Originally Posted by FreeRidin'
I don't think larger tires and "better" traction in snow has anything to do with why someone should ride 24"s.
24"s will also make your wheel much stronger.
not so much snow, but many DH and FR bikers want a wider tire...a 24" wheel gives more clearance through the seat and chain stays
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downhill_bike
Tire sizes
Most mountain bikes use 26 in (559 mm) wheels, though some models offer 24 or 29 in (520 or 622 mm) wheels(this size is for road/hybrid bikes only not mountain bikes).Inch-sizes for bicycle wheels are not precise measurements: a 29 inch wheel is actually a 700c wheel, which has a 622 mm (24.48 inch) bead seat diameter. 700c is an archaic designation that persists because of its early popularity, though the diameter is 700 of no actual unit of measurement. In some countries, mainly in Continental Europe, 700c wheels are commonly called 28 inch wheels, nevertheless these wheels are equivalent to 29 inch wheels in the English speaking countries.
24 inch wheels are used for Dirt Jumping bikes and sometimes on freeride bikes, rear wheel only, as this makes the bike more maneuverable. 29 inch wheels were once used for only Cross Country purposes, but are now becoming more commonplace in other disciplines of Mountain Biking, and are predicted to be the choice wheel size on Downhill Bikes within a few years by some.
Wheels come in a variety of widths, ranging from standard rims suitable for use with tires in the 26 in x 1.90 in to 2.10 in (559 x 48 to 53 mm) size, to 2.35 and 3.00 in (60 and 76 mm) widths popular with freeride and downhill bicycles.