Originally Posted by Dion

I have to say... no drastic difference.

On flat ground, I do have to say there is a mild difference in rolling momentum. I ride mountain bikes, and there is always some kind of internet pissing contest regarding 29'ers and their rolling momentum advantage. I have to say that the 700c wheel has a slight advantage in that category.

But like (in MTB'ing) the 26" vs 29'er argument, the smaller wheel requires less energy when going up hills. And in a road bike situation with no rocks/roots/logs/mud/obstacles to contend with, the small wheel is an "easier" climb since it takes less energy to spin it up. In comparison, my 700c bike is a harder push, but rolls faster all around, which gives it an advantage.

Faster? Well - there are too many variables to find out which one is actually faster, especially the rider on the wheels. I'm sure any rider stronger than me will be faster on the 20" than me on the 700c bike. I only felt a slight difference in speed on the flats due to the momentum of the bigger wheel.

Given most typical centuries and their supported social pacing, I wouldn't hesitate one bit to take it on a big ride, or even a tour. I've found my mini-velo is a fun quirky bike that gets a lot of stares and questions. On top of all that, it isn't a slow bike by any means.

Given the choice between my mini-velo and a mountain bike with road slicks, I would prefer my mini velo over the mountain bike with road slicks. Talk about S-L-O-W.