Can hybrid bikes be used on gravel?

Yes, hybrid bikes can be used on gravel roads and paths, but their suitability depends on several factors:

Tire Type: 

Hybrid bikes typically come with smooth or lightly treaded tires that are optimized for pavement and light trails. While these tires can handle gravel surfaces to some extent, they may not provide as much traction or stability as gravel-specific tires.

Tire Width: 

The width of the tires on a hybrid bike can also affect its performance on gravel. Wider tires (typically around 35mm to 40mm) offer better stability and grip on uneven surfaces like gravel compared to narrower tires.

Frame Design:

Hybrid bike frames are generally designed for a mix of efficiency on pavement and comfort on light trails. While they may not have the same ruggedness or stability as gravel bike frames, many hybrid frames can handle occasional gravel riding without issue.

Riding Style: 

The way you ride on gravel also matters. If you're riding at a moderate pace and avoiding very rough or technical terrain, a hybrid bike can perform reasonably well. However, if you're planning on more aggressive gravel riding or tackling challenging trails, the Best flat bar gravel bike in India with specific features like wider tire clearance, more relaxed geometry, and disc brakes may be a better choice.

Ultimately, while hybrid bikes can handle gravel roads and paths to some extent, they are not specifically optimized for this type of terrain. If you anticipate spending a significant amount of time riding on gravel, you may want to consider a gravel bike or at least upgrading the tires on your hybrid for better performance and comfort.