Originally Posted by GeoKrpan
With fat 700c tires fitted the bottom bracket height would be no lower than the LHT because of the higher profile of the tires. I have read of people running 26" wheels with 2.35 Big Apple tires and 170mm cranks and not experiencing excessive pedal strikes. You can compensate for 170mm cranks by moving the cleat forward on your shoe.
Okay I guess I don't understand how the KM would have a higher BB than the LHT with 700c tires. I run 700 x 35 marathon XRs and would probably run 700c x 45s on my LHT for rougher roads. What 700c tire would you put on the KM that would raise the BB an extra 0.8" over a LHT with those size tires?
I can't say how well the 26 x 2.35 big apples would work with 170mm cranks, but as long as you are aware of the potential problem and happy with your solution that's cool.
One thing though - is the Big Apple the tire you really want to tour on?
If you are really trying to get a 26" expedition touring bike I wouldn't start with a 29" wheeled bike and modify it. There are a number of 26" wheel bikes that are available that were designed for exactly what you have in mind. The REI Safari & Devinci Destination come to mind or an older steel rigid mtn bike.
The extra money you would spend building up a Thorn Sherpa frame over a KM would be well worth it in that you'd get a 26" wheel touring bike with all the brazeons and a fork designed to be strong yet comfy for all day riding. If your goal is to go on long expedition style tours don't save a few $$$ on your bike frame - you'll regret in for thousands of KMs.
Just my $0.02.