You might try reading this but [it|this] is a hard read
1. You might try reading this but it is a hard read: [link]
2. You might try reading this but this is a hard read: [link]

Which sentence sounds more natural?

Question

You might try reading this but [it|this] is a hard read
1. You might try reading this but it is a hard read: [link]
2. You might try reading this but this is a hard read: [link]

Which sentence sounds more natural?

Answer

sentence 1is natural

sentence 2 is often spoken but "this" can be confusing it could mean this that follows or that/this that you have just mentioned. [can you see how it is unclear?]