Bontrager Tech Article on 29 inch wheels
May 17th, 2005 by Tim GrahlWhen the first mountain bikes were built 26 wheels and tires were in good supply. Early builders chose to work with what was available. As the mountain bike industry has grown, few have taken the time to ask whether 26 wheels are in fact the ideal size.
Over the last few years many builders have began producing bikes designed around a 29 wheel. They essentially use a 700c mountain bike rim, the same diameter as a road bike rim, to build the wheels. As popularity of bigger wheels has grown, Bontrager has expanded our selection of products to better serve this market. Bontrager now offers the widest selection of 29 wheels and tires in the industry.
In many situations, a 29 wheel is better then a 26. The wheels roll over obstacles faster and smoother. Bigger wheels make obstacles smaller by creating a lower angle of attack. In mud and sand, the Two Niner doesnt sink as much as a 26 wheel. The larger wheel size also creates a longer contact patch which results in improved traction.
The large diameter wheels give Two-Niner bikes the speed and stability of a road bike while allowing for more surface area covered with each push of the pedal, making it more efficient then 26 bikes. Miles drift by effortlessly as the Two-Niner cruises smoothly over the most difficult terrain. The common 700c diameter rim is the same diameter as a road bike wheel. This makes it very easy for a rider to switch tires and transform their mountain bike into an efficient urban commuter or touring bike. This makes the Two-Niner very versatile.
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