Originally Posted by
ColinL
You can do this. It's a better idea than a hybrid IMHO (as a hybrid owner!) because you can still use big beefy tires and go on trails. That doesn't work too well, if at all, on a hybrid.
If you have a fast-rolling 29er tire, it will feel fine on the road. I would use something with a near-continuous center contact patch. They roll best. Of course, if you're just out for fun and fitness, it really won't matter much to just ride whatever tires the 29er comes with.
Thanks, everyone at the LBS actually recommended I stay with what I have for the kind of riding I do. I did not have plans to take it into the mountains or ever do any "real" mountain biking. They were willing to let me trade it in at what I payed (I've had it for 2 weeks) as long as I upgraded to a Trek Cobia for example. I actually took out the managers older Cobia and although it was in need of a tune up was a pisser to ride also. I love the fact that you never need to avoid potholes or getting onto curbs. I still couldn't tell that much difference in resistance compared to my bike on the street. Then again my rides are usually under an hour.