Mountain bike wheel size is one of the hottest topics on the track. However, if you are new to the sport, the whole subject can be confusing.

How can a few inches here and there make such a big difference? Why is mountain bike wheel size so important? Well, there are actually many reasons.

Mountain bikes mainly use three sizes of wheels; 26 inches, 27.5 inches, commonly referred to as 650B and 29 inches. In short, the wheel size you choose will change everything from your riding posture to your riding style And how you feel about bicycles.

That's why we put together this easy-to-understand guide to introduce everything you need to know before choosing a wheel size, buying your first mountain bike, and joining the debate.

Why is mountain bike wheel size important?

Although you may tell yourself all your life, size does matter-at least when it comes to mountain bikes.

The size of the wheel determines your rolling resistance level on the track. Having a larger wheelbase allows you to overcome bigger obstacles.

The science behind this is called the "angle of attack", which revolves around the point where the tire hits the obstacle and the angle at which the impact occurs.

Imagine you are riding a 26-inch bicycle and you encounter a log in the middle of the trail. Compared to a 27.5 or 29-inch bicycle, the log will meet your bicycle at a higher point on the wheel and at a steeper angle. Subsequently, more force will reverberate on the wheels, making it more difficult to maintain control, stability, and forward power of the bicycle.

26 Inch Mountain Bike Wheels

Now, when mountain biking first started, 26-inch wheels were the only option. 26 inches is lighter than 27.5 or 29 inches, mainly because it is less.

Bicycles with 26-inch wheels are smaller, lighter, and more flexible. Larger bicycles provide better acceleration and are ideal for short distances, steep climbs, and fast-moving, fast-turning trails.

The veteran driver’s choice is responsive and gives the rider a lot of freedom in the saddle, but it may struggle on rugged terrain and become uncontrollable—especially given the speed at which it starts.

The riding position of the 26-inch mountain bike also makes the seat and handlebars closer to each other. Although this is one of the key factors for bike agility and responsiveness, it also makes it more difficult for the rider to maintain their state. balance.

In recent years, this has led many mountain bike markets to favor larger wheels because of significantly higher riding stability, reliability, and predictability.

Bicycles designed for mud jumps will traditionally still be equipped with 26-inch or smaller wheels, and downhill bikes will usually be equipped with 26-inch or 27.5-inch wheels.

29 Inch Mountain Bike Wheels

So, what's the big deal with big wheels? Well, as we have determined, the bigger the wheel, the smoother the ride, and the easier it is for your bike to pass whatever you encounter on the trail-hence the 29er.

29-inch bicycles are also longer than 26-inch bicycles, so the center of gravity is lower. This means that the rider has a more stable feeling on the bike, but it may take a while to readjust to a new riding position.

27.5 Inch/650B Mountain Bike Wheels

650B/27.5" wheels appeared on mountain bikes around 2007 as a compromise to the issues raised by 26-inch and 29-inch wheels, although they didn't really take off until the past few years.

Now that they have started, it is difficult to see the 650B boom slow down in the short term. Many people say that this bike is the perfect choice between the two, offering a significantly smoother riding experience than a 26-inch bike, and at the same time being more flexible than a 29er.

The curvature of the 27.5-inch wheels is not as good as that of the large 29-person, and it is much better in terms of handling and durability. They are faster, stronger, and more agile than big wheels, and more fluid than small wheels. The best of both worlds.

Cross-country and endurance/all mountain bikes usually use 27.5 or 29-inch bikes because they focus more on control and grip rather than responsiveness.

The Verdict

After all, only you will know which wheel size is right for you. The best way to find out is to test drive one of them and see if you like it.

However, if you have just started mountain biking, then there is no reason why you should not join the revolution and ride with 650B/27.5" tires. You will have speed, control, stability and fluency. If nothing else, you are very Soon you will find that you like riding a bike the most, and you can start building from there!

Please contact us(sales1@gofastbicycle.com) to discuss and provide you with customized services.