfuse again as to provide a comparison before riding the Orbea F40 Gain https://www.cyclerepublic.com/orbea-gain-f40-electric-hybrid-bike-2019.html

The Crossfuse has a more relaxed riding position and without doubt more power when needed. However I’m not a great fan of the large battery so prominent on the bike. Just get the feeling this look will age badly in next year or two as more bikes integrate the batteries ?

Love the look of the Orbea and took it on 6 mile ride around Cheltenham including some hills. The carbon front forks absorbed a lot of the vibration from the road, although my wrists did start to ache by the end of ride due to more aggressive riding position. The power was sufficient to help up the hills, however it definitely built a sweat up and legs could feel the effort needed. Wonder if there is enough power for a longer ride, with more hills and headwinds whilst I try to build fitness

Looking online the only equivalent bike I can find within budget is the Cube Cross Hybrid One 400. I can’t find a local shop to test ride one, so can anyone advise how they compare to the bikes above please ? Also noted some 2018 models at a small saving. https://www.freeborn.co.uk/cube-cross-hybrid-one-400-2018-black-blue-electric-bike.
Is there any major difference with the 2019 models ?

So in summary I’m a 50 year old male, having not ridden or done any major exercise for way too many years, 6ft, 100kg , looking to use bike on evenings and weekends to get fit. 20 miles probably max ride distance, with 75% road use , 25% gravel tracks.

What would people recommend based on bikes above, my feedback of rides and any upcoming bikes I may not be aware of . All advice much appreciated

Cheers Dave