Read this... HereThen this... Here
Wikipedia:
A debate over the advantages and disadvantages is currently raging in the mountain bike community. Those who believe the 29" wheel to be inferior often mention added weight, perceived sluggishness in handling, and problems with fit (specifically, front wheel/toe overlap and high standover height). 29" enthusiasts respond with comments about reduced rolling resistance, perceived increased stability without sacrificing quick handling, and an enhanced ability to roll over obstacles.
Advantages
Larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily due to decrease in approach angle
29” wheels are less prone to sinking in soft material such as sand and mud.
The longer contact patch increases cornering and straight line traction
29" bikes tend to offer taller riders a more "natural" frame geometry
Most of these claims have yet to be objectively investigated. Small scale, unpublished studies (including one done by Pepperdine University, reportedly at the request of Gary Fisher) exist but both proponents and detractors of 29" wheels are generally unimpressed with their lack of scientific rigor. Long debates over how to conduct a "fair" test of the efficiency of 29" vs 26" mountain bikes have raged online, but no serious efforts have been made to conduct a large-scale, scientific study.
Drawbacks
Increased wheel weight and rotating mass - the spokes, rim, and tire are all larger
Longer spokes and rim result in a more laterally flexible wheel.
Longer spokes and increased angle between hub flange and rim result in a weaker wheel.
Many types of tires, rims and forks do not come in 29"-compatible versions, though the expanding popularity of the size is reducing this problem.
Smaller riders (i.e. less than 5'5" tall) may not be able to find a 29" bike with a geometry suitable for them. Numerous examples exist of custom bikes built for very small riders with 29" wheels, but in many cases smaller riders face significant geometry tradeoffs, especially with regard to toe overlap, handlebar height, and standover.
If your trying to decide which to buy read this aswell *Updated
Todd Wells
Koerber rides into USA's history books
29er Q&A with Lennard Zinn... see comments on what who he believe they are best suited for
sub-20 lbs 29er
Squishy 29er... might be overkill...
29er vs 26er Test... - Mtbr.com Forums
Facebook... go figure
wheel size debate explored at CN... this is a good series of articles with lots of reader input
Koerber rides into USA's history books
29er Q&A with Lennard Zinn... see comments on what who he believe they are best suited for
sub-20 lbs 29er
Squishy 29er... might be overkill...
29er vs 26er Test... - Mtbr.com Forums
Facebook... go figure
wheel size debate explored at CN... this is a good series of articles with lots of reader input
Rubber
great post, Dave
ReplyDeleteI have been on both now extensively. Much of the acceleration issue can be resolved with different gears. 29 rolls better over stuff. It is kinda like riding a 3 inch travel front and rear suspension bike locked out and real firm. Just enough to take the edge off of smaller hits but big ones are still gonna hurt. 26 hardtails are still the best bikes for smoother VERY hilly courses as that is where you are going to notice the weight the most. I think that 29 is becoming so popular for this reason, you can build up a pretty light (under 24lbs) easy for half of the cost of a sub 24 lbs F/S bike and still maintain some of the benefits without the extra maintenance that goes along with a F/S bike. Toe overlap is not really an issue with 29, I have size 12's and run big tires and have never had an issue. That being said you ride a 29 bike different, it is more lean than turn because of the extra traction. The real issue with 29 is still some of the component manufacturers are still not using there best stuff to make 29. Tires specifically which is the most important part of the bike and sizing for anyone under 5"5' is a big challenge. Many say that it is best for bigger people, I say try it first, but you gotta give it a year. I feel that I would love to have one of each, a sub 20 lb 26inch hardtail would be awesome for Birch and a 24lb F/S 5inch travel bike for rocky stuff. But I get to have one bike and 29 feels right for me. Do your research and take measurements of your existing setup before any new bike purchase and you will find what works best for you. (Steve H)
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