Touring - Anybody toured on 650B wheels?

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erbfarm
08-21-08, 07:48 PM
Has anybody gone on a 4-5 day tour w/ 650B wheels? just wondering how this would compare to 700C wheels. I've got 650B wheels on my 1980's Specialized Sequoia and am thinking this would make a decent touring bike. I feel the 650B wheels handle pretty well but can be pretty sluggish on hills -- both up and down. Would it be worth it to put $200 or so into a 700C touring wheelset (from Harris Cyclery) or can 650B wheels be pretty comfy on tour? I should add that I'll probably be carrying around 40 lbs of gear.

Thanks!

onbike 1939
08-22-08, 05:00 AM
This is a non-issue really. The pros and cons of each tyre size even out and the only thing I can think of would be that the 650b size is more available in Europe in a variety of sizes.
vik
08-22-08, 08:08 AM
For a 4 or 5 day tour just go for it with your existing wheels. If you want to be uber safe take a long a folding 650B tire with you.

It really isn't worth the time and $$$ to change anything for a few days and you are unlikely to have any issues.

As far as performance goes I can't comment, but you might just be happy to have some wider rubber if your tour takes you over some rough roads.