Originally Posted by
Chasboy
I’m just wondering what other kind of tire can replace a 700c, seems that they don’t get any wider than 32.
700c and "29er" wheels are actually the same 622mm ERD rims., Road and Hybrid tires typically go up to about 45mm, and are traditionally labeled with metric sizes (700c X 32mm) while the 29er MTB tires are given inch sizes like 29 x 1.95"
What tires fit on the bike though, is another question. That's typically determined by how much clearance there is between the tire and the chainstay / seat stays and the top of the tire and the crown of the front fork.
I actually find that a 35-38mm tire is quite versatile for a wide variety of riding situations.
Look at what air pressure you're running as well. Most people see the 'max rating' which is usually 115 psi or so, and pump them all the way up,then want bigger tires to try to solve the harsh ride.
My path bike actually runs 32s on gravel paths, at about 75 psi, and i'm a pretty big rider (over 200#)
Originally Posted by
Chasboy
We want to buy her a new one, the trails are typical rail trails with some kind of composition surface. Her neighborhood is very hilly so they don’t do a lot of neighborhood riding.
At 5' tall, she might not be quite tall enough for a typical 26" bike, unless you can find an XS ~12" or 15" size frame, like pictured
here (click link) A used 24" wheel bike can also be a good value buy, as they only get used for the 'tween' years, so they can often be found with very little wear.