i would try a 29er so you know what it feels like and rides like. demo it, whatever, but take it out on trails you are going to ride it on and see what it feels like. then decide if it's the right bike for you.

for the record, i do not like 29ers. i'm a little guy with little legs and i didn't have any fun on the 29ers i rode. but i understand they are fantastic bikes for some people, so it comes down to you.

you are the one riding your bike, not us. get the bike that works for you.