Originally Posted by
SparkyGA
That would explain a lot actually. It's the same situation here in Vietnam, 27" wheels are exceedingly common on the local's bikes.
And this is a point a lot of people miss. Yes, bikes have been popular as a means of transport in Asia for decades, but, and it is a big BUT, they were 27" on steel rims on heavy steel frame bikes (think Pigeon). This new-fangled Western bike stuff might be made down the road in Malaysia or Vietnam, but it's not really what the Asians have been used to riding themselves. The conversion to 700C seemed more logical.
When we were in Japan (Hokkaido), 700C or 27" were the popular sizes for all town bikes, with suitable touring-type rubber on them. I don't recall seeing an MTB or 26"-wheeled bike among the many thousands there.
It is, however, very useful to get first-hand experience like that provided by Sparky. Thanks.