Hi
Most of my riding is on tarmac trials, although at times cover mountains. I run on semi slicks, 26 inch hard tail, which are fine for the mountains I cycle on. Question. 29er or 27.5 as I need a new bike
I'm 5'8

If most of your riding is on tarmac and you are running slicks, why not look at a big tire road bike, such as a “gravel” or “all road bike? Something that can run bike tires (like 42s)?

Otherwise, I would go with a 29er. IMO, the main reason to go with 27.5 (or 26) with an MTB is for the handeling aspects In technical trail riding.

That is my take on it, anyway.

I say for any riding, the bike that feels best. If you are just as comfortable on 27.5 and 29, for hardpack and tarmac I say 29.

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...

It sounds like a 29er would be the best option for you. If you were covering more on the mountain with tight corners, then I would suggest otherwise. Even with that said, people say its something you can get through with enough practice.

why that & not a 700c "hybrid"? tire width?