Originally Posted by
gmt13
No, the deal is that with 650B you can fit wider tires onto an existing road frame, where there wouldn't be clearance for wider 700C tires. The problem with going with too small of a wheel is that you have a limit of about 750 mm from brake bridge to the rim. 650B is therefore a compromise for a conversion of an existing design. You can use any wheel size you want if you design for it.
I have an inkling to try a conversion on my commuter bike.
-Gary
So in theory, I can put a set of 57mm long reach brakes on my Soma Smoothie, run the brake pads high for 700c wheels, then buy a set of 650b wheels, in say a 32mm tire, set the pads lower and be good to go ?.
Just toying with the thought