Got a MTB... but i only commute advice needed please

[Bike-Noob]

Hi, I have a MTB but only use it to commute to work and back (about 3 miles each way).

It's mainly along roads, Cycle / footpaths, some small hills and a small stretch of gravel pathways.

Doing some research, it seems the my route to work is probably better suited to a hybrid bike. I can’t afford a hybrid bike so I’ll have to make do with my MTB which I’m sure is fine on a mountain but on the roads of Berkshire it’s a bit overkill.

Is there anything i can do to help 'convert' my 27.5” MTB for better efficiency and comfort?

• Will I be able to use 700c wheels for example?
• Is there a way to change my suspension fork for a ridged one? – Will this be better? (I read that this will keep the energy on the wheels rather than loosing is all on the suspension) it currently feels very 'spongy' although it’s on the firmest setting I can get it to.

I’m already looking into getting some smoother/ thinner tyres which should be better than my ‘knobbly’ MTB tyres.

The bike isn’t a great bike by any stretch of the imagination, but as I said I can’t really afford to buy either a new bike nor does it seem very cost effective to change all the parts if this adds up to the same cost of a new bike anyway.

I’m not 100% on all the jargon but I’ll try to follow along if anyone has any tips / Advice for me.

I have a Carrera ‘Vantage’ if that helps.

Thanks in advance!

 

[cobbwheels]

A LOT of short distance commuters use MTB on paved road use.

They can't be all stupid. Common reasons given, MTB is about the most comfortable bike for commuting you can use and ironically, that is true!

The concept of commuting is riding in all kinds weather. You can't just stay at home on the account of rain, can you? And knobby tires provide the best amount of grip in wet conditions on either gravel or paved roads. And don't underestimate the value of suspension fork in ride comfort they can make a huge difference.

It makes very marginal difference between switching from 27.5" wheels to 29" wheels (700c) on mostly paved roads. But you really can't force a 29" wheel on your 27.5 bike unless you used much thinner tires. Also a 29" wheel is going to be slightly heavier than 27.5.

Ironically, you already have one of the best bike type for commuting, an MTB at least according to most commuters in the American continent.

 

[Mr. Beanz]

I commuted on a 26 wheel mountain bike before. Purely for entertainment.

I installed smooth slick high pressure tires.

Made a huge difference I efficiency. From 35 psi to 90, much less rolling resistance.

That's all I did and it was plenty.