As a bike fitter, I couldn’t agree more.
Yes, 29ers might have a touch more roll over capability’s, but with high trail, long front center geometry, and big tires, possibly with inserts, it’s not like 27.5 wheels are really struggling in that department.
On the other hand, too big of a reach and stack have a huge negative effect on bike handling, and thereby the ability to roll (ride) over stuff.
It is simply not possible to have a long travel fork and big wheels, while still keeping stack low.
I do think there is room for 2 wheel sizes. Yes, it creates more sku’s and potential replacement options, but I think that is worth it for the different fit options as well as the different feel/characteristics they create.
July 6, 2022, 5:50 a.m. - Tjaard Breeuwer
As a bike fitter, I couldn’t agree more. Yes, 29ers might have a touch more roll over capability’s, but with high trail, long front center geometry, and big tires, possibly with inserts, it’s not like 27.5 wheels are really struggling in that department. On the other hand, too big of a reach and stack have a huge negative effect on bike handling, and thereby the ability to roll (ride) over stuff. It is simply not possible to have a long travel fork and big wheels, while still keeping stack low. I do think there is room for 2 wheel sizes. Yes, it creates more sku’s and potential replacement options, but I think that is worth it for the different fit options as well as the different feel/characteristics they create.