Originally Posted by
damo010
Thanks for the info :-)
I was looking at the new Marathon Supreme thats rated at 42mm but early reports say they come up small at about 39mm so it would be fractional bigger but I thought its so small thats its not worth bring up. I would have the option to tire up to 50mm too so thats an option too.
Reason for 650B is I like the wheels size and the midsize wheels see to put to bed the age old 26" vs 700 debate (to some extent) but I like the slightly smaller wheels size with slightly fatter tires with out going all the way down to 26". Also smaller wheels are stronger too :-)
I think the strength considerations with 29er MTB wheelset while touring is a non-issue, especially if compared to a 650B road wheelset. Not trying to talk you out of anything or deter you, but don't do it for strength considerations.
Tires will be harder to find, but 26" and 700c tubes can work well enough if needed.