I know this is an older post, but I just have to add my 2 centavos. I have access to both a 29" and a 27.5". I'm 5'10" tall and I definitely prefer the 27.5" for maneuverability and handling compared to the 29er. Especially on trails with lots of tight corners the 27.5 just seems to cut them tighter and easier. When braking into banked corners, the 29er feels awkward and clumsy compared to the 27.5. Until you've ridden both and can decide for yourself though...