Why is 26" better than 700C?
02-09-12 | 05:11 PM
#51
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I have both 700c (1984 specialized expedition) and 26 inch touring bikes (1992 Roberts Roughstuff and new TT silkroad).
I also have two 650B bikes which I have toured on (Bleriot, kogswell PR)
I prefer the 26 ride, because the tire volumes are larger, generally, than what you can fit on a 700c touring bike. I run panaracer paselas or high end schwalbes on all three sizes FWIW. Bigger (volume) is better as far as I'm concerned. The 26 inch bikes are stiffer frames (smaller triangles) with stiffer wheels. Over the years ive decided that for touring loads I prefer a STIFF frame with larger volume tires to absorb bumps, rather than a noodly bike with high pressure low volume wheels.
My favorite, is 650B with a 400g grand bois 42mm tire. That combo feels fastest and smoothest by a texas mile... wouldnt take it to Mexico though.
I also have two 650B bikes which I have toured on (Bleriot, kogswell PR)
I prefer the 26 ride, because the tire volumes are larger, generally, than what you can fit on a 700c touring bike. I run panaracer paselas or high end schwalbes on all three sizes FWIW. Bigger (volume) is better as far as I'm concerned. The 26 inch bikes are stiffer frames (smaller triangles) with stiffer wheels. Over the years ive decided that for touring loads I prefer a STIFF frame with larger volume tires to absorb bumps, rather than a noodly bike with high pressure low volume wheels.
My favorite, is 650B with a 400g grand bois 42mm tire. That combo feels fastest and smoothest by a texas mile... wouldnt take it to Mexico though.
02-09-12 | 06:39 PM
#52
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Joined: Sep 2008
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As a newbie trying to decide on a touring bike, its components etc this thread is a bit confusing because there seems to be no consensus. If I am, ahem, a heavyset, 5'8" guy planning a cross country trip fairly soon what should I get? A 700cc (29") or a 26" set and with how many spokes and what type of tires.
Also does a 700cc or a 26" wheel set have an inherent advantage over the other for an above mentioned oversized shortish person on a touring bike going uphill, downhill, fighting the wind etc?
Also does a 700cc or a 26" wheel set have an inherent advantage over the other for an above mentioned oversized shortish person on a touring bike going uphill, downhill, fighting the wind etc?
With regards to touring there is no difference between 26" and 700c for going uphill, downhill, against the wind or across a field of sunflowers tripping on acid. What will matter more is your power to WEIGHT ratio which your body will probably be the largest factor with your gear and bike in descending significance.
"heavyset" isn't very specific, is that 200lbs or 300lbs? If you're pushing 300lbs I'd definitely look to 26" wheels with a very heavy rear rim. Front wheels last a lot longer so most touring rims will suffice. I'd stick with 36spokes and just go with the appropriate rim and spokes for the load. There isn't much use in recommending wheels/tires without knowing exact loads on them.
02-09-12 | 08:35 PM
#53
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Steel is real, baby!
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,532
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From: Boise, ID
Bikes: 1984 Pinarello, 1986 Bianchi Portofino, 1988 Bianchi Trofeo, 1989 Specialized Allez, 1989 Specialized Hard Rock, 2001 Litespeed Tuscany
Respectfully, I think you misunderstand. This thread actually IS just about wheels. One of the bikes I am considering is an LHT, which in my size, has 26" wheels. I am considering other 700C/29er frames as well.
02-10-12 | 12:18 AM
#54
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My apologies, I thought your choice was between two versions of the LHT.
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