I posted this q in this forum because I thought it would have the best audience.

I've got a 26" hybrid- basically a rigid mtb with slicks- and I like having a tough, durable bike for errands and fitness. I've begun to wonder if my 26" wheels are "slower" than an equivalent bike with 700c wheels, though.

The question- if you compare two hybrid bikes, one with 26" wheels and the other with 700c, all things being equal including their flat handlebars, frames/rigid forks and gearing, with the tires being of the same width/weight/pressure and the wheels having the same spoke count, which one would roll with less resistance? In other words, which one would be "faster"?

Last, I understand that with flat handlebars, both bikes will not be aerodynamic so the rider & bike aren't going to set any land speed records.